Whether you’ve been skiing all your life or you’re ready to hit the powder for the first time, the United States is full of amazing slopes that you’ve likely never even heard of.
It might be tempting to look at Aspen, Vail, or Park City because of their prominence and popularity, but they’re also overcrowded and overpriced.
Instead, why not check out the slopes less traveled?
You’ll have all the space you need to learn the ropes or you might just find your new favorite black runs.
Whatever your style, we’ve compiled a list of the very best ski resorts that tend to fly under the radar, handpicked from across the continental United States.
Contents
- 1. Powder Mountain Ski Resort, Utah
- 2. Red Lodge Mountain, Montana
- 3. Mt. Abram, Maine
- 4. Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
- 5. Snow King Mountain Resort, Wyoming
- 6. Monarch Mountain, Colorado
- 7. Lost Trail Powder Mountain, Montana/Idaho
- 8. Mount Bohemia Ski Resort, Michigan
- 9. Silverton Mountain, Colorado
- 10. Magic Mountain, Vermont
- 11. Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, Oregon
- 12. Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana
- 13. Hoodoo Ski Area, Oregon
- 14. Beech Mountain Resort, North Carolina
- 15. Ski Bluewood, Washington
- The Best Slopes Less Traveled
- United States Safety Overview
1. Powder Mountain Ski Resort, Utah
Located just an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City International Airport, Powder Mountain is all about giving skiers space to breathe.
With over 8,400 acres of skiable terrain – the largest in North America – it limits daily lift ticket sales to maintain an uncrowded, serene environment.
This resort is heaven for intermediate and advanced skiers who seek out solitude and cherish untouched powder.
2. Red Lodge Mountain, Montana
For those seeking charm without pretension, Red Lodge Mountain is a must-visit.
About an hour from Billings Logan International Airport, this resort offers views of the vast Beartooth Mountains and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
The diverse terrain and affordable lift tickets, starting from as little as $35, make it a great destination for beginners and skiers on a budget.
3. Mt. Abram, Maine
Under 90 minutes from Portland International Jetport, Mt. Abram is a hidden eco-friendly gem in Maine.
The resort is home to a huge solar farm which provides 70% of their electricity.
Mt. Abram also has a real community feel by working with several local initiatives as well as offering schoolchildren free school passes.
Families and skiers who value environmental consciousness and community will feel at home on these peaceful, uncrowded slopes.
4. Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
Taos Ski Valley is a great blend of southwestern charm and Alpine exhilaration.
The resort combines challenging terrain with the quirky, artistic culture of nearby Taos town.
This is the dream spot for those looking for a slice of culture with their skiing.
Advanced skiers will appreciate its unique mix of adventure, with 51% of the trails classified as expert.
5. Snow King Mountain Resort, Wyoming
Known locally as “Town Hill,” Snow King Mountain is just minutes from Jackson Hole Airport.
The resort offers steep runs, night skiing, and jaw-dropping views of the Tetons.
Its proximity to downtown Jackson makes it perfect for skiers who enjoy the convenience of the city after cutting through the slopes.
6. Monarch Mountain, Colorado
Monarch Mountain’s powder-filled slopes are a hidden treasure just 2.5 hours from Colorado Springs Airport.
Unlike its high-profile neighbors, Monarch focuses on affordability and charm, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious skiers looking for pristine snow and virtually no crowds.
7. Lost Trail Powder Mountain, Montana/Idaho
Straddling the Montana–Idaho border, Lost Trail Powder Mountain is a two-hour drive from Missoula International Airport.
This family-owned resort stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and abundant snowfall.
It’s a top pick for families and skiers looking for a homey, unpretentious ski experience.
8. Mount Bohemia Ski Resort, Michigan
Are you ready for the longest runs with the highest vertical and deepest powder in the Midwest?
Well, what are you waiting for? Mount Bohemia is a backcountry paradise.
Located an hour from Houghton County Memorial Airport, it features extreme terrain with no groomed runs, catering exclusively to expert skiers and snowboarders who crave pure adrenaline.
9. Silverton Mountain, Colorado
Silverton Mountain is as rugged as it gets.
Be prepared for a one-of-a-kind experience with its single lift and guided backcountry skiing.
Only the most experienced skiers will feel at home here, navigating untouched terrain in an isolated, pristine environment.
You can also organize heli-skiing in a few spots, making you one of the few people to even attempt some of the remotest areas.
10. Magic Mountain, Vermont
Magic Mountain’s retro charm and loyal community make it a standout in Vermont.
Situated 2.5 hours from Boston Logan International Airport, this resort offers classic New England trails and challenging runs.
It’s also ideal for beginners, with the Nelson Family Learning Area set up for beginners to master their basics.
11. Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, Oregon
With a base elevation of 7,100 feet, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort boasts views of the Elkhorn Mountains and a whole lot of dry powder.
A two-hour drive from Boise Airport, this resort is also home to a superb Nordic ski trail for those looking to push themselves physically.
12. Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana
Whitefish Mountain Resort combines breathtaking views of Glacier National Park with a lively ski town atmosphere.
Just 30 minutes from Glacier Park International Airport, you can be on the slopes in less than three hours with a private flight from Seattle, depending on your air charter provider.
Whitefish caters to all skill levels and offers a vibrant après-ski scene.
13. Hoodoo Ski Area, Oregon
Affordable and welcoming, Hoodoo Ski Area is a true hidden gem two hours from Eugene Airport.
Its family-friendly vibe and night skiing options make it perfect for beginners and budget-conscious skiers looking for a straightforward skiing experience.
14. Beech Mountain Resort, North Carolina
Beech Mountain Resort proudly boasts the highest ski area in the eastern U.S., with unmatched views and a laid-back Southern atmosphere.
Just two hours from Asheville Regional Airport, the resort offers 17 slopes on 98 skiable acres with runs for every skill level.
15. Ski Bluewood, Washington
Tucked away in the Pacific Northwest, Bluewood is a powder lover’s paradise.
Located three hours from Spokane International Airport, it features some of the best tree skiing in the region, as well as eight black diamonds.
Intermediate and advanced skiers will adore its serene runs and untouched snow.
The Best Slopes Less Traveled
These lesser-known ski resorts prove that the perfect slopes do exist.
You no longer need to compromise with busy crowds and ridiculous prices when looking for great skiing.
The States is full of world-class skiing at quiet resorts – you just have to dig a little deeper.
With a range of lesser-known slopes everywhere from New Mexico to Washington, you can be sure to find a hidden gem near you.
United States Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: United States Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
