For many, winter’s a time to stay inside and stream Netflix. Need an excuse to get off the couch? Consider one of these fabulous ski getaways. Whether you’re in it for the top runs or the hot toddies, we’ve got just the lift you need.
Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada)
Get your serenity fix atop the High Sierra in California’s North Lake Tahoe, then drive an hour south to the Nevada side of the lake, with its flurry of casinos and nonstop nightlife, as well as prime ski slopes. If you’re looking for high-end luxury for the whole family, head to the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe, the mid-mountain location at Northstar. More of a high roller? Make tracks for the brand new Hard Rock Hotel in South Lake Tahoe. Scusa Italian Ristorante, with breads and desserts made fresh in-house daily, is a solid dinner choice.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The spirit of the Old West is alive and kickin’ up its cowboy boots in Jackson Hole. After skiing amidst the stunning beauty of the Grand Tetons, round up your posse and head over to the popular Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Then swing your partner over to one of the many art galleries or restaurants.
Enjoy happy trails—2,500 acres of them—at the main ski area, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, only a half hour from the Jackson Hole Airport. The slope-side Four Seasons Jackson Hole has long been a favorite choice for lodging. Fireplace in your room? Check. Heated outdoor pool and hot tubs? You got it. Add in a world-class spa, decorate the hotel with native stone and Navajo carpets, and you have luxury combined with casual chic.
There’s no need to rent a car. When you’re ready to explore downtown Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park, Four Seasons puts you in the drivers seat with an awesome amenity. You get to test drive a Mercedes SUV for one day during your stay, free of charge.
Keystone, Colorado
There’s a flurry of great mountains, but the most convenient, affordable option is flying into Denver and choosing a nearby ski resort. The closest is Keystone, one of Colorado’s most family-friendly, which is 90 minutes from the Denver airport. If you spend two nights in the mainly condo-style Keystone lodging, kids 12 and under ski for free. Plus, you’ll get a full kitchen and washer/ dryer, another sweet perk for families. Lone Eagle and The Timbers are two suitable ski-in/ski-out condo options.
From Keystone, take the free Summit Stage bus over to nearby Breckenridge, which was settled in the 1859 Gold Rush and has the feel of a vintage Western movie. The Gold Pan Saloon is a great place to hang out in this mining town.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
Two hours west of Denver, Beaver Creek is one of Colorado’s most upscale ski resorts. Freshly baked cookies offered at the mountain’s base each afternoon amplify the joy of breathtaking views and great runs. The Pines Lodge, a ski-in/ski-out boutique hotel decorated in alpine chic, is perfect for a romantic getaway. Its elegant Grouse Mountain Grill, specializing in farm-to-table Colorado-centric cooking, has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Beaver Creek Valley. After dinner, soak in the scenery from the hot tub, perched high above the surrounding pines and aspens.
If your perfect hotel includes a kids club, choose Westin Riverfront Beaver Creek. There’s an on-site gondola, ski rental and valet, heated lap pool and Jacuzzis, world-class spa, a hip restaurant serving upscale Mexican cuisine, and a popular après-ski scene.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
The Grand Geneva Resort in Lake Geneva, Wisc., is the perfect spot for beginning skiers. It’s not the Rocky Mountains, but there are three chair lifts, 18 runs, and a terrain park if you want to give snowboarding a whirl. After a day on the slopes, warm up with a hot toddy around the outdoor firepit at Embers Terrace. Let the kids dive into the fun at Moose Mountain Falls Waterpark while the adults chill out in the world-class spa. Time to hit the slopes!
