Planning A Ski Holiday in the USA or Canada - What You Need to Know by Becs Laker

This is the most iconic and expansive resort in the Tahoe area, known for its Olympic heritage, advanced terrain, and vibrant village. It suits confident skiers and snowboarders looking for challenging runs, steep bowls, and big-mountain terrain, but still offers something for intermediates. 
The lift infrastructure is excellent, and the atmosphere is lively, particularly après-ski.

A more polished and family-friendly resort, Northstar is known for its wide groomed runs, luxurious village, and excellent intermediate terrain. It’s ideal for families, newer skiers, or those who enjoy a more refined, resort-style atmosphere.
There’s a strong focus on service and amenities here, including a charming après scene complete with fire pits and s’mores.

Straddling the California–Nevada border, Heavenly combines stunning lake views with a broad mix of terrain. It has something for everyone — from gentle beginner slopes to challenging tree runs — and the convenience of nearby South Lake Tahoe, which offers casinos, restaurants, and entertainment.
It’s a great all-rounder, especially for groups with varied skill levels and interests.

If you're thinking about heading abroad for a ski holiday, there are a number of important factors to consider before locking anything in.
First, where will you go? North America has no shortage of iconic ski destinations — Whistler, Banff, Aspen, Vail, Park City and Jackson Hole to name just a few. Each offers something unique, so choosing the right resort comes down to your skiing ability, the type of experience you're after, and how much time you have.
Length of stay will play a big role in shaping your itinerary. For shorter trips, it makes sense to base yourself in one resort, while a longer holiday could allow you to visit multiple mountains — ideal for more experienced skiers wanting variety.
Transport and access are also key. Some resorts are easy to reach with short transfers from major airports, while others require more detailed logistics. For example, Heavenly is just over an hour from Reno, while Whistler is a two-hour drive from Vancouver.
You’ll also need to decide whether to take your own gear or hire once you arrive. Travelling with skis and boots can be cumbersome, especially if you're flying domestically within North America. I opted to hire high-quality gear at the resort, which offers flexibility and often means less hassle, and it gets a hot wax every night when you return it, fresh and ready for the next day.
The style of accommodation you choose will significantly impact your experience. Whether you're after ski-in/ski-out convenience, a luxury lodge, a family-friendly apartment or something more budget-conscious in a nearby town, there are excellent options across most resorts — and booking early can make all the difference in both price and availability.

Budget is always an important conversation. Ski holidays can be expensive, particularly once lift passes, gear hire, transport, and meals are factored in. Multi-day passes or international ski passes like the Epic or Ikon can offer great value if purchased in advance — especially if you plan to ski at multiple resorts.

Lastly, think about the kind of holiday you want this to be. Is it an active, adventurous trip with friends? A luxury snow escape for two? A family experience with time off the slopes as well? Your preferences here will help guide decisions around pace, destination, and inclusions.

A well-planned ski holiday can be one of the most memorable travel experiences you’ll ever have — but the logistics can be complex. If you’re considering North America for your next snow adventure, I’d love to help you plan a trip that fits your style, ability and budget, while making the most of everything the region has to offer.