Industry News
Every year, ski and snowboard enthusiasts from around the world weigh in on their favorite winter destinations through OnTheSnow.com’s annual Visitors’ Choice Awards. Powered by thousands of ratings and reviews from real users, these awards highlight the resorts that deliver exceptional experiences across a range of categories, including terrain quality, après-ski scenes, family-friendly features, terrain parks, and overall value.
Whether you’re chasing deep powder, planning a trip with the kids, or looking for the liveliest après, OnTheSnow’s community-driven rankings offer a trusted guide to the best ski resorts across North America and beyond. See below for this season’s winners.
Best All-Mountain Terrain
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, WY
Jackson Hole was rated Best All-Mountain Terrain thanks to its massive 2,500 acres of in-bounds terrain in the Teton Mountains. The resort’s legendary open backcountry gate system unlocks access to over 3,000 additional acres, offering expert skiers unparalleled adventure. With 133 named runs, 13 lifts—including the iconic Aerial Tram—and the infamous Corbet’s Couloir, Jackson Hole continues to set the standard for big-mountain skiing.
Best Ski Area for Beginners
Purgatory, CO
Purgatory Resort was rated the best ski area for beginners, thanks to its exceptional ski and snowboard school and wide range of instructional programs. From group lessons for all ages to private instruction and multi-week clinics, Purgatory offers something for every skill level. Its standout feature is the Free Beginner Experience—a 45-minute introductory lesson offered throughout the winter for first-timers, making it an inviting and accessible option for those new to the slopes (lift ticket and rentals required).
Most Family-Friendly Ski Resort
Angel Fire, NM
Angel Fire was rated Best Ski Area for Families, marking the second time in three years it has earned the top spot in this category. Known for its family-first approach, Angel Fire offers everything from an excellent children’s ski school to convenient lodging and a variety of off-mountain activities tailored for all ages. With its welcoming atmosphere and focus on family fun, it’s no surprise that Angel Fire continues to be a favorite among snow-loving families.
Best Resort for Terrain Parks
Copper Mountain, CO
Copper Mountain earned top honors for Best Terrain Park thanks to its impressive Woodward Mountain Parks. This innovative network of terrain zones is designed to support progression at every level, offering something for everyone from first timers to seasoned park riders. With multiple progression parks, a dedicated learning zone, a half pipe, a super pipe, and endless variety, Copper delivers an unmatched freestyle experience on the mountain.
Best Resort for Après Ski
Breckenridge, CO
Breckenridge earned top honors for Best Après thanks to its vibrant, diverse post-ski scene. The town boasts dozens of lively bars, restaurants, and live music venues, making it a go-to for those looking to keep the energy going after the lifts close. Among its standout spots is TBar at the base of Peak 8, recognized as one of the best après-ski bars in North America.
Best Small Ski Area
Silverton, CO
Silverton Mountain was rated Best Small Ski Area, and it’s easy to see why. It may have only one lift, but it still boasts a staggering 1,819 acres of natural, expert-only terrain, including bowls, chutes, cliffs, and some of Colorado’s steepest heli- and lift-served lines. Silverton truly offers a raw, unmatched backcountry experience.
Best Ski Resort
Big Sky, MT
Big Sky was rated Best Ski Area thanks to its massive 5,850 acres of diverse terrain and 4,350 feet of vertical that appeal to every level of skier and snowboarder. With a near-perfect split between beginner-intermediate and advanced trails, plus five terrain parks and the iconic Lone Peak Tram offering 360-degree views from the summit, Big Sky delivers a world-class mountain experience. Its 40-lift system, which will soon be the most advanced in America, ensures that accessing everything from mellow groomers to expert-only chutes is as seamless as it is unforgettable.
As the season winds to a close, OnTheSnow’s annual Choice Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the resorts that deliver unforgettable mountain experiences. What sets these awards apart is that they’re powered by real skiers and snowboarders who live for powder days, perfect corduroy, and lively après scenes. Each winning resort earns its place through user-submitted ratings and reviews, covering everything from terrain quality and family-friendly vibes to terrain parks and off-slope fun.
