An Insider's Guide to U.S. Ski Destinations
If you’re a skier, the falling leaves and chill in the air mean only one thing: ski season is just around the corner. Now is the perfect time to plan a ski getaway in the U.S. Whether you’re an East Coast skier or prefer the wide-open powder out West, these destinations are our most booked ski resorts year after year.
Discover these favorites that offer convenience and ski amenities that make your trip unforgettable. From ski concierges to après-ski scenes, connect with Exclusive Luxury Moments to learn which hotels perfectly match your ski trip goals.
Travel in Ultimate Comfort: Private Jet Charters to Ski Destinations
Elevate your ski experience by chartering a private jet to your winter getaway. Many of the top U.S. ski resorts are easily accessible via private airports, allowing you to avoid commercial travel hassles. Arrive in style and comfort, with direct access to smaller regional airports like Aspen/Pitkin County, Eagle County, and Jackson Hole, which are perfect for private jets. Enjoy flexible schedules, personalized service, and the convenience of landing just minutes away from the slopes. Whether you’re traveling with family or a group of friends, a private jet ensures a seamless, luxurious start to your ski vacation.
Need to Know
Many ski resorts are reachable within an hour or two of major airports, while smaller airports cater to private jets, ensuring swift access to your destination (e.g., Aspen-Pitkin County Airport). Plan ahead by purchasing lift tickets and signing up for lessons (group or private), particularly during peak holidays. Don’t forget to dress in layers—the top of the mountain can be much colder and windier than the base.
Best time to visit: In the Western states, ski season typically runs between November and March, with spring skiing possible in April, depending on the weather. On the East Coast, prime months are December through March.
Ideal length of stay: 4–6 days is perfect for experiencing most mountain resorts.
What to wear: Layers are key. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outerwear. Warm gloves, helmets, goggles, and sunscreen are essential due to the high UV reflection of the snow.
Ski Schools: Most major U.S. ski resorts offer excellent ski schools for all levels. Popular resorts like Aspen, Vail, and Stowe offer private and group lessons for children and adults.
Western Airports (Private and Commercial)
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE): Handles both commercial and private jet traffic. Commercial flights from major cities are available, but private jets are a popular option due to frequent weather delays with commercial flights.
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE): Serves commercial airlines with direct flights from major cities, especially during ski season, as well as private jets.
Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ): A commercial hub for Telluride-bound travelers, also commonly used by private jets.
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC): A major gateway for both commercial flights and private jet travelers visiting Jackson Hole.
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN): Serves both private and commercial flights, commonly used for Big Sky access.
Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO): A major commercial hub with flights from major U.S. cities, also suitable for private jets.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): A large commercial airport serving both private jets and numerous commercial airlines, with quick access to Utah’s ski resorts.
Northeastern Airports (Private and Commercial)
Burlington International Airport (BTV): Offers both commercial flights and private jet access for travelers headed to Stowe.
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS): A key commercial airport with flights from all major cities, also used by private jets.
Top U.S. Ski Resorts and Where to Stay
California
Image courtesy of Edgewood Tahoe Resort
Set in northern California on the Nevada line, Lake Tahoe is a premier destination for skiers of all abilities. Advanced skiers can take on steeper slopes at higher elevations, while beginners and intermediates will enjoy the more relaxed, scenic terrain at lower altitudes. Heavenly’s Milky Way Bowl and Northstar’s Backside are popular choices for avid skiers looking for thrilling runs.
For the adventurous, backcountry skiing in areas like Mount Tallac and Echo Peak offers access to untouched powder and remote wilderness. Off the slopes, Tahoe offers a variety of snowshoeing trails, snowmobile tours, and ice skating at Northstar Village. The après-ski scene is relaxed, with cozy lakeside bars and restaurants providing the perfect end to a day in the mountains.
Where to Stay
Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe
Edgewood Tahoe Resort
A lakeside retreat featuring spacious suites, fine dining, and easy access to skiing. With breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains, it provides a serene yet adventurous escape for those seeking both luxury and nature. Perfect for families or couples wanting to indulge in a relaxing yet exhilarating environment.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
A luxury resort with ski-in/ski-out access and family-friendly amenities. The Ritz-Carlton blends mountain elegance with world-class service, offering guests exclusive après-ski activities and a full-service spa. It’s ideal for those seeking comfort and sophistication while being just steps away from the slopes.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Vermont
Image courtesy of The Lodge at Spruce Peak
Located in the Green Mountains, Stowe is one of the most famous ski resorts on the East Coast. Its challenging runs on Mount Mansfield cater to advanced skiers, while Spruce Peak offers more forgiving terrain for beginners and intermediates. Stowe is known for its quintessential New England charm, featuring a village filled with historic inns, farm-to-table restaurants, and craft breweries.
Beyond skiing, Stowe offers activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and scenic sleigh rides through the snow-covered countryside. After a day on the slopes, unwind in the village with locally brewed craft beers, fine dining, and quaint shops highlighting the area's unique character.
Where to Stay
Image courtesy of Field Guide Stowe
Stowe
The Lodge at Spruce Peak
A luxury mountain lodge offering ski-in/ski-out access, an expansive spa, and fine dining. This resort offers unparalleled access to the slopes while delivering a serene, upscale atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of skiing. It's the ultimate blend of adventure and relaxation for skiers of all levels.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Field Guide Stowe
A modern boutique hotel offering rustic-chic accommodations in the heart of Stowe village. Just a short drive from the slopes, it’s perfect for those looking for a stylish, intimate stay while exploring all that Stowe has to offer.
ELM Perks: Contact us for exclusive offers and upgrades.
Colorado
Image Courtesy of The Little Nell
Colorado is home to some of the most iconic ski resorts in the U.S., with Aspen and Vail leading the way. Aspen, known for its glamorous appeal and upscale social scene, offers diverse terrain for all levels of skiers, from the advanced runs on Aspen Mountain (Ajax) to the gentle slopes at Buttermilk. Vail, with its pedestrian-friendly village and Alpine-style charm, features wide, groomed trails perfect for families and more challenging powder in its legendary Back Bowls.
Colorado’s ski resorts offer more than just world-class skiing—visitors can enjoy fine dining, luxury shopping, and a robust après-ski culture. Whether you're seeking adventure or a high-end mountain retreat, Colorado has something for every type of traveler.
Where to Stay
Image Courtesy of Little Nell
Aspen
Viceroy Snowmass
This luxury resort is designed with modern mountain elegance and offers ski-in/ski-out access in the Snowmass Village area. Guests can relax in an expansive wellness center after a day on the slopes, making it perfect for those looking for a balanced experience of adventure and pampering.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection
A landmark hotel combining stylish decor with a lively bar scene in downtown Aspen. Known for its rich history and luxurious modern amenities, it offers guests an unforgettable experience of Aspen’s culture and adventure.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
The Little Nell
Aspen’s only five-star, five-diamond ski-in/ski-out hotel offering personalized service and exclusive access to Aspen Mountain. The Little Nell is renowned for its fine dining, curated wine program, and luxurious suites with breathtaking views.
ELM Perks include $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Vail
Image courtesy of Sonnenalp Hotel
Where to Stay
Sonnenalp Hotel
Bavarian charm meets Rocky Mountain adventure at this luxury hotel, offering cozy suites and an award-winning spa. The Sonnenalp’s European-inspired hospitality makes it a favorite for couples and families seeking a quaint yet sophisticated mountain retreat.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences
Located in the heart of Vail Village, this luxury hotel offers spacious suites and a world-class spa. The Four Seasons blends contemporary elegance with alpine adventure, ensuring a memorable stay for skiers of all levels.
ELM Perks include $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and late check-out when available.
Telluride
Images courtesy of Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
Where to Stay
Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
A luxurious, slopeside resort offering stunning mountain views, ski-in/ski-out access, and world-class amenities. Madeline is the perfect base for those looking to combine outdoor adventure with upscale comfort in the heart of Telluride.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Beaver Creek
Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch
Where to Stay
Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort
A family-friendly resort located steps from Beaver Creek’s main chairlift. The Park Hyatt blends luxury accommodations with direct access to the slopes, making it ideal for families and groups of all sizes.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch
A luxurious, rustic resort with ski-in/ski-out access and fine dining. With its stunning mountain views and impeccable service, it offers a true escape for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in the heart of the Rockies.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Utah
Utah boasts some of the best powder skiing in the world, with Park City and Deer Valley ranking as top destinations. Park City is famous for its lively après-ski scene and easy access to both skiing and the town’s historic Main Street, filled with art galleries, boutiques, and dining options. Deer Valley is known for its impeccably groomed slopes and luxurious amenities, offering a more exclusive ski experience.
Both resorts are close to Salt Lake City, making them convenient for travelers looking for a quick weekend escape. Off the slopes, visitors can enjoy a variety of winter activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, and exploring the vibrant arts and culture scene that the region is known for.
Park City & Deer Valley
Where to Stay
Image courtesy of Pendry Park City
The Goldener Hirsch, Auberge Resorts Collection
A luxurious European-style hotel offering ski-in/ski-out access in Deer Valley, The Goldener Hirsch combines old-world charm with modern luxury. It provides an elegant retreat after a day on the slopes, making it ideal for couples or families.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Pendry Park City
Located in Canyons Village, this modern resort offers ski-in/ski-out access, a rooftop pool, and fine dining. Pendry’s contemporary design and vibrant atmosphere make it a perfect choice for travelers looking for chic mountain luxury.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
The St. Regis Deer Valley
Known for its elegant design, luxury service, and private funicular for ski-in/ski-out access. The St. Regis offers refined luxury for both couples and families, with a renowned butler service and stunning mountain views.
ELM Perks include $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Montana and Wyoming
Image courtesy of Montage Big Sky
Montana’s Big Sky Resort and Wyoming’s Jackson Hole are two of the top destinations for skiers seeking vast, unspoiled terrain. Big Sky’s Lone Peak offers a wide variety of runs, from gentle slopes for beginners to extreme terrain for thrill-seekers. Jackson Hole, renowned for its steep and challenging runs like Corbet’s Couloir, is a must-visit for advanced skiers and backcountry enthusiasts.
Both destinations are known for their rugged beauty and offer more than just skiing. Guests can enjoy snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and wildlife spotting in nearby national parks. The après-ski scene in these areas is understated and relaxed, with local pubs and lodges providing a cozy retreat after a day of outdoor adventure.
Big Sky, Montana & Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Where to Stay
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole
Montage Big Sky
A luxury mountain resort offering ski-in/ski-out access, a 10,000-square-foot spa, and proximity to Yellowstone. With its unparalleled service and alpine elegance, Montage is ideal for both couples and families looking for an extraordinary mountain retreat.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Four Seasons Resort, Jackson Hole
Offering ski-in/ski-out luxury with plush accommodations, a full-service spa, and fine dining. The Four Seasons Jackson Hole is a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with stunning mountain views and world-class amenities.
ELM Perks include $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Amangani
An exclusive retreat with breathtaking views, offering a holistic spa and refined suites. Amangani’s secluded location provides the ultimate in luxury and tranquility, perfect for those looking for a serene, high-end escape.
ELM Perks include $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, room upgrades, and extended check-in/check-out when available.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Ski Vacation?
For expert advice, insider recommendations, and fully customizable travel options, contact Exclusive Luxury Moments to start planning your ultimate ski getaway. Whether you're looking for a complete private jet ski trip package, hotel-only bookings, or private jet charters alone, we offer flexible, personalized services to meet your every need. Let us create a tailored experience just for you—your dream winter escape is just a booking away.