Holiday Ski Destinations

Christmas Ski Guide

Admit it. Bing Crosby isn’t the only one who dreams of a White Christmas. Make your holiday wishes come true this year and sneak off of to a snowy destination. Scrimp and save, or go ahead and splurge. Either way, staying in a ski vacation rental is an affordable way to feel at home during the holidays.

Ski rentals run the gamut from cozy Durango cabins to elegant Aspen chalets, and offer several advantages over hotel rooms. Cook meals in your own fully equipped kitchen, watch a movie in front of a roaring fire, or take a soak in the hot tub - perfect after a long day of runs. Split the cost of a ski cabin rental with your group and have plenty of money left over to spend at the lifts, in town or for those last-minute stocking stuffers. Here's our guide to the best holiday ski destinations.

• Luxury Ski Vacations

Aspen, Colorado

Of all holiday ski destinations, this is the most popular among the A-listers. So, take their lead and spend your holiday ski trip at the Rockies in an Aspen condo. Named for its tall, trembling trees, this posh ski resort gives new meaning to the word “ice.” After skiing, check out the holiday activities that take place when the sun goes down. Catch It’s A Wonderful Life at the Wheeler Opera House. If you stay in one of the cabins for rent in Snowmass, take the little ones to Santa's Village. If you have a free night, consider attending the Aspen Film Festival and blend in with Hollywood's brightest stars.

Killington Area, Vermont

Spend a Norman Rockwell Christmas in charming Killington and take part in the ski town’s annual Vermont Holiday festival. Killington house rentals can accommodate most groups - even for those last minute ski vacations. Santa will be there, too, in his satellite workshop where the kids can help him make toys for the big day. Take a sleigh ride through the picturesque village and watch as the local businesses light up for the annual White Lights. Get into the spirit and cast your vote for the best display.
 

Lake Tahoe Area, California

Mark Twain called Lake Tahoe the “fairest picture the whole earth affords,” so why not discover it for yourself in a Lake Tahoe rental? Between skiing, sledding, and skating, you’ll hardly have time for Christmas Eve dinner at a five-star restaurant. If your energy is zapped, take a guided snowmobile tour through the mountains and view the holiday decorations displayed in several residential neighborhoods. And don’t let the kids have all the fun. Play a hand at one of the casinos and cash in on a bigger Christmas bonus than Santa can fit in his sleigh.

• Budget Ski Vacations

Durango, Colorado

Skip the crowded malls, the blinking lights, and the piped-in Muzac caroles, and hightail it to the wild west. Durango's old-fashioned ambience provides a comfortable backdrop and Durango house rentals are available for budget-conscious travelers. Epic runs + fresh powder make for memorable family ski vacations. The kids will get a kick out of riding the Polar Express to the “North Pole,” where Santa and his reindeer will help them create memories you’ll all be talking about for years.

Taos, New Mexico

Christmas is magical in the Land of Enchantment and Taos channels this festive energy with a Native American flair. Enjoy less crowded runs and shorter lines and even pet-friendly vacation rentals in Taos. For some après-skiing activities that will get you in the holiday spirit, watch the Procession of the Virgin pageant that takes place during sundown at the Taos Pueblo on Christmas Eve. The next day, celebrate Christmas morning with some traditional Native American dances and enjoy getting back to nature.

Solitude, Utah

Where else to do some soul searching at the end of the year than in Solitude, Utah? Find yourself in this secluded alpine village, with nothing for miles except for snow, a sundries store and a few local restaurants. The rustic mountain, friendly locals, and comfortable Solitude condos are a nice change from ritzy, crowded resorts or crowded ski trips in Colorado. See why they call this a skiier’s mountain – and enjoy an escape from the holiday hoopla.

We hope you've enjoyed our guide to holiday ski destinations.