Snowboard, downhill, parks and halfpipes for beginner and pro
Mammoth Mountain was chosen as the official training area for the US contestants at the Olympic Games. The professional will also take on Mammoth at the finale of the popular snowboard tournament, Sprint U.S. Grand Prix. Yes, you can ski in sunny California.
The ski resort’s Adventure Zones with halfpipes, terrain parks and not least the Dosci Park for beginners have been extended this year with even more activities for skiers on all levels, and due to the training for the Olympics June Mountain will be re-opened this year making room for both professionals and amateur skier.
The airport is only a 10-minute drive from Mammoth Mountain ski resort with connections to San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. The ski season lasts from November all the way to June – and you can ski in sunny California.
Aspen, Colorado
One of the best resorts in America – if not the world. Here the seasonal snowfall is more than 7m and far more glitz and glamour than other ski resorts. Wide slopes near the town and more challenging terrain on Aspen Mountain
In terms of “Winter Wonderland” status, few destinations can compare to Aspen. This scenic mountain town is straight out of a snow globe, featuring picturesque mountain chalets hugged by the soaring Colorado Rockies. Of course, the main draw here is skiing, and there are four premier ski areas nearby. But there’s more to Aspen than winter sports. With high-end shopping, fascinating museums, funky galleries and fun festivals, it might be a struggle to make it to the slopes.
Vail, Colorado
Normally you will wake up to reveal a mass of fresh powder and cloudless blue sky. The average annual snowfall in Vail is almost 9m. Head to Back Bowls where there are runs for skiers of all abilities.
Sandwiched between the Gore Mountain Range to the north and the Sawatch Mountain Range to the south, this narrow valley is home to several notable ski areas, including the country’s largest single-mountain resort. Jagged peaks, miles of slopes and perfect powder attract thousands of visitors every year. That being said, this is a hard city for those on a shoestring vacation budget. The scenery is accompanied by bank-busting hotel rates and lift tickets.
Tremblant, Canada
One of the closest and most affordable transatlantic resorts. The flight time from Europe is seven hours. Get to Tremblant easily from Montréal or take a flight directly to Mont-Tremblant International Airport. Covering more than 30 acres of ground, Tremblant snow parks have been rates as one of the best in North America. Suited to beginners and intermediate skiers, but there are more challenging runs as well.
Banff, Canada
There are plenty of possibilities from the small town of Banff. Two other resorts close by – Norquay and Sunshine Village. Snow conditions good at Sunshine Village. The town has lots of places to eat. Most visitors hire a car to get about.
Lake Louise, Canada
Thanks to hosting of the Men’s World Cup Downhill race each season makes this place a safe bet for pre-Christmas skiing. Head high for the best slops – and views of the vast wilderness.
Spectacular scenery awaits at Lake Louise with uniquely beautiful terrain that is both vast and varied. The wilderness is pristine and inspirational. Located in the heart of majestic, historic Banff National Park. With 4200 skiable acres, Lake Louise is one of the largest ski resorts in North America.
More inspiration: Lake Tahoe for romance
