Snow-capped mountains, people in an over-abundance of clothes and sense of urgency to wake up early and be the first at the chairlifts all mean one thing…..it’s definitely ski season. Walk through any ski resort around this time of year and you’ll feel the excitement. Snowboarders and skiers are passionate people and they love their sport. In preparation of ski season, many people put on their snow tires, purchase new boards/skis, and make sure their ski carriers are attached to their cars and ready to go for opening day. Now that those skis are strapped and ready for your new snow adventure, do you know where you’re going? Check out where to ski this winter:
Jacksonhole, WY
Image courtesy of Jackson Hole Ski Resort
In the hunt for best ski towns, Jackson Hole, Wyoming came up multiple times. For those looking for the ultimate mountain experience, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the place to go. The resort features 116 named trails and 13 lifts that cater to all skill levels. The 4,139-foot vertical drop is bound to be a good time. For beginners, the resort has “Mountain Sports School” to help skiers and snowboarders have the best day they can have on the mountain. If you choose Jackson Hole as your ski destination, don’t forget to ride the infamous Jackson Hole Aerial Tram, also known as Big Red. For those who like back-country skiing and hiking up ridges, this resort has plenty of options.
If skiing and snowboarding are only a part of your trip, Jackson Hole has more to offer. Grand Teton National Park is south of Yellowstone National Park and boasts breathtaking views of the Rockies. The 7000 feet tall jagged peaks here are definitely selfie-worthy. The town of Jackson is riddled with history. For over 100 years, cowboys, cowgirls, and ranchers have walked the wooden sidewalks here. Teton Village, located at the base of the mountain of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, offers shopping, restaurants, lodging, and spas. When you here locals say “The Village,” this is what they’re referring to.
Telluride, CO
Image courtesy of Telluride Ski Resort | Ryan Bonneau
Skiers, snowboarders, foodies, locals, tourists, fly fishers……all are welcome in the city of Telluride. Although the city is known mostly for ski season, Telluride, Colorado is truly a winter wonderland for all who visit. Shred the slopes during the day if that’s your thing. If not, check out some historic bars such as New Sheridan or Last Dollar Saloon in town. Hungry? Enjoy some on-mountain dining at Alpino Vino or Bon Vivant. If you’re not in the mood for gourmet, the locals say the Detroit-style pizza at Brown Dog Pizza will fill you up. Smugglers Brew Pub is right by the gondola and they brew all their beers right downstairs!
As for the Telluride Ski Resort itself, the terrain is versatile. The resort features 127 trails and 18 lifts. There are green and blue slopes for beginners and plenty of extreme trails for the expert snowboarders and skiers. If you’re experienced enough, hike to Bald Mountain, Black Iron Bowl or Palmyra Peak and you’ll get the chance to really shred the slopes here. With average annual snowfall at 309 inches, visitors get a good amount of snow play.
Almost everywhere in Colorado
Image courtesy of Ski Cooper | Casey Day
Colorado has numerous ski resorts from Fort Collins to Denver to Durango. All are unique in their own way. Ski Cooper opened over 70 years ago, making it one of the oldest ski resorts in the state. It’s a smaller family resort near Leadville and is the perfect location for a family vacation. Other resorts include Monarch Mountain, Loveland Ski Area, and Powderhorn Mountain Resort. Powderhorn Mountain Resort offers breathtaking views of 1600 acres of terrain. It’s also known as one of the best tree-skiing locations in the Rocky Mountains. For those looking for a slower pace, this is the resort for you.
If smaller crowds and cheaper tickets are your things, Monarch Mountain Ski Resort has your back. For an authentic feel, people come here. Even the snow isn’t artificial! Located in Georgetown, Colorado is Loveland Ski Area. This large resort has more trails than an average ski resort and has 10 lifts. Loveland has plenty of skiable land for your dollar.
What are some of your favorite ski locations? Tell us in the comments below.
