There are many different components that go into planning a ski vacation, some of which require pleasing non-skiers in the group who enjoy such activities as tubing, snowshoeing or ice skating.
Contrary to popular belief, ski vacations are not just for avid skiers. In fact, ski vacations come in many different shapes and sizes. For seasoned skiers, a mountain getaway means plenty of time on the slopes, time for apres ski, perhaps a visit to the spa and early to bed in order to refresh for the next day of downhill excitement. However, for others in the group who don’t want to spend the entire time skiing, or not ski at all, the majority of ski resorts offer a wide variety of non-skiing activities, including tubing, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobile tours and more. Travelers can choose from the following four types of ski vacations:
The All American Ski Vacation
There are 480 ski resorts in the U.S. according to the National Ski Areas Association, a number that has remained relatively steady over the years. With so many ski resorts to choose from, skiers can customize their vacation to fit their specific needs.
Gunstock, New Hampshire
Gunstock is best known for its proximity to major populations of skiers and snowboarders, and for the breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains beyond. It’s a challenge to keep eyes on the trail ahead instead of the changing vista – especially with a snowcapped Mount Washington commanding the horizon. “Gunstock skis bigger than it looks,” is a common refrain heard from visitors. Gunstock is known for its exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, and families feel an added sense of safety with all trails funneling to a single, expansive base area. Another aspect that sets Gunstock apart is the classic feel of the resort experience. While Gunstock offers every modern convenience imaginable, including RFID lift access cards that can be reloaded online (go direct-to-lift with no need to stand in a ticket window line) and new EV charging stations for guests arriving in electric cars, Gunstock offers guests an authentic New England ski and ride experience.
Camelback Resort, Pennsylvania
Camelback, an iconic Pocono Mountain resort, features 14 lifts serving 39 trails ensuring efficient access to a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders. Among its newer additions are the Black Bear 6, introduced in 2022 as a high-speed, six-person enclosed lift. Enhancing the guest experience even further, the Black Bear 6 now features a digital screen at its front, displaying a trail map, lift updates and other essential ski information. These modern lifts and added amenities elevate the resort’s capacity to provide guests with a more enjoyable and seamless experience on the slopes. Camelback Resort boasts one of the largest snow tubing parks in the country, offering over 40 snow tubing lanes for daytime and nighttime fun. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations at Camelback Lodge, an eight-story mountain modern-designed hotel with 453 guest suites, featuring many dining choices including ski-in/ski-out restaurants and fitness center.
Multi-Adventures Ski Vacation
It’s quite common for any ski vacation to include non-skiers or those who don’t want to spend their entire day on the slopes. Fortunately for these travelers, the vast majority of ski resorts offer a wide array of non-skiing activities.
Tamarack Resort, Idaho
Tamarack Resort is a blend of rustic charm and modern luxuries. Guests can escape to nature with the backdrop of the West Central Mountains, overlooking Lake Cascade, while not having to sacrifice the upscale amenities the resort offers. Tamarack features 1,530 acres of skiable terrain on 2,800 vertical feet. Discover 50 named runs featuring everything from open bowls, steeps, cornices and high-speed corduroy groomers to six named glades, natural tree-skiing areas, challenging backcountry and three terrain parks. In addition to world-class skiing, Tamarack’s Nordic trail system features nearly 20 miles of paths for classic or skate skis, snowshoes or fat bikes to wind through open meadows and woodlands while enjoying mountain-high views in every direction. The dog-friendly trails are groomed daily and are open every day from dawn to dusk. Guided ice-fishing adventures are available on nearby Lake Cascade, where anglers can fish for jumbo perch, bass, rainbow trout and other species.
Beyond the Borders Ski Vacation
Ski travelers often opt for downhill experiences outside of the States. Canada and Europe offer excellent ski resorts ranging from the sublime to local ski areas in smaller towns.
Banff Sunshine Village, Banff, Canada
Banff Sunshine Village, nestled 7,200 feet up in the Canadian Rockies, spans over 3,300 acres across three mountains: Goat’s Eye Mountain, Lookout Mountain and Mount Standish. With expansive terrain, excellent snow coverage and sweeping alpine vistas, it remains a top North American ski resort. Guests enjoy slopeside luxury at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge and vibrant après ski options for a seamless alpine experience. New to Banff Sunshine this season, Super Angel Luxury Express is set to soar skiers and riders up Lookout Mountain in luxury. Super Angel LX will be Banff Sunshine’s second heated chairlift out of its fleet of nine chairlifts, featuring a yellow protective bubble to keep skiers and snowboarders warm as they carve up Banff Sunshine Village.
Test Your Mettle Ski Vacation
The experienced skier is always looking for challenges that are above what they can get at their home ski resort. Whether it’s testing their mettle on slopes that once held Olympic skiers or glade skiing through wooded areas, these expert skiers crave downhill excitement.
Deer Valley Resort, Utah
Deer Valley Resort is a wonder to behold. With a vertical drop of 3,040 feet, 2,342 skiable acres, 930 acres of glade skiing and 122 runs, Deer Valley offers more than enough challenges for all levels of skiers and boarders. Only 36 miles from Salt Lake City, Deer Valley hosted the alpine slalom, freestyle aerials and freestyle moguls events during the 2002 Winter Olympics. The resort is home to numerous restaurants, including Cast & Cut Seafood Dining, where a bounty of sustainably sourced seafood is the anchor to your evening. Deer Valley invites you to ski with one of six Olympic snowsport athletes this winter. These highly successful athletes are available to ski with individuals, families and groups for exclusive half- and full-day memorable adventures at the resort. Deer Valley Creative Academy offers a fusion of culinary and crafting experiences that will ignite your senses. Indulge your love for food and libations with a diverse selection of cooking and wine pairing classes.
