What Is the Largest Ski Resort in USA?

By Michael Ferguson

When it comes to skiing in the United States, there are a lot of options to choose from. With so many resorts scattered around the country, it can be hard to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. If you’re looking for sheer size and variety, however, there’s one resort that stands out above the rest: Vail.

What Is Vail?

Vail is a ski resort located in Colorado, situated about two hours west of Denver. It’s known for its sprawling size and wide variety of terrain options, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders alike. The resort encompasses over 5,200 acres of skiable land and boasts more than 190 trails across three distinct areas: Vail Mountain, Beaver Creek Resort, and Keystone Resort.

The Numbers Behind Vail

With so much terrain to explore, it’s no wonder that Vail is often cited as the largest ski resort in the United States. Here are a few key numbers that help illustrate just how massive this resort truly is:

  • 5,289 acres of skiable terrain
  • 3 distinct areas (Vail Mountain, Beaver Creek Resort, and Keystone Resort)
  • 190+ trails
  • 31 ski lifts
  • 7 bowls
  • 3 terrain parks

Vail Mountain

The main area of Vail is known simply as “Vail Mountain.” This section of the resort encompasses over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain across seven distinct bowls. Each bowl offers its own unique set of runs and challenges, ranging from beginner-friendly slopes to expert-level chutes.

Beaver Creek Resort

In addition to Vail Mountain itself, visitors to Vail can also explore nearby Beaver Creek Resort. This area offers an additional 1,800 acres of skiable terrain, including 150 different trails and three terrain parks. Beaver Creek is known for its luxury amenities and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular choice for those traveling with children.

Keystone Resort

The third area included under the Vail Resorts umbrella is Keystone Resort. While Keystone is smaller than either Vail Mountain or Beaver Creek Resort, it still offers up plenty of skiing and snowboarding opportunities across its three distinct mountains. Visitors to Keystone can enjoy over 3,100 acres of skiable terrain, with runs ranging from beginner-level to advanced.

The Bottom Line

All in all, there’s no denying that Vail is an impressive ski resort. With over 5,200 acres of skiable terrain spread across three distinct areas, there’s truly something here for everyone.

Whether you’re a seasoned expert looking for a new challenge or a beginner just getting started on the slopes, Vail has enough variety to keep you entertained for days on end. So if you’re planning a ski trip this winter and want to experience the largest resort in the United States firsthand, consider booking your trip to Vail today!