Deer Valley, Utah

Average snowfall: 238 inches

Number of runs: 103

“If you’re a skier, you’ll appreciate that Deer Valley doesn’t allow snowboarders,” Nina Ruggiero, T+L’s digital editorial director, shares. “Think powder that stays fresh longer, less crowded slopes, and an overall great environment for skiers of all levels.” Deer Valley is also known for luxurious touches like its high-end restaurants including seafood spot Cast & Cut and steakhouse The Mariposa. And, as Ruggiero says, its ski instructors are some of the best in the business, too. “The instructors here are some of the best in the country, and the ability to ski in and out of the Montage Deer Valley (resident mountain dogs included) is definitely a plus.”

Verbier, Switzerland

Average snowfall: 160 inches

Number of runs: 94

Yes, Verbier is home to plenty of runs for every level of skier, from beginner to expert. But the real fun begins here in the backcountry. Skiers and riders are invited to hike up the backside of the mountain with a local guide to find the freshest snow possible without another soul in sight, so you can carve it all on your own. When you’re done, ski right to the nearby W Verbier to snuggle up in your room, which comes with its very own fireplace. 

Related: How to Plan a Trip to Verbier, Switzerland

Aspen Mountain, Colorado

Average snowfall: 286 inches

Number of runs: 76

Aspen is perhaps one of the most famous ski destinations on Earth. It’s a luxurious place thanks to high-end shopping and world-renowned boutique hotels like Hotel Jerome, voted the top hotel in Colorado by T+L readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards, along with other favorites like The Little Nell and the St. Regis Aspen. “I would rank Aspen among the best resorts in North America,” Denny Lee, articles editor at T+L, shared.  “The Highland Bowls are out of this world.” Plus, Lee shared, “The après-ski people-watching can’t be beat.”

Big Sky, Montana

Average snowfall: 400 inches

Number of runs: 320

Big Sky, just as the name implies, is one seriously big mountain. Here, skiers and riders will find more than 300 named runs to explore, offering solitude for those who want it, easy turns for those who need it, and lots of steep and deep for those looking for a challenge. Travelers looking for a little something extra can also indulge in early access tickets, allowing them an hour on the slopes before it opens to the general public, and headlamp skiing for anyone hoping to shred under the stars. The area also recently welcomed the all-new Montage Big Sky, providing a touch of luxury to this beloved mountain destination. 

Courchevel, France

Average snowfall: 125 inches

Number of runs: 109

If you thought Aspen was luxurious, just wait until you get a load of Courchevel. Located in the middle of the French Alps, Courchevel is as ritzy as ski destinations come. Travelers can shop for a new Moncler puffer, then walk right to the chairlift to make their way to the top of the mountain to ski down one of its more than 100 named runs. After a day on the slopes, travelers can explore its six interconnected villages for upscale dining and plenty of après opportunities. And, you can never go wrong with a stay at places like the Six Senses Residences & Spa Courchevel, which offers slope-side views and an expansive spa.

Stowe, Vermont

Average snowfall: 314 inches

Number of runs: 116

Stowe is, without question, the quintessential New England ski experience. The charming town looks like something out of a Hallmark movie, with a local attitude to match. Though it’s grown in recent years, thanks to an acquisition by Vail Corp, the town spirit remains the same, and its core audience is those who are serious about spending sunup to sundown on the mountain. 

“If you’re going to ski on the East Coast, the only place to go is Stowe,” Lee said. As for where to après, nothing beats a beer at the Matterhorn, where you’re likely to run into half the ski patrol after their shift ends. Stay close to the mountain action with a few nights at Topnotch Resort, which offers in-room fireplaces for cozy evenings. 

Niseko, Japan

Average snowfall: 551 inches

Number of runs: 61

Niseko is where the true powderhounds want to be all winter long. The mountain area on the northern island is a true paradise you could roam for days as it’s actually made up of four interlinked ski resorts — Annupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu, and Hanazono — known together as “Niseko United.”

“I believe we have the best powder in the world,” Kohei Iwata, rooms division manager at the Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, previously shared with T+L. “It’s rare to see sunshine in the wintertime, but that means we have really good snow conditions.” Find runs equally divided between beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, making it a spot welcoming to all. 

St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria

Average snowfall: 132 inches

Number of runs: 141

Want a challenge? Book a ticket straight to Austria and head over to Saint Anton. While the mountain does have plenty of runs for beginners and intermediates across its more than 187 miles of interconnected runs. It’s also a particularly stellar place for snowboarders thanks to its various fun parks and free-ride spaces. While in town, have a historic stay at the Hotel Arlberg, which has been operated by the same family for generations.

Park City, Utah

Average snowfall: 355 inches

Number of runs: 330+

Park City is a place where skiers and riders can choose to have whatever kind of day they wish. Be it slow and steady down its beginner terrain, which makes up 8 percent of the mountain; a bit faster down its intermediate blues, which make up 42 percent of the mountain; or zooming down the black diamonds, which make up the other 50 percent. In between all those runs, they can get plenty of snacks, too, as the mountain has 16 restaurants along its trails, including Cloud Dine, which serves up some seriously delicious doughnuts in the morning. Don’t miss your chance to stay in the nearby Goldener Hirsch, Auberge Resorts Collection, named the number one resort in Utah by T+L readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Average snowfall: 458 inches

Number of runs: 131

Jackson Hole is as Wild West a ski destination as they come, with craggy mountain tips stretching into the gorgeous valley below. “This resort made me fall in love with skiing. It’s packed with long runs of pillowy snow and, of course, gorgeous views,” said Taylor McIntyre, senior visual editor at T+L. “I had an instructor who went above and beyond, and I went from the bunny slope to blue runs in a single day. There’s also a tram that will take skiers and non-skiers up the mountain to find not only some of the resort’s most difficult trails but also a cafe and the best view of the resort.” In town, check into The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection, named one of the best hotels in Wyoming by T+L readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards. 

Related: T+L’s Guide to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

St. Moritz, Switzerland

Average snowfall: 107 inches

Number of runs: 88 

One more glitzy destination to add to your must-ski list is St. Mortiz. “St. Moritz lives up to its lavish reputation,” Lee shared. “The mountain is epic, the funiculars run like clockwork, the crowd is jet-set, and the nightlife is chic.” And, with 26 miles of beginner trails, 49 miles of intermediate runs, and 21 miles of expert terrain, it’s a place where everyone can find a little fun in their swanky ski gear. As for where you stay, you can’t go wrong with Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, named one of the best hotels in the world by T+L readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards.

Telluride, Colorado

Average snowfall: 280 inches

Number of runs: 148

Telluride, which sits amid the San Juan Mountains, offers charm for days. The town’s unique blend of history — thanks to its Victorian-era homes and buildings — and exceptional skiing make it a must-do. Plus, its remote location keeps big crowds away, allowing you to explore the slopes in a more intimate way. Once you’re ready for a break, check into the Madeline Hotel and Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection, named one of the best hotels in Colorado by T+L readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards. 

Related: T+L’s Guide to Telluride, Colorado

Sun Valley, Idaho

Average snowfall: 165 inches

Number of runs: 120 

“It’s no wonder why Sun Valley, Idaho, has long been an oasis for snow-chasing glitterati,” Lydia Price, the senior commerce editor at T+L, shared. “Its star peak, Bald Mountain, offers gorgeous panoramic views of a whopping five mountain ranges, and the vivacious spirit of the small town’s full-time residents makes for a warm, jovial stay.” Sun Valley also comes with some unique skiing and riding; its longest run clocks in at three full miles, and its steepest run measures at a 70 percent grade. After a day on the slopes, unwind at Sun Valley Resort, named one of the best hotels in the West by T+L readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards.

Related: T+L’s Guide to Sun Valley

Portillo, Chile

Average snowfall: 326 inches

Number of runs: 35

Hoping to ski all year long? Make your way south to Portillo from June to September. The Southern Hemisphere ski resort is known for its striking Andean views and powder-filled slopes. It’s loved for the fact that it limits its number of daily guests to just 450 people, so everyone who is lucky enough to snag a daily ticket can fully enjoy the slopes without those pesky lift lines. Spend a few days with ski-in, ski-out access at the Hotel Portillo, which boasts just 123 rooms, making it equally exclusive as the mountain.

Mont-Tremblant, Canada

Average snowfall: 168 inches

Number of runs: 102

Those looking to ski European-style mountains without having to cross an ocean can find what they’re looking at Mont-Tremblant in Canada. The picturesque ski village is colorful and quaint, just like those you’d find in the Alps. And it has mountain peaks to match, with 2,871 feet of vertical terrain to ski across four slopes, including 178 acres of glades for a little backcountry-style fun. It’s also home to the endlessly chic Fairmont Tremblant, which was named one of the best hotels in Canada by T+L readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards.

Bormio Ski, Italy

Average snowfall: 77 inches

Number of runs: 112

Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Bormio is the place to be for those who want to work up a sweat all day on the slopes and unwind all night in style. The mountain offers nearly 6,000 feet of vertical drop, including some rather challenging terrain (it is, after all, famed for hosting the Alpine Ski World Cup). Riders can get their kicks at The Jungle snow park or on free-ride slopes. And, if you’ve got kids or total beginners in your group, that’s okay too, as the resort has a fantastic ski school program as well as plenty of beginner terrain to explore. Beyond the mountain, the town is also loved for its spas and hot springs that will make you feel renewed and ready for another day of skiing. Stay as close as possible to both the slopes and the spas with an overnight at the Rezia Hotel, which offers views of the mountain and its own Turkish bath. 

Cerro Catedral, Argentina

Average snowfall: 76 inches

Number of runs: 55

Cerro Catedral Alta Patagonia is the only resort with a full-service base village in South America. Here, skiers and riders will find all the deep powder they want during the season, as well as plenty of backcountry and tree skiing terrain. It also is home to some of the best views in the sport, as the mountain looks over Lago Nahuel Huapi, providing a glittering lake backdrop to almost every run. Travelers can stay at Club Hotel Catedral, which offers access to equipment rentals, lessons, and more.

Les Deux Alpes, France

Average snowfall: 104 inches

Number of runs: 92 

“Nestled in the heart of the Alps, this ski resort is truly one of the best France has to offer,” Anna Popp, commerce writer at T+L, shared. “I joined the ski club when I studied at the University of Grenoble, and I would often take the bus after classes to spend my afternoons skiing since the Alps are so accessible.” As Popp noted, there are runs for beginners and advanced skiers here, all looking over “views that make you feel like you’re on top of the world.” Skiers and riders can stay on top of the mountain by booking one of the town’s private chalets, like the Chalet Leslie Alpen, which can fit up to 10 guests.

Kitzbühel, Austria

Average snowfall: 83 inches

Number of runs: 68

Kitzbühel, Austria, is yet another European ski destination that perfectly marries centuries-old charm with world-class ski facilities that are fit for all abilities. The mountain offers 62 miles of beginner terrain, 37 miles of intermediate, and 10 miles of expert-only slopes. If you’re a beginner hoping to check out some of the expert talent, plan your trip around the prestigious Hahnenkamm race, which has been held at the mountain every year since 1931. While there, book a stay at Hotel Kitzhof Mountain Design Resort to add a touch of mountain elegance to your ski getaway.

Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

Average snowfall: 458 inches

Number of runs: 200+

Whistler is the place to go for a larger-than-life ski and snowboard experience. It’s home to vast and varied terrain, which makes sense, considering it’s the largest ski resort in North America. And while about 20 percent of its trails are marked for beginners, Whistler really is a seasoned skier’s paradise, as 50 percent of the trails are marked as intermediate, while a whopping 30 percent are advanced terrain. And if you do want to go all the way to the top, make sure you’re prepared, as the peak elevation hits an astonishing 7,497 feet. Get the best view of the mountain every morning by booking a room at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, which also happens to be a World’s Best Awards Hall of Fame member.