Affordable Ski Resorts in the U.S.: Top Budget-Friendly Destinations

Ski vacations are often associated with high costs. But there are plenty of budget-friendly ski resorts across the United States. These resorts offer fantastic experiences without breaking the bank.

While these resorts might not have the same vertical drop or glamor as some of the larger, more famous destinations, they provide excellent skiing opportunities. They also offer fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Below, we explore some of the most affordable ski resorts in the U.S. We detail their unique features and pricing options to help you plan your next budget-friendly ski trip.

Affordable Ski Resorts in the Eastern U.S.

Wildcat Mountain, New Hampshire

Located in Pinkham Notch, Wildcat Mountain is a classic East Coast ski area known for its steep terrain and stunning views. With 225 skiable acres and a vertical drop of 2,112 feet, it caters to skiers of all levels.

Wildcat is part of the Epic Pass program. This allows significant savings on lift tickets, especially if purchased in advance. Non-pass holders can still enjoy skiing for less than $100 by opting for the Epic Day Pass.

Mad River Glen, Vermont

Mad River Glen is famous for its challenging trails and laid-back vibe. With a vertical drop of 2,000 feet and an average snowfall of 230 inches, it offers excellent skiing without the crowds.

Lift tickets are priced at $115. But the late-afternoon ticket at $39 (midweek, non-holiday) is a great deal. Families should consider the Stark Mountain Family Pass for additional savings.

Magic Mountain, Vermont

Magic Mountain in Londonderry offers a nostalgic New England skiing experience with modern improvements. It features 1,500 feet of vertical, 50 trails, and a significant percentage of expert terrain.

Day tickets are $116 at the window. But purchasing online ahead of time can reduce the cost to $96. Magic Mountain is also part of the Indy Pass network.

Mohawk Mountain, Connecticut

For skiers in the Connecticut area, Mohawk Mountain provides a comfortable and affordable option. With a vertical drop of 650 feet, 8 lifts, and 27 trails, it is 100% snowmaking.

Weekday tickets are just $45, and weekend/holiday tickets are $81. Night skiing is available for $40, and Mohawk is also an Indy Pass member.

Cannon Mountain, New Hampshire

Situated in Franconia Notch State Park, Cannon Mountain is New Hampshire’s only state-owned ski area. It offers a vertical drop of 2,180 feet and 285 acres of skiable terrain.

Day tickets are around $130. But purchasing online in advance can bring the cost down to under $100. New Hampshire residents can ski for $54 on Wednesdays with valid proof of residency.

Affordable Ski Resorts in the Midwest

Chestnut Mountain, Illinois

Located near Chicago and Milwaukee, Chestnut Mountain offers 475 feet of vertical, 18 trails, and 10 lifts.

Weekday tickets are priced at $50, and weekend tickets are $80. This resort is also part of the Indy Pass network, making it an excellent value for Midwest skiers.

Shanty Creek Resort, Michigan

Home to Schuss Mountain, Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire, Michigan, offers affordable skiing with day rates of $76 on most days and $96 on Saturdays and holidays.

The resort features 7 lifts and 42 runs, providing a great skiing experience at a reasonable price. Shanty Creek is also an Indy Pass resort.

Nub’s Nob, Michigan

Located north of Boyne, Nub’s Nob is a small resort with 53 trails served by 10 lifts.

Ticket prices vary, with holiday and Saturday rates at $110, Friday and Sunday rates at $95, and weekday rates at $85. Nub’s Nob is also part of the Indy Pass network.

Devil’s Head, Wisconsin

Devil’s Head in Baraboo Bluffs offers 260 acres of skiable terrain with 9 lifts.

Weekend and holiday rates are $95, while weekday rates are $85. This mid-sized Midwest resort guarantees 100% snow coverage, ensuring a great skiing experience.

Affordable Ski Resorts in the Western U.S.

Bridger Bowl, Montana

Bridger Bowl in Bozeman, Montana, offers a vertical drop of 2,600 feet and 2,000 acres of terrain.

Lift tickets start at $82 online and $97 at the window. The resort also offers a 3-day pack for additional savings. Bridger Bowl is known for its expert-only backcountry terrain and in-bounds hiking areas.

Whitefish Mountain, Montana

Whitefish Mountain Resort is a popular destination for those seeking wide-open spaces and fewer crowds. With 15 chairlifts, 111 named runs, and 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, it offers a comprehensive skiing experience.

Day passes are around $100, with discounts available for multi-day tickets and frequent skier cards.

Sunlight Mountain Resort, Colorado

Located near Aspen, Sunlight Mountain Resort in Glenwood Springs offers affordable skiing with lift tickets starting at $80.

The resort features 470 acres of skiable terrain and 2,010 feet of vertical drop. Kids 12 and under ski free with a paying adult, and adults over 80 also ski free.

Donner Ski Ranch, California

Donner Ski Ranch near Lake Tahoe provides an affordable skiing option with lift tickets priced at $109 per day or $69 on “Old School Days.”

The resort offers 1,000 feet of vertical drop and 500 skiable acres, making it a great choice for beginner and intermediate skiers.

Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico

Taos Ski Valley offers a mix of affordability and high-quality skiing. Day tickets start at $115 if purchased 72 hours in advance.

With 12 lifts and 122 trails, it is part of the Ikon Pass and The Mountain Collective, providing additional discounts for pass holders.

Ski Apache, New Mexico

Located in Mescalero, Ski Apache offers a vertical drop of 1,800 feet and a top elevation of 12,000 feet.

Lift tickets are around $100, with early season rates at $80. The resort features 11 lifts, including a gondola, and 33% snowmaking coverage.

Brian Head Resort, Utah

Brian Head Resort in Southern Utah is known for its light, fluffy snow and affordable lift prices.

Tickets start as low as $19 if purchased well in advance. Weekday tickets range from $30 to $50, and weekend tickets are under $100. Kids 12 and under always ski free.

Beaver Mountain, Utah

Beaver Mountain, located near the Idaho border, offers online adult tickets for $70 for a full day and $55 for a half day.

The resort features over 800 acres of skiable terrain and 1,700 feet of vertical drop. Night skiing is also available.

Powder Mountain, Utah

Powder Mountain, the largest ski resort in America by total acreage, offers adult lift tickets starting at $109.

Night skiing is available for just $19. With over 8,000 acres of skiing, Powder Mountain provides an incredible value for skiers.

Snowy Range Ski Area, Wyoming

Snowy Range Ski Area in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest offers affordable weekend lift tickets for $65 online.

The resort features 27 trails and 990 feet of vertical drop, making it a great option for budget-conscious skiers.

Mt. Hood Ski Bowl, Oregon

Mt. Hood Ski Bowl near Portland offers a long ski season with 1,500 feet of vertical and 960 acres of skiable terrain.

Lift tickets are around $80, and the resort boasts the largest night skiing terrain in the country.

Tips for Affordable Skiing

Finding affordable ski resorts involves considering the timing of your trip and taking advantage of multi-resort ski passes. Here are some tips to help you save money on your next ski vacation:

• Plan your trip outside of peak holiday periods to take advantage of lower lift ticket and accommodation prices.
• Purchase lift tickets in advance online to secure the best rates.
• Consider multi-resort ski passes like the Epic Pass, Ikon Pass, and Indy Pass for significant savings. They’re great if you plan to ski multiple days or at multiple resorts.
• Look for family deals and discounts such as kids skiing free with a paying adult or special family passes.
• Explore smaller, independent ski resorts that often offer lower prices and a unique, less crowded skiing experience.