Best ski resorts for non-skiers
It might seem as if everyone likes to ski. According to the SnowSports Industries America trade group, 6.9 percent of Americans over age 6 participated in at least one snow sport activity in 2012 — that’s 20 million Americans. Last winter, skiers, snowboarders and snowshoers burned a combined 332,386,750 calories — the equivalent of approximately 475,000 cheeseburgers, 2.2 million alcoholic beverages or 1.1 million slices of pepperoni pizza — racing down the slopes.
But for a variety of reasons, not all of us like to spend the day on the snow. Despite the millions who love the thrill of the downhill plunge, others prefer sipping mulled cider or a day in the spa — and this has not gone unnoticed by the ski industry. Now, non-skiers can enjoy the rustic charm and luxury amenities of the many renowned ski resorts offering any number of options as exciting as careening down an icy slope in subzero temperatures.
Here are some resorts where the quality of amenities off the slopes rivals the best groomed runs on them.
Spring Creek Ranch
Jackson, Wyo.
In an exceptional setting in a wildlife sanctuary, visitors to Spring Creek can enjoy a Winter Wildlife Safari, dog sledding, horse-drawn sleigh rides, guided snowmobile tours, the Wilderness Adventure Spa and access to the National Museum of Wildlife Art. A full-time naturalist takes guests to wildlife meccas like Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and the National Elk Refuge to see some of the most inspiring animals indigenous to the American West.
The Resort at Squaw Creek
Lake Tahoe, Calif.
Located 10 minutes from the shores of Lake Tahoe, the Resort features a full-service spa, pool and hot tub complex as well as a shopping promenade and restaurants that focus on regionally sourced ingredients. Guests not interested in hitting the slopes will enjoy dog sled tours, horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice skating, broomball, snowshoeing, sledding, snowmobiling and a high camp.
The Arrabelle
Vail, Colo.
Tavern on the Square, a pub-style venue in the Arrabelle’s lobby, is the perfect place to dine or enjoy après-ski relaxation. Find invigorating treatments at The RockResorts Spa with its six massage rooms, two facial rooms, a Vichy Shower/Swiss Shower room and a couples therapy room. Other offerings include a nail salon, a spa boutique, locker rooms with water falls, plunge pools, steam rooms and sauna, or an intimate couple’s suite with private circular tub.
InterContinental Davos
Switzerland
More than 5,000 feet above sea level, the InterContinental Davos sits among Switzerland’s Graubünden Alps. Each guest room has a panoramic view of these majestic mountains and valleys. The InterContinental exudes a warm chalet feel but includes high-tech amenities that create an atmosphere of privacy, elegance and comfort.
The Scarp Ridge Lodge
Crested Butte, Colo.
Built in 1885, this newly renovated Victorian building is now a stunning seven-bedroom property. Guests treat themselves to an indoor saltwater swimming pool, a custom-designed kitchen, a library, a cinema and a log-fire lounge. A snowcat delivers guests in total comfort to the Irwin recreation area, which is otherwise inaccessible in winter. Other area adventures include hot air balloon rides, dog sleds, zip-line tours, ice fishing, full-moon snowshoe adventures, daytime snowshoe tours and sleigh ride dinners to Uley's Cabin.
Fairmont Banff Springs
Banff, Canada
Nature's most awe-inspiring handiwork is on display at this cozy castle tucked away in the Canadian Rockies. The 125-year old resort is home to the Willow Stream spa, Banff Springs Bowling and Entertainment Center, and 11 restaurant and lounges. Waldhaus Restaurant, a 1927 Bavarian style cottage, serves up fondues and exemplary Canadian wines. Non-skiing activities include canyon ice walks, dogsledding, sleigh rides, ice fishing, skating, helicopter tours and gondola rides.
Aspen Meadows Resort
Aspen, Colo.
Designed in Bauhaus fashion, Aspen Meadows has 98 guest suites, each with a private balcony or patio. Guests enjoy sweeping views of the majestic Rocky Mountains every day. The full-service health club is free to guests, and an outdoor heated saline pool is open year-round. Year-round spa services include massage therapy, a hot tub and a steam room. There's snowshoeing for enthusiasts of all capabilities on surrounding trails. For a luxury dining experience, guests enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Rockies while sampling some of Aspen’s finest cuisine at Plato’s.
Mohonk Mountain House
New Paltz, N.Y.
Family owned and operated in the Catskill Mountains since 1869, Mohonk Mountain offers activities that appeal to non-skiers including snowshoeing, ice skating and snow tubing. Other amusements include house tours of the historic resort and barn, blacksmith demonstrations, movie nights, daily group exercise sessions, an indoor pool and an annual Christmas Gingerbread House. Winter weekends may include entertainment, music, demonstrations, tastings, presentations or workshops focusing on particular themes such as ballroom dancing, a mystery weekend or the art of chocolate.
El Monte Sagrado
Taos, N.M.
The resort offers a secluded sanctuary interwoven into the cultural ambiance of Taos. Guests are inspired by the resort’s mystique as they gaze upon the towering mountains and serene desert that envelop it. Accommodations are inspired by Native American and global cultures. Guests can enjoy perusing displays from the Kessler family art collection, indulge in spa treatments or reconnect with their inner selves while they are not hitting the slopes.
One Ski Hill Place
Breckenridge, Colo.
Non-skiing options include a bowling alley, two movie lounges, a game room and a seasonal gondola into town. Dining options include an intimate gourmet restaurant with an innovative wine-by-the-glass system, a grill where guests can grab a quick bite and relax on the outdoor terrace, or one of America’s highest-elevation après-ski bars. After an exhilarating day, guests head to the Rejuvenation Center for its wide range of treatments.
