10 Magical Ski Destinations for a Safe Winter Getaway

Editor's note: As we continue to practice social distancing, we encourage our readers to check the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date information on how to safely travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Skiing is a great way to get some fresh air this winter season, and resorts around the country are taking care to make sure the experience is safe and enjoyable. Epic Pass holders get priority access at participating mountains. Additionally, face coverings are now required in all indoor settings and must remain on for gondola rides. Skiing with buddies? Make sure to make dining reservations at mountain restaurants where vaccinations are required for skiers age 12 and older. Now that you have an idea of what to expect, discover these magical spots that offer some *chill* accommodations for your next ski-cation, below.

1. Stowe, Vermont

Surrounded by Mount Mansfield—the highest peak in Vermont with an elevation of 4,395 feet—the New England ski destination has more lifts than any other resort on the East Coast.

Stay at Edson Hill

Surrounded by the scenic Vermont countryside, Edson Hill's boutique accommodations are located just 10 minutes away from some of the East Coast's best ski terrain. The 22-room inn boasts the perfect balance of eclectic antique decor and cozy contemporary features—like fireplaces and deep soaking tubs—to keep warm after a brisk day on the mountain. If you'd rather not venture out to eat, Edson Hill offers a casual fine dining restaurant and a tavern area with the option to order room service for you and your ski buds.

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2. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

With 133 official trails for all ski levels, Jackson Hole Mountain spans 2,500 acres and boasts the legendary Corbet Chute, where expert skiers can flex their technical skills on the 45-degree drop with permission from Ski Patrol.

Stay at Caldera House

With spacious residential style suites, Caldera House’s accommodations offer a naturally secluded experience ideal for a family or small group. The open kitchen and dining area in each room means you can avoid the stress of large-party reservations and instead enjoy the patios with fire pits and home theaters—perfect for evening entertainment. Caldera's location in Teton Village means skiing is right outside your door. If you’re not a skier, the hotel provides winter experiences like vintage sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and dog sledding on a reservation basis.

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3. Bachelor Gulch, Colorado

Beaver Creek’s scenic trails are less crowded than nearby mountains. With 150 trails and an average annual snowfall of 27 ft., the area is an idyllic place to ski out west and has several dedicated sections for beginners.

Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch

Tucked into an exclusive enclave on one side of Beaver Creek Mountain, the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch provides a safe, socially-distant getaway with direct access to a private ski lift. Several open air spaces are studded with heat lamps and comfy seating arrangements, allowing guests to have a variety of dining and après ski options, including a raw bar and an outdoor taco truck. For some RR, indulge in the guest-only outdoor pools and hot tubs after a rigorous day on the slopes.

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4. Park City, Utah

Home to the renowned Sundance Film Festival, Park City Mountain is the largest ski resort in the U.S., spanning 7,300 acres of terrain with 330 trails. The slopes also offer unique ski-in-ski-out access to the historic downtown district.

Stay at the Pendry Park City

Located in the heart of Canyons Village in the center of Park City Mountain, Pendry Park City's brand new resort is a modern "California-inspired" take on the traditional alpine lodge. Warm design elements make guest rooms feel homey, while floor-to- ceiling windows and curated artworks provide a savvy sensibility. Not only does the prime location provide skiers with breezy ski-in-skin-out access, but it's home to the area's one-and-only rooftop pool and bar.

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5. Telluride, Colorado

Known for less crowds and no lift lines, the slopes of southwestern Colorado will feel secluded and offer well-balanced terrain for every level of skiing. Telluride’s Gold Hill chutes offer some of North America’s steepest ski slopes for adventure seekers.

Stay at Madeline Hotel Residences

Newly redesigned to embody a modern mountain resort, Madeline Hotel Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection is located at 10,540 feet with ski-in, ski-out access. The new Timber Room has an indoor-outdoor après ski bar and lounge area, where guests can cozy up after a day on the mountain. Another new après option invites guests to rejuvenate tired muscles in the recovery lounge, equipped with Normatec recovery systems and percussion message devices. The on-site Black Iron Kitchen + Bar’s laidback “come as you are” policy means you can refuel in your ski gear.

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6. Big Sky, Montana

With an annual snowfall of 33+ feet per season, Big Sky offers some of the best skiing in America with 5,800 acres of skiable terrain—great for beginners and expert skiers alike.

Stay at Montage Big Sky

After officially opening its doors on December 15, 2021, Montage Big Sky is the area's first high-end, year-round resort, modeled after classic North American lodges. Ski-in-ski-out access and a 10,000-square-foot spa makes Montage ideal for both on-the-slope and après ski action. Alpenglow—the official name for the area's vibrant pink hued mountain sunsets—is completely visible from the comforts of Montage's window-lined living room space. If you're not skiing, other outdoor pursuits include tours of Yellowstone National Park (this year marks the park's 150th anniversary!) and dog sledding. 

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7. Deer Valley, Utah

Located right outside of Park City, Deer Valley will transport you to a secluded ski-only (sorry, snowboarders!) resort that feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of the main attractions in town.

Stay at The Goldener Hirsch

Newly acquired by the acclaimed Auberge Resorts Collection, this family-owned property has undergone an extensive renovation for the 2022 ski season. The quaint 18-room inn embodies the spirit of an Austrian ski chalet—complete with vaulted ceilings, antique furniture pieces, and no shortage of wood-burning fireplaces. Nestled into the mountain, the property offers immediate access to the perfectly-manicured slopes. After a day of powder, return to Goldener Hirsch's restaurant for warming Bavarian-influenced fare, like Wagu beef bavette and crispy wiener schnitzel.

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8. Vail, Colorado

With a reported 300 days of blue skies per year, the town of Vail, surrounded by the Gore and Sawatch mountain ranges, is often referred to as North America's premier mountain resort. Historically known for its posh ski crowd, the area is becoming a destination for younger, more laidback winter travelers.

Stay at The Hythe

The newly-opened Hythe hotel offers a modern refuge amidst Vail's adventurous spirit, and it's located just a short walk from the area's central ski lifts. Relax in guest rooms equipped with fireplaces and picturesque mountain views, find time to unwind in the Himalayan Salt Therapy lounge, and fortify your inner foodie at one of the four onsite restaurants that offer dishes influenced by the wild mountain landscape.

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9. Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt's car-free ski town boasts charming chalet architecture, whimsical winding alleyways, and the iconic Matterhorn mountain. The destination is famous for its extra-long ski runs and all-level terrains, and just launched a new ski lift with an Alpine Crossing that connects Switzerland to Italy.

Stay at Hotel Schweizerhof Zermatt

Reopening its doors in 2019 after a complete redesign, this chalet-style hotel offers a cozy, modern setting for a bucket list ski trip. Quirky touches like cow bells, wooden walking sticks, and Matterhorn-adorned bedding creates a homey vibe that can only be achieved in the Alps. Take an afternoon to nourish yourself at Schweizerhof's state-of-the-art spa. Later, indulge in raclette and fondue at the hotel's onsite restaurant: the Cheese Factory.

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10. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado

Once a bustling silver mining town, Aspen Snowmass celebrates its 75th birthday this year. The area is comprised of four mountains and two towns with more than 5,500 acres of terrain, plus acclaimed restaurants, shops, and experiences for the jet-setting ski crowd.

Stay at The Little Nell

Whether you're looking to take part in the area's world-class skiing or you're more of the aprés persuasion, Little Nell is in close proximity to all of the action. The boutique design gives off a homey feeling—think: contemporary cabin studded with luxuries, like a fine art collection and an in-house wine cellar. In town, designer Gabriela Hearst has a pop-up shop featuring an abundance of knits and cashmeres spun in Uruguay by the nonprofit organization, Manos del Uruguay. The Snow Lodge Aspen is also back for its second season, offering live music, a cocktail lounge, and a restaurant led by Executive Chef Mark Connell.

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