Do you think ski trips will have to wait until early winter? Think again! Ski and snowboard enthusiasts 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 handful of places where there’s plenty of snow for everyone (without the rowdy crowd in the après ski scene).
Here are some of the ski vacation destinations that still receive (or retain) plenty of snow:
Snowbird, Utah
With 2,500 acres of skiable area and an average of 500 inches of snow (which often lasts through May), it’s no wonder Snowbird ranks second on the list of the best ski resorts in North America. But Snowbird doesn’t just rely on its abundant snow. The site is located just 29 miles from Salt Lake International Airport and 24 miles from downtown Salt Lake City, making it very accessible to skiers from anywhere in the U.S. The resort also features a huge aerial tram, which could take you as high as 11,000 feet in just 8 minutes.
Squaw Valley, California
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 snow accumulation at Lake Tahoe). The complex also has quite a bit of 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 happy to know that the end of the season means more discounts on ski passes and accommodation.
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
The ski scene in Whistler and Blackcomb continues to grow through April, with plenty of après ski activities, parties, and lots of snow to carve. Ski or snowboard over 200 trails on over 8,000 acres of combined terrain.
Advice: Take the two-hour drive to Whistler Blackcomb on the world’s most romantic highway – the Sea to Sky Highway.
Sol / Banff, Alberta
In a good year, Sunshine and Banff can guarantee decent snow conditions until mid-May, ensuring more fun on the slopes without the crowds and long lines for the chair lifts. The views are also a sight for sore eyes. Hop on the Sunshine Gondola and head to the base of the Sunshine Village mountain at 7000 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 with a blast of ski trips to these destinations.