An enduring symbol of core U.S. values, the American West is still wild, bold and free, and this is especially true in mountain towns. We know from closing day shenanigans and annual spring events that ski towns really know how to throw a party. Celebrate the birth of America this year among “purple mountain majesties” at these top Western ski resorts.

Photo: SouthLake.com
Photo: Steamboat Ski Resort/Lightpole
Photo: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Photo: Park City Mountain Resort/Judson Pryanovich
Photo: Aspen Snowmass
Photo: Telluride.com
Photo: Crested Butte Mountain Resort

  1. 1. Lake Tahoe, California

    Nationally renowned as one of the top five destinations to enjoy fireworks, Lake Tahoe draws people from all around to take in the Lights on the Lake display. Boats line up all over Lake Tahoe to see the the colorful bursts light up the Sierra Nevada mountains and reflect off the water. To keep the celebrations going after the fireworks have ended, head to one of Heavenly resort’s Nevada casinos.

  2. 2. Steamboat Springs, Colorado

    The 112th celebration of Independence Day in Steamboat Springs will be marked by a traditional parade, dance party in the street, a Pro Rodeo Series event, concert and, of course, a firework display over Steamboat ski resort. The parade commences at 10 a.m.

  3. 3. Crested Butte, Colorado

    Starting at 11 a.m., Crested Butte’s historic Elk Avenue is taken over by one of the most eclectic parades you’ve ever seen. The celebrations wind down with evening concerts followed by a spectacular firework display over the ski resort’s famous peak. There’s no bad seat in all of Crested Butte to watch the fireworks, but if you want to get up close and personal head up to the resort base village with lawn chairs or a blanket.

  4. 4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

    You can expect a lot of cowboys and Western flair typical of Jackson Hole while the 4th of July procession, which starts at 10:30 a.m., makes it way through the historic town. In the afternoon, concerts and an authentic shoot out and rodeo keep the buzz alive until it’s time for fireworks. Jackson Hole hosts not one, but two displays—one at the base of Snow King in downtown Jackson and one in the Teton Village base area.

  5. 5. Aspen, Colorado

    Featuring colorful floats and cavalcades, Aspen’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July parade starts at 11 a.m. on Main Street and circles the historic downtown core. The afternoon is marked by a rugby game and a free concert performed by the Aspen Music Festival and School. The day closes out—weather permitting—with a firework extravaganza over Aspen Mountain at 9:20 p.m.

  6. 6. Park City, Utah

    More than 70 floats make their way down historic Main Street for Park City’s famous 4th of July parade. Afternoon festivities include a beer garden, a free concert and plenty of tasty food vendors to get your fill. When dusk ascends on Park City, the sky is set ablaze with colorful fireworks.

  7. 7. Telluride, Colorado

    Commencing at 11 a.m. on historic Main Street, Telluride’s parade boasts a thrilling airplane fly-over provided by the National Guard. As the sun sets on the rugged San Juans, the fireworks rise into the sky and provide a dazzling scene. Enjoy the display from a blanket in the town park or with a cocktail in hand at one of the town’s lively bars.

If you’re ready to experience an unforgettable 4th of July in the some of the West’s most beautiful mountain towns, book your trip today. Start by building a customized quote. If you have additional questions, call or chat with one of knowledgeable Mountain Travel Experts.