The Best Ski Destinations in the US—For People Who Hate Skiing

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen comprises four different ski areas (Aspen, Buttermilk, Aspen Highlands, and Aspen Snowmass) which together span over 5,500 acres—no wonder it’s one of the country’s top winter destinations for jet-setters. But for all the bounty of its slopes, Aspen has just as much to offer non-skiers. If staying cozy and warm indoors is your preferred type of winter escape, stop for a dose of culture at the striking Aspen Art Museum, indulge in top-tier sushi at the Nobu-run Matsuhisa, and even take in an evening performance at the Wheeler Opera House, a beloved local landmark since 1889. Aspen isn’t considered a luxury destination for nothing, and if you want a special treat(ment), book at the Remède Spa at the St. Regis.

High in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe—the largest alpine lake in North America—promises dramatic scenery all year long, but winter is an especially good time to explore, whether or not you plan to ski. Begin with the region’s Olympic history: Palisades Tahoe hosted the Winter Games in 1960, and you can still see vestiges of that heritage aboard the resort’s sweeping aerial tram—and learn more at the on-site Olympic Museum. For even more impressive views, book a helicopter flight over the lake, while cross-country skiing and snowshoe hiking options offer a way to beat the crowds and get intrepid without skidding face-first down a mountain.

Jackson Hole is known for its vertiginous, expert-level ski slopes—but that’s certainly not the only option in this great Western getaway. While you don’t need to be going downhill, the region’s natural beauty means time outdoors is a must. Book a dog-sledding adventure, go snowmobiling in the shadow of the Grand Tetons, or even plan a national park excursion: both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, as well as the National Elk Refuge, are a quick drive away, making it easy to plan an immersive day trip. After your outdoorsy adventures, wind down with a shopping trip to Teton Village or Jackson’s Town Square before scoping out this foodie-friendly area’s array of destination restaurants.

Park City, nestled among the Wasatch Mountains near Salt Lake City, is host to Olympics-approved slopes and primo powder—but skiing is far from a prerequisite. Instead, enjoy a different way to discover its cloud-capped height: ride the Mountain Coaster (an open-air roller coaster that speeds safely through the wintry scenery) at Park City Mountain Resort, feel like a cast member of Cool Runnings with the Winter Bobsled Experience, or go on a sleigh ride like no other when you’re towed up a mountainside by the Viking Yurt snowcat. Alternatively, bundle up to try ice fishing or go for a photography hike to soak up all of the destination’s natural attractions with none of the mortal danger.

Though it’s only a 2-hour drive from Seattle, Crystal Mountain feels a world away from the big city—located within the dramatic, craggy landscapes of the Cascades, it’s next-door neighbors with the iconic Mt. Rainier. Upgrade from the resort’s ski lift and take the Mt. Rainier Gondola for unparalleled views of the slumbering volcano’s snowy peak. Then, cap off the experience with a gourmet meal at the Summit House (officially the highest-elevation restaurant in Washington State at ​​6,872 feet, or 2,095 meters). Snowshoeing is another resort activity for non-skiers, and visitors can choose from multiple trails to fit their experience levels.

Billed as “America’s first ski resort,” Sun Valley has drawn winter sports enthusiasts since 1936 (as has its frequently cloudless weather, as its name suggests). But shredding on Bald or Dollar Mountains is only one option among many. If lacing up a pair of skates is more your speed, head to the Christina Potters Ice Rink in Atkinson Park, where pro figure skaters are often seen training. Or, if you want to ski without inviting gravity to the party, the Nordic and Snowshoe Center offers 25 miles (40 kilometers) of trails. If culture’s more your speed, plan a day of exploration in downtown Ketchum, where dozens of galleries have helped make the region a leading arts destination.

Charming Stowe offers the classic ski-trip experience on a smaller, friendlier scale—its resident mountain, Mt. Mansfield, is the highest in the Green Mountain State at 4,395 feet (1,340 meters). Its non-skiing offerings are similarly accessible, whether it’s ice skating at the Stowe Mountain Resort or dog-sledding at Spruce Peak. And be sure to set aside time for exploring Stowe itself—the pretty village is home to independent boutiques, galleries, and museums like the Green Mountain Fine Art Gallery, the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, and a vibrant craft brewing scene. And even though it’s winter, don’t forget that the Ben & Jerry’s Factory is only a 20-minute drive out of town.

Fun fact: The Alchemist, the brewery credited with creating the New England IPA style, is based in Stowe.