USA’s Best Family Ski Resorts

At the best ski resorts in the US, you’ll find family ski resorts and powder-soft snow. These resorts have gnarly terrain and massive snow dumps, and the quality of that snow is fantastic – families can play in dry, light, and fluffy snowflakes.

There are 526 ski resorts peppered across the country, with USA’s best in Colorado, California, Utah, and Wyoming. Each resort is unique and reflects the culture of its locality, from cowboys in Colorado to Californian surfers. Aussie families will get a glimpse into the American way of life. Americans’ outgoing and friendly nature means plenty of activities to do off the slopes. You’ll find delicious restaurants, horse riding, shopping and all your favourite winter activities at these family ski resorts.

USA ski holidays are relatively easy to access with direct flights into Los Angeles or Dallas, some USA ski areas even have their own airport. We’re absolutely spoiled for choice for family USA ski resorts so it can be tricky to figure out which resort is best for your family. Here are the picks from our panel of experts to help you decide.

1. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado

With four mountains to ski on – Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk and Snowmass – there’s no need to wonder why Australian’s love this US ski resort. Stay in Aspen Village to access Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain or Buttermilk, Aspen village is located 2,438 metres above sea level, its altitude providing a 6-month-long season. Alternatively, stay at Snowmass, which is bigger than the other three combined and has a lot of ski-in, ski-out family-friendly accommodation. Aspen is number one for a reason.

The enchanting old mining town hooks you in from the moment you arrive. It has a reputation built upon glitz and glamour, and sure, there’s a bit of that, but it’s also very down-to-earth and friendly. Your kids will love it.

Four resorts:
Size: 2,244 hectares
Lifts: 41
Lift pass: Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective

2. Park City, Utah

Part of the Vail Resorts’ stable, Park City is one of the biggest family ski resorts in the USA. 2,954 hectares of skiable terrain in two linked areas, Park City and Canyons. Park City is an old silver mining town, with an historic main street of eclectic boutiques, chic restaurants and atmospheric eateries. Close to Salt Lake City and with a stack of fun family activities, it’s hard to beat.

Known as one of the USA’s best ski resorts because on average, over nine metres of snow cover this picture-perfect resort. Park City hosted events in the 2002 Winter Olympics, Olympians love it here, and Park City is easy to get to as well. Fly from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City, then it’s less than an hour’s drive from the airport.

Size: 2,954 hectares
Lifts: 43
Grading of runs: Beginner 8%, Intermediate 42%, Advanced/Expert 50%
Number of runs: 330
Lift pass: Epic Pass and Epic Australia Pass

3. Telluride, Colorado

Telluride Ski Resort’s legendary terrain makes it one of the best family ski resorts in the US. The resort offers something for everyone, whether it be gentle, wide-open slopes with spectacular views or some of the most challenging in-bounds skiing in North America. Arguably the most beautiful ski town in the world, Telluride boasts a perfect mix of history, terrain, food, great facilities and a plethora of things to do. Stay in the Victorian-era old town in the canyon, or in the modern Mountain Village where the ski resort base is located, up above. The two are linked by a free gondola.

Telluride is more than just a skiing destination – visitors can experience fun winter activities such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, snow biking, Nordic skiing, and ice skating. Telluride truly has it all.

Size: 809 hectares
Lifts: 17; 3 gondola, 1 chondola/chair, 12 chairlift, 1 T-bar
Grading of runs: Beginner (23%), Intermediate (36%), Advanced/Expert (41%)
Number of runs: 148 ski trails
Lift pass: Epic Pass but not the Epic Australia pass

4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Want world-class skiing with moose, bison and elk thrown in alongside real Western panache? That is Jackson Hole. While known for its steep terrain accessed by the famous red tram, giant strides have been made in the offerings for beginners and intermediates. And another thing Jackson Hole has? You can tie in a visit to Yellowstone National Park.

Size: 1,011 hectares

13 reason Jackson Hole is awesome for families

5. Breckenridge, Colorado

There’s so much more to Breckenridge than just skiing and snowboarding. Explore its history at the only authentic mine in Summit County, stroll down historic Main Street, or ramp up your adrenaline levels with dog sledding. As for the mountain, it offers five peaks and 1176 skiable hectares.

Size: 1,176 hectares

6. Big Sky, Montana

Big Sky Resort in Montana is a wonderful resort that deserves more recognition from Aussie ski families. It is the real deal, with a huge amount of terrain, great family accommodation at the Mountain Village and plenty of fun activities to do off the slopes.

Size: 2,367 hectares

7. Mammoth Mountain, California

Freestylers can’t get enough of aptly named Mammoth and its Unbound Terrain Parks, ranging from first-time riders to pros. Combine a sunny Californian holiday with a ski and ride adventure at Mammoth thanks to the region’s long snow season that extends into the northern summer.

Size: 1,416 hectares

Expert picks

Best US resorts for beginners

Plenty of gentle runs, separate learning areas, great snow sports schools and crèches.

1. Aspen Snowmass (Snowmass & Buttermilk), Colorado
2. Deer Valley, Utah + Vail, Colorado
3. Steamboat, Colorado

Best freestyle resort

Terrain parks, halfpipes and more slopestyle fun.

1. Breckenridge, Colorado + Mammoth, California
2. Park City, Utah
3. Palisades Tahoe, California

Readers’ choice

Our experts’ picks are complemented by your favourite resorts in the Readers’ Choice category for the ultimate guide to kid-friendly snow adventures.

1. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
2. Telluride, Colorado
3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
4. Vail, Colorado
5. Breckenridge, Colorado

Best US resorts for advanced families

A variety of good-quality terrain for expert-level teens and their parents.

1. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
2. Telluride, Colorado
3. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado + Big Sky, Montana

Best for all-round family activities

Fun off the slopes, including dog sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, etc.

1. Park City, Utah
2. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
3. Steamboat, Colorado

Best alpine village

These villages have the best location and a magical vibe, with lots to do, accessible, good shopping and dining.

1. Aspen, Colorado
2. Telluride, Colorado
3. Ketchum, Idaho

BEST SKI RESORTS IN:

AUSTRALIA | NEW ZEALAND | JAPAN | EUROPE | USA | CANADA

Keep reading:

• The best ski hotels in the USA for families
• Colorado’s best ski resorts for kids
• Thrills at Big Sky Resort Montana
• The best Utah ski resorts for families