Why Do “No Snowboard” Ski Resorts Still Exist?
Snowboarding bans were once commonplace at most North American ski resorts. Here’s how the sport won the industry over, and why three ski areas still hold out.
Mountain Review: Granite Peak
This central Wisconsin ski area pairs a modern high-speed lift fleet and snowmaking on every trail with night skiing seven days a week. But low natural snowfall, flat runouts and limited expert terrain hold it back.
Mountain Review: The Highlands at Harbor Springs
This Michigan resort pairs reliable lake-effect snow with the fastest chairlift in the Midwest and plenty of ski-in/ski-out lodging. But short advanced runs and just one expert trail limit the challenge.
Mountain Review: Boyne Mountain
This Michigan stalwart pairs the Midwest’s only high-speed eight-pack with a lively base area. But expert terrain is scarce, and staying on-site comes at a steep price.
The Complete History of Vail: How It Became So Controversial
How Vail grew from a 1957 hike into the Gore Creek Valley into the flagship of the biggest company in skiing, and the chain of events that made it one of the most controversial mountains in the industry.
Mountain Review: Mountain Creek
This New Jersey ski area offers standout freestyle terrain and easy access from New York City, but it’s a really tough sell versus snowier, less-commercialized resorts further north.
Mountain Review: Boreal
This compact Lake Tahoe area ski area offers reliable snow and one of the region’s best terrain park setups, but a decidedly short vertical drop and high peak ticket prices make it a tougher sell next to its larger neighbors.
Mountain Review: Silver Mountain
Reached by one of the world’s longest gondolas, this Idaho panhandle resort pairs uncrowded slopes with an easy-to-access base village. But outdated infrastructure and reliability issues make for an imperfect experience.
Mountain Review: Brundage
This under-the-radar Idaho resort offers excellent snow, fast frontside lifts, and standout glades, but a remote location, modest size, and limited facilities make it a tougher sell as a destination.
2026 PeakRankings Mountain Score and Rankings Adjustments: Full Changes
An in-depth explanation on the biggest policy changes and capital investments at U.S. and Canadian ski resorts for 2026, followed by this year's top 10 North American ski resorts ranked.