The 15 best ski resorts in the world

Ask people about the best ski resorts in the world, and they’ll each have a different answer. But ask 1,000 riders, and you might start to see a pattern with the same names cropping up. 

We’ve scoured our photo timelines and debated throughout the office to create a special list of the best ski resorts in the world. We guarantee the chosen 15 resorts will excite, entice, and blow you away with their terrain, towns, snow, and unbeatable atmosphere. So, if you’re ready to plan the ski trip of a lifetime, let’s jump into the definitive list. Oh, and take these with a pinch of salt, okay? Technically, some of these are ski ‘areas’ rather than single resorts. But come on – narrowing 6,000 down to 15? You’re going to have to cut us a little slack here.

And what’s an epic getaway without an epic outfit to match? MONTEC is locked and stocked with the best new ski pants for men and ski pants for women, fit for any adventure – even in the deepest pow. 

The world’s top 15 ski resorts

Niseko United, Japan

Niseko United is probably one of the most famous resorts in the world – and definitely one of the most famous in Japan. It’s no wonder why this ski resort reaps such a stellar reputation – it has four resorts averaging almost 50 feet of snow each year, it’s only a speedy hour’s transfer from Sapporo airport, and it has a firm place among the snowiest resorts in the world. Visit here, and you’ll get the choice of riding Niseko Hanazono Resort, Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village Ski Resort, or Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area — or you could ride all four!

The largest is Niseko Tokyo Grand Hirafu. It has a mix of runs for all abilities and the amenities you’d expect from a larger resort, including multi-lingual ski schools and westernized accommodation. This resort is best for learners and offers extensive night skiing under its floodlights – and onsens to soak your weary legs in‌. For more advanced skiing and legendary powder lines, hit Niseko Annupuri and Niseko Hanazono, which host fewer runs and less infrastructure but way steeper terrain – ideal for those seeking the true Japow experience.

St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria

St. Anton is the jewel in the Arlberg crown. It boasts a vast trail and lift network in its own area and across the Arlberg region, which features Lech, Zürs, Stuben, St. Christoph, Warth, and Schröcken. Lifts connect all these resorts, and together, they offer over 5,000 acres/310 miles of trails alongside Austria’s heaviest snowfall (Warth-Schröcken with over 36 feet on average per year) and some of the best nightlife and après-ski in the world.

Set at 9,222 feet/2,811 meters of elevation and hosting a huge 4,944 feet/1,507 meters of vertical, St. Anton is a beautiful town with loads going on. Plenty of learner and intermediate terrain is around the base and spread through the entire network. See yourself as more expert? Check out the awesome advanced off-piste routes marked from the Kapall and Schindler Spitz high points. For the best powder riding, head to Warth, which has the steepest terrain and deepest snow around the Saloberkopf high point. It’s nothing short of epic.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is likely the most picturesque resort on our list. Well, it is home to the world-famous Matterhorn. Its area, while expansive on its own, is also twinned with Breuil-Cervinia to give you 3,500 acres to explore. In combination, these two resorts offer some of the most scenic, varied, and high-altitude riding anywhere in the Alps. With guaranteed snow conditions on the gigantic Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, ride as high as 12,792 feet/3,899 meters from late autumn into what’s effectively early summer here.

For riding, Zermatt isn’t really suited for beginners. However, it has a dedicated learner area under the Gornergrat Observatory, giving you the best view of the Matterhorn! Freeriders will have tons to enjoy, with plenty of ‘freeride’ slopes marked out. Find some of the best from the Rote Nase high point, the Rothorn high point, and the Schwarzsee area – especially after an overnight dumping!

Mt. Bachelor, US

Mt. Bachelor is one of the coolest resorts in the world. Making its home on the mighty dormant volcano that is its namesake, Mt. Bachelor is the largest resort in Oregon. It offers extensive riding for all levels and nearly 40 feet of annual snowfall. Oh, there’s even a series of Woodward-built snow parks. So, all this easily makes it our top choice for shredding on the West Coast. 

You’ll find the steepest terrain above the treeline in the volcano's caldera. Jump on the lifts as high as 9,000 feet and hike to the Pinnacles and Hourglass chutes, dropping you into the Cirque Bowl. Or, take the marked traverse route, opening up the West Ridge and Serengeti Plains. More into freestyle? Hit the parks under the Pine Marten Express and Skyliner lifts – they’re something to write home about (and post on the ‘Gram), for sure!

Whistler Blackcomb, Canada

The mighty Whistler-Blackcomb is the only Canadian resort to crack our top 15, which seems a little ludicrous to us! The largest resort in the country by a significant margin, this sprawling winter paradise is two sister resorts linked by a massive cable car, each offering incredible riding for all ages, levels, and proclivities. And to top it off, it also has some of the rowdiest, loudest, and most renowned après-ski in North America. It’s not Austria, but it’s still pretty impressive!

Freeriders will want to head up the Glacier Express to find epic bowls on the Blackcomb side. Access the slackcountry, too, including the Garnet, Diamond, Ruby, and Sapphire bowls off the Spanky’s Ladder bootpack route. On the Whistler side, discover some really spectacular hike-to terrain off the Harmony 6 Express, where you can ride in the shadow of the mighty Whistler peak. 

Avoriaz, France

Avoriaz is not only the snowiest resort in France but also one of the best. Perched at 5,905 feet/1,800 meters on the side of a mountain – high above the valley floor and neighboring Morzine – Avoriaz is a completely car-free winter wonderland. That means almost all the accommodation is ski-in, ski-out, with lifts above and below the town and groomed runs where the streets should be. You can also move around by horse and carriage. Plus, the town center features a huge snow park for kids to play around in.

There’s some brilliant tree riding off the Prolays lift, giving access to the legendary The Stash snow park. Head up the Fornet and Lacs-Intrêts lifts for high-altitude open pow-fields. And, when you’re ready, sink a well-earned beer at La Folie Douce before aiming for Le Yak, the top late-night spot in the resort, closing at 5:30 am during high season. That leaves just enough time for a quick 30-minute power nap, coffee, and croissant before the lifts start up again…

Jay Peak Resort, US

Jay Peak Resort may not be a name that many outside the East Coast know. Still, this Vermont resort (nestled on the Canadian border) receives more snow than any resort in Europe and most Colorado resorts. And that’s saying something, considering the East Coast is known for its icy, bulletproof conditions. However, Jay Peak is an under-the-radar powder paradise with a 12,000-rider-per-hour uplift capacity and a single chair that runs base to peak, maximizing the time you spend slashing turns in that beautiful pow.

While it gets tracked out fast, Face Chutes is a definite must-hit and easy to scope out for newcomers, as it’s right under the lift before you reach the peak. However, there’s always stash to discover in Beaver Pond Glade and André’s Paradise. Bursting with energy? Take the Jet Triple Chair and head for Timbuktu for some out-there tree lines. And once you’re done with that, hit Tower Bar or Bullwheel Bar for a Jay Way IPA, their own official beer.

Park City Mountain Resort, US

Park City Mountain Resort had to make an appearance, and with over 7,300 acres of inbound terrain and 330 marked trails, it’s easy to see why. Park City, the largest resort in the US, gets almost 30 feet of snow annually. It offers extensive ski-in, ski-out accommodation, night skiing, and terrain to suit all levels of riders. There’s also enough for aspiring freestyle professionals, thanks to its full-size slopestyle lines and a halfpipe.

If you’re into cruisey groomers, well, there are 330 of them. But for pow lines, head up McConkey’s Express, aiming for the Double-Black chutes off Jupiter Peak. Don’t sleep on Scott’s Bowl, Homelite, or Sam’s Knob – all these host stellar lines with amazing snow. And once you’re all tuckered out, the après options are just as stellar. O.P. Rockwell is the place to go for live music. More into cocktails and house beats? Hit Downstairs for those underground speakeasy vibes.

Vail Ski Resort, US

We stay in the US momentarily, hopping across the border to Colorado for the legendary Vail Ski Resort. One of the largest resorts in the country, Vail has an epic reputation – and for good reason. With a large village featuring a range of accommodation options – from budget-friendly hostels to wildly luxurious 5-star resorts – there’s something for everyone. Vail is also awash with terrain for all abilities.

For the powder hounds, you’ll find more than you could ever hope to ride. The Back Bowls are the place to be for fresh lines. However, the Orient Express offers a plethora of steep ’n’ deep lines. We love the Mongolia lift, which gets you out the furthest. Few travel out this far, so you’ll find freshies any time of day. Of course, if you’re hunting for filthy pillow-drops, then Rasputin’s Revenge is the place to be.

Tignes - Val d'Isère, France

The former Espace Killy area was recently renamed Tignes - Val d'Isère, with these two mighty resorts officially joining forces. Tignes-Val is a powder and party paradise, serving some of the most reliable early-season riding in the Alps, thanks to its high altitude and heavy snowfall record. Known as much for its epic freeriding as for its wild party scene, Tignes-Val is one of the true do-it-all resorts. However, there’s also a smattering of picturesque, traditional village centers dotted around the mountain, perfect for a relaxing getaway or family trip.

While these are technically two resorts, their lift network makes them effectively one. Val is the traditional and upmarket side at the bottom of the valley. On the other hand, Tignes is the purpose-built and more modern side at 6,890 feet/2,100 meters. Find the best freeriding off Tignes’s Grande Motte Glacier at 11,338.5 feet/3,456 meters. And the best après has to be at La Folie Douce or Tignes’s Loop Bar. You can’t come here and not try both!

Grandvalira, Andorra

Andorra’s Grandvalira is a bit of a curveball on this list, but we couldn’t help ourselves. Five interlinked resorts dominate a large part of the Pyrenean border region that Andorra shares with France. This small constitutional diarchy is just 181 square miles in size. However, it hosts some amazing riding alongside a rich cultural heritage, some of the friendliest people in the world, and a glorious reputation for snowsports.

As a tax haven, Andorra is great value for money. And, thanks to its wealth, the resort is very modern with high-speed lifts and gondolas, including the Funicamp, which runs from the vibrant Encamp town center to the heart of the ski resort, clocking in at 4 miles long! Discover the highest runs in Pas de la Casa. But check out the Soldeu area, too – it’s packed with terrain perfect for families and expert riders alike.

Val Thorens, France

Val Thorens claimed the title of the ‘highest resort in the Alps’ back in the 60s when it was first built. And it has stayed that way ever since. Thanks to its elevation in a sheltered north-facing bowl, snow conditions are some of the best and most reliable in the Alps! This purpose-built resort is upmarket, awash with swanky hotels and apartments, and amazing food and après options to please even the most discerning palates. 

VT also happens to be a prime freeride arena, thanks to the abundance of steep natural terrain and its top-notch lift system giving you access to 0.6 miles of vertical — and that’s just in this resort. Because, of course, Val Thorens forms one part of the sprawling 25,916-acre Three Valleys area, which encompasses Les Menuires, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, Courchevel, Meribel, and Brides-les-Bains. Each resort has its own distinct personality and feel, with different riding available. Exploring every corner of this place would take you a lifetime. So, the sooner you start, the better!

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, US

At first glance, you might look at J-Hole and think … eh. It’s smaller than Park City or Vail, with fewer trails, fewer lifts, and a lower peak elevation than the likes of Breckenridge. However, Jackson Hole is really special for its abundance of light, dry, fluffy powder (38 feet annually!) and freeride terrain so epic that Travis Rice frequently rides here. Oh, and Rice also hosts his Natural Selection Tour at Jackson Hole. Do we have your attention? We thought so.

There’s a lot of expert stuff, but you can find some more accessible terrain off the top of the Après Vous chair or the Bridger Gondola. Once warmed up, take the Aerial Tram and check out Corbet’s Couloir on your left as you head for Cody Bowl. We love Cheyenne and Bernie’s Bowl, too, which have a brilliant mix of gladed and option sections to lap endlessly. Of course, that’s if surfing some of the best pow on earth is your thing. And why wouldn’t it be? 

Myoko Ski Resort, Japan

Speaking of legendary powder … Myoko Kogen is the next resort on our list and the second Japanese entry. Technically, Myoko Ski Resort is nine small neighboring resorts situated around a traditional Japanese village. Still, for a truly authentic experience, there’s no better choice than this with its narrow winding streets, rich heritage, old-fashioned onsens, and, of course, upwards of 50 feet of powder every year.

Beginners and intermediates will love Akakura Onsen Ski Resort for its low-angle terrain. Check out Alpen Blick Ikenotaira Onsen Ski Resort for classic birch glade powder riding. Looking for the steepest and deepest stuff in the circuit? Seki Onsen Ski Resort is the place to be. If you want big and modern, though, Myoko Suginohara Ski Resort is your best bet, as it serves up a 3,688-foot/1,124-meter vertical and the longest runs in the country. Go wild for untouched pow lines and non-existent lift lines? Hit Charmant Hiuchi Ski Resort. 65% of its marked trails are ungroomed and ripe for the biggest rooster tails you can muster.

Ski Portillo, Chile

The last resort on our list is Portillo in Chile. This insane resort has a long heritage with snowsports and has hosted multiple World Skiing Championships. The resort itself has a huge all-inclusive hotel replete with all the luxuries you could want, including a sun terrace and hot tub with one of the best views in the world. However, if you’re making the trip, it’s probably for the riding, right?

You’ll find the best learner terrain off the Las Lomas lift. And once you’ve found your snow legs, you’ll want to aim for the Roca Jack and El CaraCara lifts. These whisk you up the Ojos de Agua, where you’ll gain immediate access to some epically steep groomed and ungroomed terrain. Alternatively, hit the Condor lift to slash some open powder fields. Getting here is a pilgrimage, but the legendary Portillo is well worth it for summer ski laps beneath the Chilean sun!

Wrapping up

Well, that’s it – an epic list filled with 15 of the best ski resorts in the world. We missed a few great resorts, sure. But hopefully, you found something new to stoke your sense of adventure and get you excited for the season to come. 

Hit us up at crew@montecwear.com to let us know where you’re heading for your next trip or if you need more inspiration! We’re always stoked to hear from you guys!

Related reading:

• Best ski resorts in Canada
• Ski jackets for men / Ski jackets for women
• How to keep ski goggles from fogging
• Ski clothes men / Ski clothes women
• Best ski resorts in the US