Best North American Ski Resorts for Beginners

Updated 1.7.2025

Starting your skiing or snowboarding journey? Finding the best beginner ski resorts can make all the difference.

What makes a ski resort good for beginners?  Lots of beginner terrain, supportive ski schools, affordable prices, and tons of snow!  These factors give you the confidence to enjoy the mountain and progress at your own pace.  Affordability is particularly important for beginners, because no one wants to spend $250 on a lift ticket to spend the day on the bunny hill.  TripOutside has evaluated the best North American ski resorts and scrutinized factors like skiable acres, beginner terrain, costs, and amount of snowfall to determine the absolute best resorts for newbies. Here’s our roundup of the best beginner ski resorts across North America, designed to make your first days on the slopes unforgettable.

How We Chose The Resorts

To determine the best ski resorts for beginners, we connected with our outfitter partners, local ski and snowboard experts in each of the regions, and evaluated the following criteria:

• Percentage of Beginner Terrain
  Resorts with a significant portion of green runs provide ample space for new skiers to practice.
  
• Accessibility of Learning Areas
  Beginner zones near the base or ski school ensure convenience and safety.
  
• Supportive Ski Schools
  Excellent ski and snowboard schools with beginner-focused programs and experienced instructors.
  
• Confidence-Building Terrain
  Wide groomed runs, gentle slopes, and progression-friendly layouts to help build skills.
  
• Affordability
  Resorts with reasonable lift ticket, rental, and accommodation prices.
  

West – Best Beginner Ski Resorts

Powder Mountain, Utah

Known as the secret Pow Mow of Utah, Powder Mountain is a lesser known ski destination that has beginner trails sprawled across the mountain. Powder Mountain boasts a vast terrain – 8464 acres of it – which means there is plenty of space to practice your new skills without worrying about knocking other people out.  However, Powder Mountain isn’t just a hotspot for beginners.  When you feel ready to take on the blues, you will find another 3,400 acres to play around on.  If you’re ready to hop on some more challenging trails, do some warm ups at the Dilly Dalley Alley trails.

• Location: 55 miles north of Salt Lake City, about 1.5 hours from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC).
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Powder Mountain features over 2,000 acres of beginner terrain, giving learners plenty of space to practice without feeling crowded.
• Mountain Stats:
  • 8,464 skiable acres
  • 150 runs, 25% beginner trails
  • Average snowfall: 500 inches
• Affordability: Lift tickets start at $109 on weekdays and $129 on weekends. Rentals average $40/day.  Average accommodation prices of only $112 (avg price/person/night).
• Where to Rent Gear: On-site rentals offer affordable, high-quality gear.

Palisades Tahoe, California

It’s nearly impossible to ignore the call of Lake Tahoe and it’s famous ski resorts. Palisades Tahoe (formerly called Squaw Valley) is the perfect resort for beginners and experienced skiers alike – an enormous, world-class ski resort overlooking the gorgeous shores of the ultra clear blue waters of Lake Tahoe.  Palisade’s well-known intermediate runs take center stage at the resort, but because of the vastness of the resort, there is a sizable amount of terrain where beginners can enjoy as much pow as they want.  Short, easy slopes ideal for skiers of all ages can be accessed by Belmont, Links, and Bailey’s Beach lifts. Hop on the Emigrant chairlift to reach the longer, exceptionally groomed trails stretching up to 3.2 miles. The beginner and family-friendly areas of SnoVentures, Big Blue, and the Blue Room Zone have gentle slopes and safe-to-navigate routes perfect for both learning adults and children.

• Location: 1 hour from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), near Lake Tahoe.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: With 1,500 acres of beginner terrain, SnoVentures and Big Blue are perfect for first-timers.
• Mountain Stats:
  • 6,000 skiable acres
  • 25% beginner trails
  • Average snowfall: 450 inches
• Affordability: Lift tickets use dynamic pricing, generally starting at $179, with options to save through online booking.  Ski rentals average $50/day, and accommodations come in at $67 (average price/person/night), making Palisades Tahoe one of the lower priced California ski resorts.
• Where to Rent Gear: We recommend Black Tie Ski Delivery and Ski Butlers, both offer delivery and slopeside service.  Save an extra 10% by booking through TripOutside!

Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana

Whitefish Mountain Resort is a large ski resort in northern Montana, 35 miles west of Glacier National Park and 7 miles from the town of Whitefish.  It is one of the most affordable ski resorts in the West, with lift tickets only $94.   It’s 3,000 acres features 111 marked trails and lots of bowl and tree skiing.  Almost half of the mountain is dedicated to beginner and intermediate trails, which equates to a whopping 1,470 acres.  The resort’s average of 320 inches of snow annually means there’s plenty of pow to play in.  Whitefish boasts a vast 3,000 acres of terrain (one of the largest resorts in the U.S.!), 4 terrain parks, 12 chairlifts plus a conveyer carpet and 2 T-bars.

• Location: 30 minutes from Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)served by major airlines like Delta, United, Frontier and more.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Nearly half of Whitefish’s terrain is beginner-friendly, with plenty of wide groomed runs.
• Mountain Stats:
  • 3,000 skiable acres
  • 47% beginner/intermediate terrain
  • Average snowfall: 320 inches
• Affordability: Lift tickets start at $94, with discounts for multi-day purchases.  Whitefish also offers a free S.N.O.W Bus that runs daily in the winter, making it easy and inexpensive to take advantage of everything the resort and town has to offer without having to worry about driving.
• Where to Rent Gear: Skip the lines at the ski shop and have your gear delivered free of charge!  Black Tie Ski Delivery in Whitefish is famous for their convenient, affordable, premium ski and snowboard rental with stellar customer service.  Save an extra 10% by booking with TripOutside!

Winter Park Resort, Colorado

Winter Park Resort is a renowned ski destination located in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, just 67 miles northwest of Denver. Known for its stunning scenery and consistent snowfall, Winter Park offers excellent value with lift tickets starting at $169. The resort spans 3,081 acres, featuring 166 trails and a wide variety of terrain, from groomed beginner runs to more advanced challenges. With 30% of the mountain dedicated to beginner-friendly terrain, first-timers have over 900 acres to explore and practice their skills. Winter Park receives an average of 370 inches of snow annually, ensuring fresh turns throughout the season. The resort also includes 7 terrain parks, 23 lifts (including gondolas and high-speed quads), and a dedicated learning zone at the base, making it an ideal choice for beginners, experts and families alike.

• Location: 1.5 hours from Denver International Airport (DEN).  Amtrak’s Winter Park Express offers direct train service from Denver Union Station to the slopes, with one-way tickets starting at $19 and free transport for skis and snowboards.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Winter Park’s Cranmer and Sorensen Park runs are ideal for learning, and the ski school offers excellent beginner programs.
• Mountain Stats:
  • 3,081 skiable acres
  • 30% beginner terrain
  • Average snowfall: 370 inches
• Affordability: Lift ticket prices are dynamic and vary, but can start as low as $169.  Accommodation averages $117 per person, per night, with $43/day ski rentals.  Save even more by taking the Amtrak from Denver!  
• Where to Rent Gear: Ski Butlers and Black Tie Ski Delivery provide convenient gear delivery to your lodging.  Save an extra 10% by booking through TripOutside! Christy Sports in downtown Winter Park is another great option.

Midwest – Best Beginner Ski Resorts

Afton Alps Ski Resort, Minnesota

If you live in the Midwest and are a beginner skier or snowboarder, taking advantage of a resort nearer to home is smart.  You will save money on lift tickets, transportation and accommodation, which means you can spend the day on the bunny hill guilt-free!  Afton Alps is located just outside of the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, and is the largest Vail-owned resort in the Midwest.  While Afton Alps is smaller in terrain and vertical than resorts in the Rockies, that also makes it a great place to learn.  Afton has converted thousands of first time skiers and riders into lifelong enthusiasts.  With 48 trails, 4 terrain parks, 18 chairlifts and night skiing opportunities, Afton is one of the Midwest’s most sought after ski destinations.  Afton also has the added benefit of hosting night skiing – a great way to extend the day and get more runs in!

• Location: 30 minutes from the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area in the St. Croix River Valley.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: With 200 acres of beginner terrain and night skiing, it’s perfect for Midwest skiers learning the ropes.
• Mountain Stats:
  • 300 skiable acres
  • 34% beginner terrain
  • Snowmaking covers 100% of trails
• Affordability: Dynamically priced lift tickets start at $86 (adult weekday), making it one of the most affordable options for beginners.
• Where to Rent Gear: On-site rentals are available at great rates.

Granite Peak, Wisconsin

Granite Peak, located in Wausau, Wisconsin, is one of the Midwest’s top ski destinations, offering a blend of modern amenities and beginner-friendly terrain. Situated just 2.5 hours from Minneapolis-St. Paul and 3.5 hours from Milwaukee, the resort spans 200 acres with 30% of the trails dedicated to beginners. All trails are covered by 100% snowmaking, ensuring great conditions throughout the season. Granite Peak boasts 68 runs serviced by 6 high-speed lifts, allowing for minimal wait times and maximum time on the slopes. With lift tickets starting at $69, it’s an affordable choice for new skiers looking to practice on wide, groomed runs. The resort’s welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained trails make it a perfect option for families and first-timers.

• Location: Wausau, Wisconsin, about 2.5 hours from Minneapolis-St. Paul and 3.5 hours from Milwaukee.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Granite Peak offers groomed beginner trails, modern lifts, and affordable lift ticket options.
• Mountain Stats:
  • 200 skiable acres
  • 30% beginner terrain
  • Snowmaking on 100% of trails
• Affordability: Lift tickets start at $69.
• Where to Rent Gear: On-site rentals are available.

South – Best Beginner Ski Resorts

Appalachian Ski Mountain, North Carolina

Appalachian Ski Mountain is a charming resort located in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Boone, North Carolina, about 2 hours from Charlotte. Known for its focus on beginner-friendly skiing, it offers a welcoming environment perfect for first-timers and families. The resort features 12 trails, with nearly half dedicated to beginner terrain, all covered by 100% snowmaking for consistent conditions. Appalachian Ski Mountain also boasts 3 terrain parks, 2 chairlifts, and a conveyor carpet for easy access to the slopes. Flex lift tickets start at just $49, making it an affordable choice for budget-conscious skiers. The on-site learning area and excellent ski school programs ensure a smooth introduction to the slopes, while night skiing extends the fun well into the evening.

• Location: Close to Boone, North Carolina, about 2 hours from Charlotte.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: A small, beginner-focused resort with a dedicated learning area, excellent ski schools, and easy slopes ideal for first-timers.
• Mountain Stats:
  • 12 skiable trails (5 dedicated to beginners)
  • 100% snowmaking coverage
• Affordability: Flex lift tickets start at $49, and rentals start at $35/day.
• Where to Rent Gear: Black Tie Ski Rentals offers convenient delivery service right to your accommodation.  Save an extra 10% by booking through TripOutside!

East – Best Beginner Ski Resorts

Mount Snow, Vermont

Mount Snow is located in the Green Mountains of southern Vermont, making it the closest big mountain to many of the Northeast’s largest metro areas – just 2.5 hours from Boston and 4 hours from New York City.  The resort’s 601 acres is spread across four mountains and almost 500 acres of terrain are dedicated to beginner and intermediate runs.  Mount Snow also offers a Mountain Tour provided by the resort’s own Mountain Hosts.  The tour will accommodate your ability level, and help familiarize you with the mountain, lifts and runs quickly.

• Location: West Dover, Vermont – about 2.5 hours from Boston and 4 hours from New York City.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Nearly 500 acres of beginner and intermediate terrain, with guided mountain tours to help you learn the slopes.
• Mountain Stats:
  • 601 skiable acres
  • 45% beginner terrain
  • Average snowfall: 150 inches
• Affordability: Lift tickets start at $129 for adult weekday pass.
• Where to Rent Gear: Clocktower Rentals and MS Sports at the Grand provide slopeside convenience. Ski Butlers delivers premium ski equipment directly to your lodging – save an extra 10% by booking through TripOutside!

Canada – Best Beginner Ski Resorts

Lake Louise Ski Resort, Alberta Canada

One of Alberta’s top ski destinations, Lake Louise Ski Resort is Canada’s largest ski area with 4200 acres of skiable terrain. Among its 145 runs, 25% are ideal for beginners.  The resort is located inside the majestic Banff National Park, with winter offering up the same spectacular scenery without the crowds. 

The green trails aren’t hard to find – 1,050 acres of the Lake Louise terrain is earmarked for those who are learning to ski and snowboard. After learning the basics at a ski or snowboard lesson, practice your new skills on one of the longest beginner runs in North America – a whopping 5 miles!

Start at the Magic Carpet run for well-groomed trails perfect for learning against the gorgeous backdrop of Banff National Park.  Transition to Rock Isle Road afterwards- a green trail with a slow transition from gentle runs to semi-challenging turns. Pika at Lake Louise is located on the more remote back side of the mountain – a perfect choice if you want to put your new skiing skills to the test. Cascade is another family favorite – new skiers will love the quality groomed trails where you can harness your turns and jumps!

• Location: Nestled in Banff National Park, about 2 hours from Calgary International Airport (YYC).
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Offers 1,050 acres of beginner terrain and one of the longest beginner runs in North America at 5 miles!
• Mountain Stats:
  • 4,200 skiable acres
  • 25% beginner terrain
  • Average snowfall: 180 inches
• Affordability: Half day adult lift tickets start at $99.  Ski rentals average $46/day.
• Where to Rent Gear: Black Tie Ski Delivery in Lake Louise is famous for their delivery services free of charge!  Plus, save an extra 10% by booking through TripOutside.  They feature affordable, premium ski and snowboard rental with stellar customer service.

Beginner Ski Resources

For first-time skiers and snowboarders, choosing the right resort can transform a day on the bunny hill into a love for the slopes. From the expansive beginner terrain of Powder Mountain to the welcoming charm of Whitefish, these resorts are designed to help you learn, have fun, and gain confidence. With affordable options, supportive ski schools, and breathtaking mountain views, these beginner-friendly resorts are the perfect starting point for your skiing journey. So, pack your gear, hit the slopes, and make your first skiing experience one to remember!

When you have finished your day on the slopes, nothing beats relaxing at a fun après ski spot.  Check out our top recommendations for après ski at North America’s best ski resorts!

Wondering what to bring for your first time skiing or snowboarding?  Check out our Ultimate Packing List for your next ski trip.