10 Incredibly Overlooked Places to Ski in the US

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Last week I wrote about the best off-the-beaten-path ski destinations in Europe.

Since then, I’ve received many questions about which are those less-known ski destinations in North America.

I thought I knew them all, but it seems, once again (as my wife wisely says), I don’t.

It’s a fact that when you think about ski vacations, places like Aspen and Vail usually come to mind.

But there are many hidden gems out there that provide amazing powdery slopes, luxurious accommodations, and one-of-a-kind experiences that are way more than just the usual.

So, I’m more than excited to share 10 incredibly overlooked gems for skiing. Spots that mix the excitement of the slopes with a touch of pampering and luxury, making winter truly magical.

But before we dive into the list, here is this week’s most important news in the luxury travel realm.

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10 Incredibly Overlooked Places to Ski in the US

Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico

Taos Ski Valley in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico is evidence of the pure pleasures of skiing. Here, technical skiing and cultural diversity coexist with challenging terrain meeting Southwestern warmth.

Thoughtfully crafted ski-in/ski-out property, the Blake aptly embodies this spirit; nearby geothermal springs and the UNESCO-approved Taos Pueblo offer interesting alternative activities.

Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana

Set against Glacier Country, Montana's Whitefish Resort epitomizes understated excellence. Its relaxed atmosphere and powder-rich slopes produce an experience that seems both sophisticated and really friendly.

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake improves this strategy by providing lakefront luxury that never takes front stage over the surrounding natural beauty.

Sugarloaf, Maine

Sugarloaf offers a convincing response from the East Coast to Western skiing supremacy. The biggest ski area in the area, this Maine treasure blends real New England character with challenging terrain.

While 45 North's locally sourced cuisine aptly caps each day's adventures, the slope-side Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel offers different ways to experience the area's appeal.

Northstar California, Lake Tahoe

In Lake Tahoe, Northstar California quietly shines in its dedication to perfect grooming and refined comfort.

Offering advanced facilities that complement rather than compete with the natural surroundings, the mid-mountain Ritz-Carlton epitomizes this approach.

Grand Targhee Resort, Wyoming

The best kept secret of powder skiing is Grand Targhee. While The Lodge at Bronze Buffalo Ranch offers a peaceful haven complete with restorative hot springs, just beyond Jackson Hole's shadow it delivers regular snowfall and uncrowded slopes.

Big Sky, Montana

Montana's Big Sky embodies its name with its expansive terrain and minimal lift lines. With first-rate dining and service, the Montage enhances the experience and produces a venue that is aspirational and approachable.

Mad River Glen, Vermont

Through its cooperative ownership and skier-only policy, Mad River Glen preserves the pure customs of skiing. With their elegant interpretation of New England hospitality, the Relais & Châteaux-certified Pitcher Inn wonderfully complements this real approach.

Mount Hood Meadows, Oregon

Mount Hood Meadows deftly combines Oregon's outdoor energy with its sophistication in wine-growing. Offering luxury lodging that would be perfect for both alpine and viticultural exploration, the neighboring Allison Inn & Spa epitomizes this mix.

Alyeska Resort, Alaska

Alyeska Resort shows the most dramatic skiing in Alaska. Here you might find yourself carving turns under the Northern Lights before rising to Seven Glaciers Restaurant for panoramic dining fit for the magnificent surroundings.

Bonus: Red Mountain Resort, British Columbia, Canada

British Columbia's Red Mountain Resort provides a striking reminder of skiing's basic pleasures for those ready to travel north of the border: large terrain, plenty of powder, and an authentically Canadian welcome, all elegantly supported by The Josie Hotel's modern comforts.

These locations provide more than just a vacation as the snow falls and winter activities take center stage. They are invitations to enjoy winter in an abundant and especially personal way.

Every place, from the calm slopes of Vermont to the pure air of Montana's mountains, has a narrative.

These hidden treasures redefine the art of winter travel, whether your trip is for fresh powder, leisure in a world-class spa, or a gourmet meal fireside.

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