Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Topping the list at number one for the year 2026, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming consistently offers a superior experience for expert skiers.
Known for its challenging terrain, including the iconic Corbet's Couloir, this resort provides a steep and varied experience. The resort's reputation is built on its extreme vertical drop and the abundance of off-piste opportunities. Its commitment to challenging experiences makes it a top choice, attracting skiers who relish steep slopes and deep powder. Jackson Hole's challenging runs and unique features make it a premier destination for those looking to push their boundaries and experience the best that expert skiing has to offer. The resort’s position as number one reflects its commitment to providing an unparalleled skiing adventure for experienced enthusiasts, ensuring high satisfaction among its target audience.
Whistler Blackcomb, B.C.
Securing the second spot is Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, providing a vast and diverse landscape for advanced skiers. The resort stands out due to its expansive terrain, including Backcomb Mountain, which gives skiers a wide variety of runs. Whistler Blackcomb offers a unique combination of high-altitude bowls, groomed runs, and tree skiing. With its size and extensive features, it allows for a dynamic and extensive skiing experience, catering to various skill levels within the expert category. The resort's appeal lies in the sheer variety of terrain available and its ability to consistently offer top-notch snow conditions. The availability of diverse routes, including challenging backcountry options, makes it a prime location. Whistler Blackcomb's ranking reflects its capacity to accommodate a wide range of skiing styles while providing a consistently high-quality experience for those at the expert level.
Taos Ski Valley, N.M.
Coming in at number three in the rankings for 2026 is Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico, which is a destination known for its steep and challenging runs. The resort’s rugged terrain offers an exciting experience for those skiers who are comfortable with difficult slopes. The location's high elevation ensures quality snow conditions, which enhances the overall experience for expert skiers. Taos Ski Valley is distinguished by its unique culture, characterized by a more laid-back atmosphere. It appeals to a specific group of skiers who value challenging trails and the atmosphere that they offer. Its commitment to maintaining its reputation as a premier destination for expert skiers keeps its high placement in the ratings, showing consistency in providing an enriching and rewarding experience for its clientele.
Snowbird Resort, Utah
Ranked fourth for 2026, Snowbird Resort in Utah is another standout option for advanced skiers. The resort is renowned for its incredible snow quality and demanding terrain, offering some of the best powder skiing experiences in North America. Snowbird provides challenging steeps, steep bowls, and expert-only areas. The high elevation and location in Little Cottonwood Canyon contribute to the accumulation of deep, dry powder, a key factor in its popularity. Snowbird Resort continually provides an outstanding environment for expert skiers, who are drawn to its difficult terrain and exceptional snow conditions. Its dedication to providing an amazing experience solidifies its position as a top resort destination.
Arapahoe Basin, Colo.
Arapahoe Basin, Colorado, grabs the fifth position in the 2026 rankings, standing out for its extended ski season and challenging terrain. Known as 'A-Basin', the resort offers a thrilling experience with its high-alpine environment and the availability of expert-level runs that remain open well into the spring. The resort attracts skiers who want to extend their season and enjoy some of the best high-altitude skiing available. Its strategic location, high elevation, and the longevity of the season provide a unique appeal that caters to a devoted following of expert skiers. The resort's ranking is reinforced by its capacity to constantly offer a great skiing experience and its commitment to giving skiers the chance to enjoy excellent conditions for an extended duration.
Big Sky Resort, Mont.
Big Sky Resort in Montana is ranked sixth for the year 2026 and offers a vast and challenging playground for experienced skiers. This resort, with its significant vertical drop and extensive terrain, provides an array of runs suited to those looking for a test. Its size and diversity mean that skiers of all ability levels will find something to enjoy. Big Sky's appeal lies in its combination of high-altitude bowls, glades, and groomed runs, which provide a varied and dynamic experience. The resort continues to attract experienced skiers due to the broad range of options available and the consistent quality of its snow. Big Sky’s inclusion in the top ten reflects its constant ability to offer exceptional skiing adventures, creating a fulfilling experience for its clientele.
Telluride Ski Resort, Colo.
Telluride Ski Resort in Colorado takes seventh place, offering a blend of challenging terrain and scenic beauty. The resort is known for its steep runs, its picturesque surroundings, and the historic town of Telluride. Telluride combines challenging runs with stunning views and an atmosphere that adds to the overall appeal. Telluride’s unique blend of stunning landscapes and tough skiing keeps attracting expert skiers, who appreciate the combination of adventure and atmosphere. Its ranking represents its ability to provide a memorable skiing experience for experienced skiers, making it a standout selection in the top ten. Telluride offers a high-quality experience combining challenging skiing with visual beauty.
Alta Ski Area, Utah
Coming in at number eight is Alta Ski Area, Utah, which is famous for its ‘skiers-only’ policy, and its dedication to powder skiing. The resort is renowned for its consistent snowfall and challenging slopes. Alta offers some of the best powder skiing conditions in North America and has a rich history that is deeply rooted in the culture of skiing. The resort’s commitment to providing an unparalleled skiing experience for expert skiers, combined with its high-quality snow, makes it a top choice for experts. The resort maintains its place in the top ten due to its dedication to offering a unique and rewarding ski experience.
Revelstoke, B.C.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort in British Columbia earns the ninth spot, famed for its remarkable vertical drop and the abundance of backcountry access. This resort provides an incredible experience for expert skiers, with options for both on-piste and off-piste adventures. Its vast terrain and the easy access to backcountry areas appeal to skiers who want to test their skills in diverse settings. The resort's appeal stems from the combination of challenging runs and deep powder. Revelstoke’s consistent offering of thrilling experiences ensures it remains a top choice in the rankings. Its vertical drop offers expert skiers ample opportunity to improve their skills and enjoy the sport to the fullest.
Mammoth Mountain, Calif.
Rounding out the top ten for 2026 is Mammoth Mountain in California. Known for its extensive terrain and long ski season, this resort offers a wide variety of runs that appeal to expert skiers. The resort's high-altitude location ensures good snow conditions. Mammoth Mountain consistently provides a great skiing experience and diverse terrain for expert skiers, making it an appealing option for those seeking diverse and challenging runs. Its appeal lies in its blend of challenging terrain, consistent snow conditions, and extended seasons. The resort is a great choice for experienced skiers, as it provides a consistently rewarding and memorable experience. The selection of Mammoth Mountain highlights its capacity to offer a memorable experience.
