

Curl up by the fireplace with hot cocoa or a hot toddy, play some board games with friends, and even brave an outdoor hot tub if you dare. And that gets even better once you've secured a vacation rental that's pleasant to spend time in.

Whether you're known to shred or have never once been strapped into skis or snowboards, America's best ski towns are ideal places to enjoy a cozy, wintery atmosphere. But serious snow bunnies know the chilly season is actually the best time to run for the mountains-ski mountains, to be specific-in search of the perfect powder, most stunning views, fresh air, and après drinks with friends. Note that Sierra at Tahoe (not on pass) is a half hour away and has great tree skiing in powder conditions.Many people choose to run for the hills come winter, trading the cold for a tropical beach somewhere. If you get the pass and can hit all three resorts during the week, you could have a great trip.

45 min from South Lake to Kirkwood, about an hour to North Star. Restaurants are mediocre and way overpriced however, plenty of quality food to be had if you have the option of cooking. One positive- the local area has lodging that is much more affordable than than that available at U.S. Avoid weekends and holidays (it gets crowded), pack snacks, and be aware that Sky lift (needed to get from California to Nevada) closes in high wind. It's burgers and pizza-nothing special, all overpriced. Also, the price, one might surmise, would be commensurate with quality-Not. I don't know how a family could prudently visit this place on day passes. Once you figure out how to get around, a tour of the mountain moves along well and going from California to Nevada and back while exploring en route and doing most runs in each area will take you most of a day. This resort only makes sense if you have a season pass and you ski on it more than 6-7 days a year.
