It has been an odd winter in some parts of the country, from rogue blizzards on the East Coast to early spring-like conditions in Utah. Either way, many ski areas around the country are preparing for a superb spring skiing season and we have seven places to recommend. So pack your T-shirt and shorts, and think about heading to one of these cool destinations.
Jackson Hole, Wyo.
Jackson Hole is legendary for its late season powder, and anyone who has skied the resort's epic runs knows that Jackson never disappoints. Open this year through the beginning of April, Jackson Hole boasts a one-of-a-kind aerial tram, which can haul skiers up 4,000 vertical feet in less than 10 minutes. The views at the top are incredible.
Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, California
Easily California's best ski area, with some of the most challenging terrain in the country, Mammoth is a spring skier's dream come true. Recent developments at the resort have made accommodations plentiful and a new half-pipe, the Super Duper Pipe, has given Mammoth some serious street cred with the snowboarding crowd.
Park City Mountain Resort, Park City Utah
Park City's 100-plus trails are spread across seven gorgeous peaks and nine powder-laden bowls. Several high-occupancy lifts like the Silverload High-Speed Six Pack will hustle you up the hill almost as fast as you can get down. Park City also has an impressive skiing program for disabled skiers and one of the finest teaching programs in the country for kids and adults.
Crystal Mountain, Washington
Crystal Mountain is one of those places that Washington skiers don't want you to know about. Located next to Mount Rainier, Crystal is known for its ski rattling steeps and inviting backcountry. And this year, you won't want to miss the 2006 North American Alpine Snowboarding Finals which take place March 25-26.
Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont
East Coast skiing sometimes gets a bad rap, but mostly you hear that from people who have never skied Stowe. Some late winter storms have given the resort a solid base that, mixed with the resort's state-of-the-art snowmaking operations, should make for some excellent spring ski runs.
Sun Valley, Idaho
Even though it attracts Hollywood-types, Olympic skiers, and even Sen. John Kerry, the vibe in Sun Valley is decidedly laid-back. Sun Valley's reputation as Idaho's premier resort is much deserved with 3,400 vertical feet and runs so fast you'll need goggles to keep your eyes dry.
Taos, NM
Saving one of the best for last, we must mention Taos. The powder-clogged chutes of this New Mexico resort are what spring skiing is all about. If you've taken on the bowl off Kachina Peak; you've tasted heaven. While the area is unfortunately slim on runs for novices, true ski hounds head to Taos for magnificent trails and ethereal powder. Oh, and I mean ski hounds, the resort is very of proud of its motto, that it is "100% Snowboard Free."
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