Top Ski-In Ski-Out Properties From A Mountain Travel Expert
Source: Ski.com
Nobody enjoys rising early on a powder day and battling traffic to reach the mountain. Not to mention the extra anxiety of searching for parking and then trudging through the parking lot to a bus stop that will then transport you to the base area. Ski-in ski-out addresses this issue! Picture this: you wake up to mountain vistas and pristine snow. You gather your equipment and step out the front doors directly onto slopes with immediate access to the chairlift. Goodbye, parking hassles; hello, first chair and untouched tracks! The unparalleled convenience and opulence provided by ski-in ski-out properties are incomparable.
Meet The Mountain Travel Expert: Katie Morlind
It’s Ski.com’s Mountain Travel Expert Katie Morlind’s duty to ski, stay and play at mountain resorts worldwide. She takes her job seriously. After 30 years of arranging travel for skiers of all abilities and budgets, she’s compiled her favorite ski-in ski-out options. Just like a construction worker has a tool for every task, Katie has a slopeside lodge for every traveler. Suffice to say, she truly knows what makes a place special.
With the winter season approaching, we decided to utilize Katie’s expertise. We obtained the finest insider information on the top ski-in ski-out properties in ski country. A quick Google search may yield a laundry list of ski-in ski-out accommodations, but the experts understand that they are not all created equal.
Explore Katie’s’ expert recommendations on the five best ski-in ski-out properties that’ll help make your winter ski trip memorable AND effortless.
1. TIMBERLINE CONDOMINIUMS – SNOWMASS, CO – YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME
Katie suggests that the Timberline Condominiums are ideal for families aiming to maximize their mountain time. The location offers easy lift access and sits directly on the slopes. This close proximity makes it effortless to return to your condo for lunch and then hit the slopes again. “It’s one of my top recommendations for families wanting to maximize mountain time and enjoy condo life,” Katie says. If you have intermediate skiers eager to hit the slopes, this is the spot for you. For those looking to dine out or shop, the Snowmass Mall is just a five-minute walk away.
Timberline Condos will celebrate their 50th anniversary this year and you can trust their dedication to top-notch service and accommodations for the past 50.
“One of the benefits that I really love about Timberline Condos is how easy they make their arrival. You fly into Aspen airport and they have a car waiting for you and your family. Everything is loaded up and off you go to the property. Realistically, it only takes you 45 minutes from landing to get to check in. And if you time it right, you can be on the chairlift in another 20! ” says Katie. All of the units are large and updated. Each unit has slightly different ski access and the Mountain Travel Experts know which ones will get you on the mountain fastest.
2. FIRST TRACKS LODGE – WHISTLER, B.C. – FOR THE QUIETER SIDE OF WHISTLER
Whistler’s First Tracks Lodge is tucked in the serene Creekside Village, offering a tranquil alternative to the bustling Whistler Village. This finely appointed property is mere steps from the gondola and provides a quieter and more family-friendly ambiance without compromising on amenities. When you have a day off for shopping, Whistler Village is just a ten-minute bus ride away. But don’t think Whistler Village is your sole option for superb food and beverage choices. Creekside Village boasts numerous casual and fine dining establishments. Katie recommends Dusty’s for a sunny patio and après snacks or Rimrock for a cozy, upscale Whistler classic. Prefer pizza in PJ’s? Creekside offers a market for condo essentials like frozen pizza and coffee.
Creekside Gondola is steps from the backdoor of First Tracks, whisking you up to mid mountain lodge area to access the entire mountain. “With its prime location and the charm of Creekside Village, First Tracks makes a fantastic location for families seeking a more laid-back Whistler experience. After a day on the slopes, there is nothing better than skiing down to your room and indulging in a heated pool and hot tub.” says Katie.
3. STEIN ERIKSEN LODGE – DEER VALLEY, UTAH – ELEGANT, TIMELESS AND STEEPED IN HISTORY
The Stein Eriksen Lodge is “the epitome of an elegant getaway, offering some really special dining options,” says Katie. “When my clients are looking for unparalleled ski access and good food, this is where I send them.” With a legacy spanning generations, the Stein Lodge is widely known and cherished, celebrated for its rich history and enduring charm. And, of course, their renowned Sunday brunch buffet at the Glitretind Restaurant. This isn’t your typical Vegas casino buffet. Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains, this is a gourmet experience renowned for its seafood spread. Katie insists it is not to be missed.
“Dry out and warm up after a morning on the mountain next to a roaring fire. Thaw out your toes by kicking off your boots and take advantage of the house slippers. They’ve had to roll me down the hill after this brunch, so remember you have an afternoon of skiing still ahead,” gushed Katie.
Along with an amazing meal, Stein Eriksen Lodge also offers snowglobe dining. “It’s a great way to add a bit of whimsy and fairytale to your trip. You sit in these beautiful heated glass domes while you dine. Don’t miss their espresso Martini (necessary to bounce back after a day on the hill). There is nothing better than sipping a warm cocktail while sitting in a snowglobe, watching the sun set over the mountain,” Katie dished. Pro tip: this unique dining experience requires reservations. Ski.com’s Mountain Travel Experts can help you book early for holiday time frames.
Another delightful aspect of the ski-in ski-out Stein Lodge is its secluded location nestled on the mountainside. It is ideal for those seeking tranquility and seclusion. Park City Main Street is just a seven-minute shuttle ride away.
4. MONTAGE BIG SKY, MONTANA – WHITE GLOVE LUXURY
Montage Big Sky is a perfect winter escape that offers a luxurious retreat with seamless ski-in ski-out access to a private chairlift that whisks you away to mid mountain. “Big Sky is renowned for its western flare – think Yellowstone on snow – and Montage Big Sky is the newest accommodation that embodies this mountain country vibe, with the added benefit of five star luxury service” Katie says.
From the moment you arrive on property, you will receive an unparalleled guest experience that will truly make your ski vacation unforgettable. “There is no way I can talk about the Montage without mentioning their stellar staff that is truly invested in the guests’ experience. The Montage continually goes above and beyond with whatever my clients’ needs may be,” says Katie. One standout service is the extra hands always available at ski valet. If you have children, you know just how valuable it can be to have people helping your little ones get on their gloves and boots. The ski school is a shuttle ride away, but Katie has an insider tip. “Book a private ski instructor that will meet you at the property in the morning. That way, you get the most out of your time spent on the mountain,” Katie shared.
Montage Big Sky has a cozy atmosphere with all the amenities you would need for a luxury ski vacation. If you are looking for a property where you can settle in and don’t need to go far for amenities, Montage has everything covered. “They have an amazing indoor/outdoor pool setup with a lovely après bar,” said Katie. “It’s the perfect opportunity for you to indulge in an adult hot chocolate while the kids play.” The montage also features a bowling alley for an evening of family fun. “Beartooth Pub and Rec has a view of the bowling alley and my husband’s favorite spot to catch dinner and entertainment,” said Katie. Katie’s other secret tip? Whether you have kids or not, DO NOT miss the GOURMET s’mores bar!
5. PARK HYATT BEAVER CREEK RESORT & SPA – BEAVER CREEK, CO – FOR AN ELEVATED FAMILY EXPERIENCE
The Park Hyatt provides an unmatched experience in the heart of Beaver Creek Village. The setting is the type of place where you can roll out of bed, retrieve your gear from the complimentary ski valet, and bam, right on the slopes. Talk about the effortless life for catching the first chair for fresh lines!
Park Hyatt not only places you right at the slopes, but you also have easy access to boutiques, restaurants and bars located in the village. And one of Katie’s favorite things about staying in the heart of the village? Well, it’s cookie time! “At Beaver Creek, cookie time is a serious sport. Each winter, the community votes on the recipe that will roll out of the kitchen each day at 3:00. Chefs in white-topped hats carry trays of chocolate chip treats as skiers and snowboarders drop their gear and run towards them as fast as ski boots will take them. With the Park Hyatt right there, guests are given first dibs on cookies,” Katie tells us. (We obviously agree, what ski trip is complete without warm cookies?)
Along with cookie time being right out the front door, ski school is mere steps away from the hotel. This makes dropping the little ones off for ski lessons as simple as strolling out the front doors. After delivering them, grab your boots and skis from the valet and then head out to the chondola. That’s not a typo, it’s a gondola and a chairlift! And it’s right out the backdoor of the Park Hyatt. Katie’s recommendation after getting in your morning runs? Head to the Ice Cream Parlour and grab a hot cocoa (and ice cream if you are feeling wild) to sit and watch your kids learn pizza/french fries on their own private bunny hill with some of the area’s most fun instructors. “I love that this ski school is high on the mountain and parents can ski by, catching their little one giggling with new friends,” says Katie.
After cruising the wide-open groomers and tree runs that Beaver Creek is known for, return to the hotel with a quick stop at the valet. The attendant will store your boots on warmers for toasty toes in the morning. Between the valet and location of this hotel, you’ll never have to lug your gear far at all!
“The Park Hyatt also has one of my favorite bars and restaurants – Brass Bear Bar. It’s perfect for après skiing. And the heated pool and multiple hot tubs on the slopes is the best place to unwind in luxury,” Katie tells us. Insider tip? Try the loaded french fries after a day on the mountain and savor the happy hour, favored by both locals and visitors alike.
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