Hit the Slopes
During the height of ski season, the most popular ski resorts can feel like snow-covered theme parks, complete with crowded eateries and long lines. If you’re up for trying something new, read on to discover three lesser-known ski destinations that will have you sliding down the slopes instead of waiting in line at the lift. Whether you prefer to ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or sip cocoa in the lodge, one of these fabulous winter playgrounds is sure to please.
Winter Park Resort
Winter Park, Colorado
Why Ski Here? Millions flock to Colorado every year to enjoy the pristine snow and winter sports in the Rocky Mountains. Aspen, Vail, and Telluride are known the world over as top-notch ski resorts. But, where do Coloradoans ski? The answer is Winter Park Resort. With an average of 29 feet of annual snowfall, powder lovers can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing amidst breath-taking views. Since it’s the closest Colorado ski destination from Denver International Airport, it’s a popular choice for those flying in for a ski holiday, as well.
Where to Eat: The dining options in Winter Park Village offer satisfying fare for the snow-wearied skier. A local favorite is the Cheeky Monk Belgian Beer Café. Here diners can enjoy comfort food with creative consideration while taking in the magnificent views of Parry Peak on the restaurant’s spacious patio. If you’re in the mood for finer dining, you’ll find just the thing to satisfy your après-ski cravings at Fontenot’s Gourmet Seafood Restaurant. Reservations are strongly suggested to experience the unique combination of high-end dining with a nod towards New Orleans. Without a doubt, the don’t-miss dining establishment in Winter Park is the Lodge at Sunspot, perched high atop the mountain and accessible only by gondola. Reservations are required to relish the 5-course dinner of “authentic Colorado cuisine” served only on Friday and Saturday nights.
Where to Sleep: Winter Park Resort has a handful of slope side lodges located just steps from the lifts in one direction and shopping and dining in the other. Families and groups will be comfortable staying at the Fraser Crossing and Founders Pointe properties, which offer guests the option of up to three bedroom suites. The Zephyr Mountain Lodge is the closest property to both the lifts and the shops of Winter Park Resort village. Ski-in/ski-out options add to the convenience of this beautiful complex. If you’d prefer to venture out of the “Village,” Woodspur Lodge will reward you with incredible views, a communal cocktail lounge, and a library. You’ll also enjoy full breakfast and dinner service included in your basic rate.
Mount Bachelor
Bend, Oregon
Why Ski Here? Nearly 3,700 acres of terrain surround the treeless, conical summit of Mount Bachelor, considered by many to be the finest ski peak in the Northwest. Only 20 minutes from Bend and Sunriver, Mt. Bachelor is famous for its deep, dry powder, which makes it just as appealing to Olympic hopefuls as it is to families seeking winter fun. There’s room for every interest and ability on this mountain, which is served by a network of ten lifts, seven of which are high-speed quads. Snowshoeing tours, sled dog rides and Nordic skiing are also offered on site.
Where to Eat: Fuel up for a full day on the slopes at McKay Cottage Restaurant, where the aroma of warm muffins, homemade scones, cinnamon rolls and pecan sticky buns greet you at the door. If you’re craving pizza for a mid-day pick-me-up, Pisano’s Pizzeria offers a little slice of New York-style heaven on a plate. Countless reviewers, including native New Yorkers, have called owner Ed’s pies the “best pizza ever.” To top off your time in Bend with a special dining experience, reserve a table in the cozy, craftsman-style bungalow that houses Ariana’s Restaurant. This fine-dining bistro is chef owned and operated with an emphasis on seasonal, organic, and sustainable practices. Delicious dishes, an intimate atmosphere, and exceptional service make Ariana’s one of the most highly rated restaurants in Bend.
Where to Sleep: To experience all that the charming town of Bend has to offer, the location of the Oxford Hotel can’t be beat. Guests will enjoy lush accommodations and generous amenities in this gorgeously designed, eco-friendly, pet-friendly boutique hotel. For an out-of-the-ordinary lodging experience, reviewers rave about McMenamin’s Old St. Francis, a former Catholic school re-imagined as a quirky and comfortable hotel. Before you retire to one of 19 richly appointed guestrooms (formerly classrooms), you can spend an entertaining evening in the attached movie theater, which offers at-your-seat drinks and dinner service.
Blue Mountain Ski Resort
Blue Mountain, Ontario
Why Ski Here? While it isn’t news for powder-loving Canadians, most Americans are just being turned on to the incredible ski destinations that lie north of the lower 48. Blue Mountain Ski Resort in Ontario is just one example of a well-kept Canadian secret slope. Avid skiers can be assured of consistent quality runs because Blue Mountain uses the largest snowmaking operation in Canada. With 251 skiable acres, this is no small operation. There are 36 runs ranging from beginner level to extremely advanced. Twenty-five runs are lit and can be skied at night. In addition to world-class skiing, you can enjoy a number of winter activities at Blue Mountain, including horse-drawn sleigh rides and guided winter caving tours.
Where to Eat: Blue Mountain offers a tasty array of dining experiences just minutes (or even seconds) from the slopes. Grab a table on the patio of Copper Blues Bar and Grill to watch your friends and family swoosh down the mountain while you sip a Coppertini and munch on mouthwatering appetizers. If you can tear yourself away from a morning of incredible skiing, the Sunday brunch will make it worth your while. Tholos Restaurant, also located in the Blue Mountain Village Center, transports guests from the snow and ice of Ontario to a Mediterranean island, with authentic Greek décor and delicacies. For a more laid-back dining experience, pull up a chair at Windy O’Neill’s Irish Pub, offering hearty fare and genuine Irish hospitality to warm you up after a chilly day on the chairlifts.
Where to Sleep: Hundreds of condos are available within Blue Mountain Village or just a short shuttle ride from the mountain, and aside from peak weekends (like the holidays, which we’ve just past), there are definitely deals to be found. Check out the Blue Mountain Lodging website to start your condo hunt. For those who appreciate some pampering at the end of a long day of skiing, the Westin Trillium House offers everything you need to relax and rejuvenate. Each room is equipped with an opulent terrace and gas-burning fireplace to help you unwind. Book an in-room spa experience to get your achy muscles ready for round two on the slopes.
Click here to discover four more fabulous mountain getaways.