#10: Big Horn

Big Horn Ski Resort is a relatively new resort located in Wyoming, west of Buffalo in the United States. Big Horn doesn't have anything particularly spectacular to recommend it in the surrounding area, but if you're a skier, you're sure to appreciate the top-notch runs and long skiing season (from November to April, not dependent on weather).

Big Horn is also famous for its snowboarding, and they have a special area set up for snowboarders. If you like to surf your way downhill, Big Horn definitely won't disappoint!

There isn't much to do at Big Horn besides ski, but if you're interested in other outdoor activities, they have snowmobile rentals and beautiful scenery. There are also a variety of new lounges and restaurants, perfect spots to wind down after a hard day on the slopes.

One of Big Horn's best attractions, though, is its super-quality artificial snow system! You'll almost never find closed runs at Big Horn. They even have an early season snowmaker which they use to get things started on the right foot. Big Horn's artificial snow has been so successful that they've upgraded their machines, meaning that this year's snow should be better quality than ever.

Big Horn is for hardcore skiers not worried about taking a day or two from the slopes, but if you want to focus on skiing and the outdoors without distractions, it's the perfect destination!

#18: Big Bear

Big Bear provides two things: a great skiing experience and an excuse to go to California!

That's right, California. We're on the opposite coast now. You probably don't think of California and skiing together very often, but California has more than just a beautiful climate: it has mountains, and where there are mountains, you can strap something to your feet and make your way down.

Big Bear Mountain is 8 900 feet high and gets snow every winter. And even if there's a freakish hot spell, Big Bear has the capability to make up to 5 feet of snow artificially! Big Bear is aimed at hot doggers: you'll find a lot of places to show off your skills and get a little crazy on its slopes.

That doesn't mean only hard core ski aficionados should check out Big Bear Mountain, though. The nearby town site offers a quaint village atmosphere and many fun activities, including jet skiing and windsurfing. If you want to keep skiing but need a change of pace, there's a 7 000 foot mountain nearby (Snow Summit Mountain) with its own share of thrills and trails.

Big Bear is a great opportunity if you like to ski but don't necessarily want it to consume your entire holiday. Since Big Bear is only two hours east of Los Angeles, you're always near the excitement. You can make a day trip, but it's worth staying the night. Think about making Big Bear part of your next holiday out west!

#19: Lake Placid

Lake Placid is another American ski resort soaked in history. Like Timberline, it has a few movies to its credit. Lake Placid is the setting for an extremely cheesy creature film, and it also hosted the legendary "Miracle on Ice" hockey game in 1980.



The Olympic Regional Development Authority preserves Lake Placid as a national landmark because the 1932 Olympic Games played out here. But that means more than just visiting a pretty historic site. Because the Olympic venues are all preserved, Lake Placid also offers bobsledding, luge, ski jumping, skating and hockey facilities, snowmobiling, and cross country skiing.



If you're a purist who's just looking to ski, Lake Placid has you covered, too. Whiteface Mountain is nearby. Fully a third of its trails are aimed at beginners, so don't panic if you're a new skier. But if you're really in the mood to show off, Whiteface Mountain features treeless, sheer stretches on the East's longest plummet into space. If you're up for a challenge, you'll find it here.



Lake Placid is located in New York State. It's nearly hidden in the northeast, and New York City this isn't. What you will find, though, is a wild collection of winter sports and activities you can't try anywhere else. If you're the adventurous sort, Lake Placid might be the resort for you – and yes, you can check out New York City on the way if you absolutely must!

Top Ski Resorts #20: Timberline

Timberline Ski Resort in Timberline, Oregon is one of the United States' premiere ski locations. In fact, it's open longer than any resort in the USA. Aside from two weeks in September when Timberline closes for maintenance, they're open all year long – so if you're looking to ski in the middle of July, this is the spot!

Timberline is rich in history. It's the site of one of the earliest chair lifts (built in the 1930s), and it was used as a setting in the movie The Shining (you know, the one where Jack Nicholson goes all nuts… er, I guess I'd have to be more specific! The one where he goes nuts in the hotel).

Timberline is also a great place to bring the family. They have activities for experienced and novice skiers alike, and special classes for children, as well as numerous friendly lodges and hotels. Timberline also features snowboarding and night skiing.

Located in the northern United States, Timberline is a friendly resort with an established feel. It's near Portland (a large city you can use as your base in Oregon) but far enough up the mountain to give you a sense of privacy. If you're looking to ski in the USA, Timberline is a great place to check out!