For its 39th annual Reader’s Choice Awards, voters have weighed in on their favorite ski resorts across North America, highlighting top destinations in both the United States and Canada. Leading the charge this year is Big Sky Resort in Montana, claiming the coveted top spot following a decade-long transformation that has continually elevated its trails, lodges, and overall guest experience.
The extensive multi-year investments at Big Sky have clearly paid off, resonating deeply with travelers seeking world-class powder and modern amenities. However, when looking at the broader geographical breakdown, Colorado firmly reigns as the ultimate U.S. ski destination. The state boasts an impressive 10 resorts that made the cut for the top 30 list, showcasing its enduring dominance in the Rocky Mountain region.
Beyond the traditional powerhouse states of the West, the broader North American ski landscape proved diverse and expansive this year. Six East Coast resorts earned recognition from voters, including the scenic and historic Mont-Tremblant in Quebec, Canada, proving that world-class skiing and vibrant alpine villages are not exclusively a Western phenomenon. Meanwhile, further north and west, significant new enhancements at Alyeska Resort successfully propelled Alaska back onto the prestigious list, highlighting how infrastructure updates and expanded offerings can revitalize a destination’s appeal.
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From Taos to Telluride and Stowe to SilverStar, the resorts selected by readers represent the absolute best North America has to offer. Voters evaluated candidates across a rigorous set of criteria, weighing factors such as trail variety, lodging quality, lift infrastructure, and lively après-ski scenes. Whether travelers identify as die-hard powder hounds searching for untouched deep snow or après devotees more interested in fireplace lounging and social gatherings after the lifts close, these recognized destinations successfully ticked every box.
The complete rankings and detailed scores for the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards winners offer a comprehensive look at the continent’s premier winter sports destinations, categorized separately for the United States and Canada. This year’s results underscore an ongoing evolution in the ski industry, where continuous infrastructure improvements, modern high-speed lifts, and elevated hospitality standards are heavily rewarded by discerning travelers who expect both pristine outdoor adventure and exceptional comfort.
