
Ski Your Way Around The USA
If you’re looking for the ultimate ski or snowboard adventure this winter then look no further than the good old USA, home to some of the best ski resorts in the world. Ski your way around the USA at these must-visit destinations, offering an amazing experience both on and off the slopes!
Breckenridge, Colorado
This sprawling ski resort in the Rocky Mountains attracts skiers and snowboarders alike from all over the world, who are drawn to over 2,908 acres of sparkling, snow-covered terrain. The mountain town, founded during the Gold Rush, is also known for its endless parade of bars, clubs and restaurants perfect for those all important Après-ski parties. There are an amazing 187 runs to choose from, in a range of abilities, so you will never get bored. Climb aboard the Imperial Express Super Chair – the highest chairlift in North America – as it whisks you up the mountain to experience the incredible Horseshoe and Whale’s Tail runs.
Breckenridge offers a variety of accommodation options including One Ski Hill Place, an elegant resort complete with fitness centre, two indoor swimming pools and fire pit. Rooms range from a studio apartment, all the way up to a five bedroom luxury condo with prices starting from $389 per night.
www.oneskihill.rockresorts.com
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Set amidst the Teton Mountain Range and the winding Snake River on the borders of Wyoming and Idaho, Jackson Hole is a premier destination for lovers of winter sports. Showcasing the finest examples of western architecture, what this town lacks in size (it’s only 2.9 square miles) it makes up for by squeezing in a plethora of restaurants, bars and art galleries.
The area receives on average 450 inches of snowfall each year and is known for its steep terrain and heart stopping runs, including the legendary Corbet’s Couloir where skiers and snowboarders take the plunge into a funnel of snow high up the mountainside.
Why not stay at the The Lodge At Jackson Hole? An upscale hotel located just 1.2 miles away from Jackson Town Square. It has beautifully decorated rooms, complete with flatscreen TVs, iPod docks and traditional fireplaces perfect for keeping you cozy as the snow falls outside. There’s also a spa, lounge, sauna, hot tub and business centre on site. Prices start at $139 per night.
www.lodgeatjh.com
Alta, Utah
One of the oldest skiing areas in the United States, Alta has been in operation in one way or another since 1939. Located near Snowbird in Little Cottonwood Canyon, there’s over 2,200 acres of pure unspoiled terrain. On average, Alta receives over 560 inches of snowfall per season, and is known as “skiers mountain” for the consistent quality of snow that occurs year after year.
Those who visit Alta are often pretty serious about skiing so the nightlife is a little more quiet than perhaps elsewhere. However, many of the lodges in the area offer an excellent pre dinner drinks menu. Head over to the Goldminer’s Daughter resort lounge for a range of delicious bar food, then cuddle up on their cosy sofas while you chat.
If you’re looking for more of a party atmosphere then the best place to stay is the Alta Peruvian Lodge, a unique hotel that began life as a barracks during WW2. Evenings here are often quite lively, as the locals love to mix with hotel guests. The Alta Peruvian Lodge has a swimming pool, hot tubs and 24-hour indoor sauna as well as a free shuttle service to the ski lifts. There’s a wide range of accommodation options to choose from including single sex dorms, cosy chalets, and luxury suites. Prices start from $169 per night.
www.altaperuvian.com
By Kirsty Liddle
@eclipse1473
Images courtesy of Breckenridge and Alta