Best Skiing in Western US

[Mens Rea]

Gentlemen,

I'm planning on heading west this year to ski, and I was wondering if any of you had any recommendations. I'm an advanced skier with a preference for glades and backcountry stuff. I've been to Vail/Beaver Creek and Park City/Deer Valley/Canyons. This year, we're considering several places, including Lake Tahoe and Whistler. Jackson Hole is at the top of the list.

Any suggestions? Thanks.

[jba]

jackson hole/grand targhee is the shizzle but can be hit/miss snow conditions.

SLC is always the best bet if you're booking months in advance, IMHO

[Boris]

So far it's been a kick ass snow year in the Rockies. This being the case, I'd go with Jackson Hole. Also consider Big Mountain in Whitefish, MT if they have good snow. If you go there you can also drive (2 hrs) to Fernie in southern BC. This little mountain rocks when they have snow. Steep and deep.

[Mens Rea]

Thanks guys - I'm definetly leaning toward Jackson Hole. From what I hear, the terrain is outstanding. What are the extracurriculars like? Any particular spots I should hit?

[kenberman]

Jackson has awesome terrain, no doubt, particularly with their open gates. well worth a guide for a few hours. the snow at Jackson is great as well.

Alta has comparable terrain, and even better snow. if you dislike hiking and/or have snowboarders in your crew, then avoid Alta. otherwise, the winter skiing at Alta might be the best in the USA.

My 3rd choice would be the Tahoe area, particularly if your trip is late in the season (March onward). Squaw is famous of course, but Alpine Meadows (same ridge as Squaw) and Kirkwood both have sick terrain. All 3 places get dumped on throughout the year, leaving a base big enough to hold up to the spring warmth/sunshine. You can even stay in South Lake and gamboool. Spring skiing at Tahoe is probably my favorite skiing in the world. see my picture (1st one) in the "Post a cool picture you've taken" thread, just a few down.

I've never been to Whistler, but from what I know the terrain is good. Snowfall is not as good as any of the above places, and it can rain. nightlife is outstanding.

[skiier04]

From my limited western skiing experience I have enjoyed Steamboat the best.... of course over 4' of snow the week I was there helped a little [img]/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

[kenberman]

Steamboat does get some good snow, and has good glades. it doesn't have the steeps/hardcore terrain that some other places do. nice town. nice spot for a group or family.

Can't go wrong with Jackson Hole or Whistler. Also, if you ever go back to SLC, do yourself a favor and skip Park City and go to SnowBird. Tahoe is a good choice if you want to get some gambling in as well.

[Mens Rea]

Whoa, whoa - slow down...

Did you just say there is poker in Tahoe?

That could sway things a bit.

[kenberman]

Harrahs has some low-mid limit action decent little room. I think Harvey's does as well. Search the B&M forum for up to date details.

these casinos are basically at the base of Heavenly, which has a bit of good terrain, but is mostly for cruising. good for 1 day.

this location is NOT ideal for skiing at any of the better places mentioned above. if you rent a car, about 45 minutes away