SNOW DAY'S

From the Pacific Northwest to the Italian Alps, ski resorts are adding new infrastructure and luxe amenities for a glittering winter season

- TODD PLUMMER

The ski world’s overarching narrative in recent years has been one of conglomeration. Its two dueling behemoths, Alterra Mountain Company and Vail Resorts, have been on a buying spree of epic proportions over the last decade, scooping up resorts around the world and glowing up their infrastructure. The coming ski season promises to be monumental for both companies, with Alterra announcing a transformative $300 million of capital improvements across its portfolio and Vail Resorts rolling out its expansive My Epic Gear program—a high-end rental service offering access to high-quality equipment across its properties.

But it’s not just about the biggest, flashiest resorts this winter. It’s going to be a great season for the independent resorts and tried-andtrue favorites, too. Whether you’re going all out with a week at Whistler or just looking to sneak in a day on the slopes in New England, here’s where to ski this season.

1 NORTHERN ROCKIES

Up north, Big Sky has buzzed with activity and celebrity sightings in recent years, in large part thanks to its neighbor, the tony Yellowstone Club. The resort is in the final stages of its investment strategy, Big Sky 2025, and just unveiled the architecturally dramatic Lone Peak Tram Lower Terminal, ensuring that even nonskiers have a thrilling opportunity to reach the summit. The relatively new Montage Big Sky has rested on its laurels as the first five-star hotel of its kind in the state in recent years, but it is set to face stiff new competition. While the opening of One&Only’s debut North American hotel, One&Only Moonlight Basin, has been delayed, its gondola and lodge will be open in time for this ski season, adding to the area’s luxury offerings.