Ski season is in full swing and the travel industry is embracing the excitement, introducing new resorts and unveiling new services like Uber Ski.
It's no secret that this time of year can produce significant stress as traveling amid the holidays with hefty gear is no small task.
Fortunately, there's flawless powder to shred around the globe, including in some ski destinations flying under the radar.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs with Pikes Peak in the background. (Photo Credit: Neil/Adobe)
If you're willing to take it slow, there's no need to chase the crowds to Aspen, Vail or Breckenridge when you can head south to Colorado Springs. Situated at the base of Pikes Peak, this isn't a ski destination but its within driving distance to some of the state's top slopes and stands out for its wide array of attractions and entertainment well beyond the snow-covered slopes.
Consider it an alternative ski destination.
Families will love holiday-themed events like the Electric Safari at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, while visitors can get an adrenaline pinch while riding the scenic Pikes Peak Cog Railway or climbing a frozen waterfall.
The city even recently rolled out a new AI-powered chat feature to enhance the visitor experience.
Shizukuishi, Japan
The idea of getting to Japan can be daunting, and especially more so when traveling with skis.
Nonetheless, this is a country with unbeatable ski experiences and the lesser-known town of Shizukuishi is among the many highlights. To simplify your ski stay, be sure to book the Shizukuishi Prince Hotel, where guests can follow in the literal paths of legends on courses used during the Alpine World Ski Championships.
What's more, the hotel's exclusive Snowcat service brings guests to untouched powder on a championship slope. Visitors can even access Takakura Onsen, a natural hot spring certified as a Japanese Hot Spring Heritage site.
Lech, Austria
The Austrian mountain village of Lech is a can't-miss ski destination, especially those keen on navigating powder snow.
Trailing only Westendorf in terms of the white stuff, according to the latest snow science from industry leader Inghams, this picturesque locale is one of the European country's most exclusive ski settings.
Winter landscape in Lech, Austria. (Photo Credit: Marina Ignatova/Adobe)
A beloved spot among the Dutch royal family and Princess Diana, Lech offers a luxe experience beyond the slopes, standing out for its five-star accommodations and fine dining options.
Soldeu, Andorra
Head to the often overlooked landlocked country of Andorra on the border with Spain and France to uncover the Pyrenees mountain village of Soldeu.
Like Lech, Soldeu is home to some of the world's best powder skiing and offers dozens of miles of world-class trails appealing to athletes of all skill levels.
The resort destination's Avet slope served as the venue for various World Cup events and local nightclubs are sure to enertain long after visitors have hung up their skis.
A green run in Alpe d'Huez. (Photo Credit: Codie Liermann)
Alpe d’Huez, France
Not too far from where the 2026 Winter Olympics will be held across the border in Italy, the French ski resort of Alpe d'Huez stands out for its magnificent snow—receiving an impressive powder score of 73.9 out of 100, according to Inghams.
The bustling town center will also add to the good vibes, providing visitors with access to some of the best cheese in a country that knows it well in addition to a lively nightlife scene.
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