The Coolest Skiing Hot Spots
Fresh powder currently blankets the steepest slopes of America's favorite ski destinations, and now is the prime time to head for the mountains, pole in hand and goggles in tow.
If you're wondering which resort town to rest your boots n' bindings in, check out the below list of ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine's designated "cool" ski hot spots, where you'll find awe-inspiring adventures, fab resorts and trendsetting snow bunnies abound.
Aspen, Colorado
The grand-daddy of all ski hubs, Aspen is comprised of four seperate mountains and offers vertical drops that will startle even the savviest skiers. Excellent terrain as well as exclusive lodging provide snowy satisfaction to all ages but caters particularly to those with steep pocket books.
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Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Two mountains that average 38 feet of annual snow accumulation can't be a bad thing for powder-hungry skiers. Nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks make Jackson Hole (comprised of Jackson city and surrounding 50 mile-long valley) an ideal destination for nature lovers who crave the cold.
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Vail, Colorado
In Vail you'll never be at a loss for fresh powder and open trails. With nearly 5,300 skiable acres and plenty of parks, Vail caters the majority of its trails to ski experts, but also offers plenty for the novice. As for Vail itself, it's currently undergoing a $1 billion redevelopment to gain competitive stance; now just may be the right time to visit this legendary ski spot.
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Telluride, Colorado
Six blocks wide and 12 blocks long, Telluride is a teeny town with big draw. Designated a National Historic Landmark District, the town is a beauty to behold and offers luxe lodging as well as budget-friendly beds, all near the famed 13,000-foot peaks of the San Juan Moutnains. Telluride also offers North America's only free gondola transportation system that runs from 7a.m. to midnight.
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Steamboat, Colorado
Consisting of a complete mountain range, Steamboat grants guests 2,939 acres of skiable surface for skiers of all levels. The range boasts Mavericks Superpipe, the longest on the continent, as well as 164 official trails and a summit elevation of about near 10,600 feet. What you'll love best, however, is Steamboat's gladed areas - Pioneer Ridge, Sunshine and Storm Peak - stunning scenes set within the Colorado mountains.
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Park City, Utah
Utah is known for its dry powder, heaven to snow hounds, that attracts skiers from all over the country. Conveniently located 45-minutes from Salt Lake International Airport, Park City boasts that you an leave home in the morning and be on the mountain by noon. Check out Homerun, the area's 3.5 mile ski trail or browse town and learn about Park City's rich mining history.
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Sun Valley, Idaho
The first destination resort to open in the United States, Sun Valley's first winter season kicked off December 1, 1936. From skiing to skating and swimming to soaking, the area hosts travelers year-round with its diverse array of outdoor activities and also pampers guests with luxe amenities like a Day Spa and Robert Trent Jones golf course.
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Squaw Valley, California
Six peaks make up Squaw Valley but it's the sunny skies and stellar weather, where there are reportedly 300 days of completely cloudless days each year, that keep skiers coming back for more. January temperatures hover near 30 degrees, not bad for the mountains, but May temps (the mountain is open until Memorial Day annually) reach a shocking 60 degrees, perfect for sun-worshipping snow bunnies.
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Stowe, Vermont
Offering a new commitment to freestyle terrain, Stowe is quickly gaining popularity on the east side of the states. It may not offer the most skiable acres, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in specialty programs, state-of-the-art technology, long runs and classic trails.
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