Stowe in Vermont has something from everyone, from bumps and eastern glades for experts to easy fare for beginners.
With Canada's loonie hovering around par with the U.S. dollar, it may be time to consider an American ski vacation. Here are five sure bets that Canadians should ski at least once.
Park City, Utah
For getting-there convenience, you can't beat Utah's Park City. From the Salt Lake City Airport, it's a breezy 30-minute drive to the showy town of Park City - home to the yearly Sundance Film Festival. Once there, you've got three distinct mountains to choose from: Park City for scope and cruisability, The Canyons for variety and Deer Valley for an exciting mix of plush grooming and challenging tree skiing.
For more information, visit www.parkcity.com.
Aspen, Colorado
Who knows how long dollar parity is going to last … you need to ski Aspen at least once in your life. Sure, Aspen has its upscale, celebrity feel, but its overall vibe is cowboyish and cool. The skiing is not as tough as Whistler, but there's variety. Stay slope-side at Snowmass, but sample skiing at Aspen's three other mountains: Buttermilk, Aspen Highlands and Aspen Mountain - all linked by free shuttles.
For more information, visit www.aspensnowmass.com.
Crested Butte, Colorado
Smaller in scale than Aspen and Park City, Crested Butte has a cozy, familial feel. Skiing is both tough for experts, and cruisy for beginners and intermediates. Runs funnel into a single area - ideal for families. Town and ski area are separate, but linked by free shuttles. The town is among Colorado's best for Old West atmosphere and shopping.
For more information, visit www.skicb.com.
Smuggler's Notch, Vermont
Time and again families choose Smuggler's Notch (Smuggs for short) for spring breaks. Terrain is varied. Accommodation is spacious and on-slope. Kids programs are well-run. And there are plenty of non-ski activities.
For more information, visit www.smuggs.com.
Stowe, Vermont
Age-old Stowe has something for everyone: bumps and eastern glades for experts, cruisy, snaking trails for gliders, parks for free-riders and easy fare for beginners. Plus, the town is both a true ski town and a good spot for visiting museums, galleries and antiquing.
For more information, visit www.stowe.com.