Luxury is hardly in short supply when it comes to ski accommodations in the U.S.
For trips to the over 450 ski resorts in the country, powder hounds can book everything from opulent slope-side chalets to penthouse suites with breathtaking mountain views. HotelPlanner set out to find the priciest of them all, analyzing winter 2026 booking data for four top destinations—Park City and Salt Lake City in Utah plus Aspen and Vail in Colorado—to see which hill puts the biggest dent in travelers’ pockets.
After crunching the numbers, Park City proved to be the most expensive place to play in the powder. With accommodations costing an average of $1,621 per night, it costs quite a lot to lay your head in the alpine hotspot.
A stay in Park City provides guests easy access to Park City Mountain Resort (PCMR) and Deer Valley Resort, which are both among the most popular resorts in the country. PCMR is the largest ski area in the nation, with over 7,300 acres for skiers and snowboarders to explore. Its versatile terrain attracts every level of skier, from beginners to seasoned athletes looking for their next adventure. A couple of miles away, Deer Valley’s skiers-only resort offers impeccably groomed trails, crowd-controlling lift ticket limits, and an overall focus on service.
Although the historic destination has its Western charm, a Main Street bustling with Michelin-starred dining, boutique shopping, and plentiful art galleries lets guests indulge in every luxury. The area also dominates Travel + Leisure’s list of the best resorts in the state. In the latest World’s Best Awards, Goldener Hirsch, Auberge Resorts Collection topped the list thanks to a cozy Austrian atmosphere paired with sleek design touches and premium amenities.
Park City’s convenient location makes it a popular choice for skiers as well—and keeps hotel rates high. It takes just over half an hour to get there from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), a Delta Air Lines Hub that also serves United Airlines, American Airlines, and several other carriers.
In addition to having some of the country’s best skiing, Park City draws a glitzy crowd every January with the annual Sundance Film Festival. The prestigious event is the largest independent film festival in the country, so it’s no surprise that hotel rates go up as industry elites descend on the mountain town.
Out of the four top destinations researched, nearby Salt Lake City was by far the most popular among hotel-bookers. With nightly rates averaging only $379, it’s certainly an affordable alternative for skiers who’d rather spend their bucks on lift tickets and lunchtime chili.
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