10 Smaller Ski Resorts You’ll Love
Forget the crowded slopes and sky-high lift tickets of mega-resorts. This winter, escape to the quiet charm and untamed terrain of smaller ski resorts. These hidden gems have something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping steeps and tree runs to gentle cruisers and family-friendly activities. In this blog, we’ll introduce you to 10 of our favorite smaller ski resorts (in no particular order), each with its own unique personality and appeal. Get ready to carve fresh tracks, soak up stunning scenery, and experience the true spirit of winter in these intimate mountain havens. Let’s go!
#1. Red River (New Mexico)
Perched in the scenic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Red River is one of New Mexico’s smaller ski resorts. Yet, it proudly embraces its nickname, Ski Town USA. This charming town offers a blend of Wild West history and vibrant ski culture, making it a unique destination for those seeking adventure on and off the slopes.
Red River’s challenging terrain is its main draw, with steep runs, deep powder bowls, and tight tree lines that will test even the most experienced skiers. But don’t worry, beginners and intermediates have plenty of options, with gentler trails and wide-open groomers to explore.
Beyond the skiing, Red River also offers a lively après-ski scene with cozy pubs, live music, and plenty of local flavor. Stroll down Main Street, browse the shops, and warm up with a hot toddy by the fire. You’ll feel right at home in this friendly, welcoming town.
Here are a few key stats for Red River:
- Vertical drop: 1,600 feet
- Skiable acres: 209
- Annual snowfall: 214 inches
#2 Granby Ranch (Colorado)
Skip the mega-resort madness and discover Granby Ranch. With a manageable size of 400 skiable acres, it’s the perfect antidote to overcrowded slopes and long lift lines. Moreover, it offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where winter adventures bloom amidst stunning scenery.
As one of Colorado’s smaller ski resorts, Granby Ranch isn’t about chasing vertical feet or ticking off black diamonds. Instead, it’s a destination for families and beginner-intermediate skiers seeking gentle slopes, playful terrain parks, and ample space to learn and grow. Wide-open groomers provide confidence-boosting runs for novices while rolling hills and fun glades keep intermediates entertained. But don’t let the “easy” label fool you – hidden pockets of black diamond runs with exhilarating drops offer a challenge for seasoned skiers looking for a quick adrenaline rush.
The beauty of Granby Ranch lies beyond the numbers. Imagine carving fresh tracks across powder-dusted slopes with minimal crowds, soaking in panoramic views of the Continental Divide, and hearing your children’s joyous laughter echo through the crisp mountain air. It’s a place where families connect, memories are made, and the simple joy of skiing takes center stage.
After a day of exploring the slopes, retreat to the cozy village. Sip hot cocoa by the crackling fireplace, warm up with a delicious meal at a family-friendly restaurant, or gather for game nights and storytelling in the lodge. Overall, the friendly atmosphere and genuine hospitality of Granby Ranch make you feel more like a guest in a mountain home than a visitor in a resort.
Here’s what makes Granby Ranch a winter wonderland for families:
- Vertical drop: 1,000 feet
- Skiable acres: 400
- Annual snowfall: 200 inches
#3. Mad River Glen (Vermont)
In a world of corporate-owned mega-resorts, Mad River Glen stands as a beacon of independence and authenticity. This skier-owned cooperative in Vermont proudly embraces its motto, Ski It If You Can, and offers a throwback experience for those seeking pure, unadulterated skiing at one of the state’s smaller ski resorts.
Don’t expect fancy amenities or groomed corduroy at Mad River Glen. The ski area is for those who love the challenge of natural terrain, tight trees, and narrow trails. It’s a place where bumps are celebrated, not flattened, and the focus is on the pure joy of skiing.
Mad River Glen is also one of the few remaining resorts in the U.S. that prohibits snowboarding, further preserving its unique character and appeal. If you’re a skier who appreciates tradition, challenge, and a sense of community, Mad River Glen is a must-visit destination.
Here are the essentials for Mad River Glen:
- Vertical drop: 2,000 feet
- Skiable acres: 915
- Annual snowfall: 225 inches
#4. Purgatory (Colorado)
In the heart of Colorado’s stunning San Juan Mountains lies Purgatory Resort, a hidden gem that offers a taste of everything the Rockies have to offer. From its diverse terrain and stunning scenery to its lively après-ski scene and family-friendly atmosphere, Purgatory has something for everyone.
Experience the thrill of cruising down wide-open groomers, carving through gladed tree runs, or challenging yourself on steep chutes and bowls. No matter your skill level, you’ll find terrain to satisfy your cravings for adventure.
When you’re not on the slopes, soak up the views from the mountaintop restaurant, relax in the outdoor hot tubs, or enjoy live music and local brews in the village. Despite being a smaller ski resort, Purgatory offers a variety of activities beyond skiing, including snowshoeing, tubing, and ice skating, making it an ideal getaway for families and groups of friends who vibe at slightly smaller ski resorts.
Purgatory Resort by the numbers:
- Vertical drop: 2,029 feet
- Skiable acres: 1,635
- Annual snowfall: 260 inches
#5. Willamette Pass (Oregon)
Willamette Pass offers an unforgettable blend of snow-drenched adventure and down-to-earth charm in the majestic Cascade Mountains of Oregon. One of the state’s smaller ski resorts, Willamette Pass is an unpretentious retreat for those who seek authentic mountain experiences without breaking the bank.
Known for its affordable lift tickets, friendly atmosphere, and excellent cross-country skiing opportunities, Willamette Pass is a treasure among Pacific Northwest skiers. Moreover, its terrain caters to skiers of all levels, with gentle groomers for beginners, challenging tree runs for experts, and everything in between.
Furthermore, Willamette Pass embraces its rustic charm with cozy lodges, hearty meals, and a laid-back vibe. Explore the surrounding forests on snowshoes or cross-country skis, soak up the views of the Cascade peaks, and savor the warmth of a fireside après-ski session.
Here’s the lowdown on Willamette Pass:
- Vertical drop: 1,563 feet
- Skiable acres: 221
- Annual snowfall: 430 inches
#6. Smugglers’ Notch (Vermont)
Set amidst the picturesque Green Mountains of Vermont, Smugglers’ Notch Resort wholeheartedly embraces its mission to create America’s Family Resort. This quaint destination offers a distinctive blend of winter adventure, family-friendly amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned skier sharing your passion with the little ones or a family looking to make unforgettable memories together, Smugglers’ Notch has something for everyone. Kids are not just tolerated but celebrated, with a broad range of programs, activities, and dedicated spaces explicitly designed for their enjoyment.
Explore gentle trails and learning zones in the bunny slope area, take part in engaging ski and snowboard lessons tailored for all ages, and enjoy family-friendly events throughout the season. When you’re not carving turns together, cozy up by crackling fireplaces, indulge in delicious meals at kid-approved restaurants, or relax in spacious accommodations that cater to families of all sizes.
Here’s a breakdown of Smugglers’ Notch Resort:
- Vertical drop: 2,610 feet
- Skiable acres: 1,000
- Annual snowfall: 300 inches
#7. Monarch Mountain (Colorado)
Seeking a laid-back ski experience without the crowds or inflated prices? Monarch Mountain in Colorado is your perfect match. Tucked away in the scenic Sawatch Range, Monarch offers a refreshingly unpretentious atmosphere, uncrowded slopes, and affordable lift tickets, making it a favorite among locals and in-the-know skiers.
Don’t let this smaller ski resort fool you—Monarch delivers when it comes to terrain. In particular, intermediate skiers will revel in its abundance of wide-open groomers and gentle cruisers, while advanced skiers can test their skills on steep chutes and challenging tree runs.
Furthermore, Monarch’s laid-back vibe extends beyond the slopes, focusing on simple pleasures and genuine mountain experiences. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on the sundeck, soak up the views of the Collegiate Peaks, or chat with friendly locals in the cozy lodge. You won’t find any flashy après-ski scenes here, just authentic mountain camaraderie and a relaxed vibe that invites you to unwind and relish the moment.
Here’s the 4-1-1 on Monarch Mountain:
- Vertical drop: 1,162 feet
- Skiable acres: 800
- Annual snowfall: 350 inches
#8. Crystal Mountain (Michigan)
In the rolling hills of northern Michigan, Crystal Mountain Resort is a smaller ski resort for families, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This four-season destination offers a delightful blend of skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities, all set against breathtaking natural beauty.
Whether you’re carving turns on its many downhill trails, gliding through the serene beauty of its cross-country ski network, or soaring through the snow-covered trees on a thrilling zip line, Crystal Mountain promises adventures for every taste.
Additionally, families will find an exceptionally welcoming atmosphere here, with dedicated learning zones for beginners, engaging children’s programs, and various accommodations catering to groups of all sizes. Beyond the slopes, cozy up by a crackling fire, indulge in delicious meals at slopeside restaurants, or explore the charming nearby towns of Thompsonville and Beulah.
Here are the stats for Crystal Mountain:
- Vertical drop: 375 feet
- Skiable acres: 100
- Annual snowfall: 130 inches
#9. Taos Ski Valley (New Mexico)
Transport yourself to the European Alps without leaving the Southwest at Taos Ski Valley. Steeped in history and beauty, this smaller ski resort offers a mix of challenging terrain, cultural charm, and breathtaking scenery.
Taos has earned a reputation as a skier’s mountain because of its chutes, wide-open bowls, and challenging tree skiing. Experts will revel in the thrill of its legendary runs, while intermediates can test their skills on its progressive terrain.
Beyond the slopes, Taos also embraces its rich heritage with a blend of European and Southwestern influences. Explore the village’s art galleries, savor delicious cuisine at local restaurants, and soak up the views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
A closer look at Taos Ski Valley:
- Vertical drop: 3,281 feet
- Skiable acres: 1,300
- Annual snowfall: 300 inches
#10. Hunter Mountain (New York)
Just a stone’s throw from New York City but worlds away in atmosphere, Hunter Mountain rises from the heart of the Catskills, offering a thrilling taste of winter adventure without the hefty travel budget. With four distinct faces and over 250 skiable acres, it’s a playground for all levels, from adrenaline-seeking experts to first-timers taking their tentative turns.
Hunter isn’t shy about its steep hills. Experts flock to Empire Terrain and Hunter West for black diamond chutes and heart-pounding drops, testing their skills and leaving adrenaline pumping. Intermediate skiers also find ample room to roam on rolling blues and wide-open cruisers, while the dedicated Hunter One area welcomes beginners with gentle slopes and patient instructors. No matter your level, the sense of accomplishment after conquering a run at Hunter is undeniable.
But beyond the thrills, Hunter exudes a unique Catskills charm. The Kaatskill Mountain Club Hotel at the base exudes rustic elegance while nearby towns like Tannersville and Phoenicia offer quaint shops, cozy cafes, and a laid-back vibe that’s a welcome respite from the city’s hustle. In the evenings, soak in the glow of après-ski life at The Beacon or Hunter Mountain Grille, sharing stories and laughs with fellow adventurers.
Here’s a taste of what awaits at Hunter Mountain:
- Vertical drop: 1,600 feet
- Skiable acres: 250
- Annual snowfall: 120 inches