Known for its high altitude, picturesque views, and world-class skiing, the Mountain West region has long been a popular winter destination. Home to the Rocky Mountains, that stretch from Canada all the way to New Mexico, they reach an astounding elevation of 14,440 above sea level, making them a sought-after place for skiers and snowboarders. With some of the most well-known snowsport trails and award-winning resorts, many people flock to the region every year to enjoy the area.
Big Sky Resort in Montana is a popular spot for snow sports with 5,850 skiable acres, 2,300 of which are for beginners and intermediate skiers, and the resort has 39 lifts spanning over 4,350 vertical feet. For advanced skiers, the Lone Peak is 11,166 feet above sea level and provides 360-degree views of three states and two National Parks. Big Sky Resort offers four hotel options or a variety of vacation rentals including cabins, condos, or private homes. When hunger strikes, dine at one of the 20 restaurants the resort offers with a wide variety that is sure to satisfy everyone. After a long day of skiing, treat yourself to the Solace Spa which offers body treatments, massages, facials, and more. Other fun winter activities to do include ziplining, dog sledding, fly fishing, and snowshoe tours.
With a base elevation of 6,800 feet and 355 inches of average snowfall, Park City Resort in Utah is a highly popular place to visit. Perfect for well-seasoned skiers, 50% of their 7,300 skiable areas for considered expert with only 8% being suitable for beginners. Park City Resort has three different villages throughout including Historic Old Town, Park City Mountain Village, and Canyons Village, each with their own options for dining, shopping, and lodging. Aside from hitting the slopes, the resort offers snowmobile tours, sleigh rides, and skiing and snowboarding school for beginners. With a slope length of 155 miles, Park City Resort is tied with Big Sky Resort as the largest ski resort in the United States.
Voted the #1 ski resort for the second year in a row by Ski Magazine, Sun Valley in Idaho is sure to impress. With three different lodging options from the iconic Sun Valley Lodge to their charming Inn and luxurious cottages, the resort offers the perfect option for all budgets and needs. The resort offers over 2,000 acres of skiable land that can be reached by 19 ski lifts and 121 different trails with the average annual snowfall being around 195 inches per season. Aside from skiing the resort also offers snowshoeing, sleigh rides, and ice skating. There are over 15 different dining options and 14 different shops alongside a relaxing and luxurious spa. Their events calendar is always packed with stuff to do from live music to film showings, so it is no wonder the resort is continuously ranked as one of the best in North America.
The Mountain West region is known for its amazing snowfall, high elevation mountains, award-winning restaurants, and top-rated ski slopes which makes them a bucket list spot for those who enjoy snow sports. The resorts throughout this region offer luxurious amenities and excursions that everyone in the family will enjoy. Whether you are new when it comes to skiing or an expert, states such as Utah, Montana, and Idaho are definitely a spot you will want to visit.
