Do you think ski trips will have to wait until early winter? Think again! Ski and snowboard bums who can’t wait until next winter for their snow fix are still spoiled for choice. In North America alone, there are more than a handful of places where there’s plenty of snow to go around (without the raucous crowds on the après ski scene).
Here are some of the ski vacation destinations that still get (or retain) plenty of snow:
Snowbird, Utah
With 2,500 acres of skiable area and an average of 500 inches of snowfall (which often lasts until May), it’s no wonder Snowbird ranks second on the list of best ski resorts in North America. But Snowbird doesn’t just count on its abundant snow. The resort is located just 29 miles from the Salt Lake International Airport and 24 miles from downtown Salt Lake City, making it very accessible to skiers from anywhere in the US. The resort also has a huge aerial tramway, which could take you as high as 11,000 feet in just 8 minutes.
Squaw Valley, Calif.
Squaw Valley in spring guarantees the best of both worlds for avid skiers: plenty of sun and tons of snow through mid-May (depending on Lake Tahoe snow packs). The complex also has quite a bit of history. It hosted the VII Winter Olympic Games in 1960, and is also considered the birthplace of the American Extreme Ski Movement. And you’ll be glad to know that the end of the season means more discounts on ski passes and lodging.
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
The ski scene in Whistler and Blackcomb continues through April, with plenty of après-ski activities, parties, and plenty of snow to ski. Ski or snowboard on over 200 trails on over 8,000 acres of combined terrain.
Advice: Take the two hour drive to Whistler Blackcomb on the most romantic road in the world – the Sea to Sky Highway.
Sun/Banff, AB
In a good year, Sunshine and Banff can guarantee decent snow conditions through mid-May, ensuring more fun on the slopes without the crowds and long lines for the chairlifts. The views are also a sight for sore eyes. Hop on the Sunshine Gondola and head to the base of the mountain to Sunshine Village at 7,000 feet, or head down the valley to Banff where you can mingle with the friendly locals, or visit Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Winter is definitely not over in these destinations. So go ahead! Pack your bags and end the season in style with ski trips to these destinations.