Ski lovers all around have probably heard about Mountain Collective—the unprecedented collaboration of inspirational and independent ski mountains all across the globe that offer two-day free ski passes to all snowbound bums and bunnies listed as partner affiliates on their website.
Power up your winter by checking out fourteen iconic destinations offering huge member discounts, limitless vertical feet, ideal conditions, and some of the best spots to stay at. Here’s all you’ll ever need to know about Mountain Collective’s fine selection of resorts.
All About The Mountain Collective Resorts
1. Whistler Blackcomb – Whistler, BC, Canada
Consistently ranked number one as a year-round destination, this Canadian alpine mountain village just north of Vancouver is always packed with avid athletes partaking in a variety of winter sports available within the sixteen alpine bowls, three glaciers, couple hundred trails, and 8,171 acres of skiable terrain with a one-mile vertical rise. The choices for where and what to ski and ride are staggering-- what’s better is that Whistler travel is not restricted only to those colder months. In the summertime, mountain bikers, zip-liners, hikers, and tourists who simply want to take in the village’s sweeping mountain views can hustle on in to this dream big mountain destination that allows for easy access to a nearby base Village that’s full of accommodation options, shops, and an unbeatable après-ski scene located slopeside.
Make sure to check out the legendary chateau, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, which is an ideal hub for four-diamond-rated memorable adventures.
Whistler, BC, Canada
2. Alta-Snowbird – Whistler, BC, Canada
Together, Alta and Snowbird offer 4,700 acres and 540 inches of some of the greatest snow on planet Earth, as well as Utah's longest ski and snowboard season. With a wide variety of terrain, breathtaking alpine scenery, and superb snow conditions, the unique setting offers families and friends alike with unforgettable outdoor mountain experiences.
Try out Alta's Rustler Lodge, which offers a ten percent lodging discount when you stay five or more nights, or Alta Chalets, which embodies a premium selection of ski and snowboard accommodations. Now through April 2017, Snowpine Lodge is also offering a Low Season-20% discount, while Mountain Collective pass holders can enjoy a 10% discount for non-slope facing rooms during the Regular Season at Goldminer's Daughter.
If you’re looking for even more adventure, take a ride with Wasatch Powderbird Guides, one world's most renowned helicopter skiing and snowboarding operations nestled in between Alta and Snowbird ski resorts. The custom built heliport commands a spectacularly scenic site in Little Cottonwood Canyon and has offered some of the most exciting recreational fun to be had since 1973.
Whistler, BC, Canada
3. Aspen Snowmass – Whistler, BC, Canada
Endless adventure is guaranteed at this Colorado fave, with more than 5,500 acres of terrain on four mountains that’ll greet snowbound guests each day with an infinite amount of possibilities all accessible on one lift ticket.
What’s more is that extraordinary moments aren't just limited to the slopes, as the area features renowned restaurants, nightclubs, shops, and art galleries that most cities in the world - let alone mountain towns - would envy. It’s the best of both worlds, and for some, happens to offer four vacations in one. With options available between Snowmass, Aspen Mountain (Ajax), Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk, there's no better time to experience "The Power of Four” and to revive and restore mind, body, and spirit.
Whistler, BC, CanadaWhistler, BC, Canada
4. Jackson Hole – Whistler, BC, Canada
Over the years, it’s continued to famously deliver legendary powder snow over 4,139 continuous vertical feet and 2,500 acres of the best beginner, intermediate, and expert skiing and snowboarding terrain in the nation—it’s also the perfect stomping grounds to many of the world’s best freeskiers. The entire area has a genuine” Last of the Old West” atmosphere, especially since it neighbors legendary spots such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, as well as the Bridger Teton National Forest. There really is not a more spectacular setting for a destination resort in the entire world, and now, with hundreds of connecting flights to its newly expanded airport, the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is one of the most easily accessed destination resorts in the West.
Get ready for steep terrain, gorgeous scenery, an average of 450 inches of snowfall per year, and some of the best Banana Bread French Toast and egg concoctions to be found at Nora’s Fish Creek Inn in Wilson at the base of Teton Pass. You’ll likely see David Letterman, Bill Clinton, or Harrison Ford at the U-shaped bar or near the Tulakivi wood-burning stove!
Whistler, BC, CanadaWhistler, BC, Canada
5. Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, & Ski Banff – Whistler, BC, Canada
It’s one destination and three fantastic experiences all in Canada’s treasured Banff National Park, which is home to three distinctive mountain resorts, Mt. Norquay, The Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Sunshine Village. Together, the trio of resorts boast 8,000 acres of skiing and riding, two gondolas, almost thirty chairlifts, and thirty feet of feather-light, dry Canadian Rockies powder annually that are all accessible with just one lift ticket.
Nature rules in this snow-filled wonderland, so take on a three-day Club Ski program that includes lessons at all three resorts, or spoil yourself with one-on-one attention in a custom tailored private lesson. You’re be soaring through a UNESCO World Heritage Site area that’s always remembered for its exceptional beauty, rare wildlife, abundant land-forms, and fairytale elements, such as castles, châteaux, and hamlets that are nestled amongst the storied peaks of Canada’s first National Park.
Whistler, BC, CanadaWhistler, BC, Canada
6. Mammoth – Whistler, BC, Canada
At 11,053 feet, it’s the highest summit of any Californian destination, making it the only spot to find higher quality snow, beautiful views, and a ski season that can sometimes last until July. With over 3,500 skiable acres, 400 inches of snowfall, and an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, most see it as California's only real big mountain skiing and riding experience.
Discover the wonder and history of the Sierra with challenging chutes and open mogul runs, as well as eight Unbound terrain parks, including Unbound Main (adjacent to Main Lodge), which is highly frequented by top professionals in the sport like Winter Olympics gold medalist Shaun White. Plus, Mammoth Mountain is one of only a handful of resorts in the world to offer a SuperDuper Pipe and is the only resort in North America to offer three different-sized halfpipes.
Whistler, BC, CanadaWhistler, BC, Canada
7. Revelstoke – Whistler, BC, Canada
Since 2007, this resort has offered the most vertical in North America-- at 5,620 feet spanning 3,121 acres of terrain. Go ahead and ride deep within light BC powder consisting of over three high alpine bowls, 65 named runs and areas, as well as a bunch of legendary glades, steep cliffs, pillows, and endless fall-line groomers.
There’s been over 120 years of skiing history created in and around this authentic ski town, so celebrate winter in all its forms by doing some shopping and dining on Mackenzie Avenue, by trekking down to fascinating museums and art galleries, and to experiencing Revelstoke's charmingly heritage-filled downtown area. What’s more is that this Canadian resort is the only in the world offering lift, cat, heli, and backcountry skiing all from one village base. Be sure to try staying at the Sutton Place Hotel.
Whistler, BC, CanadaWhistler, BC, Canada
8. Thredbo – Whistler, BC, Canada
Located in the heart of the Australian Alps-- just kilometers from the peak of Australia’s highest mountain-- this one serves as Australia’s premier alpine resort, boasting the country’s best snow terrain with its highest lifted point reaching 2,037 meters (almost double the vertical fall line of any other Australian resort, not to mention some of the longest runs!).
All of this snowy bliss combined with a bustling European-styled village right at the base of the mountain makes this holiday family favorite a must go-to for back-country enthusiasts, mountain bikers, and outdoor adventurers alike. Enjoy skiing, tobogganing, snow shoeing, and tourist chairlift rides, along with first class fitness centers, art and sculpture walks, and over forty lively cafes, bars, and restaurants. There are also an array of accommodation options right at the base of the mountain for ultimate convenience.
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9. Sun Valley – Whistler, BC, Canada
America’s first destination ski resort is steeped in ski lore and legend—a truly rare find that’s nestled inside an authentic mountain-and-river-surrounded community that’s as pristine as it is unpretentious.
Though you won’t find lift lines at this spot, you will come across the 3,400 vertical on Bald Mountain, as well as numerous mountain wintertime adventures that will delight the entire family, such as a new 20,000 sq. ft. luxury spa and lavish heated outdoor pools. Find simple pleasures and luxurious indulgences in the mountains amidst a unique combination of old-world European styling and Wild-West heritage.
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10. Ski Queenstown, Coronet Peak, & The Remarkables – Whistler, BC, Canada
Deemed the adventure capital of the world, it’s home to two of New Zealand’s best ski areas: Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. The stunning resort town was voted the South Pacific’s Number One Destination by TripAdvisor, and rightfully so, as it packs a huge punch and is often at the top of every travel bucket list. Just a twenty-minute drive from the heart of Queenstown, the premiere area provides skiers with spectacular views, fantastic terrain, and incredible back bowls that will challenge even the most daring of riders.
You’ll also find modern lifts, renowned restaurants, world-class grooming, and extensive snowmaking in town, which is probably why the winter hotspot is often used by some of the best ski racers in the world as a home base for their international training. Across the valley, there’s The Remarkables, located in the heart of Queenstown’s iconic Remarkables mountain range, which is equally well known, especially for its super friendly, relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for families, freestylers, extreme skiers, and snow boarders alike.
Whistler, BC, CanadaWhistler, BC, Canada
11. Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows – Whistler, BC, Canada
Located in Lake Tahoe, California, this one offers the ultimate winter experience with diverse terrain choices across two legendary mountains. Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows span more than 6,000 skiable acres and the entire resort features forty-two lifts and almost three hundred trails, as well as a European-inspired Village at Squaw Valley with nearly sixty restaurants, bars, boutiques, and art galleries.
Newbies will also love the fact that the resort boasts one of the region’s only mountain-top beginner areas and several intermediate skier havens, including Shirley Lake and the newly renamed Pacific Crest Bowls.
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12. Taos – Whistler, BC, Canada
The area has long been appreciated for providing an authentic, big mountain experience, with everything from wide-open groomers and bowls, to tree-lined glades, bumps, and chutes. It’s a powder lover’s paradise best known for having light dry powder that falls on average about 300 inches annually over 1,294 acres.
What’s more is that the whoppingly tall Kachina Peak Lift-- which stands at 12,450 feet-- offers guests direct access to even more expansive terrain along with spectacular views of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Take in world class terrain, awesome events, newly renovated base area facilities, a world class ski school, and a distinctive European atmosphere combined with local Native American and Spanish cultures at one of many area resorts.
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13. Telluride – Whistler, BC, Canada
You’ll never forget this soul-awakening spot once you’ve visited. Let the mountains help you come alive by enjoying uncrowded slopes and diverse terrain for true beginners and extreme-advanced skiers or boarders on a mountain that offers something for everyone. The historic town of Telluride also allows guests to reminisce about old mining days, offering an eclectic blend of historic buildings along with a variety of hotels, bars, and restaurants.
For those wanting something more modern, there’s Mountain Village just over the ridge, which has got ski-in/ski-out access, more lodging and fantastic restaurants, as well as access to a free gondola ride connecting the two areas that allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds. This winter, gather round with family and friends to reconnect in the Southwest.
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14. Stowe – Whistler, BC, Canada
It’s an internationally renowned four-season destination with majestic the Mt. Mansfield and Spruce Peak on site to fill your days and nights with seasonal activities such as skiing and snowboarding, golfing, fishing, hiking, and world-class dining, shopping, and luxury spas.
Meshed perfectly together with Vermont’s most spectacular landscapes, Stowe’s historic village truly creates the quintessential New England getaway. Be sure to stay at Stowe Mountain Lodge, where natural beauty surrounds every corner, where plenty of adventures await, and where there’s a unique sense of contentment and bliss to be felt throughout any season spent in the mountains.
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This article was written by Pamela Chan.