25 Best Ski Trip Destinations for Those on a Budget
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There’s nothing that compares to zipping down the slopes on a set of skis — but anyone who skis regularly will admit that the winter hobby isn’t exactly affordable. Popular destinations like Aspen and Whistler might get a lot of the glory, but there’s plenty of incredible powder all across North America that’ll cost you a lot less.
Looking to plan your own ski trip this season? We rounded up some of the most affordable ski resort destinations across the U.S. — whether you’re looking for an East Coast getaway or something in the West, these ski towns are at the ideal intersection of budget-friendly and beautiful.
Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.
25. Park City, Utah
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Population: 8,375
Average hotel rate per night: $400
Where to stay:Park City Hostel
* Nightly hotel rates were calculated by averaging the rates at Tripadvisor's top 10 hotels in each ski trip destination.
Why You Should Visit Park City
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OK, we get that the average hotel rate per night doesn’t exactly sound affordable. But considering that Park City is North America’s most accessible ski destination, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a world-class experience without shelling out a world-class price tag on travel costs.
Situated just 25 miles from the Salt Lake City International Airport, the largest ski area in the U.S is not only more affordable than most ski destinations, but it’s also more accessible for a quick weekend trip.
Must-Visit Spot in Park City
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The saloon-themed High West Saloon is the only ski-in, ski-out distillery in the country. If you're feeling a bit cold while skiing, you should pop in for a smooth glass of craft whiskey or bourbon before heading back out to the slopes.
If you want to replenish your energy, we also recommend trying the caribou sausage rolls.
Why You Should Visit Steamboat Springs
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Steamboat Springs — otherwise known as Ski Town USA — is known for its “Champagne Powder,” incredible tree skiing, and for being the winter home to more Olympians than any other town in the US.
It also boasts the oldest ski hill in Colorado — the Howelsen Hill.
Must-Visit Spot in Steamboat Springs
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Give your body a break after a rigorous day of skiing with a visit to Strawberry Parks Hot Springs.
One of the best hot springs in the U.S., Strawberry Parks is inside a spa resort, so you'll also be able to book other pampering activities like relaxing massages. The outdoor springs are encased in natural rock and provide a cozy contrast to the snow-clad surroundings.
22. Jackson Hole, Wyoming (Tie)
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Population: 10,553
Average hotel rate per night: $250
Where to stay:Snow King Resort
Why You Should Visit Jackson Hole
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Jackson Hole is considered to be the best town in the U.S. for cross-country skiing with over 600 miles of fine power along the Continental Divide through the backcountry of the Grand Tetons.
While Jackson Hole has some seriously expensive real estate compared to other ski resort towns on this list, its charm and the fact that you don’t need to pay for lift tickets make it one to consider.
Must-Visit Spot in Jackson Hole
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Jackson Hole's main attraction is without a doubt Grand Teton National Park. This wondrous protected area is often considered the best national park in the U.S.. Its breathtaking landscapes are dominated by the imposing Grand Teton Mountains and offer plenty of outdoor activities.
In the winter, you won't get to do water sports, but you'll still be able to go on hikes and safaris. If you're here for skiing, you'll be able to go into the park for some backcountry and cross-country skiing as well as snowshoeing.
Don't hesitate to bring Fido with you on your adventures, as Grand Teton is a notoriously dog-friendly national park.
22. Olympic Valley, California (Tie)
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Population: 823
Average hotel rate per night: $250
Where to stay:Resort at Squaw Creek
Why You Should Visit Olympic Valley
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Home to the newly renamed Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley offers over 50 restaurants, bars and retailers, many owned by Lake Tahoe locals.
With an annual snowfall of 450 inches per year, Olympic Valley also offers one of the longest ski seasons, which includes the area’s famed spring skiing.
Must-Visit Spot in Olympic Valley
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Enjoy a less-than-typical, apres-ski activity at Gallery Keoki. Displaying large, awe-inspiring photographs by adventure photographer Keoki Flagg, the gallery is one of Olympic Valley's most beloved cultural institutions.
Who knows? You might leave with a new piece to decorate your home.
16. Estes Park, Colorado (Tie)
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Population: 6,377
Average hotel rate per night: $200
Where to stay:Alpine Trail Ridge Inn
Why You Should Visit Estes Park
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Estes Park has several options to get out and explore the backcountry or other winter sports — but the best spot to check out is the defunct ski resort, Hidden Valley, within Rocky Mountain National Park.
The trees have been removed because of the old ski resort, so it’s a backcountry paradise for skiing, splitboarding, snowshoeing and more. For beginners, several outfitters are also available to help further the safety education — so safety isn’t an issue.
Must-Visit Spot in Estes Park
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If you love haunted attractions, you can't leave Estes Park without visiting the historic Stanley Hotel. Continuously operating for more than 100 years, the hotel inspired Stephen King to write his novel "The Shinning" after a brief stay in 1974.
Paranormal activity and sightings have been reported for decades, though many people claim they're nothing but hoaxes. Still, brave souls with a penchant for all things horror love to come here and see for themselves.
16. Bethel, Maine (Tie)
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Population: 2,607
Average hotel rate per night: $200
Where to stay:The Bethel Inn Resort
Why You Should Visit Bethel
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Bethel is home to the White Mountain National Forest, where you’ll find plenty of hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or downhill and Nordic skiing options available.
One of New England’s premiere ski resorts, Sunday River, is also easily accessible from Bethel and offers some of the best skiing on the East Coast.
Must-Visit Spot in Bethel
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Is there a better way to follow up skiing than with a great brew? We certainly don't think so.
For this, there's no better place in town than the Sunday River Brewing Company. With a laid-back atmosphere and a fire cackling during the winter, the establishment serves artisan pizzas and burgers that will leave you in a food coma. But, of course, the true highlight is the craft beer that's served on tap.
Why You Should Visit North Conway
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Located in the heart of New Hampshire, North Conway is well-known for its White Mountains — some of the tallest peaks in the northeastern United States. These stunning slopes ensure ideal skiing conditions throughout the winter season thanks to the abundance of snow and ideal temperature throughout the winter.
North Conway also offers a multitude of local restaurants, shops and picturesque mountain lodging.
Must-Visit Spot in North Conway
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Who said you can't enjoy water activities in the winter? In North Conway, you can take advantage of the pools at the Kahuna Laguna Indoor Water Park.
Open year-round, the water park is particularly popular with families, as kids revel in the chance of some summer-like fun even in the midst of snowy winter.
16. Crested Butte, Colorado (Tie)
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Population: 1,339
Average hotel rate per night: $200
Where to stay:The Nordic Inn
Why You Should Visit Crested Butte
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Crested Butte offers top-tier skiing opportunities for skiers of all ages and abilities. Here, you’ll find fantastic snow and virtually zero lift lines.
The Colorado town also offers a variety of other winter sports and activities — including cross-country skiing, sledding and tubing.
Must-Visit Spot in Crested Butte
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Live the quintessential American small-town experience as you walk down picturesque Elk Avenue. Colorful historic buildings dot the street, which is blessed with local boutique shops rather than run-of-the-mill chains.
Merely walking down the avenue is pleasant, but you're encouraged to go into as many shops as you can, perusing through local crafts, buying souvenirs and trying delicious treats.
16. Stowe, Vermont (Tie)
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Population: 201
Average hotel rate per night: $200
Where to stay:Tälta Lodge
Why You Should Visit Stowe
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If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mountain town with friendly community members and next-level ski slopes, you’ll want to head to Stowe.
Mount Mansfield — Vermont’s highest peak — offers a summit that peaks at 4,395 feet but also offers plenty of smaller terrains for beginners and novices.
Must-Visit Spot in Stowe
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When you're not enjoying outdoor physical activity, you can get cerebral by catching a show at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center.
Shows include live music performances of all genres, film festivals, dance performances and plays. With such a varied repertoire, the center is sure to have something that speaks to you.
16. Snowshoe, West Virginia (Tie)
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Population: 163
Average hotel rate per night: $200
Where to stay:Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Why You Should Visit Snowshoe
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Snowshoe averages more than 180 inches of annual snowfall and has 14 lifts, 60 trails and 257 acres for winter outdoor adventure of your choosing.
Besides skiing and snowboarding, guests at Snowshoe can partake in off-road adventure tours, snowmobile tours and event guided Western-style trail rides.
Must-Visit Spot in Snowshoe
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Is all that skiing getting you hungry? Head to Appalachia Kitchen, located inside the Corduroy Lodge at Snowshoe hotel.
The farm-to-table restaurant prides itself for using local ingredients and showcasing the best of the region's cuisine. As a plus, it has killer views of the Allegheny Mountains, especially at sunset.
9. Carson Valley, Nevada (Tie)
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Population: 54,773
Average hotel rate per night: $150
Where to stay:Carson Valley Inn
Why You Should Visit Carson Valley
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Think of Carson Valley as a resort town but without the hustle and bustle of a resort town. This cozy ski spot is great for families or beginners who want to be able to take their time on the slopes without feeling like hoards of people are eyeing their footing.
Carson Valley is just over 200 miles from San Francisco — but it feels as if it’s a secluded ski town that’s all your own.
Must-Visit Spot in Carson Valley
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Want a bit of Old West history? Get it with a side of beer at the Genoa Bar & Saloon, the oldest continuously operating "thirst parlor" in the state of Nevada.
Operating since 1853, the bar is truly a unique place that you absolutely must visit while skiing in Carson Valley.
Why You Should Visit Cortland
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Greek Peak Mountain Resort in Cortland actually ranks as Central New York’s largest ski resort.
It features 55 picturesque trails, six aerial lifts, two surface lifts, day and night skiing, and a beginners’ slope with staff on hand to make sure even the most inexperienced skiers end up having a great time on the slopes.
Must-Visit Spot in Cortland
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If you like historical buildings, don't skip the 1890 House Museum. Built by Chester F. Wickwire to imitate a European chateau, the property boasts 15,000 square feet.
Features include stained-glass windows that filter sunlight, centenary furniture and the chance to feel like you're in a castle.
9. Woodstock, Vermont (Tie)
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Population: 2,937
Average hotel rate per night: $150
Where to stay:The Shire Woodstock
Why You Should Visit Woodstock
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The beautiful mountain town of Woodstock is a wintery paradise made for hitting the slopes or taking advantage of après-ski activities. The Suicide Six ski area offers 24 trails of varying terrain for a wide range of skiers of all levels and ages.
The ski area offers more open spaces and shorter-than-average lift lines while also offering a state-of-the-art, snow-making technology to ensure every day comes with great powder.
Must-Visit Spot in Woodstock
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While shopping may not be your priority during a ski trip, you have to head downtown and go into FH Gillingham & Sons.
One of the state's oldest general stores, the establishment has been operating since 1886. What's best, it's been at the hands of the same family for all that time. Get some souvenirs, or buy some maple syrup and wine to sweeten your trip.
Why You Should Visit Tannersville
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Looking for something that’ll allow you to space out and enjoy nature?
Tannersville is home to the largest ski resort in the Pocono Mountains. The Camelback Resort features 39 ski trails, 16 lifts, 166 acres of slopes, two high-speed quads — and even a snowboard half-pipe for those who prefer snowboarding to skiing.
Must-Visit Spot in Tannersville
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Skip the usual shopping venues, and head to Pocono Antique Mall at Peddler's Village. You'll find rows and rows of antiques, with everything from toys to decorations to furniture.
Even if you don't end up buying anything, it's a fun place to peruse. And, who knows? You may end up finding extremely valuable vintage Christmas decorations or something of the sort.
9. Driggs, Idaho (Tie)
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Population: 1,805
Average hotel rate per night: $150
Where to stay:Teton Hostel Hideaway
Why You Should Visit Driggs
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Located right next to Grand Targhee Ski Resort, Driggs is a very budget-friendly alternative to bigger ski towns.
The quaint rural destination is packed with various cabins and rustic lodging that will foster a sense of relaxation — but it’s still close enough to world-class skiing to make it well worth dropping your bags for a ski weekend.
Must-Visit Spot in Driggs
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Learn about the geological and cultural history of the Teton Valley at the Teton Geotourism Center.
The museum has an interactive exhibition and employs local artists to help with the murals and expositions on display.
Why You Should Visit Truxton
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Located about 30 minutes away from the previously mentioned Cortland ski town, Truxton is a great spot for those hoping to find a female-friendly spot to ski. Offering more than 15 ski trails (that light up at night) Truxton’s Labrador Mountain hosts a dedicated women’s program led by expert female ski coaches.
The two-hour sessions include a variety of different lessons including skiing/riding tips and terrain tactics that help you move better on the snow.
Must-Visit Spot in Truxton
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If you love trains and history, pay a quick visit to Truxton Depot, a now defunct 1872 train station that once serviced the small town.
Though the station is no longer in use, it is one of the town's most beloved historic landmarks.
9. Yosemite, California (Tie)
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Population: 1,035
Average hotel rate per night: $150
Where to stay:Rush Creek Lodge
Why You Should Visit Yosemite
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The Badger Pass Ski Area, located within Yosemite National Park, is a small family-friendly spot that beginners will particularly appreciate. You won’t find any judgement or flashy ski gear here — but rather helpful instructors onsite to help out beginners and novices.
And, of course, there’s the 84 miles of incredible views of Half Dome and Glacier Point.
Must-Visit Spot in Yosemite
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It goes without saying that the best thing to do in Yosemite is to spend time within the magnificent Yosemite National Park.
Take in views of El Capitan in the winter, though you'll probably want to skip trying to climb it. If you're an experienced hiker, definitely do trails to see the magic of some of the park's frozen waterfalls and stay after nightfall to enjoy some gorgeous stargazing.
7. Scranton, Pennsylvania (Tie)
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Population: 77,054
Average hotel rate per night: $125
Where to stay:Econo Lodge Scranton
Why You Should Visit Scranton
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If all you know about this Pennsylvania town is from what you learned on “The Office,” you likely never realized that Scranton was a ski town.
Montage Mountain offers the steepest vertical drop in all of Pennsylvania as well as 27 slopes, tubing, a full-service lodge, and a myriad of restaurants to recoup and relax after a day in the snow.
Must-Visit Spot in Scranton
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Chase some magic at the Houdini Museum, which has exhibitions about the famous magician's life.
The museum also hosts magic shows with Dorothy Deitrich and Dick Brooks, other well-known musicians who have been known to catch bullets with their teeth, escape from straight jackets while tied to burning ropes and for other incredible feats.
Why You Should Visit Flagstaff
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You might not immediately think of Arizona as a hotspot for skiing — but the Snowbowl in Flagstaff has been attracting skiing enthusiasts since 1938, which makes it the longest continuously operating ski area in the United States.
Snowbowl is also a great spot for families with skiers of different levels and abilities. The slopes offer a vertical drop of 2,300 feet but also offer the best and the biggest beginner terrain in the Southwest.
Must-Visit Spot in Flagstaff
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Tear yourself away from the ski slopes for a bit to visit Wupatki National Monument.
At this protected site, you'll see more than 800 Native American pueblo sites and archaeological landmarks. The incredible ruins are an underrated Arizona attraction that you should definitely visit.
6. Ogden, Utah
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Population: 86,833
Average hotel rate per night: $120
Where to stay:Tru by Hilton Ogden
Why You Should Visit Ogden
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This beloved ski town is situated just outside of Salt Lake City and offers a total of three different ski resorts at the base: Powder Mountain, Snowbasin and Nordic Valley.
It might be smaller than some of the more expensive resort towns nearby, but locals and visitors love it for the quaint and cozy atmosphere and very limited crowds.
Must-Visit Spot in Ogden
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Located on Historic 25th Street, the Ogden Union Station houses numerous museums, making it a perfect place to spend a cultural day.
You can start at the Utah State Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, move onto the Utah State Railroad Museum and then visit the John M. Browning Firearms Museum and the Browning Kimball Classic Car Museum.
There are also two art galleries within the station, so you'll definitely have plenty of things to keep you busy.
Why You Should Visit Wheeling
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Wheeling is a cozy mountain town with a whole lot to offer beyond just skiing (although the ski slopes are certainly something to write home about).
Wheeling also offers a variety of winter sports and shopping as well as the Winter Festival of Lights — one of the nation’s largest and most extravagant holiday light shows, featuring a magical display of over 90 interactive attractions.
Must-Visit Spot in Wheeling
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Make time for a stop at the Blue Church, an Episcopal church built in Greek-revival style in 1837.
The building survived the Civil War, but it is in need of several repairs. Still, the historic building brings color to Wheeling, and visitors love stopping in front of it for a quick picture.
Why You Should Visit Reno
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Lovers of cozy winter fun can embrace the snowy season in Reno — where major emphasis is placed not just on ski culture but also great restaurants and bars as well.
The Reno-Tahoe area offers the largest concentration of ski resorts in North America. Those who want to ski can spend a day hitting the Tahoe slopes at nearby Mt. Rose Ski Resort, which boasts over 50 trails, backwoods access, terrain parks and the highest elevation in Tahoe for some of the best skiing out West.
Must-Visit Spot in Reno
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Can you go to Reno and not gamble? Sure, but why would you want to? After all, casinos and skiing are the two most famous things about the "Biggest Little City in the World."
Go to the casino at Eldorado, perhaps the city's most famous place to try your luck at the slots.
1. Bend, Oregon (Tie)
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Population: 93,917
Average hotel rate per night: $100
Where to stay:Tetherow Hotel
Why You Should Visit Bend
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The diverse seasonality of Bend provides for a unique experience all-year round, but it’s particularly magical come wintertime. Here, you’ll find plenty of ski opportunities at the Mt. Bachelor and Hoodoo areas as well as ample Nordic trails, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
Note that the Hood River Hotel offers season passes for regular skiers, which makes this ski area even more economical.
Must-Visit Spot in Bend
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One of the best ways to experience true Oregonian culture is by going to the local breweries. And like many places in the state, Bend has its fair share of them.
If you only have time to go to one, head to Deschutes Brewery, which is now known all over the country. You'll find a good atmosphere and really good food to accompany your beer.
1. Ludlow, Vermont (Tie)
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Population: 688
Average hotel rate per night: $100
Where to stay:The Pettigrew Inn
Why You Should Visit Ludlow
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Vermont’s Route 100, locally known as the skiers’ highway, passes through Ludlow, an unpretentious village that lies at the doorstep of Okemo Mountain.
This charming small town is the ideal spot for a budget-friendly ski weekend thanks to the variety of affordable restaurants and bars as well as easy access to Okemo Mountain’s impressive 121 trails and 20 lifts.
Must-Visit Spot in Ludlow
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If you love the thick sweetness of maple syrup, you'll be in heaven at Green Mountain Sugar House.
A veritable maple sugarhouse set right by a beautiful lake, this is a place you'll never want to leave. Besides learning about the process of tapping maple syrup, you'll be able to buy some of your own and try delicious food like syrup on snow, donuts glazed with maple cream, maple coffee and — the apparent favorite — maple ice cream.
1. Zephyr Cove, Nevada (Tie)
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Population: 565
Average hotel rate per night: $100
Where to stay:Zephyr Cove Resort
Why You Should Visit Zephyr Cove
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Zephyr Cove, in the South Lake Tahoe area of Nevada, is set apart from more densely populated areas closer to the lake and casinos. Guests of all ages can cross-country ski through the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The Zephyr Cove Resort is also in close driving proximity to Heavenly Valley Ski Area for those looking for downhill skiing options.
Must-Visit Spot in Zephyr Cove
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There is enough natural beauty in the area to keep you occupied for weeks. But if you're in the mood to admire human-made landmarks, you can go to Vikingsholm Castle.
Built in 1929 by a wealthy widow who assumedly didn't know what to do with her money, the castle is considered one of the best Scandinavian-inspired buildings in the U.S.
The site mimics a Norse fortress from the ninth century and is definitely unlike other things you'll find in the area.
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