Vertical drop ski resorts are some of the most popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world. If you’re an adrenaline junkie then you’ll want to cross every one of these off your list!
Here we bring you the top 10 largest vertical drop ski resorts in North America. This list isn’t for the faint-hearted and definitely not for beginner skiers or boarders. Four of these resorts are in British Columbia, another four are in Colorado, and the other two are in Montana and Wyoming.
Keep reading to see the 10 longest vertical drops.
1. Revelstoke, B.C. – 5,620 feet
Revelstoke ski resort is a world-renowned destination for winter sports enthusiasts even though it’s the news on this list. The resort boasts a vertical drop of 5,620 feet, making it the steepest in North America.
In addition to this, Revelstoke ski resort is also known for its excellent snow conditions and diverse terrain. The resort offers something for everyone, from beginner slopes to expert-level runs. It’s conveniently located a short drive from Vancouver, making it a great place to escape the city and enjoy some of the best skiing in Canada and the world.
2. Whistler-Blackcomb, B.C. – 5,280 feet
The second British Columbia ski resort on this list of the largest vertical drop is obviously Whistler-Blackcomb. The resort boasts a vertical drop of 5,280 feet making it the second largest in North America.
Before Revelstoke opened in December 2007, Whistler had the largest vertical drop but lost its crown back then.
Whistler-Blackcomb is one of the most popular ski resorts in the world, not just in North America. With nearly 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, there is something for everyone. This includes beginner slopes to challenging black diamonds.
3. Telluride, Colorado – 4,425 feet
Now for the first ski resort in the United States with the largest vertical drop. Telluride in Colorado boasts the longest vertical drop in the country at 4,425 feet.
Colorado is known to have the best skiing conditions in the country so this isn’t a surprise to see it in third. sits near the border of New Mexico in the San Juan mountains. There will be more Colorado ski resorts further down in the list too.
4. Snowmass, Colorado – 4,406 feet
The largest vertical drop at the Snowmass Ski Resort in Colorado is only 19 feet shorter than the one at Telluride standing at 4,406 feet!
As one of the most famous ski resorts in the world, many of you might have already ridden this drop. In the heart of the Colorado Rockies, it just shows why Colorado is known as the best state for snow in the United States.
5. Big Sky, MO – 4,350 feet
Next up is the Big Sky ski resort in Montana which has a vertical drop of 4,350 feet. At 3,812 feet, it is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States. The peak is serviced by the famous Lone Peak Tram and as is obvious, this is only for expert skiers.
6. Jackson Hole, WY – 4,139 feet
Jackson Hole ski resort is renowned for its steep and challenging terrain. Its vertical drop sits at 4,139 feet, putting it in the top 5 steepest in the United States.
Jackson Hole’s steep slopes are not for the faint-hearted. The resort is home to some of the most iconic runs in North America, such as the expansive Powder Bowl and the treacherous Corbet’s Couloir.
7. Kicking Horse, B.C. – 4,133 feet
Kicking Horse is the third British Columbia ski resort on the list. The drop isn’t over 5,000 feet like Revelstoke and Whistler, but it still does sit seventh on this list at 4,133 feet. The resort first opened in 2000 and has since become a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.
8. Aspen Highlands, Colorado – 4,292 feet
Now for another Aspen ski resort, this time Aspen Highlands. The vertical drop isn’t as steep as Snowmass, but at its peak, it does reach 4,292 feet.
It is one of the four Aspen ski areas, which are all owned by the Aspen Skiing Company. The Highland Bowl is Highlands’ most popular attraction as it provides breathtaking views of the Maroon Bells mountain range.
9. Panorama, B.C. – 4,265 feet
Panorama Ski Resort is yet another located in British Columbia, Canada. The maximum drop here is 4,265 feet, but this is only accessible via hiking there. The peak from the Powder Highway is 3,820 feet, so if you want to go higher then make sure to be prepared to hike the rest.
10. Beaver Creek, Colorado – 4,040 feet
Beaver Creek Ski Resort is one of the most popular skiing destinations in the United States due to its champagne powder snow. Located in Colorado, the resort boasts a 4,040 feet vertical drop, making it the 10th largest in North America and the 6th longest in the United States.