Are you skiing in the US this winter? these slopes are the top

These legendary ski capitals of America may be well known, with plenty of surprises every season, both on and off the mountain.

Big Sky, Montana


Prestige: Double Black Diamond Terrain. Surprise: New montage Big Sky significantly expands options for families and beginners. On the Mountain: Experience European-style skiing with a guide after get off work, enjoy a canard à l’orange meal at the 8800 restaurant at Mount Everett, and ski back under the stars. Cross Country Skiing: Montage Big Sky has its own beginner area, ice rink, tubing hill and snowshoe trails: family paradise. After: Mountain Village’s glass-enclosed Vista Bar serves craft cocktails and offers views of the Butte.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming


Reputation: Extreme ski proving ground. Surprise: The backcountry terrain is a paradise for freestyle snowboarders (Grand Teton is enchantingly snow-covered). On the Mountains: When you entertain your teens on skis arranged by the Caldera House Hotel with Shaun White, you’ll get instant cool parenthood. Off-Piste: Guests of the newly renovated Four Seasons Jackson Hole can take a one-day tour to track the elusive gray wolf. Après: Virginian (“Virg”) lively salon reopens under new owners.

Aspen, Colorado


Reputation: A visible mountain where your ski attire is more important than your skills. Surprise: no bling in the back heat (challenging terrain on the backside of Aspen Mountain). On the Hill: Explore the backcountry with local legend Chris Davenport, who will teach you about safety in the wild. Cross-country skiing: The Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies features work by Bauhaus designers. Postscript: Hunter S. Thompson’s old pub, Woody Creek Tavern, has been lovingly remodeled; Gonzo’s press conference agrees.

Alaska


Reputation: Low-key; you’re here for a vertigo-inducing run. Surprise: In January, operator Third Edge Heli debuted its own exclusive cabin, Eagle’s Nest. On the Hills: Their private tours in five different ranges of wilderness are all custom so families can request softer terrain. Cross-country skiing: Let the helicopter land at the nearby Alyeska resort to soak and steam at its new Nordic spa. After: Sip a few bottles of Cristal at the spa’s Two Trees Bistro while tasting an Alaskan “seacuterie.”