Ski resorts often feel like a different world once the winter snow recedes. According to OnTheSnow, these mountain destinations offer a rugged beauty in the off-season that is ideal for hikers looking to trade their skis for boots. From the Green Mountains of Vermont to the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada, here are some of the standout trails at North American ski resorts.
Colorado Peaks and Vistas
Telluride offers access to Bridal Veil Falls, featuring a 1.8-mile trail to the top of Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall. Nearby, Breckenridge provides the Blue Lakes Trail, an alpine route that starts at 11,748 feet and leads hikers past historic mining relics and mountain waterfalls.
High-Altitude Challenges in the West
Snowbird, Utah, is home to the American Fork Twin Peaks Trail. While challenging, hikers can utilize the resort’s scenic tram to bypass significant elevation gain. In California, Mount Baldy provides the famous Devil’s Backbone trail, a 3.5-mile trek that offers clear-day views as far as Catalina Island. Mammoth Mountain also offers a variety of trails, including the Minaret Vista, which rewards hikers with views of the Ritter Range.
New England Trails
Vermont’s Stratton Mountain serves as a historic hub for long-distance hikers, as it sits on the path of the Long Trail. The climb features a fire tower for panoramic views. For those seeking a technical challenge, Stowe Mountain Resort’s Cliff Trail is rated as a double black diamond hike, requiring the use of ladders to navigate rock crevices on the way to the summit of Mt. Mansfield.
Pacific Northwest Exploration
As noted by OnTheSnow, Oregon’s Mt. Hood features the 40-mile Timberline Trail. This expansive route circles the mountain, passing through wildflower meadows and past numerous waterfalls. Due to the rugged nature of the high country, hikers are advised to check with local ranger stations for current trail conditions before departure.
