Ski Season Isn’t Over Just Yet

With the Olympics drawing to a close earlier this week and record-breaking snowfall along the East Coast, the wintry magic of it all may have you eyeing a last-minute ski trip.

Chances are you’ve heard most of the big names in the American ski scene, like Vail, Park City, and Deer Valley, even if you’ve never so much as strapped on a ski. A strong case is still to be made for classic alpine allure, though, with standbys like Chamonix, Gstaad, and Zermatt leading the ranks.

In many of these top alpine destinations, ski season lasts into early April, so it’s not too late to plan a trip, and we’ve got some of the best picked out.

From bunny slopes to black diamond runs, these are the ski destinations to know and the stays you should be booking. And if you’re only there for the après vibes, don’t worry — each of our picks has appeal that goes well beyond the slopes.

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Deer Valley

This Utah resort is for people who take skiing seriously. It’s ultra-luxe and specifically ski-only — no snowboarders allowed. The result is a skier’s paradise: deep powder, uncrowded slopes, and some of the best names in hospitality, including Montage Deer Valley.

Montage Deer Valley is the quintessential sophisticated ski resort. Just over 200 rooms and suites that effortlessly blend elegance with cozy alpine ambiance — each with a working stone fireplace and private balcony.

The true draw is its seamless ski-in, ski-out access. Onsite rentals, dedicated ski valets, and private in-room boot fittings make getting on the mountain effortless. Group and private lessons are available for all ages and skill levels. There’s even cross-country skiing for those looking to channel their inner Klaebo.

Off piste, time can be spent snowshoeing, ice skating, and heading out on dog sled or sleigh rides. After a day on the mountain, warm up in the heated outdoor pool or take advantage of the spa’s redwood sauna.

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Gstaad

Gstaad is almost as well known for its billionaire draw as it is for its skiing, but there’s a reason it’s as famous as it is. The Swiss town is great for beginners, with many of its runs being wide and sunny. Add in near-guaranteed snowfall and all the cozy chalet charm you want from an alpine ski trip, and it’s easy to see the appeal.

Though the area is known for its concentration of luxury stores and upscale stays, you don’t always need to break the bank to book a ski trip here.

The Mansard is a boutique stay in the heart of Gstaad — a 29-key hotel with authentically warm service, contemporary design taking cues from traditional chalets, and easy access to the best of this celebrated region.

Located on Gstaad’s main street, the hotel is just steps from the train station, surrounded by the small shops and eateries that give this mountain town its charm. First-class skiing awaits, with nearby lifts, plentiful learning parks, long fast slopes, and the region’s only glacier ski area.

As for après, the hotel has you covered with a sauna, a wood-paneled lobby bar with a crackling fireplace, and an onsite brasserie serving hearty regional fare with modern sensibilities. Head upstairs to take in the view from the only open-air rooftop bar in Gstaad — ideal for fondue or a cocktail (or two).

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Andermatt

While Gstaad has been luxe for years, Andermatt is a relative newcomer to the Swiss ski scene. It flew under the radar until major development began in the early 2000s — now the largest ski area in Central Switzerland, offering the perfect balance of shiny new five-star ski resorts and a city center brimming with historic charm.

Gstaad is the more beginner-friendly of the two Swiss ski towns, with Andermatt better suited for those with a few winters under their belt. And while we leaned budget-conscious in Gstaad, in Andermatt our pick is full-blown luxury.

The Chedi Andermatt marries ski access with incredible style. The Two Michelin Key stay was designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, known for contemporary restraint and subtle sophistication seen in some of the world’s most acclaimed hotels.

Ski-in, ski-out access is a given, and dedicated ski butlers take it a step further — local tips, assistance, and transportation to the lifts. Miles of cross-country trails and expert-led off-piste freeride runs await, or, if the slopes aren’t your style, sled rides, ice skating, and helicopter tours above the summits.

On days when you trade skis for room slippers, the hotel delivers. Natural materials — traditional alpine woods and stone accents — meet five-star comforts: open fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, private balconies. An expansive spa and two Michelin-starred restaurants cement this as the pinnacle of Alpine hospitality.

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Park City

Back stateside, we had to stop in Park City. Beyond being the biggest ski resort in the United States, Park City makes a name for itself with its wide variety of runs, easy access, and lively town. Unlike Deer Valley (its nearby neighbor), snowboarders are welcomed as well.

While you’ll find plenty of resorts in Park City, from the peak of luxury to more budget-friendly, the place we’d pick purposefully sets itself apart from the fray.

Lodge at Blue Sky sits about 30 minutes from the action on its own 4,000-acre piece of land — a pristine retreat for those who want to pick their own adventure. Only 46 accommodations spanning a range of layouts and vibes, from family-friendly Earth Suites to adult-only Creek Houses.

The hotel offers private ski fittings onsite on your first evening. When you’re ready to hit the slopes, a shuttle takes you to the private slopeside Ski Lounge — boots warmed, skis (or board) waxed, warm drinks and light bites waiting. Hop the Silver Star chairlift right outside, a quieter lift used by locals, or explore the world-class resorts in the surrounding area.

For après: a heated infinity pool, cliffside spa with sauna and steam room, and farm-to-table cuisine at Yuta. Stop in the property’s yurt for a speakeasy experience like no other.