As the winter ski season approaches, we’re thinking beyond the slopes—after all, mountain escapes aren’t just about the descent, but everything that surrounds it: architecture and après, hot spring soaks and tasting menus, slope-side stillness and cultural immersion. Across the globe, from the high reaches of the Canadian Rockies to the ancient villages of the Alps and the snow-laden forests of Japan, skiing is evolving into something more layered—and certainly more alluring.
In the American West, legendary terrain meets new developments in luxurious lodges and backcountry access. The Canadian interior offers stillness, scale, and some of the most coveted verticals in North America. Across Europe, storied resorts are pairing deep heritage with modern design, expanded lift networks, and elevated wellness offerings—from thermal spas to five-star chalets perched above the tree line. Meanwhile, Japan continues to draw travelers with its singular blend of deep powder, onsens, and a food culture worth traveling for alone.
Put together with the help of Condé Nast Traveler specialists Livia Angelini and Meg Austin, read on for our guide to the top nine ski destinations worth adding to your 2026 travel agenda. From resort passes to remote escapes, ski-in suites to slope-side ryokans, here’s where and when to go, where to stay, and what not to miss during the 2025–2026 ski season.
Where to ski in:
A sprawling view of Big Sky Resort’s mountain range in Montana
Big Sky Resort
Big Sky, Montana
How to get there: Fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, just 50 miles from Big Sky. From there, it’s a scenic one-hour drive through Gallatin Canyon. Car rentals and shuttle services are readily available, depending on your lodging.
Best time to go: February is peak season at Big Sky—not for crowds, but for conditions. By then, the resort’s 400-inch average snowfall has stacked up across all elevations, with full terrain open and prime powder days rolling in.
