The Five Best Ski Resorts in America

In the spirit of winter here in America, I've decided to compile a list of some of the best ski resorts I have been to over the past couple years. Not all of my choices are based on the actual skiing itself, so try not to be alarmed if some of my choices are controversial.

1. Vail

   By far the best ski and snowboard resort in America, Vail is number one on our list. It is over 7 miles wide, and on 80% of the mountain you'll find clear blue skies and open terrain. If you like wide plains and powdered back bowls, Vail is the best place there is. Ranked the largest ski resort in the world, Vail's official site claims on busy days you will only find 4 people per acre. Not to mention the quaint European styled town that really is one of the best in America. One last upside is that Vail is located in Colorado, so if you have the money only a fortunate few can make it over there each year.
   

2. Whistler

   Though not “technically” in America, I am putting this on the list at number 2. Whistler is located in British Colombia, Canada, so they get all the benefits of being farther north. More snow and an average colder temperature means Whistler is open a long time. This mountain is also one of the largest in the world, with over 200 skiable trails and 8000 acres.
   

3. Heavenly

   This is one of my favorites, even though it might be a bit controversial. One of the best mountains I've seen in California, Heavenly makes up for its size in quality. The largest in California, Heavenly has 4800 acres of skiable terrain and 95 trails. The reason I like it is because you're in California, and the sun is always shining. Another great thing is Heavenly is open until May 4, when a lot of other mountains have to close in late April. Heavenly really represents it name well… it's heavenly.
   

4. Beaver Creek

   Look, I'm not putting this on the list for skiing. Beaver Creek is on this list because it is the most family friendly ski resort in America. The town is modern to the utmost, with actual escalators (If you believe me!) leading up to the base of the mountain. Beaver Creek also sports some of the best eateries and hotels in the country, making it a great place if you're not a hardcore skier.
   

5. Stratton

   Alright, so I'm a little biased from New York, but I had to put at least one east coaster on the list. The East and West coast aren't really comparable, but I think Stratton is the best representative of the East. Almost an exact inch by inch model of the town of Vail, Stratton strives to be close to it's west coat buddies. Now some of you are wondering, we'll why didn't you put Killington or Stowe on the list, I mean, they are much bigger. But I believe in quality not quantity, and Stratton definitely has that as an advantage.