Fresh flakes are falling all over the U.S., and the official first day of winter is only a month away, which means it’s time to get amped about the ski season to come. It also means it’s time to start planning a ski vacation to a top mountain in the U.S. And, according to the ski and travel pros we spoke to, there are only two states you need to head to this winter for epic shredding conditions.
Vermont
Vermont is the grand dame of ski destinations in New England, with 25 ski resorts to try. However, with all that choice, you may feel overwhelmed. Here’s where ski insiders say you should book first.
- Woodstock: Matthew Closter, the director of golf and ski operations at the Woodstock Inn & Resort, would love for you to come and enjoy his hometown, which he calls straight out of a “storybook.” “[It’s a] storybook winter visit, with a small-town feel, complete with boutique shops and great dining,” Closter said. He noted visitors can have an authentic “soulful ski experience” at the local community mountain, Saskadena Six, one of the oldest ski areas in the country. Or, head out to the nearby large mountains like Killington or Okemo. “If you’re looking for a quiet, laid-back trip, visit mid-week to feel like you have the mountain to yourself. If you love the excitement of a bustling village, Presidents’ Day Week always brings lots of fun to the Woodstock area.”
- Jay: Closter also had a few other recommendations, including Jay, home to the legendary Jay Peak ski resort. “It’s an escape that feels like you’ve gone much farther than upstate Vermont,” he shared. “The mountain offers a real Vermont experience with some of the largest terrain in the state.” He also added that Jay Peak gets some of the best late-season snow, so early March often offers “amazing conditions.”
- Waitsfield: Last on Closter’s list is Waitsfield, which he noted offers “a great combination of artist community with fantastic ski area destinations.” Here, visitors can check out the trails at Sugarbush Resort and Mad River Glen, which he said “are minutes away and offer different, but equally fantastic experiences. Mid-week in Waitsfield offers the best skiing with no lift lines and wide-open trails.”
- Stowe: No list of the best spots to ski and visit in Vermont would be complete without a mention of Stowe. And Greg Speer, the owner and founder of Sunrise Mountain Guides, knows it. “What makes Stowe stand out isn’t just the mountain—it’s the community. I’ve skied and lived in big mountain towns out West, and while the terrain is impressive, many of those places don’t have the same sense of connection that you find here,” Speer said. “In Stowe, the community is woven into the entire experience, and that’s what makes it truly special.”
Colorado
For those living out west or wanting to experience the Rockies this winter, plenty of the pros said it’s time to head to these Colorado destinations.
- Steamboat Springs: According to Cord Thomas, president of SkyRun Vacation Rentals, Steamboat Springs is a not-to-miss spot for any skier or rider. “With 170 trails, 23 chair lifts, and 314 inches of snowfall each year, there is no shortage of reasons why this area has become a bucket list destination,” he shared. Travel designer Paige Burton of The Travel Whisperer agreed, noting that the town’s charm goes far beyond the slopes. “It’s great for families since it’s easy, approachable, and fun, but there’s also incredible tree skiing through the iconic glades with almost perfectly placed aspens in the resort’s trademark Champagne Powder,” she told T+L. “The après scene is lively without being over the top, and the on-mountain food is some of the best I have had—I highly recommend the chili mac.”
- Snowmass: For a classic Colorado experience with just the right touch of luxury, Natalie Gorak, another personal travel designer at The Travel Whisperer, recommended a visit to Snowmass. “It offers everything you want in a ski resort; great ski-in/ski-out properties, varied terrain from long green cruisers to expert-only terrain, plus a range of après spots,” she said, adding that Aurum is a personal favorite. Gorak also offered a critical tip for après fans: “Be sure to stop by The Viewline’s bar for an amazing espresso martini after a day on the slopes.”
- Keystone: For those craving a mix of adventure and authenticity, Daniel Dohner, general manager at Kindred Resort, pointed to Keystone. “Keystone has a way of being both welcoming and unexpected. You’ve got everything from beginner-friendly slopes to Bergman Bowl, which just opened for lift-served access and gives intermediate skiers bowl terrain, something almost unheard of in North America,” he shared. Dohner also noted that you don’t need to get up too early to ski, as the mountain offers fantastic night skiing as well. “It lets you squeeze in a few more laps under the lights while most resorts are already winding down. And the vibe is relaxed, never overrun. You feel like part of the mountain town, not just a visitor.”
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