While Texas isn’t known for snow-covered slopes, there are some ski resorts within a reasonable drive or short flight that offer a winter wonderland if you are seeking a ski or snowboarding adventure.
From the stunning mountains in New Mexico to the beautiful Rockies in Colorado, these ski resorts are the perfect place to explore for a memorable winter vacation.
I’ve been to most of the popular ski spots near Texas, so I can give you the lowdown on the best ones that are close by!
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just starting out, these ski resorts near Texas promise a mix of outdoor fun and picturesque winter getaway that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Best Ski Resorts Near Texas
If you’re eager to swap the warmth of Texas for an awesome winter getaway, I’ve got the scoop on the ski resorts you should definitely consider. Read on to discover the top ski resorts near Texas!
Taos Ski Valley
Taos Ski Valley is up in northern New Mexico, about a 12-hour and 30-minute drive from Austin, the capital of Texas. But if you’d rather not spend so much time on the road, you can catch a direct flight to Taos Regional Airport from both Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and Dallas Love Field (DAL).
Taos is also conveniently located only a 90 minutes drive from Santa Fe, if you want to combine both places into one trip.
Taos is the go-to place for skiing in New Mexico, offering 1,294 acres of terrain and getting around 300 inches of snow each year. With a whopping 110 trails and 13 ski lifts, there’s a lot to explore.
What makes Taos Ski Valley special is the sunny weather as it boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it perfect for skiing in powder and enjoying those clear blue days.
And when it’s time to unwind after hitting the slopes, you shouldn’t miss The Bavarian. It’s open daily from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM and on Friday and Saturday evenings from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, setting the perfect vibe for the weekend. Make sure to grab one of their tasty German beers on tap while you’re there!
Deer Valley
Deer Valley is a ski-only mountain, which means it’s just for skiers and no snowboarders allowed. But if you love skiing, it’s one of the best places globally, with its 2,026 acres of skiable terrain, 103 trails, and 21 lifts.
Besides being ski-exclusive, Deer Valley is one of the coolest ski towns, thanks to its top-notch amenities such as fancy dining options and stylish accommodations right by the slopes.
Situated in northern Utah, Deer Valley is about a 21-hour and 30-minute drive from Austin. Since the drive might seem lengthy, there are several great flight options from Texas.
The most convenient route is flying direct into Salt Lake City (SLC) from various Texas cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Upon landing in Salt Lake City, you can either rent a car for a 45-minute drive to the resort or opt for the shuttle to Deer Valley.
To top off your time here, I recommend staying at the Montage Deer Valley. It’s the perfect addition to a luxurious escape to the ski slopes with an incredible location, amazing spa, and delicious restaurant, Burgers & Bourbon.
Snowmass
Snowmass is in Aspen, Colorado, a bit of a long drive at around 17 hours and 20 minutes from Austin. But hey, if you’re not into road trips, flying is a solid option.
You can catch a direct flight to Aspen from Texas cities like Dallas and Houston, which makes things pretty easy. There’s also the option to fly into Denver and either rent a car or book a shared shuttle.
As someone who loves skiing and lived in Colorado for nearly two years, I’ve checked out quite a few ski towns, and Aspen stands out as the ski capital of the world.
Aspen has four different ski resorts, and my personal favorite is Snowmass. It’s got a whopping 98 trails and some expert terrain, perfect if you want to enjoy weaving through trees.
Once you’re done tearing it up on the slopes, Aspen itself is the place to be. Strolling down Main Street is a must to soak up the vibes and appreciate the shops, restaurants, and top-notch places to stay.
Plus, be sure to keep your eye peeled, you might just spot some celebrities casually walking around or hitting the slopes too.
Ski Apache
Originally known as Sierra Blanca Ski Resort, Ski Apache first opened its doors in 1961 and has since become a well-known skiing spot.
Situated in Ruidoso, New Mexico, it holds the title of being the closest ski resort to most Texas cities.
While it may not be the largest with only 750 skiable acres, it’s a great option if you are coming from Texas, especially El Paso.
With 55 runs and 11 lifts catering to skiers and snowboarders, Ski Apache offers a mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert terrains. It stands out for its excellent intermediate slopes, making it perfect if you want to enjoy skiing without tackling steep chutes or back bowls.
Just about a 10-hour drive from Austin, Ski Apache is only a quick 3-hour trip from El Paso, so this is a great ski destination if you’re from West Texas.
If you’re flying in, your best bet is to land in El Paso and rent a car to reach Ski Apache. However, if flying is more your style, you might want to consider other resorts like Snowmass or Taos, where direct flights and minimal driving make the journey more convenient.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is positioned in the heart of Colorado, leaning towards the western side. It’s a 15-hour and 30-minute drive from Austin, but for a quicker option, direct flights to Gunnison-Crested Butte (GUC) airport from Dallas and Houston are available.
Crested Butte is renowned for its expert runs, with 62% of its terrain classified as advanced or expert. The mountain spans 1,547 skiable acres with 15 lifts.
Beyond the fantastic skiing, the town itself is a gem. With no traffic lights and the ability to stroll to almost any destination, Crested Butte feels like a picturesque postcard.
While you’re in Crested Butte, I suggest considering The Lodge at Mountaineer Square for your stay. It’s the perfect place to enhance your ski trip, and its location is fantastic.
Steamboat Springs
I’ve had the pleasure of skiing at Steamboat Springs several times, and I can attest to how amazing the resort is!
Located in northern Colorado, Steamboat Springs is approximately a 17-hour and 20-minute drive from Austin, with non-stop flights on offer from Dallas or Houston to Steamboat, making it an easily accessible option.
Covering an impressive 3,741 skiable acres with 182 trails and 23 lifts, Steamboat offers an extensive and diverse terrain for skiers to explore.
Beyond the slopes, the mountain town of Steamboat is a gem, complete with charming shops, delightful restaurants, and stunning accommodations, all boasting breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Renowned for its legendary champagne powder and its slightly off-the-beaten-path location, Steamboat is refreshingly less crowded than some of the more popular resorts like Snowmass in Colorado.
For a perfect day, I recommend hitting the slopes during the day and then strolling down Main Street in the evening for some shopping and dining. Don’t miss out on Salt & Lime for incredible tacos and delicious drinks; it’s the ideal way to unwind after a rewarding day on the slopes.
Telluride
Another place I absolutely love is Telluride! I spent a weekend there, enjoying fantastic ski runs and wandering around the beautiful town.
It’s no wonder why so many celebrities flock to Telluride for skiing because the ski resort is amazing, the downtown area is adorable, the mountain views are breathtaking, and the accommodations are top-notch!
Telluride is located in southwestern Colorado, about a 16-hour and 40-minute drive from Austin. If you prefer flying, the best bet is a direct flight into Telluride from Dallas or Houston.
Telluride Ski Resort covers over 2,000 skiable acres with 17 lifts and a whopping 41% expert terrain, making it a must-visit for skilled skiers and snowboarders. If you’re an expert, don’t pass up the chance to hit Bald Mountain for legendary runs like Bee’s Run or Liberty Bell.
After a day of carving through the snow, head downtown to spots like Smuggle Union Restaurant & Brewery for some unreal fish and chips and tasty beer!
Palisades Tahoe
So, seeing a California resort on this list might surprise you since there are closer options in Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. But let’s be real, if you’re coming from Texas, flying is likely the plan.
One top-notch resort in the Lake Tahoe area is Palisades Tahoe. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Reno-Tahoe International Airport, with direct flights from Austin, Dallas, and Houston. Otherwise, it’s about a 27-hour drive.
What makes Palisades Tahoe so unique is its Olympic history because it hosted the Winter Games in 1960, so you know the slopes are something else.
Plus, they get around 400 inches of snow yearly, offering 3,600 skiable acres and over 170 trails for skiers and snowboarders.
I’ve personally hit the slopes at Palisades Tahoe, and let me tell you, the slopes are unreal, the village area at the base is charming, and there’s tons of cool things to do in North Lake Tahoe.
Solitude Mountain Resort
Solitude Mountain Resort is different from Deer Valley as it welcomes both skiers and snowboarders, making it a fantastic option for Texans seeking a Utah resort that caters to both.
Found in northern Utah, it’s around a 21-hour drive from Austin, but consider flying into Salt Lake City, with direct flights available from Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. From the airport, it’s a 40-minute drive or you can take the shuttle.
With 1,200 skiable acres and an annual snowfall of about 500 inches, Solitude Mountain promises an excellent powder experience.
Having skied there several times myself, I can confirm the fantastic conditions, especially for advanced skiers, with half of the terrain classified as black diamonds or double blacks.
It might not be the best choice for beginners, though, as only 10% of the runs are suitable for those just starting out.
If you’re looking for a spot to eat on the slopes, check out Roundhouse for Himalayan-inspired cuisine, tasty beers, and stunning views of the slopes.
FAQs About Ski Resorts Near Texas
Continue reading below as I answer some frequently asked questions about ski resorts near Texas!
Does Texas have a ski resort?
Texas does not have a ski resort with genuine snow, or at least one that relies on real snow rather than artificial snow.
Where is the closest snow to Texas?
While Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle does get some snow, if you’re on the hunt for the nearest snowy destination outside the state, make your way to Alto or Taos, New Mexico.
Where is the closest ski resort to Houston?
Ski Apache is the closest resort to Houston. Consider Telluride or Snowmass if you’re up for a longer drive.
What ski resort is closest to Austin?
The ski resort closest to Austin is Ski Apache, though you have to drive from El Paso if you’re flying in. New Mexico and Colorado ski resorts are the closest by driving miles if you plant to road trip.
What ski area is closest to El Paso?
The ski area closest to El Paso, Texas is Ski Apache, which is only a short 3 hour drive away across the border in New Mexico. Taos is also a great driveable option from El Paso.
Final Thoughts On The Best Ski Resorts Near Texas
The ski resorts near Texas offer many cool options for anyone looking to have a blast on the snowy slopes.
Whether you’re into the sunny vibes and powder skiing at Taos Ski Valley or the exclusive scene at Deer Valley just for skiers, each resort brings its own vibe.
The best part is, getting there is pretty easy with flights from big Texas cities or you can go on an epic winter road trip.
Even if you’re just getting started as a skiier, these ski resorts near Texas are all about making winter awesome with exciting adventures and unforgettable times in the mountains!
Abby is deeply passionate about skiing and exploring various corners of the world. Whether she’s discovering hidden gems or navigating popular or local slopes, her goal is to inspire others to embrace the outdoors, explore amazing mountains, and step out of their comfort zones. She shares her love for winter sports and traveling to different winter destinations on Summit Skier.
