Top 6 U.S. Ski Resorts for Epic Spring Skiing Adventures
Skiers chase the ideal spring snow: firm yet forgiving, embodying the Goldilocks Principle on the slopes. Warmer, longer days allow for more runs and leisurely après-ski before sunset. Fewer crowds mean lower prices on lift tickets, rentals, and lodging—a spring skiing bonus.
Prospects for spring skiing look promising, with healthy snow bases across the West and Northeast, where seasons often extend into May. Backed by comprehensive snow reports like those from ZRankings, here are six top destinations to experience it firsthand.
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows; Olympic Valley, CA
Averaging 450 inches of annual snowfall, this USA Today 10Best favorite boasts eight peaks, 6,000 acres, and one of Lake Tahoe’s longest seasons—often into May. About 50% north-facing terrain preserves spring snow exceptionally well.
Who should go: Skiers and snowboarders of all levels. One lift ticket accesses both Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows.
What to pack: A swimsuit for the iconic 50-person High Camp Hot Tub.
After the last run: Head to Le Chamois (aka the Chammy) in Squaw’s historic base village. Grab a beer punch card: $80 for 20 pints.
Mammoth Mountain; Mammoth Lakes, CA
Rising from the Sierra Nevadas’ eastern edge, Mammoth delivers extended spring skiing—once through July 4th—with treeline runs overlooking Yosemite. 65% north-facing terrain keeps snow pristine.
Who should go: Casual skiers and snowboarders; 75% of trails are easy or intermediate.
What to pack: Spectator shoes for March’s Toyota U.S. Snowboard & Freeski Grand Prix and Toyota U.S. Revolution Tour.
After the last run: Visit Clocktower Cellar for its 160+ whiskeys in a laid-back setting.
Telluride Ski Resort; Telluride, CO
This remote southwest Colorado gem, once a 19th-century mining camp, offers short lines and uncrowded slopes. Ski Magazine named it “Best in the West” for character. Half the terrain at 8,000-12,700 feet faces north, preserving cold snow into March.
Who should go: All skill levels seeking skiing, snowboarding, history, and mountain charm.
What to pack: Your camera for 360° views from the free Mountain Village gondola.
After the last run: Dine at Allred’s Restaurant atop the gondola, with panoramic windows overlooking Telluride.
Okemo; Ludlow, VT
Boasting southern Vermont’s largest 2,200-foot drop, Okemo’s 121 trails excel in snow quality and grooming, thanks to 450 million gallons of snowmaking annually.
Who should go: Families and mixed-skill groups—beginner greens, expert steeps like Screamin’ Demon, and tree skiing.
What to pack: Festive attire for events like Sugar Daze concerts or St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Scavenger Hunt.
After the last run: Relax at Homestyle Hostel, a renovated farmhouse with craft cocktails on Main Street.
Whiteface; Wilmington, NY
This Lake Placid Olympic venue offers the East’s greatest vertical (3,430 feet), three peaks, 86 trails, and Adirondack vistas—visible to Lake Champlain on clear days. Seasons run into April, with expert Slides often open.
Who should go: Cross-country, backcountry skiers, and park riders; features glades, rails, and jumps.
What to pack: Your game face for the Olympic bobsled or Lake Placid Nordic Festival in March.
After the last run: Unwind at Maggie’s Pub with games, fireplace terrace, and lake views.
Sugarloaf; Carrabassett Valley, ME
The East’s largest ski area east of the Rockies, with seasons into May. 35% intermediate, 40% expert trails; plus ice skating, snowshoeing, and fat biking.
Who should go: Experienced skiers and winter sports enthusiasts.
What to pack: Beach towel and costume for April’s Reggae Fest beach concerts.
After the last run: Ski to Shipyard Brew Haus at the base, a decades-old local favorite.
