Flashy ski resorts like Whistler and Vail might get all the eye with their Insta-friendly après-ski cocktails and heated bubble chair lifts. At these mega-resorts, you will get lavish spa remedies and a ski valet to hold your gear – however what you gained’t get is an genuine Alpine expertise.
Fortunately for individuals who don’t want a private butler, there are many no-frills, low-key, classic ski resorts in North America. Mellow and unpretentious, these ski areas really feel homey as an alternative of hectic. Embrace the true spirit of the mountains at these nostalgic ski resorts, from New England havens constructed within the Nice Melancholy to West Coast vintage-chic hangouts.
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1. Camden Snow Bowl (Camden, Maine)
Nestled 4 miles from the coast in charming Midcoast Maine, the Snow Bowl is the one ski vacation spot on the East Coast with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Household-friendly and community-owned, the small ski space options 20 runs, a terrain park, and cross-country snowboarding — good for newbies. There’s additionally a classic throwback wood toboggan chute, which hosts the U.S. Nationwide Toboggan Championships each February. Tobogganers sled out onto the ice of frozen Hosmer Pond, the place you may also skate and play pick-up hockey video games.
2. Alta Ski Space (Alta, Utah)
No snowboarders allowed. Retro-chic Alta is for purists of the alpine expertise. One of many oldest ski resorts in America, it opened in 1939, when raise tickets had been 25¢. You’ll discover 5 vintage-hip lodges on the base of the mountain, together with the unique Alta Lodge. Due to its excessive altitude within the Wasatch Mountains, Alta will get extra snowfall than virtually each different ski resort in Utah (over 500 inches per 12 months). Recognized for its mild and powder snow, it’s no surprise snowboarders have sued (unsuccessfully) for entry to the epic terrain.
3. Mount Ashland (Ashland, Oregon)
Immerse your self in Ashland’s folksy but cultured vibe at this non-profit ski space. The eclectic enclave close to the California border hosts the Oregon Shakespeare Competition. However the slopes close by aren’t any slouch both, with Shakespeare-inspired trails like Sonnet, Romeo, and Avon. The mountain’s historic lodge additionally honors the Bard with its Tudor-style design. Take pleasure in distinctive group occasions all through the season, together with Bavarian Night time, Dummy Downhill, and the Midwinter Jam Collection.
4. Black Mountain (Jackson, New Hampshire)
Step again in time and uncover idyllic New England at this hidden gem resort, which is nearly 90 years previous. Off the radar even for a lot of locals, its 1,100-foot vertical faces Mount Washington for dramatic views. Black Mountain was the location of the nation’s first overhead chairlift, and also you would possibly swear you’re using it as you slowly chug as much as the highest. Tranquil and comfortable, the independently-owned ski space is a perfect antidote for the chaos of recent life. You should definitely seize a cup of sizzling cocoa on the base lodge.
5. Homewood Mountain (Tahoe, California)
Boasting phenomenal views of Lake Tahoe from each path, this Nineteen Sixties-era ski resort is good for individuals who need to keep away from the crowds at close by Northstar, Squaw, and Heavenly. The classic vibe right here is decidedly completely different from its fancy-pants neighbors (and the raise tickets are cheaper), however you’ll discover the identical scrumptious powder and in depth snowfall. Don’t put this one off—plans are in growth for a brand new ski village with extra lifts and a resort.
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