When most people think of skiing or snowboarding in the United States, large resorts with mountainous terrain probably come to mind. Popular places like Aspen, Park City, and Jackson Hole often have breathtaking views of peaks, massive amounts of varied runs, picturesque gondolas or trams, and multiple options for on-mountain dining. However, there are numerous less obvious spots to ski that offer less crowded slopes, better bang for your buck and, in some cases, pure novelty. Some don’t even require cold weather! Here are a few worth checking out.
Badger Pass Ski Area: Yosemite National Park, CA
Image courtesy Yosemite.com
Did you know you can actually ski inside a National Park? Yosemite offers a family-friendly ski resort with beginner-friendly terrain. There are only 10 runs and five chairlifts, but that’s enough to have some fun on the slopes. The Badger Pass Ski Area opened in 1928, making it the oldest ski area in California. Beginners pay $5 per lift ride on the lower lifts, which is a great option for younger kids.
Where to stay: Cozy and rustic Yosemite Valley Lodge is located in Yosemite National Park and close to the ski resort.