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Ski Resort Life

Resort Guide 2020 West: Skier's Mountains

We crunched the numbers: Here's the Top 10 resorts for purists who care only about the ski experience.

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Resort Guide Categories: Snow + Terrain + Challenge + Local Flavor

For the hardcore skiers, heres the Top 10 resorts that are sure to challenge your skiing with some of the best terrain the West has to offer. 

1. Alta Ski Area, Utah

Alta Utah Resort Guide 2020
Waist-deep pow at Alta, business as usual.Photo courtesy of Alta / Noah Wetzel

2. Snowbird, Utah

3. Taos Ski Valley, N.M.

Georgie Bremner at Taos SKI Test 2020
You can get yours at Taos.Photo credit: Keri Bascetta

“The expert skiing is some of the best in North America. The Kachina Peak Lift gives easy access to incredible terrain. The hike-to runs are unmatched with thrilling glades, chutes, and super steep fun!”

4. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyo.

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Jackson Hole is known for being steep and deep. Photo courtesy of Jackson Hole

“Jackson Hole is a skiers dream. Steeps, chutes, rock features, and an amazing town to end the ski day at.”

5. Kirkwood, Calif. 

6. Arapahoe Basin, Colo.

Mike Hagadorn at Arapahoe Basin. See more.
There’s not doubt about it, the Basin delivers.File Photo

“A-Basin is the local’s favorite. It’s just a place where great skiing can be found. I love A-Basin because it has some of the most challenging runs around with steeps, moguls, rocks, trees, and cliffs.”

7. Mammoth Mountain, Calif.

8. Grand Targhee, Wyo.

Wyoming's Grand Targhee has received 10 inches in the past 24 hours, and 27 inches in the past week. And, thanks to the recent big snows, they…
The views at Grand Targhee are almost as good as the skiing. 

“Best snow in the country as far as I’m concerned. Liftlines are small to non-existent and the terrain is amazingly varied from beginner to insane. It’s definitely a skiers mountain.”

9. Revelstoke Mountain Resort, B.C.

10. Crested Butte Mountain Resort, Colo.

Crested Butte Resort Guide 2020
Rob Dickinson gets the goods stashed in Crested Butte’s extremes. Photo courtesy of Crested Butte / Dave Kozlowski

“Crested Butte is one of the last great ski towns. Friendly community vibe and a great place to take a stroll around town when you’re not skiing some of the best terrain in Colorado.”

More 2020 Reader Survey Resort Guide Rankings in the West