At GayTravel.com, we know how to make the most of those sub-zero temperatures. Set that cup of hot cocoa aside, bundle up and take a trip with us to our favorite wintry ski destinations!
Stowe, Vermont
Snuggled amidst two prominent New England mountains, Mt. Mansfield and Spruce Peak, Stowe Mountain Resort is a skiers sanctuary. Between its variety of inclines and drops, which span up to 2,360 feet, and its 333 inches of annual snowfall, an adventure to Stowe is absolutely worthwhile.
Featuring over 116 trails and 39 miles of skiing terrain, the resort is also the home of Stowe Mountain Lodge, a 312-room hotel and spa. With over ten on-site restaurants and amenities such as dog sledding (Mush! Mush!), there is a lot to take in at Stowe!
GayTravel hotel recommendations: Stowe Mountain Lodge or Grey Fox Inn
Although it may be a newbie, Whistler Blackomb (about 75 miles north of Vancouver), has earned its name as one of the most exciting ski resorts in North America.
Why?
First of all, it's HUGE! Consisting of an expansive 8,171 acres and over 5,000-feet worth of steep vertical inclines, the two major ridgelines (Whistler Mt. and Blackcomb Mt.) are accessible by three gondolas and a number of high-speed quads. And guess what! It gets better! As of April 2016, a three-phase development plan entitled Renaissance, was announced which would bring all sorts of renovations and upgrades to the resort, its surrounding town, and the mountains.
While it is true that most people visiting Whistler Blackcomb show for the skiing, that is not all there is to do. With a variety other activities to tantalize snow-hungry travelers (biking, tubing, and musical events), there is something for EVERYONE!
Don’t miss the spectacular Whistler Gay Pride & Ski Festival January 22 - 29, 2017!
With a reputation as one of the best premier ski resorts in the country, Saalbach offers a wide range of slopes. Combining freeride trails covered by a blanket of dense snow with a HUGE variety of ski/winter-related activities, Saalbach is definitely a go-to for winter fun. But that’s not all!
The resort is host to over 60 on-site ski huts that serve gourmet delicacies! (Can you think of a better way to recharge after a long morning of skiing?) This, paired with its reputation for a vibrant night life, provides guests with the opportunity to experience the easygoing, scrumptious, uniquely zestful spirit of Austria!
So wake up and smell the edelweiss! It’s time to book a flight to Saalbach!
GayTravel hotel recommendation: Hotel Alpine Palace
Nothing says mountains quite like Colorado!
Considered to be one of the most family-friendly ski destinations in America, Vail is all about appealing to everyone, especially those who may be vacationing on a budget. And as a part of its inclusive nature, the resort prides itself on its offerings for both beginner and intermediate skiers. In fact, it is often thought of as an intermediate skier’s paradise! With its sprawling 5,289 acre terrain, there is SO much to experience at Vail!
One of the things that makes Vail stand out above the rest is its unique offerings. Currently, it is the only winter ski destination to offer a deluxe movie theater complete with gourmet adult beverages and snacks, a bowling ally, and other activities such as hot air balloon tours and snowmobiling.
Located above the 400-year-old city plaza of Santa Fe, the Ski Santa Fe resort is an American favorite! With over 79 trails and 1,725 vertical feet of skiable terrain—not to mention the 225 inches of annual snowfall—there is a lot of snowy goodness to enjoy. But while it is true that most visitors arrive in Santa Fe with the purpose of skiing, they often find themselves spending less time on the slopes than imagined.
As previously mentioned, Santa Fe is a beautiful, historic community, rich in the arts and cuisine. In fact, guests will find a selection of over 200 restaurants that offer some of the most unique and eccentric cuisine in the country! This, in addition to the diverse range of museums, historical sites, and landmarks, makes Santa Fe one of the most unique and desirable winter vacation destinations in the country.
GayTravel hotel recommendations: Inn on the Alameda or Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe
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