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Planning an escape to a winter wonderland this holiday season? Together with Smartwool, we can help you do just that. From hitting the slopes, to lounging by the fire, or exploring outdoors, we’ve got the tips and gear to make sure you’re prepared for whatever adventures lie ahead. Take a look at our top-searched ski destinations* and packing list to start planning for your upcoming trip.

Most popular ski and snowboard destinations

Aspen, CO

South Lake Tahoe, CA

Park City, UT

Vail, CO

Gatlinburg, TN

Breckenridge, CO

Whistler, BC, CA

Reno, NV

Steamboat Springs, CO

Banff, AB, CA

Aspen, CO

South Lake Tahoe, CA

Park City, UT

Vail, CO

Gatlinburg, TN

Breckenridge, CO

Whistler, BC, CA

Reno, NV

Steamboat Springs, CO, US

Banff, AB, CA

01

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Aspen

Colorado

 

Good for a splurge

Hacker tip

With endless things to do both on and off the mountain, it’s no wonder that Aspen secured the #1 spot on our list. The thing you need to know about this snow-adise, is that it’s expensive and it’s a scene (think: Rodeo Drive). So if you’re a bargain hunter, go either at the beginning or end of the season and hit up the town’s thrift shops. Many times you can score gently-used luxury gear – for a fraction of the price.

01

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Aspen

Colorado

 

Good for a splurge

Hacker tip

With endless things to do both on and off the mountain, it’s no wonder that Aspen secured the #1 spot on our list. The thing you need to know about this snow-adise, is that it’s expensive and it’s a scene (think: Rodeo Drive). So if you’re a bargain hunter, go either at the beginning or end of the season and hit up the town’s thrift shops. Many times you can score gently-used luxury gear – for a fraction of the price.

Median flight price by month**

November

$659

December

$693

January

$622

February

$721

Median hotel price by month**

November

$361 / night

December

$938 / night

January

$565 / night

February

$759 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$56 / day

December

$156 / day

January

$136 / day

February

$169 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$659

December

$693

January

$622

February

$721

Median hotel price by month**

November

$361 / night

December

$938 / night

January

$565 / night

February

$759 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$56 / day

December

$156 / day

January

$136 / day

February

$169 / day

02

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

South Lake Tahoe

California

 

Good for outdoor enthusiasts

Hacker tip

Gorgeous mountains and lake views make Tahoe an unparalleled ski destination. It’s also one of the most convenient spots to get to – with San Francisco, Las Vegas and Reno (see #8) nearby. Book your arrival flight for the morning as several ski resorts offer free half-day lift tickets if you get to the mountain on the same day of your flight. Just be sure to hold onto your boarding pass.

02

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

South Lake Tahoe

California

 

Good for outdoor enthusiasts

Hacker tip

Gorgeous mountains and lake views make Tahoe an unparalleled ski destination. It’s also one of the most convenient spots to get to – with San Francisco, Las Vegas and Reno (see #8) nearby. Book your arrival flight for the morning as several ski resorts offer free half-day lift tickets if you get to the mountain on the same day of your flight. Just be sure to hold onto your boarding pass.

Median flight price by month**

November

$398

December

$521

January

$439

February

$506

Median hotel price by month**

November

$189 / night

December

$267 / night

January

$234 / night

February

$256 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$80 / day

December

$87 / day

January

$81 / day

February

$82 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$398

December

$521

January

$439

February

$506

Median hotel price by month**

November

$189 / night

December

$267 / night

January

$234 / night

February

$256 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$80 / day

December

$87 / day

January

$81 / day

February

$82 / day

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Win the ultimate winter getaway

You’ve checked out the trendiest ski spots, now’s your chance to experience one of them with Ski Smarter Sweeps. One lucky winner will explore a winter destination of their choice with a gift card from KAYAK, plus other goodies from Smartwool. Head over to our official page for more details.

 

Take me there

 

03

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Park City

Utah

 

Good for a weekend

Hacker tip

Park City is coveted as a top destination – and not just because it’s a great place to hit the slopes. Because of how close the area is to the airport (30-ish minutes) you can land, ski, sleep over and head back home, all in a weekend. It’s especially convenient from the East Coast with direct flights in winter. Be aware that because it’s in Utah, however, some areas may be designated as “dry” and won’t allow alcohol.

03

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Park City

Utah

 

Good for a weekend

Hacker tip

Park City is coveted as a top destination – and not just because it’s a great place to hit the slopes. Because of how close the area is to the airport (30-ish minutes) you can land, ski, sleep over and head back home, all in a weekend. It’s especially convenient from the East Coast with direct flights in winter. Be aware that because it’s in Utah, however, some areas may be designated as “dry” and won’t allow alcohol.

Median flight price by month**

November

$357

December

$482

January

$399

February

$511

Median hotel price by month**

November

$282 / night

December

$628 / night

January

$544 / night

February

$688 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$60 / day

December

$91 / day

January

$89 / day

February

$75 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$357

December

$482

January

$399

February

$511

Median hotel price by month**

November

$282 / night

December

$628 / night

January

$544 / night

February

$688 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$60 / day

December

$91 / day

January

$89 / day

February

$75 / day

04

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Vail

Colorado

 

Good for families who splurge

Hacker tip

Vail Village is pretty dreamy – some compare it to a storybook. But it’s also pretty expensive. If you’re trying to avoid the crowds, head to Golden Peak – this area is the furthest east and is populated by mostly residential skiers. Looking for the quickest way up the mountain? Take lift 6 to lift 11 instead of the gondola at the Vail Village base.

04

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Vail

Colorado

 

Good for families who splurge

Hacker tip

Vail Village is pretty dreamy – some compare it to a storybook. But it’s also pretty expensive. If you’re trying to avoid the crowds, head to Golden Peak – this area is the furthest east and is populated by mostly residential skiers. Looking for the quickest way up the mountain? Take lift 6 to lift 11 instead of the gondola at the Vail Village base.

Median flight price by month**

November

$647

December

$737

January

$597

February

$718

Median hotel price by month**

November

$405 / night

December

$661 / night

January

$617 / night

February

$796 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$56 / day

December

$141 / day

January

$110 / day

February

$150 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$647

December

$737

January

$597

February

$718

Median hotel price by month**

November

$405 / night

December

$661 / night

January

$617 / night

February

$796 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$56 / day

December

$141 / day

January

$110 / day

February

$150 / day

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Pack like you know what you’re doing

Even if you’re new to the slopes, you don’t have to dress like you are – that’s why we asked our partners at Smartwool to help us create an ultimate ski trip packing list. Take the guesswork out of your packing and use this list as your guide.

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Men’s Thermal Base Layer Colorblock Crew

The Men’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Colorblock Crew features 100% responsibly sourced Merino wool and was made for enhanced comfort, breathability and thermoregulation, so you stayconsistently comfortable – no matter what kind of winter fun you get into. Throw this in your bag for all things hiking, running, and skiing.

Men’s Thermal Base Layer Bottom

The Men’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Bottom was recently updated to provide the best fit and function as a base layer tight. Made with SmartWool’sheaviest weight wool fabric, these bottoms will help keep you warm and comfortable in the cooler temps. If your trip includes skiing, running or hiking, be sure to make space for these in your luggage.

Women’s Base Layer Colorblock 1/4 Zip

The Women’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Colorblock 1/4 Zip was made for being warm…pretty much anywhere.Featuring 100% ZQ-certified Merino wool, this top offers the benefits you need to ski, hike, run, or train while you’re away.

Women’s Thermal Base Layer Crew

The Women’s Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew is a fan-favorite that is both stylish, functionable and comes in plenty of colors. Pack this crew as a cold-weather base for when you go skiing, hiking or biking during your trip. Available in standard and plus sizing.

Snowboard Targeted Cushion Over The Calf Socks

Hit the slopes with confidence in the Snowboard Targeted Cushion Logo OTC Socks. Created with enhanced durability in mind, these socks have an unmatched performance fit for top-notch comfort. These technical snowboard socks are a packing must if you plan to shred (and stay cozy) all day long.

Women’s Pullover Hoodie

The Intraknit™™ Merino Tech Pullover Hoodie should be used as a mid layer for protection from the elements and has targeted mesh venting to help keep things breathable. So go ahead and add this hoodie to your bag – it can handle whatever crazy conditions you may face.

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05

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Gatlinburg

Tennessee

 

Good for intermediate skiers

Hacker tip

Tennessee may not be the first place that comes to mind when searching for ski spots, but don’t sleep on it. Ober Gatlinburg, one of the town’s major ski resorts, is great for families and intermediate skiers. With green and blue trails making up 80% of their slopes, it’s worth exploring for those who are warming up to larger mountains out west.

05

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Gatlinburg

Tennessee

 

Good for intermediate skiers

Hacker tip

Tennessee may not be the first place that comes to mind when searching for ski spots, but don’t sleep on it. Ober Gatlinburg, one of the town’s major ski resorts, is great for families and intermediate skiers. With green and blue trails making up 80% of their slopes, it’s worth exploring for those who are warming up to larger mountains out west.

Median flight price by month**

November

$397

December

$423

January

$390

February

$381

Median hotel price by month**

November

$174 / night

December

$214 / night

January

$133 / night

February

$125 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$76 / day

December

$101 / day

January

$116 / day

February

$81 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$397

December

$423

January

$390

February

$381

Median hotel price by month**

November

$174 / night

December

$214 / night

January

$133 / night

February

$125 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$76 / day

December

$101 / day

January

$116 / day

February

$81 / day

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06

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Breckenridge

Colorado

 

Good for partying

Hacker tip

Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge has been described as a non-stop party. With concerts throughout the season, the vibe here is laid back and carefree. Looking for quick lift access? Rent a place on the mountain that is ski-in/ski-out for max ski time. If skiing isn’t really your thing, Breckenridge has other outdoor activities – like snowshoeing and dog sledding – that will keep you busy.

06

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Breckenridge

Colorado

 

Good for partying

Hacker tip

Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge has been described as a non-stop party. With concerts throughout the season, the vibe here is laid back and carefree. Looking for quick lift access? Rent a place on the mountain that is ski-in/ski-out for max ski time. If skiing isn’t really your thing, Breckenridge has other outdoor activities – like snowshoeing and dog sledding – that will keep you busy.

Median flight price by month**

November

$286

December

$361

January

$306

February

$367

Median hotel price by month**

November

$213 / night

December

$471 / night

January

$395 / night

February

$426 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$86 / day

December

$140 / day

January

$109 / day

February

$157 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$286

December

$361

January

$306

February

$367

Median hotel price by month**

November

$213 / night

December

$471 / night

January

$395 / night

February

$426 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$86 / day

December

$140 / day

January

$109 / day

February

$157 / day

07

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Whistler

British Columbia, Canada

 

Good for culture

Hacker tip

Whistler has a legacy for being one of North America’s best ski spots. But what’s also great about it is its proximity to Vancouver. So you can access all the mountains have to offer – along with the amazing arts and culture found in the city. Treat yourself post-slopes by paying a visit to The Scandinave Spa for some hydrotherapy or the Whistler Day Spa for a massage.

07

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Whistler

British Columbia, Canada

 

Good for culture

Hacker tip

Whistler has a legacy for being one of North America’s best ski spots. But what’s also great about it is its proximity to Vancouver. So you can access all the mountains have to offer – along with the amazing arts and culture found in the city. Treat yourself post-slopes by paying a visit to The Scandinave Spa for some hydrotherapy or the Whistler Day Spa for a massage.

Median flight price by month**

November

$322

December

$432

January

$388

February

$419

Median hotel price by month**

November

$247 / night

December

$554 / night

January

$390 / night

February

$444 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$93 / day

December

$77 / day

January

$82 / day

February

$97 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$322

December

$432

January

$388

February

$419

Median hotel price by month**

November

$247 / night

December

$554 / night

January

$390 / night

February

$444 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$93 / day

December

$77 / day

January

$82 / day

February

$97 / day

08

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Reno

Nevada

 

Good for mixing it up

Hacker tip

Who says that Nevada can’t get in on the ski fun too? Situated around some of Lake Tahoe’s best ski mountains, Reno is an interesting anomaly. On one hand, you have gorgeous views and the peaceful scenery of Lake Tahoe’s slope. On the other, you have all night gambling, dive bars and general debauchery if you go downtown. So, mix it up a bit – this might be a great winter bachelor(ette) destination.

08

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Reno

Nevada

 

Good for mixing it up

Hacker tip

Who says that Nevada can’t get in on the ski fun too? Situated around some of Lake Tahoe’s best ski mountains, Reno is an interesting anomaly. On one hand, you have gorgeous views and the peaceful scenery of Lake Tahoe’s slope. On the other, you have all night gambling, dive bars and general debauchery if you go downtown. So, mix it up a bit – this might be a great winter bachelor(ette) destination.

Median flight price by month**

November

$398

December

$521

January

$439

February

$506

Median hotel price by month**

November

$155 / night

December

$148 / night

January

$132 / night

February

$192 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$69 / day

December

$97 / day

January

$97 / day

February

$125 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$398

December

$521

January

$439

February

$506

Median hotel price by month**

November

$155 / night

December

$148 / night

January

$132 / night

February

$192 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$69 / day

December

$97 / day

January

$97 / day

February

$125 / day

09

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Steamboat Springs

Colorado

 

Good for off-grid

Hacker tip

Steamboat is a great low-key, family-friendly option, just be prepared for a trek. If you’re not flying direct (and opt to go to Denver), it’s quite remote. So plan to rent a car to get out there, grab tickets on a charter bus or use peer-to-peer car sharing (you can search it on KAYAK) to rent someone’s personal car with a roof rack. Howelsen Hill is a great option for a laidback resort. Plus, they offer “Ski Free Sunday” so you can put that lift ticket money towards a post-ski dinner.

09

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Steamboat Springs

Colorado

 

Good for off-grid

Hacker tip

Steamboat is a great low-key, family-friendly option, just be prepared for a trek. If you’re not flying direct (and opt to go to Denver), it’s quite remote. So plan to rent a car to get out there, grab tickets on a charter bus or use peer-to-peer car sharing (you can search it on KAYAK) to rent someone’s personal car with a roof rack. Howelsen Hill is a great option for a laidback resort. Plus, they offer “Ski Free Sunday” so you can put that lift ticket money towards a post-ski dinner.

Median flight price by month*

November

$286

December

$361

January

$306

February

$367

Median hotel price by month*

November

$184 / night

December

$334 / night

January

$319 / night

February

$397 / night

Median rental car price by month*

November

$107 / day

December

$154 / day

January

$151 / day

February

$188 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$286

December

$361

January

$306

February

$367

Median hotel price by month**

November

$184 / night

December

$334 / night

January

$319 / night

February

$397 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$107 / day

December

$154 / day

January

$151 / day

February

$188 / day

10

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Banff

Alberta, Canada

 

Good for advanced skiers

Hacker tip

This ski haven is great for those who are seeking variety. The three major ski areas – Mount Norquay, Banff Sunshine, and Lake Louise – each offer a different experience. For a smaller-mountain feel, go to Mount Norquay. For more altitude, go to Banff Sunshine. And for the best views, go to Lake Louise.

10

Most popular ski + snowboard destination

Banff

Alberta, Canada

 

Good for advanced skiers

Hacker tip

This ski haven is great for those who are seeking variety. The three major ski areas – Mount Norquay, Banff Sunshine, and Lake Louise – each offer a different experience. For a smaller-mountain feel, go to Mount Norquay. For more altitude, go to Banff Sunshine. And for the best views, go to Lake Louise.

Median flight price by month**

November

$443

December

$559

January

$448

February

$513

Median hotel price by month**

November

$151 / night

December

$279 / night

January

$172 / night

February

$204 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$60 / day

December

$58 / day

January

$86 / day

February

$53 / day

Median flight price by month**

November

$443

December

$559

January

$448

February

$513

Median hotel price by month**

November

$151 / night

December

$279 / night

January

$172 / night

February

$204 / night

Median rental car price by month**

November

$60 / day

December

$58 / day

January

$86 / day

February

$53 / day

Roam through more of the guide

Swap a summer Euro trip for the winter

Rethink your summer vacation for a more affordable winter trip with less crowds – see where you can explore for less this season.

Show me more

See new cities for less

You can still visit a new place when you’re low on cash – shake up your winter routine with a trip to one of these affordable destinations.

Discover destinations

     Methodology

Methodology

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*Destinations with the most searches for Stays from a list of ski and snowboard destinations curated by the KAYAK Marketing team based on search dates from 5/1/22 – 9/15/22 for travel dates of 11/1/22 – 4/30/23.

**Median prices for airfare, hotel rates and car rental rates were determined using searches from 5/1/22-9/15/22 for travel between 11/1/22-4/30/23. Airfare is round trip pricing with a US origin. Hotel and car rates are daily median rates excluding taxes and fees.