Despite not being the most popular ski resort in Colorado, Crested Butte is a deserving underdog because of its small-town atmosphere and separation from Summit County's traffic and crowds.
North Conway has a rich ski history and is frequently referred to as the "birthplace of skiing in North America," making it one of the top ski towns in the country.
Taos is known for its unique cuisine, a World Heritage Site called Taos Pueblo, and an art scene steeped in Southwest history.
Whether you're searching for a town with lots of shops and bars or a hill with deep, steep lines, Vail should be at the top of every skier's list.
Despite being almost an hour's drive from the mountain, Bellingham's extensive hotel and food options make it an ideal starting point for exploring Baker's slopes.
Ultimately, the mountain location serves as the entry point to three resorts with 11,600 skiable acres and 500 inches of annual snowfall.
The 2,500 skiable acres of the mountain rise more than 4,100 feet vertically. But if you want to stay away from the crowds, Grand Targhee or Snow King are better options.
Located in the San Juan Mountains, amidst several 13,000- and 14,000-foot peaks, the center region of this former Victorian mining town has been designated as a National Historic Landmark District.
Bend's high desert setting in Oregon makes it an ideal destination for a day that includes world-class rock climbing, a round of golf, and a few hours of powder skiing.
The Mad River Valley's Waitsfield is a nice substitute for the state's busier ski resorts, such Killington and Stowe.