Where to Go Skiing for Spring Break: Best Resorts for Sun, Snow & Après

SPRING BREAK 2026 - WHERE DOES THE SNOW MEET THE PARTY?

If you’re buried in the cold white stuff right now, the idea of sunshine and beaches might appeal more than snowy slopes. But for those of us who love a spring break that includes skiing or snowboarding, here are a few suggestions for heading to the mountains and also enjoying great meals, nightlife and concerts.

You probably know that some of our favorite places are currently disappointing when it comes to snowpack and open bowls and trails. So we suggest a few places that are looking pretty good right now, both in snow and fun. 

MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN, CALIFORNIA

At 11,053 feet, Mammoth Mountain has the highest summit elevation of all the California ski resorts. The main lodge area currently has a 95” base and powder conditions, while the summit boasts 122” base with powder. There’s also a cross-country and snowshoe area.

When you’re not skiing or riding there’s a zip line, tube park, scenic gondola rides and snowmobiling. The mountain coaster is a thrilling ride going up to 25 mph - it’s not currently open due to recent heavy snow but will likely reopen soon.

Numerous restaurants, from casual mountainside to fine dining, are great options no matter what you’re looking for. Every Friday and Saturday you can enjoy a weekend apres party with a DJ. Scheduled events include Full Moon or Sunset Snowshoe Tours and for the kids, Woolly’s Dance party after ski school is sure to be a hit.

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

Less than 100 miles north of Vancouver, Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America with over 8,171 acres of terrain. The snow base is currently 98” with 255” total snowfall this season. 

The resorts offer heli-skiing and helicopter sightseeing tours, as well as scenic gondola rides on the world’s highest lift of its kind. Guided backcountry skiing is available. In addition to the huge ski and snowboard options on the mountains, you can enjoy tubing, snowshoeing, ice skating, dog sledding and more. They’re also famous for their signature Fire and Ice show through March 1.

As you can imagine, a resort the size of Whistler Blackcomb has a huge number of bars and restaurants to suit every taste. Luxury spas will leave you feeling relaxed and pampered.

They’re currently offering discount lift tickets if you book four weeks in advance and also offer refunds for an unused day so consider finalizing a trip and saving some cash.

STEAMBOAT, COLORADO

While many other major Colorado ski resorts have been sadly neglected by Mother Nature when it comes to snowfall and snowpack this season, Steamboat has fared a bit better. While only 77% of terrain is open along with 19 out of 23 lifts, the snow is good enough to enjoy as you bask in spring temperatures and sunshine with bluebird skies.

There are plenty of options for ski school and instruction, with individual, group and family outings. Private guided tours help you learn what the mountains offer when it comes to terrain and runs as well as a three day camp by Olympian Deb Armstrong and free bumps clinics. For those who love to ski at night under the lights, Steamboat offers that as well.

Off the slopes, Steamboat has snowshoeing, fat bike tours, ice skating and, of course, gondola rides to enjoy the mountain views. A sunset happy hour is a great way to enjoy your apres ski and a Saturday night Comedy Club or live music are fun activities sure to make you relax and smile after a long day skiing or riding. And if soaking in a natural hot mineral spring nearby sounds heavenly, there are several in the area to enjoy.

With numerous dining options and all the mountain has to offer, I’m sure a spring break trip to Steamboat will not disappoint.

LOOKING AT THE EAST COAST? LET'S LOOK AT KILLINGTON, VERMONT

With all 155 trails open right now and 2,000 skiable acres, Killington is the largest ski area in the eastern USA and is also known for great apres ski.

The tubing park is popular enough that advance ticket purchases are recommended and you don’t have to walk to the top because it’s serviced by a lift. A gondola ride will take you to the top of 4,241 foot Killington Peak for great views of the mountains and you can enjoy lunch at Peak Lodge while you enjoy the scenery. Killington also offers complimentary guided Meet The Mountain tours where ambassadors will take you to some of their favorite slopes. Eighteen bars and restaurants, from casual to fine dining to a mountain yurt, offer a wide variety that will suit everyone’s tastes.

Interested in ski lessons? Killington offers private lessons beginning at age three and group lessons for all other age groups. Women-only group lessons are available as well as adult race camps. If you want to learn how to ride moguls or improve your skills, the mogul camp or group lessons with video will hone your skills. Killington really does have something for everyone.