15 Unique Ski Resorts in the US

When winter rolls around, the U.S. is home to some of the most extraordinary ski resorts every snow enthusiast needs to experience. In this article, we’re diving into 15 breathtaking resorts that offer more than just your average ski trip.

From hidden gems to adrenaline-pumping slopes, get ready to uncover the unique thrills that set these destinations apart. Buckle up for an adventure that will have you dreaming of fresh powder and pristine trails.

1. Alyeska Resort (Girdwood)

3-8 guests; standard rooms, double rooms, and suites

Tucked away in the stunning Chugach Mountains, Alyeska Resort in Girdwood is Alaska’s only true ski-in/ski-out resort. It’s easily one of the best spots to experience Alaska’s raw beauty and adventure.

Location

Girdwood, Alaska, just 40 miles southeast of Anchorage, is surrounded by stunning mountain views. See on Google Maps.

Facilities

Alyeska offers top-notch amenities, including a saltwater pool, a relaxing Nordic Spa, and several dining options from fine dining to casual eateries. The resort is also famous for its ski-to-door access, offering ski rentals, a ski school, and an aerial tram that takes you up Mount Alyeska for even better views.

What’s Unique About Alyeska Resort

As Alaska’s only true ski-in/ski-out resort, Alyeska stands out for its natural beauty and the unique experiences it offers, like dining atop a mountain and exploring glacier-fed trails. Even if you’ve been to Alaska before, this resort will take you on a one-of-a-kind Alaskan adventure​.

The best part is that no matter what time of the year you visit, you won’t find the place crowded. No matter when you visit, you’ll appreciate the sense of space; there’s plenty of room on the mountain to carve out your own quiet spot.

Jay Peak Resort (North Troy)

4-6 guests; standard rooms, suites, and cottage bedrooms

Jay Peak Resort in North Troy, Vermont, is a year-round playground for adventurers. Famous for its deep snow and diverse terrain, Jay Peak offers a true mountain experience with both thrilling activities and relaxation options.

Location

North Troy, Vermont, is situated in the Green Mountains and just a stone’s throw from the Canadian border.

Facilities

The resort is home to the Pump House Indoor Waterpark, where you can splash around after a day on the slopes, and an ice arena perfect for skating. The Clips & Reels center offers a climbing gym and movie theater, while multiple dining spots ensure you’ll have tons of options to either grab a quick bite or enjoying a sit-down meal.

What’s Unique About Jay Peak Resort

Jay Peak stands out for its unparalleled snowfall (the most in the East) and its laid-back, welcoming vibe. The resort’s combination of snow sports, indoor waterpark fun, and proximity to Canada gives it a unique charm that appeals to families and thrill-seekers alike​.

The resort also focuses on sustainability, using energy-efficient snowmaking and supporting local businesses by offering Vermont-made products and foods.

Everline Resort & Spa Lake Tahoe (Olympic Valley)

2-10 guests; deluxe rooms, suites, and penthouses

Everline offers accommodations from cozy deluxe rooms to expansive penthouses. With a location that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the Everline Resort provides direct access to Palisades Tahoe’s ski slopes and extensive hiking trails.

Location

Olympic Valley, California, in the heart of North Lake Tahoe.

Facilities

The resort has ski-in/ski-out access to Palisades Tahoe, a 24-hour fitness center, and a full-service spa. Guests can enjoy the heated outdoor pools, multiple hot tubs, and an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Dining options include the upscale Six Peaks Grille, casual Sandy’s Pub, and the breakfast-focused Cascades Restaurant.

What’s Unique About Everline Resort and Spa

Everline Resort and Spa is a year-round resort, and stands out for its access to both winter and summer activities, from skiing and snowboarding to golfing and hiking. The resort collaborates with local farmers and artisans to provide a farm-to-table dining experience. With how many activities are available here, guests of all ages will have plenty to do.

Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole (Teton Village)

3-12 guests; rooms, suites, and penthouses

The Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole is a luxury mountain retreat situated at the foot of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The Four Seasons offers guests unparalleled access to rugged peaks, ski slopes, and wildlife, with the Tetons serving as an impressive natural (and beautiful) backdrop.

Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole Location

Teton Village, Wyoming, is adjacent to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and is within close proximity to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.

Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole Facilities

The resort features a full-service spa, an outdoor heated pool with three hot tubs, and a well-equipped fitness center. Dining options include the mountain steakhouse Westbank Grill and the casual Handle Bar, which serves American pub fare. There’s ski concierge service for easy access to the slopes; during the warmer months, the service also organizes activities like hiking, biking, and wildlife safaris.

What’s Unique About Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole

Four Seasons Jackson Hole is highly praised for its personalized service and luxurious accommodations. Despite the luxury on offer, there’s a strong emphasis on sustainability through eco-luxury programs and partnerships with local farms. 

Their Base Camp Concierge service creates custom experiences for exploring the Teton area, from guided stargazing to private wildlife tours​. The wildlife tours allow guests to explore the rich biodiversity of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. According to the reviews, the resort’s connection to the surrounding wilderness is a highlight for many visitors, since it offers a truly immersive experience in one of the most pristine environments in the United States

Sun Valley Resort (Sun Valley)

2-14 guests; rooms, suites, apartments, and cottages

Sun Valley Resort in Idaho is renowned for being America’s first destination ski resort, opening its doors in 1936. What started as a vision to replicate the grandeur of European ski resorts has grown into an iconic destination that has hosted many celebrities over the years. 

Sun Valley Resort Location

Sun Valley, Idaho, is just a short distance from Bald Mountain and the lively town of Ketchum.

Sun Valley Resort Facilities

The resort has pretty much everything you’d want for a fun and relaxing getaway. There are two heated outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and a gym. For food, you can go fancy at the Ram restaurant or keep it casual at the Village Station, both of which have great reviews from guests. In the winter, you can ski and snowboard, and in the summer, there’s horseback riding, bowling, and even ice skating. After a busy day, the spa and yoga studio are perfect for unwinding.

What’s Unique About Sun Valley

Sun Valley’s claim to fame as the first destination ski resort in the U.S. sets it apart. There’s so much to do year-round, whether you’re into skiing, hiking, or just soaking up the scenery. With so much history and all the modern luxuries one could want, Sun Valley is a great spot for those who are looking for a luxury ski resort with both excitement and downtime.

The resort has a storied connection to Hollywood, attracting stars like Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe over the years. Staying at the Sun Valley Lodge, where these legends once roamed, will add a touch of glamour and nostalgia to your visit.

Purgatory Resort Lodge (Durango)

2-10+ guests; rooms, suites, condos, and vacation homes

Purgatory Resort Lodge is a pretty unique ski resort because it offers accommodations that range from cozy lodge rooms to larger condos and townhomes that can accommodate families or groups. Some properties are slopeside, where you’ll have easy access to the ski lifts, while others are situated a bit farther away but still within the resort area.

Purgatory Resort Location

Durango, Colorado, about 25 miles north of the historic downtown area, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains.

Purgatory Resort Facilities

Purgatory Resort has a lot to offer. There’s a heated outdoor pool with a waterslide and a hot tub and a fitness center. A lot of units also have fireplaces for that extra cozy feel. Some of the accommodations have ski-in/ski-out access, so you can step out of your room and onto the slopes. No matter where you’re staying in the resort, you’ll find all the essentials, and many units come with full kitchens. The dining options are great, too, with everything from casual spots to fancier places right on-site.

What’s Unique About Purgatory Resort

The resort offers some of the best views in Colorado. Skiing here is great, with over 1,500 acres of varied terrain. But what really sets Purgatory apart is its ability to offer the classic mountain town feel with modern amenities.

While some ski resorts feel overly commercial, Purgatory has kept much of its original charm since opening in 1965​.

It’s also a really great place to visit, even without snow. The resort becomes a haven for outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, and even zip-lining in the summer. Its close proximity to Durango means you can explore the local history, including the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection (Park City)

2-6 guests; rooms and suites

Set on 3,500 private acres in the Wasatch Mountains, The Lodge at Blue Sky is the perfect place to unplug. The Lodge is all about connecting with nature in style, offering accommodations from hillside Earth Suites to secluded Creek Houses by a rushing stream.

The Lodge at Blue Sky Location

Wanship, Utah, is a short drive from Park City and is nestled in the serene Wasatch Mountains.

The Lodge at Blue Sky Facilities

The Lodge has some impressive amenities. There’s an on-site spa with locally inspired treatments, outdoor yoga, and even aerial yoga in the forest. If you’re into outdoor activities, you can go horseback riding, fly fishing, or even heli-skiing in the winter.

They also have an organic farm, Gracie’s Farm, where you can get hands-on with gardening or just relax among the animals. For dining, the main restaurant, Yuta, offers refined mountain cuisine using heirloom ingredients. There’s even a High West Whiskey distillery on the property for tastings.

What’s Unique About The Lodge

As you might already be able to tell, The Lodge is designed to connect guests with nature while offering luxurious accommodations and amenities that make you feel like you’re a part of the landscape. Plus, the range of activities is impressive, meaning there’s always something to connect you deeper with the surrounding environment. 

The Village at Palisades Tahoe (Olympic Valley)

4-8 guests; one to three-bedroom condo-style suites

The Village at Palisades Tahoe lets visitors soak up the beauty of the Olympic Valley. The vibe is like a European village, with everything you need situated at a short walk, including outdoor adventures, a bite to eat, or opportunities to shop around.

Location

Olympic Valley, California, is just steps away from the slopes of Palisades Tahoe and a short drive from Lake Tahoe’s shores.

Facilities

The Village is packed with amenities. Most suites come with private balconies, full kitchens, and gas fireplaces. You can relax in one of the outdoor hot tubs, enjoy a sauna session, or work out at one of the fitness facilities. The Village also has a children’s game room and a media room for entertainment, plus there’s heated underground parking, which is a nice touch in the winter.

What’s Unique About The Village

The Village has a vibrant, all-in-one atmosphere. With more than 50 shops, restaurants, and bars situated within walking distance, not to mention all the amenities The Village itself offers, you’ll always have something to do. The stone walkways, the European village vibe, and the convenience of slope-side access make it a fantastic spot. Most of the condos have their balconies and fireplaces, so, after a day on the slopes, you can come back and get cozy in your own style.

Elevation Hotel & Spa (Crested Butte)

2-4 guests; rooms and suites

Elevation Hotel & Spa is the only hotel in the area that’s right on the mountain, so whether you’re here for winter skiing or summer mountain biking, you’ll be just steps away from the action. 

Elevation Hotel Location

Mt. Crested Butte, Colorado, is situated perfectly at the mountain’s base, with beautiful views and direct access to the slopes.

Elevation Hotel Facilities

Elevation Hotel and Spa has got a full-service spa, plus an indoor heated pool, and three hot tubs (two of them outside with mountain views). For fitness enthusiasts, there’s a high-altitude fitness center. If you’re traveling with family, the new arcade room is a big hit with kids.

The rooms are spacious, with private balconies, kitchenettes, and cozy details like gas fireplaces in some suites. Dining is a treat too—José Crested Butte serves up delicious Mexican-inspired dishes right on the slopeside patio, the atmosphere there after the sun goes down is dreamy because of the fire pit.

There are also a couple of bars, including the newly opened Matchstick Lounge.

What’s Unique About Elevation Hotel and Spa

The hotel has an unbeatable location right on the mountain. Combine that with the modern amenities on offer and that cozy mountain charm, and there are tons of unique aspects to the place. Ski-in/ski-out access means you’re right on the mountain, so no schlepping your gear around, plus they have a ski and bike valet to handle all that for you. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so nobody in your family has to miss out on all the fun. 

The St. Regis Aspen Resort (Aspen, Colorado)

2-6 guests; rooms and suites

The St. Regis Aspect Resort has this cozy yet upscale vibe, super comfy rooms, and amazing service. It’s where you should stay if you want to treat yourself on your ski trip. 

The St. Regis Aspect Resort Location

The luxury hotel is located in the renowned sky resort of Aspen, Colorado, right at the base of Aspen Mountain and within walking distance to downtown Aspen.

The St. Regis Aspect Resort Facilities

The 15,000-square-foot spa is a highlight, with everything from oxygen lounges to heated whirlpools and steam rooms. The plush rooms feature custom Ralph Lauren furnishings, marble bathrooms, and even butler service for when you want to feel extra pampered. The Velvet Buck serves up modern mountain fare for dining, and there’s also the Chef’s Club, which rotates top chefs for a fresh dining experience every season.

What’s Unique About The St. Regis Aspen Resort

The resort has exceptional service and attention to detail that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s designed to make you feel like royalty, which is evident from the famous St. Regis butlers and the luxurious spa and dining options. Also, the resort’s location couldn’t be better; you’re close to the lifts but also just a short stroll from downtown Aspen’s shops and restaurants. The resort also hosts exclusive events and experiences, like wine tastings and live music.

Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection (Telluride)

2-11 guests; rooms, suites, and residences

Madeline Hotel & Residences is perched at 9,545 feet above sea level. Its location means you’re just a few steps away from both the ski lifts and the Mountain Village. The vibe at the resort itself is upscale but welcoming, perfect for hitting the slopes or just enjoying a laid-back day in the mountains.

Location

Madeline Hotel is located in Telluride, Colorado, is located right in Mountain Village with stunning views of the San Juan Mountains.

Facilities

Madeleine Hotel’s Sky Terrace is popular with guests, with a heated pool and hot tubs where you can comfortably soak up the mountain views. If you need a little R&R, the spa offers some really nice treatments, and they even have an oxygen bar to help you get used to the altitude; some rooms here are also oxygen-enriched for the same purpose.

After a day on the slopes, the Timber Room is the perfect spot to chill out with a drink by the fire. The rooms are super cozy and feel like a posh mountain cabin, with fireplaces and awesome views that’ll make you not want to leave.

When you get hungry, you’ll have great options like Black Iron Kitchen + Bar for a solid meal or just some good snacks and drinks at the Timber Room.

What’s Unique About Madeline Hotel & Residences

Madeline’s thoughtful, detailed, and curated experiences really set it apart. The hotel recently underwent a renovation, and now the atmosphere fits perfectly with Telluride’s mountain town character.

One cool thing is their daily après-ski ritual in the Timber Room, where you can unwind by the fire while listening to an Alphorn serenade; it’s a small touch but one that adds to the experience.

And if you’re into trying new things, they offer some unique activities like ice climbing at Mystic Falls or a scenic helicopter tour over the San Juan Mountains​

The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch (Avon)

2-7 guests; rooms, suites, and penthouses

The Ritz-Carlton brand is known for its high-end hotels and resorts, and this one is no exception. Located in the Bachelor Gulch area, it offers ski-in/ski-out access and gorgeous views all around.

Location

The Ritz-Carlton is in Avon, Colorado, nestled in the Bachelor Gulch area of Beaver Creek, surrounded by mountain scenery and just a short distance from Vail.

Facilities

This resort is designed to feel like a mountain lodge but with all the luxury you’d expect from a Ritz-Carlton. The Great Room, with its huge stone fireplace, is perfect for unwinding, and the impressive spa has 21,000 square feet dedicated to relaxation, including a grotto and plunge pools. Dining options are solid and cover cuisines from the mountain-inspired dishes at WYLD to the sushi at Sakaba.

Many of the rooms and suites come with fireplaces and balconies, giving you incredible views of the surrounding mountains while staying cozy. For an added level of comfort, the Club Level offers access to a private lounge with a dedicated concierge and all-day refreshments.

What’s Unique About The Ritz-Carlton

This Ritz-Carlton is designed to fit the mountain environment, using natural materials like timber and stone to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. They also offer some cool experiences, like guided nature walks and a Ritz Kids program that’s great for families. Their ski-in/ski-out setup makes it easy to hit the slopes whenever you’re ready.

Guests also love the resort’s dog-friendly policy, and if you don’t have a dog to bring with you, they have a St. Bernard named Bachelor, whom guests can take with them on hikes. In the evenings, you can enjoy live music in the Great Room or relax by the outdoor fire pits with s’mores kits.

Hotel Terra Jackson Hole – A Noble House Resort (Teton Village)

2-12 guests; rooms, studios, and suites

Hotel Terra Jackson Hole is a boutique hotel that feels stylish and welcoming. The property is designed to blend comfort with a strong commitment to the environment (more on that below). 

Location

Hotel Terra Jackson Hole is located in Teton Village, Wyoming, just a mile from Grand Teton National Park.

Facilities

Hotel Terra has many amenities, starting with its rooftop spa and infinity pool, where you can unwind while soaking in the mountain views. The on-site restaurants, Il Villaggio Osteria and Bar Enoteca serve up everything from hearty Italian fare to lighter bites.

They’ve also got a fully-equipped fitness center and a ski valet service. Plus, as I mentioned earlier, the hotel is big on sustainability; it’s the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified hotel in Wyoming and has tons of eco-friendly features like organic mattresses and energy-efficient systems.

What’s Unique About The Terra Jackson Hole

What really makes Hotel Terra stand out is its commitment to sustainability. Everything from the recycled steel in the building to the water-saving systems is designed to be environmentally friendly without skimping on luxury.

They even offer aluminum water bottles and have water stations throughout the hotel to cut down on plastic waste. At no point do you feel like they’ve had to cut corners to make the hotel greener?

No matter what you’re here for, skiing or relaxation, you’ll feel good about staying in a place that’s as dedicated to the planet as it is to your comfort.

The rooftop infinity pool and hot tubs have beautiful views to unwind and relax, and the hotel offers thoughtful touches like ski valet service and in-room dining from their top-notch Italian restaurant.

Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa (Avon)

2-5 guests; rooms and suites

Park Hyatt Beaver Creek feels like a cozy alpine retreat. This resort offers ski-in/ski-out access; but even if you’re not hitting the slopes, the location and amenities make it a great spot to relax and take in the mountain scenery.

Location

Park Hyatt Beaver Creek is located in Avon, Colorado, in Beaver Creek Village, with direct access to the ski slopes and close to local shops, restaurants, and an ice-skating rink.

Facilities

The Allegria Spa is a favorite of guests, with over 30,000 square feet of space, including a water sanctuary, steam rooms, and a menu of treatments inspired by the mountains. The outdoor heated pool and hot tubs are perfect for unwinding, and the 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill offers locally sourced dishes in a cozy setting.

If you’re in the mood for something quick, the Fall Line Market has grab-and-go options. The rooms and suites here are warm and inviting, many with fireplaces and views of the surrounding mountains or village.

What’s Unique About The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa

Park Hyatt Beaver Creek has a welcoming, luxurious, yet down-to-earth vibe. The property feels like a grand mountain lodge, with high ceilings, stone fireplaces, and plenty of comfortable relaxing spots.

Ski-in/ski-out access is a huge plus if you’re here for the slopes, but even if skiing isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to do, like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides. The Allegria Spa is a treat, with all of the options it offers. And if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love the outdoor ice rink right in the village.

The St. Regis Deer Valley

2-9 guests; rooms and suites

The St. Regis Deer Valley has all the best parts of a ski getaway. You’ve got ski-in/ski-out access, a funicular right at your doorstep, and a polished yet super cozy vibe.

Location

The St. Regis Deer Valley is located in Park City, Utah, is just a short drive from Park City’s Main Street, full of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.

Facilities

The split-level infinity pool is a standout, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains, while the Remède Spa provides treatments that help you unwind. RIME serves a delicious breakfast for dining, and The St. Regis Bar is the perfect spot for a drink by the fire after a day of skiing.

The rooms are thoughtfully designed for relaxation, featuring plush bedding, fireplaces, and soaking tubs that are especially welcome after a day on the slopes.  

What’s Unique About The St. Regis Deer Valley

Like the St. Regis Resort in Aspen that I’ve covered before (#10 on this list), this one also offers the signature St. Regis Butler service to ensure that your stay is as comfortable as possible.

The daily Champagne sabering adds a special flair to your evenings. You can even arrange for heli-skiing, which takes the adventure up a notch.

If you’re a wine enthusiast, St. Regis Wine Vault will be a gem for you; here, you can indulge in private dining experiences paired with fine wines guided by their in-house Wine Ambassador.

And if you’re traveling with family, there are thoughtful touches like cribs with welcome gifts for children and a ski school conveniently located at the resort’s base.