From the Colorado Rockies to Utah’s picturesque Park City, all the way to Idaho’s Sun Valley, ski season is underway. With the 2013 snow report looking promising, it’s the ideal time to plan a group getaway and hit the slopes. Helping winter enthusiasts decide which mountains to conquer, Ski Magazine recently unveiled its selection of the best ski resorts in the country, ranking Whistler, Deer Valley, Vail, Park City and Telluride as the top five picks.
Eager to book a flight, but wary of the costs associated with a ski trip for family or friends? Fear not, there are plenty of options to plan an affordable mountain vacation. A sure way to cut costs is by booking vacation rentals. There is an abundance of options to choose from in many of Ski Magazine's resort destinations that are suited for all budgets. Many rentals offer a sizeable living area with multiple beds and living rooms, allowing travelers to pay low costs per person while gaining more room and privacy. Savings quickly add up with many rentals boasting a fully equipped kitchen giving renters the ability to purchase food at local markets and prepare meals at their convenience. Plus, minimize airline baggage fees or valuable car space by packing less and throwing a load of clothes in the washer and drier that often come with the rental.
Professionally managed rental companies, like Wyndham Vacation Rentals, are offering discounts on their diverse ski portfolio with rentals that range from ski-in/ski-out condos to luxurious mountain homes. Rentals often include fireplaces, private decks with hot tubs, rooms with amazing mountain views, heated underground parking and storage space for ski equipment. Book now to take advantage of specials and deals in top ski destinations that may include discounted lift tickets, free night stays and up to 30 percent off vacation rental accommodations. Still need to pick the perfect ski destination? Here’s a look at some of the ski destinations that were featured in Ski Magazine:
Deer Valley, Utah
Topping Ski Magazine’s list at No. 2, Deer Valley can be found on the outskirts of Park City, just an hour southeast of Salt Lake City. Claiming to have the “Greatest Snow on Earth,” this resort offers up six mountains, all with slopes for skiers of varying abilities. Thrill seekers will love courses once skied by the 2002 Olympians, and adventurous foodies will appreciate award-winning cuisine after a grueling day on the slopes. Accommodations: Now until Jan. 17, save 20 percent on ski accommodations at more than 100 eligible Wyndham Vacation Rentals properties in Park City.
Vail, Colo.
No. 3 in the rankings, Vail is known for offering visitors a certain level of luxury and renowned for its impeccable slopes. Some of Vail’s prized terrain includes “the bowls,” like Siberia’s Bolshoi Ballroom and Sun Up’s Over Yonder. The resort also features the popular Blue Sky Basin, covered in meadows and offering a 1,900-foot vertical drop. Accommodations: Rates are reduced at Wyndham Vacation Rentals’ Lion Square Lodge, Montaneros and Simba Run for stays of four nights or more now through Feb. 13. Save more with 20 percent discounted lift rates when reserving at least 14 days prior to arrival.
Sun Valley, Idaho
At No. 7 on the list, Sun Valley, Idaho offers a great alpine ski area and a wealth of runs for beginner to intermediate skiers. A mecca for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, Sun Valley’s Bald Mountain boasts 3,400 vertical feet of skiing and 14 lifts, while Dollar Mountain is praised as one of the finest teaching mountains. Accommodations: Spend three nights or more in Sun Valley with Wyndham Vacation Rentals and save 20 percent on accommodations for travel from Jan. 6-31 or March 1-31.
Beaver Creek, Colo.
Beaver Creek is ideal for skiers of any level and offers curb appeal to boot. The No. 9 ranked ski destination has the cozy appeal of a quaint Bavarian village with stress-free perks like easy parking and friendly service. Mystic Alley and Powell are great for kids or less experienced skiers, while the self-proclaimed pros can test their abilities on the only U.S. slope recognized by FIS (International Ski Federation).
Steamboat Springs, Colo.
Those who like to ski but also take part in off-slope activities (snowmobiling, tubing, skating or soaking in hot springs) will appreciate No. 13 on the list, Steamboat Springs, Colo. The town has a variety of terrain for beginners and experienced skiers and ranked in the top five for Ski Magazine’s family programs. Accommodations: Save 30 percent off vacation rental accommodations and enjoy a choice of complimentary passes to the most sought-after attractions.
This is a "sponsored post," meaning the company who sponsored the article compensated me for writing the article. The opinions I have expressed, however, are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
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