7 thrilling spring skiing destinations to check out this year
Some of the best spring skiing in the country is at Snowbird in Utah — Photo courtesy of Onfokus / iStock Via Getty Images
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For some travelers, spring vacation means a trip to the beach. For others, it means spring skiing. After all, spring brings warmer temperatures and longer days, resulting in incredible ski conditions. Skiers can shed those extra layers, feel the sun on their faces, and take advantage of discounted lift tickets. Room rates are usually cheaper too, with many resorts offering special rates and packages for spring ski trips.
If you're looking for the best ski resorts for March, April, May, or even June, we've curated a list of stellar picks to get you started.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Teton Village, Wyoming
Spring skiing in Jackson Hole means big discounts on lift tickets — Photo courtesy of Starcevic / iStock Via Getty Images
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is famous for spectacular scenery and epic drops like the iconic Corbet's Couloir. If that weren't enough reason to visit, spring skiing in March and April also brings steep discounts on lift tickets from pass holders from any other resort.
In addition to skiing, fun things to do in Jackson Hole include getting waffles at Corbet's Cabin, where the views at 10,450 feet are as sweet as the decadent treats, and the annual Rendezvous Music Festival with two exciting nights of free concerts the first weekend of April. Spring is also an excellent time to book a discounted room at luxury hotels like the Four Seasons Jackson Hole.
Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, California
Palisades Tahoe is one of the best ski destinations in March — Photo courtesy of raclro / iStock Via Getty Images
It snows so much at Palisades Tahoe, that in 2023, the ski season didn't end until the Fourth of July (on an average year, skiers can count on the resort staying open through the end of May). The Lake Tahoe region is ideal for spring skiing since you can spend your mornings on the mountain and afternoons on the beach.
As a bonus, lift tickets and lodging rates in Lake Tahoe in the spring are typically more affordable, so you get a lot more bang for your buck on your spring break ski trip.
Breckenridge Resort, Breckenridge, Colorado
Spring ski season typically lasts through May at Breckenridge — Photo courtesy of Leigh Ann Speake / iStock Via Getty Images
If you didn't make it to Breckenridge Resort this winter, don't worry — ski season usually runs through Memorial Day. Be sure to pack layers since spring in Breckenridge brings a mixture of weather conditions. One day, it will be sunny enough to ski in your shirtsleeves; the next day, the clouds will move in and dump a foot of snow.
With a base elevation of 9,600 feet and a summit elevation of 12,998 feet, you can count on plenty of snow in Breckenridge. Although it's an excellent destination all spring long, it's especially enticing for snow skiing in April when events include the Five Peaks Music Series and Splash Into Spring Pond Skim.
Big Sky Resort, Big Sky, Montana
Spring skiing in Big Sky, Montana, means deep powder even in April — Photo courtesy of raclro / iStock Via Getty Images
Spring is the perfect time to plan a Montana vacation, and you don't need a huge budget to plan an unforgettable ski trip to Big Sky Resort. Lift tickets start under $60, and skiing lessons are discounted in April. Plus, local hotels offer significant rate cuts in spring.
Although ski season usually ends at the end of April, it's still a lively time to visit. Weekend events include pond skims, live music, DJs, and even the Special Olympics.
Killington Ski Resort, Killington, Vermont
Killington offers spring skiing on snowcapped mountains in Vermont — Photo courtesy of EyeEm Mobile GmbH / iStock Via Getty Images
Sunshine and snow go hand in hand at Killington Ski Resort in Vermont since ski season lasts until the end of May or the beginning of June. Ski out the rest of the season with a discounted spring pass. In addition to the 1,500 acres of terrain at Killington, spring pass holders also access the 468 acres at Pico Mountain. You'll find big rate drops for lodging too.
Mount Bachelor Ski Resort, Bend, Oregon
Spring skiing lift tickets are cheaper at Mount Bachelor — Photo courtesy of christiannafzger / iStock Via Getty Images
Skiers can usually hit the slopes at Mount Bachelor Ski Resort until late May or the beginning of June. You'll find spring lift tickets under $65, and a dynamic roster of events offers concerts, competitions, and pond skims. Be sure to take some time to check out the area; spring is a beautiful time for kayaking, hiking, and biking in Bend. The city is also famous for its craft beer scene.
Snowbird Ski Resort, Snowbird, Utah
Snowbird is one of the best spring skiing destinations in the U.S. — Photo courtesy of Roman Tiraspolsky / iStock Via Getty Images
Utah is home to 15 ski resorts. If you're headed there for spring skiing, you'll find the most extended season at Snowbird Ski Resort. Most years, the slopes are open through Memorial Day weekend. Fresh powder dumps keep things exciting on Snowbird's 2,500 skiable acres when the weather isn't sunny or warm.
In addition, live music and special events, like full moon dinners, provide plenty of action when you're not on the slopes. The best part? Snowbird Ski Resort offers discounted lift tickets in spring to offer the best value.
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