7 of the Most Scenic Ski Resorts in North America

Like any superlative in skiing, the debate over which ski resorts are the most scenic is entirely subjective. Which, in our opinion, makes this list of The Most Scenic Ski Resorts in North America even more fun.

Don't be discouraged if your favorite resort didn't make the cut. The beauty is in the eye of the beholder, after all.

7. Sundance Mountain Resort, Utah

The brainchild of American movie icon Robert Redford, Sundance Mountain Resort is a peaceful haven lacking glitz and glamor. Instead, the resort is eloquently designed with rustic decor, log cabin exteriors, and an undeniable charm. The crown jewel, if you will, is the 11,752 ft Mount Timpanogos that looms overhead.

Skiers are treated to near-360 degree views of the snow-covered and towering peaks of Wasatch, and a soothing vista of the Deer Creek Reservoir lying on the valley floor. Sundance is a can't miss for skiers looking to explore off the beaten path.

6. Mount Bohemia, Michigan

Mount Bohemia is known for being the Midwest's powder and extreme skiing retreat. With nearly 300 inches of annual snowfall and hundreds of acres of ungroomed and gladed terrain, the ski area's reputation proceeds itself.

However, what isn't discussed, is the beauty of Mount Bohemia. The ski area juts 900 vertical feet above the surrounding landscape to provide sweeping views of Lake Superior. The lake's shore is just a mile or two away, but it feels as your feet as your descend Bohemia's immaculate glades.

Nearly every aspect of Mount Bohemia is unique, including the pristine views of North America's largest lake. Just make sure that your attention doesn't waver as you're skiing. Bohemia has plenty of drops, cliffs, and features to test your mettle.

5. Homewood Mountain Resort, California

An easy addition to the list, Homewood Mountain Resort arguably offers the best views of Lake Tahoe among any ski area in the region. There are two other resorts whose slopes terminate near the shore of the lake, but Homewood takes the cake when it comes to wide-sweeping vistas of the deep blue water of Tahoe.

Hop on one of Homewood's wide groomed runs, take a deep breath, and prepare for an edge-to-edge turning experience like no other. Lake Tahoe is as beautiful as they say it is.

4. Brian Head Resort, Utah

Brian Head Resort is a dark horse pick on this list. The resort is acclaimed for its high base elevation and consistent snowfall, but can we take a second to talk about the red rocks?

Many ski areas are technically located in 'high desert' biomes, but it's rare to see the various shades of orange, brown, and red one is accustomed to observing in North America's deserts. Brian Head, on the other hand, is surrounded by reddish hues bursting from adjacent peaks.

We've seen pro skiers take their chances on precarious snowpacks at places like Arches and Bryce Canyon National Parks, but if you're looking for lift-served skiing near desert rocks, look no further than Brian Head, Utah.

3. Wildcat Mountain, New Hampshire

Wildcat Mountain has been topping North America's list of most scenic ski resorts for decades, and it's fairly easy to determine why. Many ski areas in New England offer views of Mt. Washington, the region's tallest peak, but none present a front-row seat to its majesty quite like Wildcat.

Located just on the opposite side of Route 16, the only thing that can obstruct a Wildcat skier's view of the 6,288-foot peak are clouds. Meaning, if you time your trip right, you should have plenty of time to soak in the views of the high-alpine terrain not found anywhere else on the East Coast.

2.  Telluride Ski Resort, Colorado

Telluride still feels like the quintessential North American ski town despite the growing pains of the 21st Century. Multiple lifts ferry skiers to and from the resort and town, the old brick buildings stand tall in contrast to the snow-covered peaks, and there's an air of the Wild West still floating around if you stop and smell the metaphorical roses.

Modern ingenuity and demands will continue to transform Telluride, but it's breathtaking views will always remain the same. The dramatic and sharp peaks of The San Juan Mountains define the experience. If you're ever finding yourself bored (hard to do in a place like Telluride, but possible nonetheless), take a step outside and look up. We'd put Telluride's skyline up against any city (or ski town for that matter) in the world.

1. Banff Sunshine Village, Alberta

Banff's dramatic views attract millions of tourists each summer, and Sunshine Village's expansive ski resort takes our spot as The Most Scenic Ski Resort in all of North America.

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the jagged peaks surrounding Sunshine Village are reminiscent of The Alps' endless sea of majestic mountain tops. Every angle provides a new view, and every moment feels special. Sure, Sunshine Village is known for blistery temperatures and harsh winds, but if you can stomach the weather, you'll be rewarded with enough eye candy to open a chocolate factory.

Related: North America's Scariest Ski Runs and Lines

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