Jackson Hole is pretty much the Western capital of awesome-ness. Originally populated by Native American Shoshoni and Crow before luring trappers, traders, and ranchers, this Teton-ringed valley—or “Hole”—has long attracted extreme skiers to its “steep and deep” slopes (Corbet’s Couloir is one of the most vertical runs in North America) and 3,000 acres of accessible backcountry terrain. During the summer, the focus shifts to rafting on the Snake River, hiking, technical climbing, mountain biking, and YouTube-friendly sports like paragliding.
As the first snowflakes fall this winter, people are still gearing up and planning to head out in their RVs.
As far as ski destinations are concerned, Jackson, Wyoming is at the top of the list for RVers to visit great ski towns, according RVTrader.
1. Jackson, Wyoming
For thrills out West this winter, Jackson Hole is the place to be, as it invites RVers to see its cowboy-town charm and challenging slopes for skiing. When you need some time for rest and relaxation, Jackson Hole has that too. RVers can find solace at The Virginian Lodge RV Park, along with hookups and amenities like hot tubs, firepits, and onsite provisions. You’re also near other breathtaking landscapes, like Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
2. Breckenridge, Colorado
A picturesque small town surrounded by Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge is a beacon for winter sports and RV travelers alike. With a charming historic district, dining, shopping, and world-class ski slopes, there’s no end in sight for attractions and things to do. Set up camp somewhere like Tiger Run Resort, with hookups and RV amenities. Then, experience the magic of Breckenridge’s snow-covered streets and exhilarating slopes while enjoying the comfort of your home on wheels.
3. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
You get the best of both worlds at Lake Tahoe, which straddles the borderline of California and Nevada with stunning scenery and winter activities. RV Parks like Tahoe Valley Campground cater to outdoor enthusiasts with easy access to ski slopes. Plus, there are sites with hookups and extra services for a comfortable stay. Bring your gear for skiing, snowboarding, or hiking and expect nonstop fun. Or, take it easy and marvel at panoramic views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada and Carson mountain ranges.
4. Whitefish, Montana
For a rugged winter adventure that takes you further with your vehicle, Whitefish, Montana at Big Mountain is well worth the adventure. Home to Whitefish Mountain Resort, it’s a snowy wonderland for ski excursions for all levels, with courses that are family-friendly and championship-level. Set up station at Whitefish RV Park with vehicle hook-ups and more to see and do around the small town, which mixes local history with dining and nightlife. Venture further with amazing mountain views and access to nearby Glacier National Park to make more out of your trip.
5. Stowe, Vermont
During the winter months, Vermont’s Green Mountains are blanketed in white snow, which brings RVers north to experience New England charm and a top skiing destination at Stowe Mountain Resort. There are a number of RV campground options found within this scenic region, and while it has limited availability for RVs, Smuggler’s Notch State Park provides a serene backdrop and nearby accessibility to the slopes. Check out your options for camping, explore the outdoors, partake in Stowe’s dining scene, and uncover more of its small-town history.
Tips for Your Winter Getaway
Prepare for the Weather
While you’re preparing to tackle the slopes, you should also ensure your RV is equipped to handle the snowy roads – even if winter tires or tire chains are not legally required where you’re going, you’ll want to double-check the depth of the tread on your tires. It’s also wise to test your heating system and inspect the insulation in your RV so you can stay warm and toasty (and avoid frozen water tanks) at your wintry destination.
Pro Tip: Check the local weather forecast and watch for road closures before traveling. Ice and snow can quickly cover roads, reduce visibility, and create treacherous driving conditions.
Book Early, or Go Late
RV parks around ski resorts can fill up quickly and you’ll want to make a reservation as soon as you have firm dates. The busiest times for skiing are around holidays and long weekends in winter: Christmas in December, Martin Luther King Jr. Day in January, and Presidents’ Day in February. To avoid the crowds, you can go earlier or later in the season, but the accumulation of snow on the slopes and the quality of the coverage are more variable in November and March/April.
Pro Tip: Some campgrounds offer shuttle buses to the slopes, saving you the hassle of finding parking and giving you easy access to the lifts.
