The end of winter doesn’t mean you have to pack up your skis. A secret that ski enthusiasts try to keep to themselves is that spring is one of the best times of the year to hit the slopes, especially when the crowds are not on a weeklong break. Book a chartered flight in the morning to catch sunny afternoon runs.
Epic Spring Ski Destinations
Alta, Utah
Holding the highest scores for fluffy pristine snow throughout its ski season, Alta does not disappoint. The mountain has high-quality snow in March thanks to its prevalence of north-facing terrain, which makes up over 50 percent of its slopes. In addition to receiving greater quantities of snowfall than other Rocky Mountain resorts, Alta spectacularly preserves it.
Pair your fabulous ski getaway with an equally posh accommodation, the ski-in/ski-out Wildcat Chalet. The 4,500-square-foot house features a steam room, outdoor hot tub, and a ski room with boot heaters.
Snowbird, Utah
A four-season resort town, Snowbird offers fabulous skiing during the spring. Like its neighbor, Alta, about half of Snowbird’s slopes face north. Here, you’ll find deep elite snow and steep runs among the granite cliffs. The terrain is similar to Jackson Hole, as it is free of redundant flat slopes. The best times to enjoy the powdery precipitation are during the early and late seasons, making spring a prime time to exercise your skis.
The premier accommodation in Snowbird is the ski-in/ski-out Cliff Lodge. If you like sushi, be sure to check out the Aerie Restaurant on the top floor.
Wolf Creek, Colorado
Accumulating the most snow for a traditional ski resort in the state, Wolf Creek offers spectacular spring skiing because 65 percent of its slopes face north. Having a base at 10,300 feet and summit at 12,000 feet that create a microclimate that funnels storms also helps. The snow is so great that the conditions in mid-April rival those at the beginning of January. The area’s remote location and low-density snow make Wolf Creek excellent for late season powder skiing.
Located less than 20 miles away, the Springs Resort and Spa in Pagosa gives you the ideal place to soothe your sore muscles after a day of skiing—23 mineral soaking pools that are open 24 hours a day. The resort uses a geothermal heating system using the warmth that nature produces. Its signature suites offer elegance, high-end amenities, and magnificent views.
Grand Targhee, Wyoming
While Grand Targhee doesn’t have same elevations or north-facing terrains, it has an ideal northern geographic location and western-facing terrains. With the exception of Alta, the area receives more snow than other resorts in the Rockies. As a bonus, the powder doesn’t come with as many destination skiers, particularly during weekdays, making you feel as if you have the slopes to yourself.
Because Targhee isn’t a hugely popular destination resort, you won’t find the same types of high-end hotels that exist in Aspen or Jackson Hole. If you want to stay within the resort, consider the slope-side Tower Residence at the Grand Targhee Plaza. For something a little more secluded, the nearby Teton Creek Resort in Driggs, Idaho, offers luxury rental homes with the amenities and conveniences found at a resort.
Photo by Jim Sorbie