Five Greatest Ski Resorts in the US

Some migrate for the winter in an attempt to escape the cold, while others embrace it with open arms by heading to snow-capped peaks to find adventure. If nothing spells exhilaration to you quite like speeding down the slope of a mountain, you���re probably considering heading to a ski resort this season. The good news is that you don���t need to leave the country to find some of the world���s most extraordinary ski resorts. Here are five of the best slopes the U.S. has to offer.

Vail, Colo.
With world-class slopes and impeccable facilities, including high-speed chairlifts, it���s easy to see why Vail Ski Resort is widely renowned as one of the nation���s greatest ski resorts. Guests are offered over 5,300 acres of terrain ��� the largest single ski area in the United States. In addition, thrill-seekers can try their hand at dog-sledding and snowmobiling or take a trip to the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum Hall of Fame.

Deer Valley, Utah
The prize for the most luxurious resort on this list must surely go to Utah���s Deer Valley resort. The key to this resort���s astounding success is not in its world class verticals, as much as its attention to finer details. It���s the smaller touches ��� like the friendly staff that help carry your skis through the snow, the daily limit on the number of lift passes to prevent overcrowding, and the impeccably manicured slopes ��� that have helped Deer Valley win the hearts and minds of skiers for years. All this, in addition to world-class restaurants and lodging, make Deer Valley one of America���s premiere ski resorts.

Stowe, Vt.
Although ski resorts on the East Coast are often out-shined by their western counterparts, Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont stands above the rest. Not only does it boast some of the most challenging and thrilling slopes in the country, but with sumptuous views of the surrounding New England countryside, it���s also one of the most picturesque. The resort���s facilities are unparalleled, offering scores of shops and restaurants, as well as a fantastic golf course and lift access to the neighboring resorts for easy exploration.

Aspen, Colo.
As one of the most famous skiing mountains in the world, nowhere is more synonymous with slope-side luxury and glamor than Aspen. The rich and famous have been frequenting Aspen���s ski areas for years, drawn by its cosmopolitan atmosphere and impressive array of restaurants and bars. At 3,500 feet tall, the mountain itself offers even the most experienced skiers a real challenge. Of course, the facilities on and off the slopes are of the highest quality, with high-speed lifts and beautiful lodgings abound.

Jackson Hole, Wyo.
A ski resort for those who love to ski ��� Jackson Hole contains some of the most challenging and rewarding slopes in the country. This foreboding mountain stands at 4,139 feet with sheer slopes that will test the skills of all but the most confident skiers. The accompanying town is a charming town offers plenty of opportunity for fun and entertainment, with bars, restaurants and even a wildlife safari tour.