5 SKI DESTINATIONS THAT DESERVE A SPOT ON YOUR RADAR
Contributor - Catherine Lavin | Travel Coordinator • 10/15/26
From the Swiss Alps to Aspen, Deer Valley, and Jackson Hole, the world is filled with beautiful luxury ski destinations. But for those looking to venture beyond the usual winter hotspots, there are plenty of extraordinary mountains worth adding to the itinerary. Whether you’re looking for world-class powder, breathtaking scenery, or a fabulous apres scene, this list provides some ideas beyond the expected destinations.
1. TAOS, NEW MEXICO
While Taos is hardly a secret among seasoned skiers, the American Southwest remains a somewhat unexpected choice for a winter escape. Here, dramatic desert landscapes meet high-altitude skiing, creating a setting unlike anywhere else in the United States. Beyond the ski mountain, Taos offers a rich blend of Pueblo heritage, Southwestern architecture, art galleries, and an acclaimed food scene. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and challenging, exciting terrain, it’s a perfect destination for travelers looking to combine exceptional skiing with a strong sense of place and culture.
2. WHITEFISH, MONTANA
For those seeking world-class skiing without the scale and crowds of Big Sky, Whitefish is a compelling alternative. Known for its abundant snowfall and expansive terrain, Whitefish delivers a quintessential Montana mountain experience - just with a more intimate feel. The surrounding landscape, with sweeping views toward Glacier National Park, is every bit as impressive as the skiing itself. Off the mountain, the town of Whitefish offers a sophisticated yet lowkey atmosphere. Here you can expect boutique accommodations, elevated dining, and an inviting après-ski scene. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who appreciate luxury defined by natural beauty, distinctive experiences, and authentic mountain charm.
3. LAKE LOUISE, BRITISH COLUMBIA
Set in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is one of the most stunning ski destinations in North America. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies, the resort offers expansive terrain, reliable snowfall, and runs for skiers of all levels. Beyond the skiing, the scenery alone is worth the trip, with the iconic turquoise lake and dramatic mountain landscapes creating an unforgettable alpine backdrop. The area also offers a refined mountain experience, with luxury lodges, exceptional dining, spa experiences, and a relaxed après-ski scene to enjoy after a day on the slopes. Combining incredible skiing, breathtaking scenery, and understated luxury, Lake Louise is an ideal destination for those looking for a quintessential Canadian Rockies getaway.
4. ICELAND
Iceland is typically associated with the Northern Lights, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and cascading waterfalls, but it also offers a remarkable setting for adventurous skiers. In the country's remote northern regions, steep mountain terrain meets the Arctic Ocean, creating a truly distinctive backdrop for ski touring and heli-skiing. For an exceptionally luxurious experience, Deplar Farm, a remote lodge set in the Troll Peninsula, offers an exceptional base for exploring Iceland's backcountry, with access to untouched terrain, geothermal pools, and a spa to unwind after a day on the slopes. With the possibility of catching
the Northern Lights and some of the most striking scenery in the world, Iceland offers a ski getaway that extends well beyond the traditional mountain resort.
5. PORTILLO, CHILE
If your winter plans leave no room for a ski getaway, or you’re looking to trade the summer heat for fresh snow, consider heading south for an entirely different kind of ski season. While Bariloche, Argentina, may be the go-to destination for many looking to ski in South America, Chile’s Portillo offers a more exclusive alpine experience. Located in the central Andes near the Argentinian border, this legendary resort is renowned for its challenging expert terrain, spectacular mountain scenery, and exceptional high-altitude skiing. With a ski-in, ski-out hotel overlooking the striking turquoise waters of Laguna del Inca, Portillo combines excellent skiing with an intimate resort atmosphere- plus a fun après scene. Typically open from June through September, it’s the perfect destination for true ski enthusiasts looking to extend their season.
Contributor — Catherine Lavin | Travel Coordinator
Catherine’s passion for travel began growing up on a horse farm outside Louisville, Kentucky, where she developed an early love for adventure and the outdoors. She has traveled to approximately 30 countries and 45 U.S. states, with some of her most impactful experiences including a language immersion program in France, a gap year living in New Zealand, and studying abroad in Cape Town. She has also spent a year living in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and has called New York City home for several years. With a background in political science, Catherine brings a strong interest in culture, history, and global perspectives to her work. Outside of travel, she loves skiing, hiking, museums, live music, and fashion.
