You've heard of Aspen, Jackson Hole and Whistler, but how about Copper Mountain, Grand Targhee and Revelstoke? These ski resorts may lack the buzz of their more glamorous neighbors, but they make up for it in snowfall, value and fewer crowds.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort - British Columbia
Revelstoke Mountain Resort in British Columbia gets about 35 feet of annual snowfall each year and is known for its big mountain terrain and small town character.
Opened in 2007, Revelstoke has remained largely off the radar thanks to its relative inaccessibility in British Columbia's Selkirk Mountain range. It's just under a five-hour drive from Calgary and two and a half hours from the nearest international airport, but it's unlikely to stay that way for long. With some 35 feet of annual snowfall and 5,620 feet of list-accessed vertical, it's the longest descent of any resort in North America. Revelstoke Mountain Resort is renowned for its legendary powder, big mountain terrain and small town vibes.
Copper Mountain - Colorado
Long a local favorite, Copper has lately been getting attention like its well-known neighbors, Breckenridge and Vail.
Sandwiched between Breckenridge and Vail, Copper Mountain has long been a local favorite, but the new 8-passenger gondola, 6-person chair lift, and ski-in, ski-out lodging put it on par with its big-name neighbors. Naturally divided terrain separates skiers and snowboarders by ability, which gives the entire resort more elbow room. Bonus: Guests get free snow cat access on Tucker Mountain. This season, Copper Mountain offers unlimited skiing and riding for Ikon Pass card holders.
Grand Targhee Resort - Wyoming
Wyoming's other resort, Grand Targhee is beloved for its powder and incredible terrain.
Perched on the western slope of the Tetons, Grand Targhee is perfectly positioned to reap the lion's share of powder from eastern-moving storms. "There can be times when Jackson Hole can receive zero snow and Grand Targhee can get a foot," says Dan Sherman, spokesman for ski.com. Plus, he adds, "The terrain is fantastic." Kids 12 and under always stay and ski free when booking three or more nights. You'll also find a great deal on vacation rentals -- book three night and the fourth night is free. Slopeside rooms start at $160 per night.