Explore Top Ski Resorts for Summer Adventures

When the snow melts and skis are stored away, something magical happens in the mountains. At some ski resorts, the lifts don’t take a summer vacation – instead, they become your gateway to a whole new kind of adventure. Towering gondolas sweep you up to jaw-dropping views, alpine meadows burst into color, and rugged peaks invite exploration under the summer sun.

For many of us, that first mountain trip in the warmer months sparks a whole new love for the outdoors. There’s a thrill to hiking wildflower-strewn trails where you once carved powder turns, or cruising down a scenic alpine coaster with the wind in your face and bluebird skies overhead. Whether you're traveling solo, planning a romantic getaway, or kicking off a new family tradition, summer in the mountains is every bit as unforgettable as ski season. More and more ski resorts are leaning into this secret season – investing in zip lines, bike parks, lakeside activities, and mountaintop dining experiences that transform the mountains into a four-season playground.

To help you discover the most iconic spots, we’ve put together a list of the best mountain resorts in North America for summer activities. These are the places that deliver not only high-altitude thrills but also serene, soul-stirring moments that remind you why you travel in the first place. If you’re planning your next journey into summer mountain travel, get ready to fall in love all over again – with peaks that don't need snow to take your breath away.

Top Ski Resorts in Summer

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole isn't just a winter icon – it's your answer to a memorable summer escape. Perfectly positioned near two of the most awe-inspiring national parks in the country – Grand Teton and Yellowstone – this legendary mountain destination transforms into an action-packed summer spot with high-alpine excitement and soul-soothing serenity.

Craving an adrenaline rush? Tackle the Jackson Hole Bike Park’s gravity-fed trails, scale granite walls on a guided rock climb, soar above the Tetons while paragliding, or take on the vast Via Ferrata. This one-of-a-kind alpine route guides you along sheer cliffs with the help of metal rungs, ladders, and suspension bridges – safely clipped into a continuous cable as you climb above Casper Bowl.

Prefer your adventure with a side of relaxation? Hop on the Aerial Tram for a golden-hour ride to The Deck, where handcrafted cocktails, local bites, and remarkable views of the Tetons create the ultimate après-hike hangout. Spend your days fly fishing in crystal-clear waters, unwinding at an outdoor yoga class, or spotting wildlife in the wildflower-draped valley below.

Traveling with little ones? Kids will love the interactive splash zone, aerial ropes course, outdoor playgrounds, and the immersive Grand Adventure Kids Camp. To truly make the most of your summer getaway, check out Jackson Hole’s event calendar. Time your trip with a live music performance under the stars or indulge in mountain cuisine at the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Summer Festival. No matter your pace or passion, summer in Jackson Hole is a choose-your-own-adventure story – and it’s about to become one of your favorites.

Where to stay: For effortless access to the best of Jackson Hole’s summer magic, Snake River Lodge & Spa places you right in the heart of it all. Nestled at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, this inviting retreat puts you within easy walking distance to the tram, gondola, and Teton Village’s vibrant summer scene. From alpine adventures and scenic lift rides to world-class dining, bars, and boutiques, everything you need is right outside your door.

Lake Tahoe, California

It’s no secret that the electric-blue waters of Lake Tahoe are a summer magnet, but beyond the lake’s sparkling shoreline lies a plethora of mountain adventure that rivals any winter getaway. Home to a collection of top-tier ski resorts that come alive in warmer months, Tahoe offers the best of both worlds. Two of our favorite hubs for summer fun are Palisades Tahoe and Heavenly.

When you’re lakeside, dive into classic Tahoe experiences like kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, cliff jumping, wave running, and waterskiing. But save some energy because there’s still more to explore when you head uphill. At Heavenly, the scenic gondola takes you high above the lake to panoramic viewpoints. Then, pick your thrill – zip lining through the trees, racing down the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster, summer tubing, or tackling rock walls for a full-body challenge.

Over at Palisades Tahoe, take the beautiful Aerial Tram ride to High Camp, where sweeping views of Lake Tahoe meet Olympic history and interactive exhibits. While you're up there, enjoy the Olympic Museum and grab a bite with a view. Back down in the village, lace up your skates at the roller rink, try your hand at disc golf or geocaching, hit the gorgeous trails by foot or bike, or level up your adventure on the Tahoe Via Ferrata, where guided climbing routes reveal the granite beauty of the Sierra.

And don’t forget the summer vibes – Palisades Tahoe’s events calendar is packed with live music, free yoga, farmers' markets, and more, all surrounded by mountain air and lake views that redefine “vacation mode.” Whether you're chasing adrenaline or soaking in sunsets, summer in Tahoe is the perfect way to see your favorite ski resorts in a whole new light.   

Where to stay: Experience the perfect blend of lakefront serenity and mountain adventure at Edgewood Tahoe. Right next to the Heavenly Gondola, this stunning alpine retreat offers ultimate access to summer fun – with panoramic lake views, world-class amenities, and refined mountain charm.

Crested Butte, Colorado

For seasoned mountain bikers, few destinations can compete with Crested Butte. Known as one of the birthplaces of mountain biking, it boasts an unmatched network of next-level cross-country trails that wind through alpine meadows, dense forests, and high-mountain passes. And if lift-served adrenaline is more your style, the Evolution Bike Park delivers with perfectly crafted terrain for every level, all meticulously maintained and dialed for progression.

But the magic of Crested Butte doesn’t stop at your handlebars. Come July, the entire valley transforms during the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival, when vibrant blooms blanket the hillsides in bursts of color that feel almost surreal. For the ultimate wildflower immersion, hikers can take on the 12-mile trek over West Maroon Pass to Aspen – a bucket-list adventure complete with fields of alpine flora and astonishing vistas.

Prefer your summer adventures a little more varied? Crested Butte has you covered. Cast a line fly fishing, saddle up for a horseback ride, explore scenic roads by bike, float down whitewater rivers, or test your balance on a stand-up paddleboard. For families, there's a kids’ adventure park and a range of youth summer programs to keep little adventurers engaged and smiling. Whether you're chasing singletrack, wildflowers, or family-friendly fun, Crested Butte delivers big mountain beauty with small town charm – and a life-changing summer escape at 9,000 feet.

Where to stay: For easy access to the Evolution Bike Park and everything Crested Butte has to offer, Elevation Hotel & Spa is your go-to summer basecamp. Located right in the Crested Butte Mountain Resort base village, this slopeside stay puts you just steps from the lifts, trails, and energy of Mountaineer Square – where you’ll find local shops, cozy cafés, restaurants, and the convenient shuttle stop to town. Adventure starts the moment you step outside.

Aspen Snowmass, Colorado

When it comes to all-in-one mountain destinations, Aspen Snowmass stands in a league of its own. With four stunning alpine peaks and a lively base village, it’s the perfect summer escape for families, couples, and adventure-seekers who want it all right at their fingertips. One of the season’s must-do family events is Valhalla Nights, held on select Tuesday evenings atop the Elk Camp Gondola in Snowmass. As the sun dips behind the peaks, the mountain transforms into a high-alpine wonderland. Kids can zip through the Strider Park, bounce on the bungee trampoline, scale the mini climbing wall, and more—while parents soak in the views with delicious eats, refreshing drinks, and live music under the stars.

And that’s just the beginning. The Snowmass Bike Park is tailor-made for family-friendly fun, offering approachable downhill trails for beginners and more technical terrain for seasoned riders. Off the bike, explore miles of hiking and cross-country biking trails bursting with wildflowers – favorites like Government Trail, Rim Trail, and Sky Mountain Park deliver mind-blowing views with every step or pedal stroke.

And don't miss the Lost Forest – a hidden gem tucked right into the mountain. This unique on-mountain adventure hub features a zipline canopy tour, ropes courses, the gravity-fueled Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, a climbing wall, a paintball arena, hiking trails, disc golf, and even a high-mountain fishing pond.

Where to stay: Viceroy Snowmass puts you next door to the lifts, trails, and summer buzz. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and location – so you can spend less time getting to the action and more time living it.

Vail, Colorado

Hop aboard Vail’s scenic Eagle Bahn Gondola and rise into a world where adventure meets alpine beauty. At the summit of Vail Ski Resort, a summer mecca awaits – with access to epic downhill and cross-country mountain biking, stunning hiking trails, horseback riding, and the action-packed Adventure Ridge. Perfect for kids (and kids at heart), Adventure Ridge brings the thrills with summer tubing, zip lining, the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, rock climbing, bungee trampolines, and mini golf – all framed by panoramic views of the Gore Range. When it’s time to take a break, the nearby Eagle’s Nest Lodge offers the perfect spot to relax, refuel, and savor the scenery with a tasty bite or drink.

Back in town, Vail continues to shine with a full summer events calendar that runs from May through October. Expect an impressive lineup of live music, internationally acclaimed arts and cultural events, delectable culinary festivals, and endless mountain town ambiance around every corner.

Where to stay: The Arrabelle at Vail Square is your front-row seat to summer in Vail. After a day on the mountain, cool off in the stunning rooftop saltwater pool and unwind surrounded by alpine beauty, just steps from the action and a world away from the ordinary.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Whether you're chasing high-alpine rush or laid-back leisure, Breckenridge is the kind of summer mountain town that serves it all. With a mix of classic outdoor adventures – like hiking, horseback riding, road cycling, whitewater rafting, fly fishing, and mountain biking – and theme park-style attractions, Breck is perfect for travelers who want a bit of everything in their vacation.

Two of the town’s most beloved summer staples? The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster, which twists and turns down 2,500 feet from the base of Peak 8, and the TenMile Flyer Zipline, where you’ll soar over wildflower meadows at speeds of up to 45 mph. Add in an alpine slide, bungee trampolines, ropes courses, mini golf, and scenic lift rides, and you've got a mountaintop adventure land that’s equal parts excitement and beauty.

When it's time to wind down, historic downtown Breckenridge invites you to meander through art galleries and boutiques, enjoy open-air dining at local eateries, or sip a crisp patio drink while soaking in the town’s laid-back mountain vibe and picturesque surroundings. No matter your style, summer in Breck offers the perfect balance of adventure and allure.

Where to stay: For those looking to stay right in the heart of it all, The Village at Breckenridge offers unbeatable access to both the mountain and Breck’s charming downtown. A short walk from the base area and iconic Main Street, this spot puts you within walking distance of trails, shops, restaurants, and summer events. 

Whether it’s your first trip to the mountains or your fiftieth, there's something about summertime at altitude that stirs the soul – and once you’ve felt it, you’ll want to return again and again.

Ready to experience your favorite ski resorts in a whole new season? Build your free personalized vacation quote today, or give our Mountain Travel Experts a call at 800-610-8911. We’re here to help you plan every unforgettable moment.