Posted by Do you think ski trips have to wait until early winter? Think again! Ski and snowboarders who can’t wait until next winter for their snow fix still have plenty of options to choose from. In North America alone, there are more than a few locations where there is plenty of snow to run around in (without the rowdy crowd on the après-ski scene).
Here are some of the ski vacation destinations that still receive (or maintain) abundant snow:
Snowbird, Utah
With 2,500 acres of skiable area and an average of 500 inches of snow (which often lasts well into May), it’s no wonder Snowbird ranks second on our list of best ski resorts in North America. But Snowbird isn’t content with just plentiful snow. The venue is located just 29 miles from Salt Lake International Airport, and 24 miles from the downtown Salt Lake City area, making it accessible to skiers from any part of the United States. The resort also has a huge aerial tram that can take you up to 11,000 feet in just 8 minutes!
Squaw Valley, California
In the spring, Squaw Valley guarantees the best of both worlds for avid skiers: plenty of sunshine and tons of snow through mid-May (depending on Lake Tahoe’s snow accumulation). The resort also has a rich history. It hosted the VII Winter Olympics in 1960, and is also considered the birthplace of the American extreme skiing movement. And you’ll be glad to know that the late season means more discounts on ski passes and accommodations.
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
The ski scene in Whistler and Blackcomb keeps buzzing through April, with plenty of après-ski activities, parties, and plenty of snow to carve on. Ski or snowboard on more than 200 trails in more than 8,000 acres of combined terrain.
advice: Take a two hour drive to Whistler Blackcomb on the most romantic route in the world – the Sea to Sky Highway.
Sunshine / Banff, Alberta
On a good year, Sunshine and Banff can guarantee decent snow conditions through mid-May, thus ensuring more fun on the slopes save for the crowds and long lines to the chair lifts. The views, too, are a sight for sore eyes. Hop on the Sunshine Gondola and head to the Mountain Base of Sunshine Village at 7,000 feet, go to Banff down the valley where you can mingle with the friendly locals, or visit the Lake Louise ski resort.
Winter is definitely not over in these destinations. So go ahead! Pack your bags and end the season with a bang on ski trips to these destinations.