16 Top Cheap Ski Holidays in North America, 2024/25

With lift ticket prices at top ski resorts exceeding $200 per day for adults, skiers seeking value and quality snow are turning to more affordable mountains for their ski trips. If you live in a snow-prone area, there are numerous local ski resorts offering budget-friendly options that are often just as great, but with fewer crowds.

While many small resorts may lack expansive terrain or luxury amenities for family vacations, they provide excellent day-trip skiing with professional grooming, snowmaking, and plenty of natural snow. The ski destinations listed below offer a mix of affordability and accessibility, making them perfect for families and casual skiers alike.

From popular spots like Utah’s Solitude and Brighton to hidden gems across North America, these ski resorts offer lift tickets priced at $100 or less for the 2024/25 season, with some offering even deeper discounts. For the best savings, consider booking lift tickets well in advance online, or explore multi-day and multi-resort passes such as Epic, Ikon, and INDY. Additionally, ski-and-stay packages and off-mountain accommodations at budget inns can help make your winter vacation even more affordable.

Discover these affordable ski destinations for your next winter getaway and enjoy a memorable, budget-friendly ski holiday.

Whitefish Mountain, Montana: Affordable Skiing in a Hidden Gem

Located just 20 miles from Glacier Park International Airport, Whitefish Mountain in Northwest Montana remains an under-the-radar destination, offering a peaceful retreat for skiers seeking great terrain without the crowds. This quieter, more affordable resort offers access to 3,000 acres of powder-filled slopes, rivaling some of the best in the West.

Whitefish’s lift ticket prices are competitive, and purchasing multi-day tickets online can save you up to 25% compared to buying them at the resort. With 94 runs catering to various skill levels—half of which are designed for advanced skiers and snowboarders—there’s something for everyone, from beginners to experts.

On-mountain lodging is abundant, with ski-and-stay packages available for even greater savings. For a unique travel experience, take the Amtrak Empire Builder route, which stops just minutes from the resort village, adding a touch of romance to your ski trip.

While Big Sky often steals the spotlight, Whitefish Mountain is a must-visit, offering an exceptional yet affordable Montana ski experience.

Official site: https://skiwhitefish.com/

Bear Mountain, California

When thinking of budget-friendly ski destinations, California may not always come to mind. However, Bear Mountain, part of Big Bear Mountain Resort near San Bernardino, offers reasonable rates for skiers seeking a great experience. Located about 100 miles from Los Angeles, Bear Mountain boasts altitudes exceeding 8,000 feet, providing some of the best snow conditions and longest seasons in Southern California.

The resort spans four mountains with 12 lifts, offering a variety of terrain that caters especially well to intermediate skiers, with 40% of the trails designed for them. Freestyle enthusiasts will love the expansive terrain park, and night skiing is available on weekends and holidays.

For additional savings, weekday lift tickets are discounted by 20% when purchased more than 72 hours in advance. While there are no on-site hotels, plenty of nearby lodging options are available. Bear Mountain is also part of the INDY Pass program, making it even more accessible for frequent skiers.

Bear Mountain is a standout choice for affordable skiing in Southern California.

Official site: https://www.bigbearmountainresort.com/winter

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in California

Brighton Resort, Utah: Affordable Skiing with Exceptional Powder

Located just 35 miles from Salt Lake City’s airport, Brighton Resort offers superb powder and excellent value for skiers looking for a budget-friendly vacation. Known for its high-speed quad lifts that quickly access the terrain, Brighton is often overlooked by many skiers in Utah, making it a hidden gem for those in the know.

Brighton is particularly appealing to families, offering a great deal for kids: up to two children 6 years and younger can ski for free with a paying adult. With an expected 500 inches of annual snowfall covering 66 runs, the resort provides excellent grooming and plenty of fresh powder for powder-hounds across its 1,000 acres of skiable terrain.

Brighton also provides easy access via Utah Transit Authority ski buses, which travel up Big Cottonwood Canyon to the mountain several times daily. For those seeking even more value, Brighton is part of the Ikon Pass system.

Brighton is an affordable and exceptional choice for your next Utah ski vacation.

Official site: https://www.brightonresort.com

Bridger Bowl, located just a 20-minute drive from Bozeman, Montana, offers one of the best value ski experiences in the state. Known for its incredible powder, which blankets its 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, the resort averages 350 inches of snow annually, providing great conditions throughout the season.

Despite offering some of the cheapest daily lift ticket prices in Montana, Bridger Bowl remains uncrowded, with minimal wait times at any of its eight chairlifts. For adventurous skiers and snowboarders, The Ridge offers chutes, steeps, and wide open powder fields, along with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Bridger Bowl is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy world-class powder without breaking the bank.

Official site: https://www.bridgerbowl.com/

Sugar Mountain, North Carolina: Affordable Skiing in the Blue Ridge

Sugar Mountain, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, offers great value for skiers seeking a convenient and budget-friendly destination in the Southeast. While its 125 skiable acres might not rival the Rockies, Sugar Mountain’s accessible location makes it a popular choice for those who prefer not to travel far for skiing.

At an elevation of 4,100 feet at the base and 5,300 feet at the summit, Sugar Mountain benefits from extensive snowmaking coverage on 100% of its terrain and top-tier grooming, ensuring plenty of snow for skiers. Half of the terrain is intermediate, with the remainder split between beginner and advanced runs. The mountain is also lit for night skiing, making it a great option for evening adventures.

Beyond skiing, Sugar Mountain offers ice skating, snowshoeing, and a tubing park, providing additional activities for all ages. Conveniently located near the town of Banner Elk, the resort is just a two-hour drive from Charlotte Douglas International Airport and only 10 minutes from both Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain.

Sugar Mountain is an excellent choice for an affordable winter getaway in the Southeast.

Official site: http://skisugar.com/

Cranmore Mountain, New Hampshire: Budget-Friendly Skiing in a Historic Town

Cranmore Mountain, located in North Conway, New Hampshire, is a historic ski destination, often considered the birthplace of sport skiing in the East. North Conway itself has earned recognition as one of the nation’s top ski towns, offering a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. This makes it a great choice for affordable ski vacations.

The mountain features 57 trails with excellent beginner and intermediate terrain, ideal for families and newcomers to skiing. However, there are plenty of challenges for expert skiers as well, making Cranmore suitable for all skill levels. Non-skiers can enjoy the resort’s tubing park, Mountain Coaster, or explore North Conway’s charming Main Street, known for its unique shops and discounted outlet shopping.

With a variety of lodging options for all budgets, including family-friendly resorts and inns, Cranmore Mountain provides a great value ski holiday in a welcoming, laid-back environment.

Official site: https://cranmore.com/

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in New Hampshire

Red Lodge Mountain, Montana: Relaxed Skiing with Exceptional Terrain

Red Lodge Mountain offers a laid-back skiing experience that focuses on quality slopes and uncrowded lifts. With 1,635 acres of accessible terrain, skiers can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while exploring the mountain’s 70 runs, serviced by six chairlifts, including a high-speed quad. The terrain is divided into 19% beginner, 25% intermediate, 36% advanced, and 20% expert runs, providing options for all skill levels.

The longest run stretches 2.5 miles, and riders can choose from two terrain parks: one designed for beginners and another for intermediate and advanced skiers. The mountain’s uncrowded vibe ensures that you can spend more time skiing and less time waiting.

After a day on the slopes, take the time to explore the charming town of Red Lodge, where Old West charm meets modern amenities. Red Lodge Mountain offers a peaceful and affordable skiing escape in the heart of Montana.

Official site: https://www.redlodgemountain.com/

Schweitzer Mountain, Idaho: Expansive Terrain and Legendary Snow

As the largest ski resort in Idaho and Washington, Schweitzer Mountain offers an impressive 2,900 acres of terrain, including two massive bowls and renowned tree skiing. In addition to the 95 marked trails, the resort boasts 200 miles of backcountry terrain that stretches across the Idaho Panhandle and into Washington, making it a prime location for adventurous skiers.

Schweitzer receives over 300 inches of annual snowfall, ensuring excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. For those seeking more remote areas, cat skiing is available to access the most untouched parts of the mountain. The rustic Alpine-style village at the base offers plenty of lodging options, and the nearby town of Sandpoint provides additional accommodations.

For beginners, Schweitzer has a new quad chairlift servicing the resort’s best green runs, making it a great place to learn to ski. As a member of the IKON Pass program, Schweitzer offers added value for frequent skiers.

Schweitzer Mountain is an ideal choice for skiers looking for expansive terrain, incredible snowfall, and a welcoming environment.

Official site: https://www.schweitzer.com/

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in Idaho

Sunlight Mountain, Colorado: Affordable Skiing with Plenty of Sunshine

Sunlight Mountain in Colorado offers a perfect combination of great snow and abundant sunshine—averaging 250 inches of snow and more than 300 sunny days annually. Despite these ideal conditions, this hidden gem remains uncrowded, with lift line waits almost unheard of. The resort’s 730 acres of skiable terrain provide ample space for all levels of skiers to explore without the crowds.

The addition of five new runs has expanded the resort’s offerings, and all 67 trails lead back to the lodge for convenience. With a grab-and-go menu and plenty of outdoor seating, you can enjoy the sunny weather while taking a break from skiing.

Sunlight Mountain is located near Glenwood Springs, a charming town that makes an excellent base for your ski vacation. Affordable lodging options are plentiful, and after a day on the slopes, you can unwind by soaking in the town’s famous hot springs.

As part of the INDY Pass program, Sunlight Mountain offers even more value for frequent skiers.

Address: Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Official site: https://sunlightmtn.com/

Bromont, Quebec: Affordable Family Skiing with Diverse Terrain

Located in Quebec’s Eastern Townships, Bromont is the largest ski resort in the region, offering an impressive variety of terrain across four mountains and 155 trails. With one-fourth of its trails designed for beginners, more than one-third for intermediates, and the remaining 39% divided between single- and double-black diamonds, there’s something for skiers of all abilities.

The resort features a dedicated learning area near the lodge, perfect for beginners and those looking to refresh their skills, with easy access to the green and blue trails of Mont Soleil. For even greater savings, be sure to purchase lift tickets online in advance.

Bromont’s unique layout, with seven faces of varying directions, ensures excellent skiing conditions, no matter the weather. Full resort amenities, including the luxurious Hôtel Chateau Bromont, are available at the base of the mountain, making it a great choice for a complete ski getaway.

Bromont is an excellent and affordable choice for families seeking a diverse ski experience in Quebec.

Official site: https://www.skibromont.com/

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in Quebec

Kimberley, British Columbia: Family-Friendly Skiing with Sunny Conditions

Kimberley, British Columbia, is a charming resort known for its family-friendly atmosphere and Bavarian-style town. It combines perfect powder with plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal destination for skiers looking to enjoy excellent conditions. The resort features five lifts serving 68 runs and 12 glades, with trails suitable for all skill levels: 20% beginner, 42% intermediate, and 38% expert. The longest run, Ridgeway, stretches just under four miles.

For those looking to extend their ski day, Kimberley offers night skiing from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Thursday through Saturday. The lights cover the terrain park, providing extra fun for skiers and snowboarders after dark.

Kimberley is also part of the EPIC Pass program, adding more value for frequent skiers.

Kimberley is a fantastic and affordable family ski destination with great conditions and plenty of sunny days.

Official site: https://skikimberley.com/

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in British Columbia

Solitude, Utah: Quiet Skiing with Legendary Powder

Solitude Mountain, located at the end of Big Cottonwood Canyon, is the perfect destination for skiers seeking tranquility and avoiding the crowds of more popular Park City resorts. With 82 runs and three bowls spread across 1,200 acres, Solitude offers a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere while being serviced by eight chairlifts.

Boasting 500 inches of annual snowfall, Solitude delivers the light, fluffy powder that Utah is famous for. The resort is particularly family-friendly, with all trails converging at two base areas—one offering on-site lodging and the other catering to day skiers and snowboarders.

While the resort has a strong emphasis on intermediate and beginner terrain, expert skiers will find plenty of challenges in Honeycomb Canyon, where the powder is deep and untouched.

As part of the IKON Pass program, Solitude offers even greater value for frequent skiers.

Official site: https://www.solitudemountain.com/

Bolton Valley, Vermont: Affordable Skiing in a Secluded Mountain Valley

Bolton Valley, located near Burlington’s airport and accessible via I-89, offers a secluded and budget-friendly skiing experience. With 71 well-groomed trails and lift ticket options that can bring rates below $100 a day, it’s an excellent choice for skiers looking to enjoy Vermont’s snow without breaking the bank. For even more savings, purchasing tickets online can save up to 60% off regular prices.

The resort is surrounded by more than 5,000 acres of undeveloped forest, and Bolton’s award-winning environmental initiatives ensure the mountain remains pristine. The trails are evenly divided between all skill levels, and the resort also features over a dozen glades, three terrain parks, and 62 miles of Nordic and backcountry trails.

Bolton Valley offers ski-in/ski-out lodging at the base, along with a Sports Center that includes a heated pool, Jacuzzi, and sauna for relaxing after a day on the slopes. As part of the INDY Pass program, Bolton Valley adds even more value for skiers.

Official site: https://www.boltonvalley.com/

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in Vermont

Silverton Mountain, Colorado: The Ultimate Adventure for Expert Skiers

Silverton Mountain in Colorado is a one-of-a-kind destination for expert skiers and snowboarders seeking thrilling off-piste adventures. Known for its perfect powder—averaging about 400 inches of snow per year—this resort offers some of the best backcountry skiing in the world.

A vintage double chairlift takes skiers up the mountain, where they can hike to access over 18,000 acres of pristine terrain. This challenging experience is for seasoned adventurers, as the resort’s remote location is complemented by an old-school shuttle system that uses a converted bus to return skiers to the base lodge, a cozy tent-like hut heated by a wood fire.

For safety, each ticket includes full avalanche gear, ensuring that skiers are well-prepared for the backcountry. Silverton Mountain is not for the faint of heart, but for expert skiers looking for an authentic, adrenaline-pumping adventure, there’s no better place.

Official site: https://silvertonmountain.com

Sipapu, New Mexico: Family-Friendly Skiing with Incredible Value

Located just 20 miles from Taos, Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort is a family-owned gem that has been providing affordable ski experiences since the 1950s. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Sipapu offers plenty of slope-side lodging, a strong learning program, and unbeatable value, especially with free season passes for children under 12. Its affordable adult ticket prices make it one of the best ski deals in the Rockies, and a top choice for families.

The resort features a range of terrain to suit all skill levels, with 41 trails that include 20% beginner, 40% intermediate, 25% advanced, and 15% expert runs. Three terrain parks also cater to freestylers and snowboarders.

Sipapu offers electronic ticket sales in advance, with no tickets sold at the base. Kids 12 and under ski free every day, and those staying at the resort receive two free lift tickets with a two-night stay. New skiers can enjoy a free two-hour lesson with the purchase of a lift ticket, making it an ideal place for first-timers.

Official site: https://www.sipapu.ski

Magic Mountain, Idaho: Affordable Skiing with Great Snow and Family Fun

Magic Mountain, located south of Boise, offers incredible value for skiers looking for great snow at a budget-friendly price. With adult tickets under $50 and even lower prices for kids, it’s one of the best bargains for skiing in the West. The resort receives around 230 inches of annual snowfall and operates 50 runs, including 11 main trails that start at a base elevation of 6,500 feet. The longest run stretches just under one mile, and four of the trails are reserved for experts with steep pitches and tight turns.

Though smaller than many other Western resorts, Magic Mountain is equipped with everything families need for a fun ski vacation, including a learning program, rental services, and a tubing hill.

For skiers seeking great snow and affordable prices, Magic Mountain is a fantastic choice for a family-friendly ski getaway.

Official site: https://magicmountainresort.com

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in Idaho

Best Cheap Skiing for Experts: Thrilling Terrain Without the High Price

Expert skiers looking for affordable, challenging terrain need not look further than a few hidden gems, offering thrilling runs and pristine powder at a fraction of the cost of more well-known resorts. Notable options include the legendary tree skiing at Schweitzer Mountain, the expert runs at Whitefish, and Ski Cooper’s expansive 2,600 acres of powder bowls and glades. Here’s another expert-level option worth considering:

Cannon Mountain, New Hampshire: Steep, Challenging Terrain with Scenic Views

Located in the White Mountains, Cannon Mountain offers some of New Hampshire’s most steep and demanding terrain, making it a great choice for expert skiers seeking a challenge. Olympic Gold Medalist Bode Miller honed his skills here, and the mountain’s rugged trails deliver plenty of thrills. A unique bonus at Cannon is the historic 80-passenger Aerial Tramway, which takes you to the 4,080-foot summit, offering stunning views before you tackle the gnarly trails.

For skiers over age 65, Cannon Mountain also offers free skiing on weekdays, adding even more value to this already affordable resort. Plus, it’s part of the INDY Pass program, making it even more accessible for frequent skiers.

Official site: https://www.cannonmt.com/


Wilmot Mountain, Wisconsin: Affordable Skiing Near Chicago

Magic Mountain, Vermont: Steep, Alpine Terrain for Expert Skiers

Magic Mountain in Vermont offers some of the region’s steepest verticals and rugged alpine terrain, making it a prime destination for expert skiers. The mountain’s topography, with deep-cut valleys and thrilling twists, delivers an exhilarating experience, and it recently added a new double-diamond expert summit trail, as well as an East Side glade that can be accessed by a fixed-grip quad to the summit. The resort’s tree skiing is exceptional, adding another level of excitement for advanced skiers.

One of the great perks of Magic Mountain is that children five and under ski for free, making it an excellent family-friendly choice, too. Additionally, Magic Mountain is part of the INDY Pass program, offering even more value for skiers who enjoy frequent adventures on a budget.

Official site: https://magicmtn.com

Best Cheap Skiing for Families: Affordable Fun for All Ages

When it comes to family-friendly ski resorts, some offer exceptional value with affordable lift tickets, child-focused programs, and plenty of fun activities for all ages. Here are some top choices that combine affordability with a welcoming atmosphere for kids:

Located in the Poconos and easily accessible from New York City and Philadelphia, Camelback Mountain Resort is a fantastic choice for families looking for a budget-friendly ski experience. With over 30 trails for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders, it’s a great option for families of all skill levels. Children five and under ski for free, making it especially affordable for young families.

Beyond skiing, Camelback offers a wide range of family activities, including snow tubing, a mountain coaster, ziplining, and even a water park with slides and a wave pool for year-round fun.

Official site: https://www.skicamelback.com


Pats Peak, New Hampshire: A Convenient Family Getaway

Located just 90 minutes from Boston, Pats Peak is perfect for families looking for an affordable day trip. The mountain features a compact base area and a friendly atmosphere, making it easy to navigate for families with young children. The resort offers three beginner areas, 14 novice trails, and more advanced terrain for skiers of all abilities. One-fifth of the mountain is dedicated to intermediate terrain, and 100% of the resort is covered by snowmaking.

Pats Peak also offers night skiing, ensuring fun doesn’t end when the sun sets. New amenities include a larger rental shop, an elevator-friendly base lodge, and expanded outdoor seating with heaters. Pats Peak is also part of the INDY Pass program, offering even more value for frequent skiers.

Official site: https://www.patspeak.com


Wilmot Mountain, Wisconsin: Affordable Skiing Near Chicago

Just a short drive from Chicago and Milwaukee, Wilmot Mountain offers 120 skiable acres with 23 trails, a progression terrain park, and a beginner area with two surface conveyor lifts. The resort also boasts 11 chairlifts, three of which were recently upgraded to quad lifts.

Wilmot is included in Vail’s Epic Pass system, allowing access to a variety of mountains. With Vail Resorts limiting ticket sales this season to avoid overcrowding, be sure to reserve in advance. For families, Wilmot has invested in a state-of-the-art children’s ski and snowboard center, conveniently located next to the learning terrain.

Official site: https://www.wilmotmountain.com

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