Uphill skiing has grown exponentially over the past few years, with more and more skiers and snowboarders seeking the thrill of ripping through powder after hiking up. Uphill skiing offers a unique experience at U.S. ski resorts for those skiers and riders who want a taste of the backcountry while ditching lift lines. Some resorts are especially welcoming to uphill enthusiasts, providing designated routes, resources, and even uphill-specific ski passes. Below, we highlight some of the best resorts in America for uphill skiing. For more information, check out our introduction to backcountry skiing.
The Best U.S. Ski Resorts for Uphill Skiing
Jay Peak Resort, Vermont
Jay Peak, renowned as one of the snowiest resorts in the Northeast, boasts more than 100 acres of gladed terrain. Known for its deep snow and remote feel, Jay has become a popular destination for those wanting to escape the crowds and get their fill of powder. The resort’s Uphill Policy allows skiers to access routes in the Stateside and Tramside Areas. Travelers can take Ullr’s Dream from the base to the summit, Paradise Meadow to Angel’s Wiggle to Northway to Sky Haus summit, or Montrealer to Jet Triple Chair. Note that these routes are only open during the ski resort’s operational hours.
Uphill travel is free for Jay Peak guests so long as they stop by Tramside Customer Service to sign a waiver and grab an Uphill Travel Pass armband. Armbands must be worn and visible while traveling uphill. The free pass helps the resort monitor uphill traffic and ensure skier safety. Expect challenging terrain and pristine backcountry conditions if you’re willing to work. Jay Peak’s slopes are often less crowded, which gives uphill skiers a sense of solitude rarely found at ski resorts. Before heading out, be sure to review Jay Peak’s safety guidelines and terrain details.
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Sugarbush, Vermont
Sugarbush has a well-established uphill skiing policy designed to ensure both safety and accessibility for skiers who prefer to earn their turns. The resort offers a designated Uphill Access Program, including several marked routes on Lincoln Peak and Mount Ellen. To access these routes, skiers and splitboarders must have a valid Uphill Access Pass, which can be ordered online ahead of time for free. This pass is required to ascend specific trails during non-lift operating hours, typically before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m. Sugarbush provides detailed information about routes and hours on its website.
While the uphill program welcomes skiers of various abilities, Sugarbush advises that the terrain can be challenging. Some routes require advanced skills, particularly on the steep and rugged terrain at Castlerock. Skiers are also reminded to follow strict safety guidelines, which includes traveling in groups, wearing proper equipment, and avoiding high-risk areas. It’s important to note that uphill access may be restricted on certain days due to weather conditions or resort events. It’s always wise to check for updates before heading out.
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Bolton Valley, Vermont
Located in Richmond, Vermont, Bolton Valley is known for its expansive resort terrain and extensive backcountry access. It’s home to a well-developed in-bounds uphill access program, allowing those skiers with an uphill access pass to explore the resort’s groomed trails and nearby backcountry areas. Bolton Valley has two designated uphill routes, one off the Timberline Lift and the other off the Wilderness Lift. These routes are available during non-lift operating hours (typically before 8:30 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m.) and are clearly marked for safety. Bolton Valley is also part of the Uphill New England Pass, which grants access to 20 mountains. Check out our full Uphill New England Pass Buyer’s Guide and see a complete list of resorts here.
In addition to uphill access, Bolton Valley offers a variety of backcountry experiences through its Bolton Valley Guided Backcountry Program. The resort offers private tours, instructional classes, and even Intro to Backcountry Skiing and Riding clinics at a discounted price on select Saturdays. Stay up-to-date on all accessible routes and open trails via its website.
Sugarloaf, Maine
Sugarloaf’s uphill policy allows skiers and riders to explore the mountain before and after lift hours (typically before 8:30 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m.). Skiers must purchase an uphill access day ticket or season pass to use the designated uphill routes, even during the resort’s non-operational hours. The resort encourages safety, requiring reflective gear, recommending group ascents, and asking skiers to stay on marked routes monitored by ski patrol. Sugarloaf’s uphill terrain, ranging from moderate to more technical climbs, caters to intermediate and advanced skiers. A new uphill route begins on the Bucksaw Trail, accessible from parking lots E, F, and G, or from the base area via the Superquad. Clear signage guides skiers along the way. The resort’s website provides up-to-date information on open routes and any restrictions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable uphill experience.
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Pats Peak, New Hampshire
Pats Peak in New Hampshire offers an uphill access policy geared to casual and experienced uphill enthusiasts. The resort allows uphill skiing during both operating and non-lift operating hours. During non-operational hours uphill travelers must stay on the designated route while ascending and descending. During operating hours, uphill travelers must remain on the route while ascending but can venture off to any trail that is open. Skiers and riders must purchase an Uphill Travel Pass or uphill season pass for $99. The Uphill Travel Pass must always be worn and visible by the user. Pats Peak encourages skiers to wear reflective gear and travel in groups for visibility and safety.
Located just over an hour from Boston, Pats Peak is an ideal option for city dwellers looking for a quick escape to enjoy some uphill skiing without the long commute.
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Arapahoe Basin, Colorado
Arapahoe Basin, aka A-Basin, is known for its long season and high-altitude climbs, offering one of Colorado’s best uphill skiing experiences. A-Basin’s Uphill Program allows skiers to access a variety of terrain. We named the East Wall one of the best hike-to ski trails in Colorado. Its designated Uphill Access Pass must be visible at all times during your ascent. The pass is $109 or $29 as an add-on to the A-Basin full-season pass. The resort donates $10 from each pass to the National Forest Foundation.
Arapahoe Basin’s terrain provides options for all skill levels, from fun scenic trails to steeps. Late spring brings some of the best uphill skiing of the year, as skiers and riders can still enjoy turns long after most ski resorts have closed. Outside of operating hours, the summit is open to uphillers via Decreum’s Gulch or Grizzly Road. During operating hours, the resort is open up to the mid-mountain via Black Mountain Lodge on the skinner’s left of High Noon or through the trees between High Noon and Sundance.
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Mammoth Mountain, California
Mammoth Mountain is a popular destination for downhill and uphill skiers alike. The resort allows uphill travel during operational hours only on specified trails with the proper pass, which can be purchased at the resort. Ikon Pass holders can secure a pass for free. Mammoth provides several designated uphill routes, including the Main Lodge to the Summit route and uphill access from the Eagle Lodge area, with clear signage marking these paths. Skiers are encouraged to stay on these marked routes to avoid downhill traffic and to follow safety guidelines, which includes using headlamps and reflective gear for visibility. Read up on the resort’s policy before heading out.
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Brighton Resort, Utah
Brighton Resort’s uphill access policy allows for uphilling during both operating hours and non-lift operating hours in specific areas only. The resort operates on a three-color system. Red = closed, yellow = exercise caution due to off-season rules or avalanche mitigation, and green = uphill travel is fully permitted. Uphill travel is allowed during operational hours in Catherine’s Pass and Twin Lakes Pass. Uphill travel is permitted during non-operational hours in Great Western and Millicent areas, which are clearly marked for uphill skiers. Skiers must stay on these designated paths to avoid conflicts with downhill traffic.
Brighton also recommends that uphill skiers travel in groups, wear reflective gear, and use headlamps for visibility, particularly in low-light conditions before and after the lifts are running. With its convenient location in the Wasatch Mountains and a variety of terrain, including both gentle and more challenging climbs, Brighton is an ideal choice for uphill skiers looking for a quaint backcountry-like experience without venturing too far from the resort.
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Whitefish, Montana
Whitefish boasts a passionate uphill community and has a generous policy to match. Visitors must purchase an uphill-only day ticket for $18 or an uphill-only season pass for $145. These passes must be worn and visible to ski patrol at all times. All trails are marked with uphill signs to keep skiers on the right path. Whitefish has two routes for uphillers, the Benny Route and the East Route. The Benny Route is open during the season from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. It goes from the Spruce lot to the lift plaza and then follows the western edge of Toni Matt to the summit. The East Route is accessible pre- and post-season and during the operating season from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Note that no uphill traffic is allowed from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. No dogs are allowed on the slopes.
While Whitefish is known for its challenging and varied terrain, the resort ensures that these uphill routes are safe and accessible for skiers of all abilities. Whitefish offers a fantastic option for uphill skiers who want to stay inbounds with its impressive snow conditions and scenic views of the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park.
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Crystal Mountain, Washington
With its stunning views of Mount Rainier and varied terrain, Crystal Mountain offers beginner-friendly climbs and more challenging routes for advanced uphill skiers. Uphill travel is allowed in designated areas. Guest services issues a travel card free of charge that must be with you at all times. During the winter season, the approved Uphill Travel route is up Discovery Meadow to Quicksilver. Note that uphill travel is not allowed when the “No Uphill Travel” lights are flashing. These lights are located near the bottom station of the gondola, the bottom lift shack of the discovery lift, and the bottom lift shack of the Chinook Express lift.
Crystal Mountain also advises that skiers be mindful of avalanche risks, especially in off-piste areas, and strongly recommends checking avalanche conditions before heading out. Stay updated with resort policies and weather reports on the Crystal website.
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April 15, 2025
