4 Ski Resorts to Fly to from DC This Winter.
It’s no secret that climate change is in effect. Winters are nearly a month shorter than they were fifty years ago. Persistently warmer temperatures mean less snow is falling annually, and the precipitation we see just isn’t sufficient to develop into a solid base for downhill skiing. The impact on familiar resorts in the mid-Atlantic has been devastating over the last couple of years—but serious skiers need not fret. There are a number of mountains on both the East and West coasts that are easily accessible from DC by direct non-stop flight. You can still hit the slopes over a long weekend, and we promise, the stellar conditions will be worth it. Below are four recommendations for ski resorts to fly to this winter.
Deer Valley, Utah
Image via Goldener Hirsch.
Distance from DC: 5 hour flight to Salt Lake City plus a 45 minute drive.
Number of Trails: 1o3
Number of Lifts: 21
Where to Stay: Goldener Hirsch, Montage Deer Valley, Stein Eriksen Lodge, The St. Regis Deer Valley.
What’s the Vibe: Catch the early morning Delta or Southwest flight to Salt Lake City and hit the slopes of Deer Valley Resort that afternoon. A skiers haven—no snowboarders allowed—Deer Valley has a well-deserved reputation for keeping the crowds at bay, offering a top notch ski school, and fine dining that ranges from sushi to fondue. Save on tickets by purchasing an IKON Pass for the season. When you’re not on the trails, luxuriate in the Montage Spa, stroll the charming downtown Park City or pop by High West Distillery for a whiskey tour and tasting.
Mont Tremblant, Canada
Image via Hotel Quintessence.
Distance from DC: 1 hour, 45 minute flight to Montreal plus a 90 minute drive.
Number of Trails: 1o2
Number of Lifts: 14
Where to Stay: Fairmont Tremblant, Hotel Quintessence.
What’s the Vibe: The second-oldest ski resort in North America, Mont Tremblant charms visitors with a quaint pedestrian village at the mountain’s base replete with cobblestone streets, boutiques and restaurants. Skiers and snowboarders alike will appreciate the short flying time and comparatively low altitude. There’s plenty to do off piste including relaxing at Scandinave Spa, hitting the Casino (which is ski-in/ski-out) or signing up for a dogsledding excursion across the snowy landscape.
Stowe, Vermont
Image via The Lodge at Spruce Peak.
Distance from DC: 1 hour, 40 minute flight to Burlington plus a 1 hour drive.
Number of Trails: 116
Number of Lifts: 12
Where to Stay: Edson Hill, The Lodge at Spruce Peak, Topnotch Resort.
What’s the Vibe: The birthplace of alpine skiing in Vermont continues to thrive with over 100 trails, four terrain parks and a cross-country ski center. You’ll find the best ticket prices for Stowe Mountain Resort via the Epic Pass. There’s something for everyone—kids will appreciate the ice rink at Spruce Peak Village (pictured above), but send your whiskey enthusiasts to The WhistlePig Pavilion and craft beer lovers to Idleytime Brewing Company.
VAIL, COLORADO
Image via Four Seasons Vail.
Distance from DC: 4 hour flight to Denver plus a 2 hour drive.
Number of Trails: 267
Number of Lifts: 34
Where to Stay: Austria Haus, Four Seasons Vail, Sonnenalp, The Sebastian.
What’s the Vibe: Vail is admittedly a bit of a hike for a long weekend, but well worth it for those trying to make the most out of their Epic Pass this season. The renowned mountain features 5,000 acres of skiable terrain plus multiple terrain parks and famous “back bowls.” Plus, its cozy Bavarian town with heated pedestrian walkways, ice skating and a buzzy après scene is sure to please any non-skier.
