We’ve been watching the weather reports like a hawk, and the storm track this early season has winter roaring in like a lion. In fact, many parts of the Western US that normally don’t have fast starts have hit the gas pedal to the floor like New Mexico. If you’re chomping at the bit to get on more than just a white ribbon of death, here’s the best places to ski in November 2024 for Thanksgiving. Remember, things can change FAST if storms suddenly start to appear.
Top 5 Ski Resorts In North America For 2024 Thanksgiving
Wolf Creek Ski Area
71″ snowfall – 100 percent open (Wolf Creek Snow Report)
Wolf Creek has been having an EPIC start to the 2024-25 ski season. As usual, they were one of the first to open in North America AND it was on NATURAL snowfall. Secondly, the storm train has been aimed at this mountain for early season with storms predicted through the week of Thanksgiving. If there’s a ski resort to visit for turkey day, it would be Wolf Creek. Nearly five hours away from Denver and throw in some severe mountain passes, you’ll keep most people away. You can then finish off your day in the world-class Pagosa Hot Springs to soak those sore muscles. If you plan on heading to Wolf Creek, be sure to read our Howling Guide to Wolf Creek Ski Area where we give you an overview of the terrain, tips on finding pow stashes, and a rundown where to stay.
Mt Baker
70″ Base – Nearly Entire Mountain (Mt Baker Snow Report)
As the world record holder for the most snow in a season, one of the perks is that when it starts snowing, it dumps BIG. While maritime snowpacks can be a curse later, they’re a blessing early on, filling in the nooks and crannies so you don’t have to worry about obstacles. With La Niña providing the cold air, over 50+ inches of snow fell from November 16th-19th at Heather Meadows, allowing them to open on November 21st. Unlike many resorts, they don’t open until almost the entire mountain is ready. The best part? You can access some of the best backcountry terrain in the world. The storm track always seems to point at Baker; we just hope the snow levels stay low.
Timberline Lodge
123″ snowfall – 63″ base (Timberline Snow Report)
Home to the famous hotel from Jack Nicholson’s movie The Shining, this is a great option for anyone wanting a little city night-life to go along with their ski trip. Less than two hours outside of Portland and located on Mt. Hood, this resort only closes for maintenance in late September. That means you’re pretty much guaranteed a decent amount of terrain will be open. As of Wednesday November 20th, four lifts were turning. But with all the snow incoming, this number will continue to increase exponentially.
Lookout Pass
80″ snowfall – 60% open (Lookout Pass Snow Report)
The snowiest resort in Idaho has already been open since November 8th, with three Lifts (Peak 1 Quad, Timberwolf Triple & Eagle Peak Quad) running, accessing 30 trails last weekend the 17th. Since it’s early season, they’re currently open Friday through Sunday, but with the storm track still pointed at them, it shouldn’t be long before they’re fully open. With affordable lift tickets and historic Wallace as your home base, you can go for cheap AND enjoy a unique experience to go along with your skiing and snowboarding. Don’t forget to explore their new expansion which we experienced ourselves and talk about in our Funky Towns & Awesome Skiing at Northern Idaho Ski Resorts article.
Banff Sunshine Village
40″ Snowfall – 20″ base with 7 / 12 lifts
Sunshine Village typically has the longest non-glacial ski season in Canada. Sunshine is usually one of the 1st in Canada to open and has already gotten 40 inches of snow to date. Since it’s located in the great white Canadian north, the snow also stays nice and dry. Currently there are 32 runs open with multiple trails coming online. From amazing cuisine fifteen minutes down the road in Banff to awesome après activities like hot springs & epic terrain, this is a great option for any time of year including early season. Even without the entire mountain open, there’s enough trails across Banff, Sunshine, and its sister resorts of Lake Louise & Mt. Norquay to keep you entertained for your entire trip.
This is a great reminder that the ski season is here and soon all ski resorts are going to be running at full capacity. If you want the scoop on the best places to visit by month, learn what gear to bring, and read about unheard of resorts that you can find powder days or weeks after a storm, check out our in-depth guide: Ski Trip Planning – Plan The Best Ski Holiday Ever!
