20 Best Snowboarding Resorts in the World, According to Expert Boarders

"Things haven't always been so smooth between skiers and snowboarders. While most popular ski resorts usually allow both groups to play on their hills, three U.S. ski areas-Deer Valley, Alta, and Mad River Glen-have banned snowboarders outright, and other mountains are full of moguls, a type of terrain snowboarders hate. That said, acceptance for the sport has certainly improved since it debuted in 1965, and the number of resorts welcoming fans with specially made terrain has increased over the years."

"Mt. Baker Ski Area, Washington Its name may state it's a "ski area," but in many ways, Mt. Baker is a snowboarder haven-it was one of the first ski areas on the West Coast to allow the sport. The winter playground is also home to the Legendary Banked Slalom race, a top event in the snowboard community, typically held in early February. "The maritime snowpack and moderate warm temperatures have traditionally made Baker more conducive to snowboards than skis, but even today, where factors like that aren't as important, Baker continues to be in a class by itself," says Josh Niernberg, a competitive snowboarder, chef, and restaurant owner based in Grand Junction, Colorado."

"Brent Sandor, senior vice president of marketing at 686, an outerwear company specializing in snowboarder gear, is also a fan. "It's impossible to say enough about this mountain," he told Travel + Leisure in an email interview. "A small, independent mountain with some of the mightiest terrain, this should be on the top of every snowboarder's list.""

There have been historical tensions between skiers and snowboarders, with three U.S. ski areas—Deer Valley, Alta, and Mad River Glen—banning snowboarders outright and some mountains favoring moguls. Acceptance of snowboarding has grown since its 1965 debut, and more resorts now offer terrain designed for boarders. The best snowboarding destinations span the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Mt. Baker on the West Coast stands out as an early adopter and hosts the Legendary Banked Slalom. Maritime snowpack and moderate temperatures often favor snowboarding. Industry figures praise small, independent mountains with varied, challenging terrain.

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