Six Top US Ski Resorts for Late-Season Snow Adventures
While skiing and snowboarding are traditionally winter sports, several U.S. resorts transform them into spring or even summer activities thanks to remarkably persistent snowpacks. From the Pacific storms of California to the snow guns of Vermont, these destinations offer extended seasons where the white stuff gloriously refuses to vanish. Here, we explore six of the best mountain resorts in America for late snow, each with unique features that keep slopes covered long after winter ends.
1. Mammoth Mountain, California
Snow record and length of season: Mammoth Mountain, bordering Yosemite National Park, averages about 350 inches of snow annually. Its season typically runs from early November to spring, often extending into June. This elasticity stems from a high elevation—the top lift reaches 11,053 feet—along with north-facing slopes and exposure to Pacific storm systems that peak in March and April.
The vibe: Youthful and sporty, with a world-class terrain park system called Unbound Terrain Parks used by professionals for training.
The skiing: With 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, including powder bowls and tree-lined runs, nearly half is designated for beginners and intermediates.
The après: Options include Clocktower Cellar for craft beer and live music, and The Warming Hut for cocktails and small plates.
How to get there: Access via Highway 395 or fly into Mammoth Yosemite Airport or Bishop Airport.
Great place to stay: The Village Lodge Mammoth offers rooms from $285, featuring a heated pool, hot tubs, and proximity to the gondola.
2. Arapahoe Basin, Colorado
Snow record and length of season: Known as A-Basin, this resort averages around 350 inches of snow yearly, with a season from early October to June and occasional August skiing. Its high base elevation over 10,700 feet and north-facing terrain contribute to the stubborn snowpack.
The vibe: Hardcore and unpretentious, focusing on steep slopes rather than luxury amenities.
The skiing: Spanning 1,428 acres, 73% of the terrain is for advanced or expert skiers and snowboarders, with spring activities like crossing melted sections of Lake Reveal.
The après: The Beach in the base-area parking lot is a popular tailgating spot, while nearby Keystone offers Kickapoo Tavern and Ski Tip Lodge.
How to get there: Located off I-70 on Highway 6, 68 miles west of Denver, with mandatory parking reservations from $20.
Great place to stay: Keystone Lodge & Spa provides rooms from $250, including an indoor pool.
3. Snowbird, Utah
Snow record and length of season: Snowbird boasts an average of 500 inches of snow annually, with runs open from late November through May or beyond, thanks to Pacific storms and north-facing slopes.
The vibe: No-nonsense, centered on efficient skiing and riding.
The skiing: While beginners can enjoy, advanced skiers thrive on high-elevation bowls and chutes accessed via an Aerial Tram to 11,000 feet.
The après: Base-area spots like Tram Club for beers and The Aerie for cocktails with stunning views.
How to get there: Just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport via Highway SR-210, requiring snow tires or chains.
Great place to stay: The Cliff Lodge offers rooms from $300, steps from lifts and with on-site ski services.
4. Palisades Tahoe, California
Snow record and length of season: One of the snowiest U.S. resorts, Palisades Tahoe receives up to 450 inches of snow yearly, with seasons from late November into May or June, aided by north-facing slopes and high elevation up to 9,000 feet.
The vibe: Athletic yet fun, hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics and featuring spring events like fancy-dress ski days.
The skiing: Covering 6,000 acres, it includes long cruisers for intermediates, wide-open bowls, and steep trails.
The après: The Village in Olympic Valley offers PlumpJack Cafe & Bar and Le Chamois, plus the Tram Car Bar in a restored tram cabin.
How to get there: A 45-minute drive from Reno-Tahoe International Airport, near Lake Tahoe.
Great place to stay: Everline Resort & Spa provides ski-in/ski-out access, rooms from $300, and a spa.
5. Mount Bachelor, Oregon
Snow record and length of season: With a six-month season from Thanksgiving to Memorial Day, Mount Bachelor sees around 460 inches of snow annually, powered by Cascade snowstorms and a summit at 9,065 feet.
The vibe: Relaxed and outdoorsy, with spring skiing often in T-shirts.
The skiing: Its 4,300 acres are evenly split between skill levels, wrapped around a volcanic cone with panoramic views from the summit.
The après: Options include Clearing Rock Bar on-mountain or Deschutes Brewery Public House in nearby Bend for craft beer and local cuisine.
How to get there: Nearest airport is Redmond Municipal, 30 minutes away, or a four-hour drive from Portland.
Great place to stay: Seventh Mountain Resort offers rooms from $200, with free wifi and kitchens, 20 minutes from the mountain.
6. Killington, Vermont
Snow record and length of season: Despite average snowfall of 250 inches, Killington has the longest East Coast season, from November to May or June, thanks to aggressive snowmaking with over 2,100 snow guns on 71% of trails.
The vibe: Loud, lively, and sociable, with spring events like pond-skimming.
The skiing: As the largest eastern ski area at 1,509 acres, it features 155 trails and six terrain parks, with north-facing Superstar run often best in spring.
The après: Varied scenes include K-1 Lodge Bar, Wobbly Barn steakhouse-turned-nightclub, and Pickle Barrel Nightclub.
How to get there: Nearest major airport is Burlington International, 90 minutes away, with drives from Boston or New York City.
Great place to stay: Killington Grand Resort Hotel provides rooms from $250 at the base, close to lifts and with an outdoor pool.
