Dreams of powdery slopes and charming ski towns don’t always require a cross-country flight to the Rockies or the Alps. In a refreshing twist, two destinations in the American Northeast and Midwest have recently claimed top honors in the world of winter sports, according to the latest USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards published on December 1, 2025. The results? North Conway, New Hampshire, a village with fewer than 3,000 residents, was crowned the best ski town in North America, while Michigan’s Mount Bohemia soared to third place among U.S. ski resorts, outshining some of the most famous names in the industry.
For many winter enthusiasts, these rankings might come as a surprise. After all, places like Aspen, Colorado, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, have long been synonymous with luxury, adventure, and world-class skiing. Yet, as USA TODAY’s panel of experts and thousands of readers made clear, there’s something uniquely magnetic about these underdog destinations—something that’s quickly transforming the landscape of American winter travel.
Let’s start in the heart of New England. North Conway, New Hampshire, located about three hours from Boston, isn’t just a snow-dusted postcard village. It’s a bona fide ski hub, offering both convenience and character. According to USA TODAY, the town’s “quintessential New England village and an ideal snow town rolled into one” vibe helped it clinch the top spot among ski towns, beating out heavyweights like Aspen (which landed at number seven) and Jackson Hole (number three).
What sets North Conway apart? For starters, the town is home to Cranmore Mountain Resort, whose slopes sit just a few blocks from the main street. This proximity means visitors can transition seamlessly from sipping coffee in a cozy café to carving fresh tracks down the mountain. But Cranmore is just the beginning. North Conway also serves as a strategic base for exploring nearby ski areas like Black Mountain, King Pine, and Attitash, making it a perfect launchpad for anyone wanting variety in their skiing adventures.
Beyond the slopes, North Conway offers access to Mount Washington, the tallest peak in New England. Adventurers can test their mettle against its formidable winter conditions or simply admire the breathtaking views. The town’s compact size and friendly atmosphere only add to its appeal, creating a sense of community that’s hard to replicate in larger, glitzier resorts.
Stowe, Vermont, the only other New England destination on the list, earned the eighth spot. Stowe’s main street, lined with inviting shops and restaurants, doubles as a scenic access road leading skiers to Mount Mansfield and the Stowe Mountain Resort. Visitors can stay at renowned hotels like the Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, the Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, and the Topnotch Resort. For a hearty après-ski meal, many head to the Von Trapp Brewing & Bierhall, where German brews and classic fare warm up chilly evenings.
Meanwhile, in the Midwest, Mount Bohemia in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has been quietly building a reputation as a skier’s paradise—and this year, it’s been officially recognized as the third best ski resort in the United States by USA TODAY. Nestled in Lac La Belle, Mount Bohemia isn’t your run-of-the-mill family resort. It’s a haven for advanced and expert skiers, boasting open runs, glades, cliffs, and chutes that wind through natural, rugged, ungroomed terrain. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is where you’ll find it.
What really sets Mount Bohemia apart is its extraordinary snowfall. The resort averages a whopping 273 inches of light, fluffy lake-effect snow each season—enough to keep even the most seasoned powder hounds coming back for more. And with the longest runs and the highest vertical drop (900 feet) in the Midwest, Mount Bohemia guarantees thrills that rival those found out West.
The USA TODAY 10Best rankings, which rely on a combination of expert opinions and reader votes, evaluate resorts based on factors like snowfall, diverse terrain, convenient lift access, and the overall quality of the winter experience. Mount Bohemia has consistently impressed, ranking 2nd in 2018, 3rd in 2019, 4th in both 2020 and 2021, 3rd in 2022, and even claiming the coveted No. 1 spot in 2023. In 2024, it landed at number two, demonstrating a steadfast loyalty from its fanbase and a reputation that just keeps growing.
The 2025 list of top ski resorts also includes Snowbasin Resort in Utah (first place), Smugglers Notch Resort in Vermont (second), and other renowned destinations like Aspen Snowmass in Colorado, Killington Resort in Vermont, Deer Valley Resort in Utah, Big Sky Resort in Montana, Palisades Tahoe and Mammoth Mountain in California, and Loon Mountain Resort in New Hampshire. Yet, Mount Bohemia’s continued presence near the top of this list is a testament to Michigan’s often-overlooked ski culture and the allure of its wild, untamed slopes.
Michigan itself is no stranger to winter sports. With over 40 ski resorts, the state boasts the second highest number in the country. But Mount Bohemia stands out even among its peers, drawing thrill-seekers from across the Midwest and beyond. Its reputation for deep powder and extreme terrain has made it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic, adrenaline-fueled experience.
Back in New Hampshire, North Conway’s rise to the top is a point of pride for locals and a beacon for travelers seeking something different. The USA TODAY Best Readers’ Choice Awards process—where experts select 20 nominees and readers vote for their favorites—ensures that winners reflect both professional insight and the real experiences of everyday skiers and snowboarders. For North Conway, that means recognition not just for its proximity to great slopes, but for its welcoming spirit, picturesque setting, and vibrant après-ski scene.
For those planning a winter getaway, these rankings offer a compelling reminder: world-class skiing isn’t limited to the Rockies or the Sierras. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged, powder-filled runs of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula or the cozy, quintessential charm of a New England village, America’s best winter escapes might be closer than you think. Both North Conway and Mount Bohemia prove that sometimes, the best adventures are found off the beaten path—where the snow is deep, the people are friendly, and the memories last long after the season ends.
