April 20th, 2023

Winter is coming and alongside it is our excitement to get back on the slopes. Below we’ve listed our favorite destinations in North America to embrace the cool and shred some powder. Being outside doesn’t mean sacrificing luxury, as these resorts are gorgeous places for all to appreciate the beauty of winter. The good news: ski slopes are fully operating this year and welcoming guests to ride their stunning mountains. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best ski hotels to take your loved ones.

Editors note: My family was a huge ski family; when I was young, the vacations I most recall was going from icy Minnesota to other cold and snowy towns. It still makes me laugh, picturing my sweet mother, who has an absolute aversion to anything cold or wet, sitting in the lodge directly in front of the fire while she waited for us to be done skiing just so she could help us all slip into the hot tub. While adventure sports are not for everyone, these vacations facilitate warm holiday memories with hot cocoa and a lot of life and joy. Try tubing, ice fishing, or even dog sledding to keep spirits high and wonder flowing.

The hotels featured below are “Mother approved,” meaning everyone in your family will enjoy their vacation, not only the ones stoked to ski. With great spa amenities and luxurious interior design, we grantee high spirits all around.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Where to Stay: Four Seasons Luxury Ski Lodge

This elegant stay was named one of Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Hotels due to the ambiance, attention to detail, and most importantly; impeccable location. This ski-in ski-out resort offers visitors the ultimate haven, with unmatched spa packages and a covered and heated ski deck with panoramic views of the mountains, why would anyone leave?

The Four Seasons Luxury Lodge also offers inspiring adventure opportunities like; snowmobiling through Yellowstone National Park or wildlife watching where you may encounter bears, bison, elk, or wolves. With a plethora of rooms to choose from, or private retreats available, this lodge is the pinnacle of a ski lovers’ dream escape.

Ski Conditions

Jackson Hole opened to visitors on Thanksgiving Day! Masks will be required indoors, but outdoor spaces will run normally (no face masks needed in lines or on lifts). With 133 runs on the map and 2,500 acres of inbound terrain, any level skier will enjoy the terrain offered here and lessons are offered!

Activities

1. Snow Mobiling
2. Heli Skiing
3. Ice Skating
4. Sleigh Rides
5. Winter Bike Tours
6. Paragliding
7. Wildlife Tours
8. Four Protected Lands Nearby
9. Snowshoeing
10. Spa Menu
11. Elevated Dining Experience

Beaver Creek Mountain, Colorado

Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulf

Situated right along The Eagle River Valley, this resort offers unbeatable views and luxurious service + amenities. This is a beautiful way to spend the holidays, as The Ritz Carlton goes all out with their décor, events, and high spirit. Their spa and dining roster is impressive, including yoga classes and an assortment of flavor options for après ski cravings.

Of course, this stay is ski-in ski-out, but the location offers more privacy than a typical ski stay. They also have fantastic kids’ accommodations, with a ski nanny or day camp available to keep the kids busy and entertained.

Ski Conditions

Beaver Creek is known for its pristine conditions, offering 1,815 acres of skiable land and 149 trails. The resort will open the lifts on November 24th and welcomes guests of all levels, offering lessons to beginners and tours for those who want an insider look at the best trials.

Activities

1. Vail: only about 20 mimtues from Beaver Creek, ski the infamous vail resort for a day or just go in to check out the adorable town. Vail always goes big for the holiday season with markets and celebrations.
2. Zip Lines
3. Tubing Hills
4. Hot Springs: Natural mineral pools are a Colorado treat. Soak in the hot waters after a cool day.
5. Snow Shoeing
6. Hiking
7. Shopping
8. Incredible Dining Experiences
9. Spa
10. Dog Sledding
11. Ice Skating

Whistler, Canada

Where to Stay: The Fairmont Chateau, Whistler

“Explore your passions for adventure and relaxation in Whistler year round. Visit the award-winning Fairmont Chateau Whistler resort in British Columbia! Nestled at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, Fairmont Chateau Whistler defines mountain luxury. With true ski-in and ski-out convenience and on-site golf course, the classic elegance of this landmark Whistler hotel offers a modern alpine setting for unsurpassed guest service, exceptional dining and full resort amenities.”

This resort is the closest we can offer to a true winter wonderland. It is magical, pristine and luxury all at the same time. Have you seen photos of jaw-dropping winter scenes with glorious mountains and emerald green trees you can almost smell? This resort gives you that unmatched wanderlust, while also providing a cozy atmosphere to rest. This palace will stay on all our minds this winter season.

Ski Conditions:

This terrain has plenty of options for beginners, but really exceeds in the intermediate departments, offering 55% of the mountain for this level to explore. Opening day was November 25th, and runs until May, however this resort also offers stellar activities year-round. The longest run is 7 miles, and Whistler has 270 trails and 27 lifts. We don’t predict anyone will get bored with the unlimited adventures waiting here.

Other Activities:

1. The Fairmont Chateau is known for it’s spa; with a great menu of services, these treatments make a lovely gift to melt away after ski days,
2. 15 minute drive downtown
3. Snowshoe and Mountain Tours
4. Rainbow Falls Hike
5. Outdoor Skating
6. Brewery Tours
7. Cultural Center
8. Axe Throwing
9. Golf: 18 Hole Course
10. Heli-Skiing
11. Fondue Tour by Snowmobile
12. Dog Sledding
13. Back Country Skiing

Park City, Utah

Where to Stay: Stein Erikson Residences and Lodge

With rental homes and a top notch- lodge, Stein Erikson properties is the leading ski luxury stay in the area. I mean the pictures alone can speak for themselves, but this option is a stunning opportunity for real fans of outdoor adventure.

“Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley is pleased to welcome guests to enjoy legendary services and accommodations, golf and skiing and recreation. At this property, guests enjoy ski-in / ski-out access to Deer Valley Resort, stellar dining, and a 23,000-square-foot spa, making Stein’s a premiere year-round resort destination. Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley, has become a legend in its own right, offering guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life through luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, legendary service, and year-round recreation. More than 145 stone fireplaces dazzle throughout the property, many en-suite, adding coziness and warmth to the cathedral ceilings in the well-appointed common areas.”

Snow Conditions:

116 trails are offered at the world famous Park City Mountain. Night skiing is available here, so those who wake up late can still enjoy the snow! The lifts opened to the public on November 20th, and they have a history of unmatched snow conditions.

Alternative Activities:

1. Bobsledding
2. All the classics (Snowshoeing, tubing, skating)
3. Dog sledding
4. Horse-drawn Sleigh Rides
5. Hot Air Balloon Rides
6. Snowmobiling
7. Fly Fishing
8. Bowling
9. Museums
10. Nature Reserve
11. Sundance Film festival
12. Cross Country Skiing