10 Largest Ski Resorts In North America
With over 600 ski resorts across the United States and Canada, winter sports enthusiasts flock to these destinations, with more than 53 million annual visitors enjoying skiing and snowboarding. Notably, New York boasts 51 ski resorts, highlighting the sport’s popularity in the region.
When ranking ski resorts, it makes sense to focus on their size based on skiable terrain rather than revenue or employee counts. After all, the true essence of a ski resort lies in its slopes and the experiences it offers.
Below is a list of the ten largest ski resorts in North America, ranked by their skiable acres.
10 Largest Ski Resorts in the United States and Canada
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Powder Mountain. Utah, United States
Annual Snowfall: 500+ inches or 41+ feet
Skiable Acres: 8,464 acres
Number of Lifts: NinePowder Mountain, the largest ski resort in North America, began as a winter range for sheep in the 1940s. It evolved into a premier ski destination when Alvin Cobabe acquired the land and opened the resort in 1972. Today, it boasts 154 trails and nine lifts, and though it’s expansive, it remains a hidden gem among ski enthusiasts.
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Whistler Blackcomb. British Columbia, Canada
Annual Snowfall: 450+ inches or 38+ feet
Skiable Acres: 8,171 acres
Number of Lifts: 37Whistler and Blackcomb, once rival resorts, merged in 2003 after decades of competition. They now feature the iconic Peak 2 Peak Gondola and host over 2.6 million visitors annually. With 200 marked trails and a rich history, this resort is a top destination for winter sports lovers.
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Park City Resort. Utah, United States
Annual Snowfall: 355+ inches or 29+ feet
Skiable Acres: 7,300 acres
Number of Lifts: 41Opened in 1963, Park City Resort is a year-round destination known for its diverse trails and amenities. It has hosted numerous events, including the 2002 Winter Olympics, and features training courses for the US Ski Team, making it a significant site for winter sports.
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Big Sky Resort. Montana, United States
Annual Snowfall: 400+ inches or 33+ feet
Skiable Acres: 5,800 acres
Number of Lifts: 36Big Sky Resort, established in 1973, offers stunning views and direct access to Yellowstone National Park. Known for its expansive terrain and commitment to sustainability, it features over 300 runs and a variety of summer activities, including mountain biking and ziplining.
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Vail Resorts. Colorado, United States
Annual Snowfall: 354+ inches or 29+ feet
Skiable Acres: 5,317 acres
Number of Lifts: 31Vail, the flagship resort of Vail Resorts, is renowned for its extensive terrain and diverse offerings. Established in 1962, it features a mix of trails and bowls, making it a premier destination for skiers of all skill levels. With a rich history tied to its founders’ military backgrounds, Vail has hosted numerous prestigious ski events.
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Heavenly. California, United States
Annual Snowfall: 360+ inches or 30+ feet
Skiable Acres: 4,800 acres
Number of Lifts: 28Heavenly Ski Resort, located on the California-Nevada border, offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. Known for its sunny weather and extensive trail network, the resort attracts visitors throughout the year with skiing in winter and mountain biking in summer.
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Mt. Bachelor. Oregon, United States
Annual Snowfall: 460+ inches or 38+ feet
Skiable Acres: 4,323 acres
Number of Lifts: 15Mt. Bachelor is distinctive as it’s located on a dormant volcano. It offers a variety of trails and summer activities, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
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Sun Peaks. British Columbia, Canada
Annual Snowfall: 237+ inches or 19+ feet
Skiable Acres: 4,270 acres
Number of Lifts: 13Sun Peaks, Canada’s second-largest ski resort, has a storied history and offers a wide range of trails. Its unique landscape and commitment to sustainability make it a sought-after destination for winter sports and outdoor activities.
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Lake Louise. Alberta, Canada
Annual Snowfall: 179+ inches or 14+ feet
Skiable Acres: 4,200 acres
Number of Lifts: TenLake Louise, located within Banff National Park, combines stunning scenery with a rich skiing history. It is a key stop on the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit, showcasing its significance in the skiing world.
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RED Mountain. British Columbia, Canada
Annual Snowfall: 300+ inches or 25+ feet
Skiable Acres: 3,850 acres
Number of Lifts: SevenRED Mountain, the oldest resort on our list, offers a unique blend of history and contemporary amenities. With a variety of trails and year-round activities, it remains a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
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In conclusion, North America boasts some of the largest and most diverse ski resorts in the world. From the expansive terrain of Powder Mountain to the iconic views from Heavenly, these resorts offer unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner eager to learn, these destinations cater to all skill levels and preferences, making them ideal for your next winter getaway.
Author
Samantha is a lifelong writer who has been writing professionally for the last six years. After graduating with honors from Greensboro College with a degree in English & Communications, she went on to find work as an in-house copywriter for several companies including Costume Supercenter, and Blueprint Education.
