Nothing beats the first run of the season on fresh powder. If you're a skier or simply love the atmosphere of a cozy resort, you've probably dreamt of spending a week in a luxurious mountain lodge. The crisp mountain air, crackling fireplaces, and warm refreshments evoke an unmatched level of coziness on a snowy day. So, where do you go to find this perfect winter getaway? Look no further than this list of the most extravagant ski resorts in the United States.
What makes the ski resorts on this list a cut above the rest? These top-notch resorts are located in prime mountain villages with remarkable trails. They also feature splurge-worthy fine dining options, luxurious amenities and spas, and a fairytale-like atmosphere. So whether you’re here to plan your next ski trip or are just looking for the coziest lodge for après-ski comfort, here are some of the most decadent ski resorts that should be at the top of your list.
Vail Marriott Mountain Resort
Vail, Colorado
Vail, a ski town just west of Denver, has made a name for itself in the snow sports industry due to its key location at the base of Vail Mountain in White River National Forest. With its growing popularity comes ample options for lodging. For a truly unforgettable stay, book a suite at the Vail Marriott Mountain Resort. This sophisticated resort is located in Lionshead, a charming village at the edge of Vail’s ski slopes. Located a short walk from the Eagle Bahn Gondola, the resort allows guests to reach the slopes in a matter of minutes.
Other perks of staying here include a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, and fire pits, which are perfect for snuggling up and enjoying the mountain views. Along with the main hotel, this resort offers condominium rentals featuring kitchens, fireplaces, and private balconies that are great for a large group getaway.
Madeline Hotel & Residences
Telluride, Colorado
Relax at the edge of the San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado at the Madeline Hotel & Residences. With ski-in and ski-out accommodations, this resort makes it easy for guests to enjoy Telluride’s 84 trails that are spread out over 1,700 acres. For the daring, the Madeline Hotel staff can assist you in booking a backcountry dogsled or snowmobile excursion or even a heli-skiing adventure. Don’t worry if you forget something at home — the resort’s onsite boutique Neve Sports specializes in European ski fashion. End your busy day in a hot tub overlooking the village, while the setting sun illuminates the mountains.
Montage Deer Valley
Park City, Utah
Take advantage of epic skiing at one of North America’s premier ski resorts in Park City, Utah, while staying at Montage Deer Valley. Guests can enjoy true ski-in and ski-out access to more than 200 acres of terrain including nine brand new trails at Wasatch Mountain. The resort’s 100 diverse trails have earned Deer Valley a repeat title as “America’s #1 Ski Resort” by SKI Magazine readers. The fun doesn’t end on the slopes. Experience the resort’s 35,000-square-foot spa sanctuary featuring redwood saunas, eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, jetted whirlpools, and deluge showers.
The St. Regis Aspen Resort
Aspen, Colorado
Experience five-star luxury at the base of Aspen Mountain during a stay at The St. Regis Aspen Resort. The charm of the St. Regis starts with its exterior, which is comprised of over 800,000 Colorado red bricks that welcome guests to come in and cozy up by the fireplace. A wide variety of suites are available to guests with mountain views, fireplaces, and private balconies. Its interior design emulates a late 19th-century mountain manor — combining luxury with warm comfort. When your day on the famous Aspen ski slopes is finished, treat yourself at the onsite Remède Spa. This innovative spa has been named the “World’s Best Hotel Spa” by Travel + Leisure magazine.
The Westin Snowmass Resort
Snowmass Village, Colorado
Aspen’s neighboring ski village, Snowmass, offers accommodations that are just as luxurious. Although there are a variety of five-star resorts in the area, The Westin Snowmass Resort stands out for its prime location, expansive views, and modern alpine-inspired design. Guests are greeted with floor-to-ceiling window views of ski slopes in the lobby lounge.
Step onto the outdoor terrace. With ample seating and fire pits, you can sit mere feet from the action. The terrace also makes a perfect place to enjoy an après-ski drink with friends. When you’re ready to head inside to warm up, go to Vue Lounge. There, you'll be treated to impressive views of Snowmass Mountain and can sip on handcrafted cocktails, regional microbrews, and wines in an intimate atmosphere.
Hotel Terra Jackson Hole
Teton Village, Wyoming
Stay at Travel + Leisure’s “Best Hotel in Wyoming” and you’ll see why it’s won so many awards. Hotel Terra Jackson Hole is a contemporary western-style resort and prides itself on a vibrant and fresh atmosphere inspired by the local region. Guests are just steps away from the Jackson Hole Mountain Ski Resort — making the transition from the resort to the snow seamless. The Ski Valet is available for onsite rentals, as well as retrieval and storage of ski equipment for guests. Enjoy fine Italian dining at Il Villaggio Osteria. With an innovative menu and energetic bar scene, this restaurant is one of the most popular in Teton Village.
Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
Truckee, California
Enjoy ski culture at its finest in the village of Northstar, which is next to Lake Tahoe. The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe takes care of its guests with ski-in and ski-out privileges, mountain concierge services, and spirited après-ski experiences. Skiing can result in sore muscles, so enjoy ultimate relaxation at the resort’s 17,000-square-foot, slope-side spa with nature-themed treatments to complement your time on the mountain. Take the intermountain gondola from the resort to the Northstar Village for ice-skating and ample entertainment.
Back at the hotel, be sure to dine at Manzanita at least once to try a unique seasonal menu as you gaze upon the Sierra Mountains. If you have free time one evening, head down to the fire pit for a “Marshmology” experience where you can learn the about the art of the s'more.
Whiteface Lodge
Lake Placid, New York
Experience the romance of upstate New York in the wintertime at Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid. Tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains, this small town has twice held the Winter Olympic Games — making it a natural hub for snow sports. The rustic timber design throughout the resort evokes a sense of warmth that is rarely achieved by large hotels.
Tackle the East Coast’s highest vertical drop at nearby Whiteface Mountain, which is only a short drive from the resort. Enjoy over 22 miles of trails at Whiteface Mountain, which are designed to accommodate skiers of all skill levels. End the evening beside your in-suite, cast-iron fireplace as logs crackle on a snowy night.
