17 Best Ski Resorts For Beginners (Including The Best Places To Learn To Ski)

Are you interested in going to some of the best ski resorts for beginners?  Awesome! We have a great list of ski resorts that are perfect for a first-time ski trip.

I am excited to share with you the best US ski resorts for beginners! Most of the best places to go for beginner skiers are located on both the East Coast and out West. 

You might be surprised that the top ski resorts are not necessarily the best ski resorts for beginners. Many are smaller lesser-known resorts. A smaller resort is the best place to learn to ski.  Some are even ski-in-ski-out resorts in the USA, which is a true gift for skiers.(trust me)

In this post, we are going to list the best ski resorts for beginners.  These resorts that are included focus on the areas that provide the best skiing for beginners. They are located throughout the USA.  We will give a great overview of why they make the list of the best ski destinations for beginners.

Let’s explore the best ski resorts for beginners in the US! 

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1. Belleayre Mountain Ski Center – New York

The Belleayre Mountain Ski Center, in New York (about a three-hour drive north of NYC) was labeled as “One of the best places to learn to ski in the East” by Skiing Magazine for a reason.

Ski Rentals and Lessons

The ski resort has plenty of skis for rent and also offers a wide range of lessons, including private lessons and group classes for all ages. 

Ski Trails

The resort has 50 trails and a vertical drop of 1,404 feet, but importantly for beginners, these include a wide range of beginner trails. First up, the terrain is great for teaching, so absolute beginners will get off to the right start. 

Then, as you start to ski independently, the easy ski trails are not only separate from the more challenging slopes, but the trails get incrementally more difficult, so it is easy to progress safely to harder trails as your confidence and skill increase. 

If you live in New York, Belleayre is the best ski resort for beginners.

The Resort

The resort, which is open for swimming and hiking in the summer, is typically open for skiing from Thanksgiving to mid-March.  

If you are looking for accommodation there are some great privately-owned ski lodges near the resort. 

Belleayre is one of the best ski locations for beginners!

Contributed By: James Ian at Travel Collecting

2. Mt. Peter Ski Resort – New York

Mt. Peter, the oldest operating ski resort in New York, is located just an hour from the George Washington Bridge in Warwick, New York, which is the perfect day trip from NYC!   

Ski Trails 

6 out of 16 of their trails are green slopes making it one of the best ski resorts for beginners in the area.  Small mountains like this are the best way to learn how to ski!  They are also one of the last remaining family-operated ski areas in America, with the friendliest staff and instructors.  

Ski Lessons

Every holiday and weekend, their Mountain School offers free beginner ski and snowboard lessons in a group format with the purchase of a lift ticket.  This is definitely one of the best ski resorts for first-timers because of this benefit. 

One-on-one lessons or small group lessons are also available.  They will assess your current skill level and decide whether you’re ready for the chair lift or their easy-to-use SunKid carpet lift.  

If you’re visiting with kids be sure to check out their Pete’s Pal’s program.  It’s a great introductory lesson for your toddler.

Accommodations Nearby 

Although there are no lodging accommodations available on the mountain, Mt. Peter provides a list of hotels and bed & breakfasts in the area on its website.

Mt Pete is a great ski destination for beginners! 

 Contributed By: SandAgetaway

3. Spring Mountain Adventure – Pennsylvania

Located in the suburbs of Pennsylvania and only an hour outside of Philadelphia lies Spring Mountain Adventures.

Arguably it is one of the best ski resorts for beginners in the area as there are only a handful of slopes and are relatively easy. 

The Resort 

Spring mountain is geared towards locals and beginner skiers who are looking to learn. The entire ski “resort” offers only 8 total hills to ski, with three green easy slopes.

The main side of the mountain is just one large hill with different chair lifts to take you to different heights on the mountain.   It is a great ski resort for beginners.

Ski Trails 

Spring mountain also has four blue or medium hills for those looking for some more advanced slopes. They also have a few black diamond slopes which aren’t really that hard compared to the larger mountains in Pennsylvania. 

The main slope in front of the resort is great for beginners or parents with kids because it is so open. Parents can watch the kids clear as day from a bench at the bottom or go on the slope and have plenty of room to learn. 

Spring Mountain Adventure

Spring Mountain Adventure is a VERY small ski resort, so there are no rooms to stay in on-site however you can book a hotel in Kulspville or Limerick. They do offer food and have a small restaurant inside which is great.  They also offer rentals!

Spring Mountain is one of the best places to go for beginner skiers in the Philadelphia area for those wanting to learn to ski or snowboard.

Contributed By: Wanderusliving.com

5. Wintergreen Resort – Virginia

Virginia has just four ski resorts, but one of the better ski resorts for beginners is Wintergreen Resort in Central Virginia.

The Resort

Here you’ll find 26 ski slopes for all ski levels, including seven green runs, as well as the state’s largest snow tubing park with 10 super-speedy tubing lanes.

There’s also a free-styling terrain park and Ridgely’s Fun Park, a winter snow play area for small children with a mini-tubing carousel, snow tunnels, and a gentle hill for tubing and sledding. Plus, private, semi-private, and family ski lessons for each ski season.  This makes it one of the best ski resorts for beginner skiers with families.

Off the slopes, there’s plenty to do too, which is a bonus for new skiers who may not be as eager to hit the slopes every day. Wintergreen Resort has more than 30 miles of hiking trails, including a delightful wooded waterfall hike to Shamokin Falls.

Accommodations 

Across the 11,000-acre four-season mountain resort, there are accommodations of all kinds, ranging from rental homes and condos to guest rooms at the Mountain Inn.

All stays have kitchens or kitchenettes, but for those who prefer that someone else do the cooking, there are seven dine-out options ranging from casual fare to upscale dining.

It is one of the best places to ski for beginners in Virginia. 

Contributed By: Kidventurous

6. Snowshoe Mountain Resort – West Virginia

Snowshoe Mountain in West Virginia is one of the best ski resorts for beginners. It is catered to those who are seeking the perfect family-friendly getaway for some serious winter fun.  

The Resort

There are so many fun things to do at Snowshoe! From skiing to snowboarding to snow tubing, you can find all kinds of snowy adventures.

It’s no secret that Snowshoe Mountain is one of the best ski resorts for beginners on the East Coast. With private and group lessons available for all ages and ability levels. 

Ski Trails

There are opportunities to learn to ski for just about anyone! Test out your newfound skills on any of their 24 easy trails and when you’re feeling brave you can move up to try their 20 intermediate slopes.

Not into the snow? No worries! You can get your shopping fix at The Village, relax at the spa, or try their escape room.

Accommodations 

There are a variety of different lodging options through AirBnb, VRBO, or the ski-in ski out hotel options at the resort itself.

And don’t miss out on some of the fantastic restaurants at the resort when you get hungry.  Foxfire Grill and Cheat Mountain Pizza are always crowd pleasers!

If you’re looking for one of the best resorts for beginner skiers,  Snowshoe Mountain is one of the best places to go for beginner skiers.

Contributed By: Julie from More than Main Street

7. Granite Peak Ski Area – Wisconsin

One of our family’s favorite ski resorts for beginners is Granite Peak in Wisconsin. Raising our kids in Chicago, there are not a lot of local options for skiing. This turned out ok since many of the Midwest ski resorts are made for beginners. 

Ski Trails 

Located in Wausau, Wisconsin, Granite Peak offers 75 runs (30% are green runs) and 4 terrain parks spread over 200 acres.  With so many green ski trails, it is one of the best places to learn to ski. 

Ski Lessons

There is an on-site snow sports school with over 100 instructors teaching snowboarding and skiing to all ages.

With the highest vertical rise topping out at 700 feet, it is perfect for those just starting out on the slopes. Many families find a 2-3 day weekend is the perfect amount of time to learn the ropes.

Accommodations and Restaurants

The best accommodations for Granite Peak are in Wausau, with some hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn less than a mile from the slopes. Head east on Highway 29 and there are a handful of hotels in the town of Weston that are equally convenient.

Stop in at the Red Eye Brewing Company or Bull Falls Brewery, for dinner after a long day.

The Resort 

If you want to ski in the Midwest, Granite Peak is one of the best options for beginning skiers. Slopes are well-groomed, it’s not overly crowded, and it’s reasonably priced compared to ski resorts out west.

Granite Peak Ski area is one of the best ski resorts for beginners and a perfect place to learn to ski! 

Contributed By: Kidsareatrip

8. Crystal Mountain – Michigan

Northern Michigan is full of cute little towns, amazing wine, and several fantastic ski resorts.

One of the best in the area is Crystal Mountain located in Benzie County, Michigan. Just minutes from the Michigan lakeshore and the great city of Traverse City, this ski resort is for beginners is perfect!

It is the best place to ski for beginners in the Midwest. 

Ski Trails 

Crystal Mountains has 58 ski trails total with 20 of them being green beginner runs. The “bunny” hill even has a “magic carpet” lift instead of the tow rope which is a little more difficult.

Ski Lessons

They also offer ski lessons for both kids and adults. You can even book yourself a private lesson! Crystal Mountain also offers snowboarding and cross-country lessons.

The Resort

The resort itself is beautiful with tons of amenities. These include outdoor and indoor pools, a spa, a fitness center, 6 restaurants, and lounges.

You can even enjoy a cup of hot cocoa at the Level Four Rooftop Bar which overlooks the main ski hill.  

The resort also has accommodations you can book of all kinds including one-room suites and a full “top of the mountain” townhouse. 

Crystal Mountain is the perfect place for beginner skiers.

Contributed By: WanderMoore24

9. Whitefish Mountain Resort – Montana

One of the best ski resorts for beginners in the US is at a place called “Whitefish Mountain Resort”. This resort is located in the town of Whitefish, Montana, and is one of the best ski destinations for beginners.

Trails

For example, if you are a beginner skier then you’ll be happy to know that there are many different areas for you to ski on.

You’ll be able to find around 13 different beginner-level areas where you can ski around with ease. This makes it an easy ski resort for beginners to get around.

Ski Lessons 

Plus they also offer a beginner “Learn to Ski or Ride” package which includes two days of equipment rentals, two days of beginner area lift tickets, and two half-day lessons. The cost is around $91 dollars and is totally worth it if you are new to the sport of skiing.

The Resort

And because they are a resort, visitors who come will also be able to find a place to stay at one of their many lodges which comes at a very affordable price.

These lodges are all in close proximity to the ski areas which makes coming and going a relatively easy thing to do. There are also amazing treehouse resorts in this area as well. 

Whitefish Mountain offers some of the best skiing for beginners. 

Contributed By: Dailytourist

10. Bridger Bowl Ski Area – Bozeman, Montana

Last winter during a family vacation to Bozeman, Montana, we spent the day at Bridger Bowl, one of the best ski resorts for beginners that I’ve been to.

Ski Trails

As an adult who is not a strong skier, I appreciated that there were ski hills for varied abilities (beginner slopes near the base) so if you don’t ski as well as your travel companions, this is a great option.

Ski Rental and Lessons

It was easy to rent equipment on-site and I enjoyed my group lesson (they also offer private lessons). 

The Resort

Bridger Bowl is reasonably-priced and more of a local ski experience compared to the neighboring and more famous Big Sky Resort.  

Accommodations

Although there are a few options for ski-in, ski-out lodging we chose to stay at a hotel in downtown Bozeman for a convenient way to explore Main Street and the town’s activities.

On the way home after a long day of skiing, definitely add a stop at one of several nearby hot springs for a relaxing dip!

Bridger Bowl is a perfect place for a beginner ski trip! 

Contributed By: Global Game Plan

11. Snowbasin Resort – Utah

Looking for the “greatest snow on earth”? Look no further than Utah. And with many Utah ski resorts to choose from,  you can easily plan a Utah ski trip to Snowbasin is actually one of the best ski resorts for beginners.

Ski Lessons

Snowbasin is located about 45 minutes north of Salt Lake City, UT. While you won’t be blown away by the number of easy runs, you will find an excellent “Learn and Earn” lessons program for beginners, in addition to standard group and private lessons as well as rentals.

Learn and Earn

The “Learn and Earn” program spans three years. The first year includes 3 all-day lessons, a seasonal rental package, and a season pass upon completion of your lessons. 

The second year includes a season pass, 3 all-day lessons, and an equipment package to keep. The third year includes a season pass and an all-day private lesson for adults or a 3-hour private lesson for youth. 

This multi-year approach to learning to ski ensures that you will actually be successful making Snowbasin a great place for dedicated beginners.

The Resort

There is no affiliated lodging on the mountain itself, however, Snowbasin is partnered with many local accommodations that provide shuttle service.

Snowbasin is one of the best ski resorts for beginners in Utah.  

Contributed By: BeaUtahfulworld

12. Steamboat Springs Ski Resort – Colorado

If you’re looking for a ski mountain with virtually guaranteed powder, a variety of slopes, plus a cute Western-style town, then look no further than Steamboat Springs.   Not to mention that it’s one of the best ski resorts for beginners.

Ski Trails

The trail breakdown is 14% beginner, 42% intermediate, and 44% advanced. With 165 named trails, that means there are 23 green runs to explore.

The longest trail at Steamboat is a green named Why Not and it’s over 3 miles long. The powdery snow makes this the best place to learn to ski and practice, but be sure to go early as it gets worn down throughout the day.

Ski Lessons

Steamboat also has one of the best ski and snowboard schools in the country. I highly recommend a full-day group lesson and if you go during the week, there’s a good chance you’ll be by yourself. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from some of the best instructors for beginner skiers out there.  It is the best place to learn to ski in Colorado.

Getting to Steamboat and Accommodations 

As for logistics, you can either fly into the Yampa Valley Airport which is 20 minutes from Steamboat or fly into Denver and drive 3.5 hours.

If you have the budget then stay either at the Steamboat Grand or the Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas. However, if those aren’t in your price range then go for The Phoenix (mid-range) or Rabbit Ears Motel (budget).

Steamboat Springs is perfect for a beginner ski trip. 

Contributed By: Stuckonthego

13. Breckenridge Ski Resort – Colorado

As a Colorado Native, I’m pretty particular about the best places to ski and snowboard in Colorado.  Growing up, I skied all over the state, but when it came time for me to teach my own kids to ski, I instantly knew that we would be teaching our kids to ski at Arapahoe Basin (or A-Basin as the locals say). 

Affordable Skiing 

Not only is Arapahoe Basin one of the cheapest places to ski in Colorado it’s also one of the absolute best places to ski for beginners who are learning how to ski.

One of the best things about Arapahoe Basin is that the beginner hill is directly out of the parking lot. Beginning skiers can go directly from their car to the Molly Hogan chairlift or magic carpet and when they need to take a break the A-Frame Lodge is right there as well.

Ski Lessons 

If you’re teaching your kids how to ski you’ll especially love that the Palli chairlift is right there next to the beginning Molly Hogan chairlift, which has some of the best and steepest terrains at the entire Resort.

For parents who are teaching their kids how to ski this is an extra bonus because it allows them to ski the terrain that they want while still taking time to ski with their kids. 

Ski Trails

When our kids were learning how to ski we would often have one parent on the beginner Hill and another parent skiing on their own and alternate every other run.

At most other resorts to get to Advanced terrain, you’ll be taking two to three chairlifts so the accessibility of advanced terrain and beginner terrain both directly out of the parking lot at Arapahoe Basin makes it one of the best places for beginner skiers as well as intermediate and advanced skiers.

Once you’re ready to move paths the beginning chair lift head over to the Black Mountain Express where the Wrangler run is one of the best runs for beginning skiers who are ready for their first easy green run.  

You can also book fabulous accommodations near the resort. 

Arapahoe is one of the best ski resorts for beginners and families. 

Contributed By: Skiing Kids

15. Grand Targhee Ski Resort – Wyoming

Grand Targhee Resort located at the foot of the Tetons in Wyoming is well known for its steep terrain and jagged mountains a little-known secret is that Grand Targhee is one of the best ski resorts for beginning skiers as well.

Grand Targhee ski resort has one of the best setups for beginning skiers and especially caters well to families with kids who are learning how to ski.

Ski Trails 

The Shoshone lift is perfect for kids and they will especially love the various tree trails along with characters and signs all throughout the run to get them excited about skiing.

They probably won’t even know that while they are following the fun characters down the mountain that they’re actually learning and improving their ski skills as they go.

All of the runs off the Shoshone lift are greens and are perfect for beginning skiers. If you’re looking into ski school, absolutely do not hesitate – we’ve never had a better ski school experience than we had at Grand Targhee.

When you’re ready to advance to something beyond the Shoshone chair lift head up the Dreamcatcher lift just outside of the Main Lodge. From there take the Teton View Traverse which will give you one of the most spectacular views of the Teton range. 

It’s one of the longest runs at the resort but also has a gentle slope so it’s not too difficult.  It’s a great run to introduce you to longer ski runs but also with terrain that’s not overwhelming for beginners. Grand Targhee is one of the best ski resorts for beginners in the US to learn to ski. 

The Resort

If you go to Grand Targhee you’ll especially want to try and be there on a Friday afternoon when they’re free s’mores on the plaza but you’re always a hit with everyone. Plan on staying in the nearby town of Driggs for easy access to the mountain as well as local restaurants. 

Grand Targhee is the best beginner ski vacation you can book! 

Contributed By: Bringthekids

16. Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort – California

Located at the Mammoth Lakes near the famous Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort is not only a popular ski resort in California but also one of the best ski resorts for beginners in the US.

If you are planning to learn skiing and snowboarding, there’s no better place than Mammoth Mountain in eastern California!

Ski Trails

The huge 3500 acres of skiable terrain justifies its name and 14% of total ski runs are considered beginner runs. The long ski season (that lasts till May sometimes) is another highlight of this beginner-friendly ski resort of the US.

There are many easy and wide slopes in the lower section of the mountain that make your first turn more easily on a pair of skis or a snowboard.

The practice areas around Canyon Lodge and Main Lodge make an ideal environment for beginners with six magic carpet lifts.

You can also go for the Schoolyard Express from Canyon Lodge or to the green-marked Spring Canyon when you get some confidence on skis.

Mammoth Lakes offers some of the best skiing for beginners. 

The Resort

It is an expensive ski resort in California, hence finding a budget can be pretty difficult. I will recommend staying in Juniper Springs Resort for its convenient location and modern facilities.

Contributed By: Budget Travel Buff

17. Heavenly Mountain – Lake Tahoe – California

Heavenly Mountain is a unique ski resort in Lake Tahoe because it straddles both California and Nevada. There are ski runs in both states.

Ski Trails 

It has varied terrain, with 97 trails, 28 chairlifts, and snowfall of 360 inches a year. For beginners, 20% of runs are suitable for learners and the Big Easy chairlift provides access to gentle wide-open slopes that are easy to ski.

There are also excellent beginner areas around Boulder and California lodges.

Ski Lessons

Another reason why Heavenly Mountain is one of the best ski resorts for beginners is the ski school instructors.  They are highly skilled and patient with teaching beginning skiers.

Gondola Ride

Besides skiing and snowboarding, Heavenly Mountain offers tubing, an adventure park and non-skiers can ride the Scenic Gondola from Heavenly Village up the mountain to see the best view of Lake Tahoe from the Observation Deck.

The 2.4-mile gondola trip is the top thing to do in Lake Tahoe all year round, but the scenery is incredibly stunning in winter.

The Marriott Vacation Clubs are excellent places to stay near Lake Tahoe! 

I highly recommend choosing Heavenly Mountain as one of the best ski resorts for first-timers.

Contributed By: Travel2next

Let’s Go to Some Beginner Ski Resorts this Season!

Are you ready to hit the slopes?  There are so many beginner ski resorts!  You may have noticed that there are locations all over the USA.  Hopefully, there is one near you! 

Skiing is a fun outdoor vacation that I know your family will enjoy! If you have any questions be sure to ask in the comments!

Free Ski Packing Checklist

If you are wondering what to wear skiing and need some organization help I created a simple packing list to help you get ready for your trip.  If you are interested I can email you a copy! 

Facebook Group

If you have any questions when planning your trip come join me in my private Facebook Group.  

This group is a place where you can ask any question about your upcoming trip and help others plan their trips.  It is also a place where I put travel deals.