Ski Towns That Offer More Adventure Off The Mountain

Many resorts aren't just about the slopes, but about the entire ski experience

Everyone knows there are a plethora of adventures waiting for them when they hit the slopes of their favorite mountain. But sometimes guests have an great opportunity to continue their fun when they aren’t schussing laps or exploring backcountry territory. Ski towns across North America have consistently provided ski fanatics with awesome entertainment options.

Though not all resorts have laid-back and eclectic shops, restaurants and museums to head to. But the ones that do make people want to move a little closer to enjoy everything they have to offer. And after carving fresh powder all day, who doesn’t want to spend a little time in a charming town to unwind a little? Here are some ski towns with more things to do when you’re not testing out the corduroy.

Taos, NM

there's nothing like the vibe you get at ski towns across the country especially when you go to taos after hitting the slopesA long-time favorite of locals, Taos is a destination that offers wonders whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter. Taos Ski Valley, which sits just 18 miles away is easily accessible along highway 150 and gives you the chance to view the natural beauty of the landscape around town.

Renowned for its art galleries and delectable cuisine, this town offers a unique experience that differs from “traditional” ski towns. Travelers can visit iconic sites and architectural structures like the St. Francisco de Asis church, or discover the thriving music scene for a memorable night out. And if you still have time to kill after you’ve already spent your time sightseeing, consider going on a wine or beer tour before resting your head in one of their many exciting lodging options.

Bend, OR

bend is certainly one of the coolest ski towns in north americaWhen you really want to see a landscape change dramatically, you’d better head to Bend this season. Only 30 minutes away from Mt. Bachelor, Bend is a special place even before you get to town. As you make your way east away from the mountain, the ponderosa forests give way to high desert and a completely different climate.

In the town itself, you’ll find that they offer a crazy (good) amount of craft breweries and “world-class recreation” any outdoor lover would be thrilled about. Not to be outdone by their incredible assortment of brews, Bend is also known for their award-winning dining, boutique shopping, and cozy winter retreats for a romantic night out.

Truckee, CA

if you haven't stopped in truckee you might want to do so because it's a ski town that offers a lot more fun off the mountainSitting amongst more ski resorts than any other ski town in the West, Truckee is a favorite to both new and old patrons. The authentic vibe in this ski town is undeniable, and much of it has stayed true to its roots. They’ve kept many of the old buildings up-to-date in the area and still have an air about it that’s unique to smaller towns.

Though it might not be as glitzy as some spots it still holds a pretty impressive “wow factor.” The to-do list is endless in Truckee, whether want to walk around their historic downtown area, or you’re in the mood for a pampering session at one of their spas or holistic wellness shops. Palisades Tahoe, home to the Winter Olympics, is just one of the many ski areas nearby

Whitefish, MT

stick around in whitefish to explore this ski town and find adventures off the mountain
Photo credit Brian Schott

Like the ski resort of the same name, Whitefish offers stunning views that leave people speechless. Though this ski town seems a little more out of the way than most, it boasts among the closest direct air service into a mountain town in the U.S. Whitefish Mountain Resort only sits 13 minutes away, so when you’re done hitting some epic off-pistes you can swing into town for friendly and down-to-earth service.

Popular for it’s incredible “backyard,” Whitefish stays true to their small town aesthetic. And while its population might seem diminutive, the list of winter activities is anything but. Visitors can take glacier guided tours, dog sled tours or traverse 12 kilometers of freshly groomed Nordic skiing terrain. Where you begin and end your trip is entirely up to you of course, and it might be hard to decide exactly what you’re going to do!

Girdwood, AK

when you want to head somewhere off mountain head over to the ski town of girdwood in AlaskaSay hello to some of the most inspiring sights around while you stay in Girdwood! Situated a mere 4 minutes from the base of the Alyeska ski resort, this ski town is surrounded by a lush forest in the Chugach Mountain range.

Girdwood, which started as a small mining town, has blossomed into one the ultimate winter retreats for skiers and snowboarders alike. As the only year-round resort in Alaska, Girdwood prides itself on the bounty of activities it has for guests. But don’t take our word for it; you need to experience the cross-country skiing, guided wilderness tours, and winter fishing for yourself!

there are a lot of ski towns that you can take your adventure to off the mountain, but none quite like DurangoDurango, CO

For many older ski towns, keeping pieces of the past is an important (and charming) factor. And like many locations like it, Durango also started as a mining town. Here, they have carefully and lovingly preserved buildings- like the Strater Hotel- and important landmarks in pristine shape.

They even have the country’s only remaining narrow-gauge railroad, adding more of the past in its beautifully bright present (and future). While you’re in Durango you can get familiar with fun outdoor recreation activities. Or, you can visit any number of landmarks like Mesa Verde National Park or Chimney Rock Monument even during winter if you get tired of skiing at Purgatory!

Whistler Village, British Columbia, Canada

whistler village is an excellent ski town off the mountain where the fun and adventure never ends
Photo credit @caronnemarino

Whistler Blackcomb is a captivating ski destination, and the same can be said for the Village. It sits at the base of both mountains and can help you launch into countless adventures while you’re off the slopes. You can pick from a wide assortment of tasty cuisines for dinner, visit the Audain Art Museum or try out winter ziplining if you’re the more adventurous type!

Each guest can enjoy a pure winter getaway, without having to trek far from the resort with a unique Canadian twist. Check out the Olympic Rings at the Olympic Plaza, legendary Fire & Ice Show, or snowshoe to Lost Lake to surround yourself in the incredible majesty of the landscape.

Bethel, ME

get to the town of bethel now for more winter goodness off the mountainMaine already has a lot of exceptional things about it. It’s got historic charm, thrilling coastline views, and exceptional seafood cuisine. But it also has some pretty rad skiing and ski towns to match too! The sleepy, quintessential small-town of Bethel sits at the doorstep of the Mahoosuc Range and 11 minutes from Mount Abram. It effortlessly mixes mid-century style with New England village vibes for a unique experience.

Though the town is small, it’s host to a rather large variety of places to eat and drink while also providing guests with places to hang out as well. To the North is also Sunday River, another premier resort in the area, so the town is prepared to offer up incredible experiences to all who come out to continue their winter extravaganza. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities, which is especially beneficial to those who want to stay on the move.

Davis, West Virginia

small towns sometimes offer up the best adventures when you're off the mountainTucked right outside the upper East corner of Monongahela National Forest awaits the town of Davis. As one of the many tiny villages within Canaan Valley, this ski town tries to make itself stand out among the crowd with what they have to offer.

The same can be said about many of the closeby towns, but there’s something about Davis puts people at ease. It’s close to Canaan Valley ski resort (10 miles away), so anyone traveling between the two locations can easily make their way further into the state park. There you can find some of the best glade skiing in the Mid-Atlantic and then make your way back to town before the sun goes down.

Telluride, CO

come for the skiing and stay for the fun in the ski town of telluride for off mountain adventuresEven in the furthest corners of Colorado, you’ll find exceptional towns catering to ski resorts in the area. Telluride is a quaint ski town that has kept much of its former buildings and preserved quite a bit of its Victorian architecture. The town is extremely walkable, with a lot of space for people who want to park their car and stretch their legs.

From this base camp, eager skiers and boarders can take the free gondola into the resort of the same name with ease. Or, if you so desire, you can also travel a little less than a half hour up to the entrance to do a little more sightseeing. Either way, guests will get to expand their exploration of the area and can later stop back into town for gourmet eats. Places like the Butcher & Baker is among one of the favorite spots for travelers, and you can also grab a cup of hot cocoa at High Alpine Coffee after a great meal.

Contact