There’s nothing quite like a ski vacation. Between the cozy lodge, fresh powder on the mountain and warm socks on your feet, a ski trip is the perfect combination of activity and relaxation. However, if you’re not lucky enough to live near great skiing, it can be tough to narrow down your destination. That’s why we’ve broken up our top five recommendations, based on a few different qualities.
For Beginners: Beaver Creek
With some of the longest beginner runs in the United States and a ski school that caters to all skill levels, this Colorado resort is perfect for the skiing newbie. Plus, the Beaver Creek Village has plenty of other attractions in case someone in your travel group isn’t a big fan of the slopes.
For Families: Deer Valley
Not only does Deer Valley keep the slopes from getting too crowded by only selling a limited number of daily lift tickets, but they also boasts numerous family-friendly activities, including an adventure camp, children’s center and a collection of “fuzzy mascots” who hang out on the trails. This resort is located in one of the most famous ski locations in the country: Park City, Utah.
For Experienced Skiers: Jackson Hole
This resort deserves to be on the bucket list of every accomplished skier. Known for its particularly challenging terrain, it claims the longest skiable vertical in the United States. It’s also home to Corbet’s Couloir — a legendary chute that attracts expert skiers from all over the world.
For the East Coast: Sugarbush
While the west might be better known as ski country, you aren’t out of luck if you live on the east coast and want to stay closer to home. Sugarbush isn’t quite as well known as other Vermont resorts (like Stowe), but it has all of the amenities and none of the crowds. With a variety of terrain and an efficient lift system, Sugarbush is well worth the trip.
For Non-Skiers: Whistler Blackcomb
If you’re traveling with some non-skiers, Whistler Blackcomb is the perfect location to make everyone happy. Not only will they have one of the most famous villages to explore, Whistler also offers an impressive restaurant scene and multiple other winter activities — like ice fishing, ice-skating, tubing, snowmobiles and even dogsled tours.
Tell us: where’s your next ski vacation?
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