6 Most Romantic Ski Resorts For Couples
Matt Lorelli - Powder.com
Traveling with your partner to a ski resort, especially a far-flung destination, takes time, careful planning, and communication. If you plan your trip right, and travel to one of these ski resorts known for their romantic atmospheres, there will be endless opportunities for unforgettable shared experiences.
The following list represents the opinion of the author and is based on personal experiences, mountain statistics, vibes (we're getting really scientific here), and overall reputation. Enjoy.
Sundance Mountain Resort, Utah
Sundance Mountain Resort, Utah
Closest Airport: Salt Lake International (55 miles)
Vertical: 2,150 ft
Skiable Terrain: 540+ ac
Average Snowfall: 300 in
Lifts: 9
Trails: 72
Nestled in the shadow of the towering Mount Timpanogos, Sundance Mountain Resort is a rustic haven. Born from the artistic mind of Robert Redford, the resort features luxurious accommodations, high-end dining, and off-mountain activities including a full-service spa.
The most romantic experience at Sundance can be found in their Studio and Suite accommodations. The rooms feature wood fireplaces, private decks, and vaulted ceilings. Don't sleep on the skiing experience either. Sundance's terrain will satisfy skiers of all abilities.
2. Sun Valley Resort, Idaho
Sun Valley's Opera House with Bald Mountain looming overhead. Couples can enjoy live performances, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and other off-mountain activities if a break from skiing is needed.
Photo: Kevin Syms via Sun Valley Media Gallery
Closest Airport: Friedman Memorial Airport (14 miles)
Vertical: 3,400 ft.
Skiable Terrain: 2,533 ac.
Average Snowfall: 300 in.
Lifts: 12
Trails: 120+
Sun Valley Resort is an undeniable gem. Known for being the birthplace of the chairlift and 'America's First Destination Ski Resort', Sun Valley has continued their reputation for excellence for nearly 100 years. The resort's accommodations are luxurious, with natural wood accents, marble countertops, and that extra touch of class that the owners of the resort, the Holding Family, are known for.
Kick back in one of Sun Valley's heated pools or head out for a day of skiing. Sun Valley's 'Bald Mountain' (known as Baldy) is steep and challenging. Insider's tip: Head to the mid-mountain lodge called 'The Roundhouse' for a decadent meal of fondue and champagne.
If you're not feeling up for the difficult terrain at Bald Mountain, Sun Valley's Dollar Mountain will be right up your alley. Dollar is completely separate from Baldy and is geared towards beginners and intermediate skiers.
3. Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont
Say what you want, but the East Coast has its fair share of jaw-dropping landscapes. Stowe Mountain Resort and Mt. Mansfield are certainly among them.
Photo: FashionStock.com/Getty Images
Closest Airport: Burlington International Airport (39 miles)
Vertical: 2,360 ft.
Skiable Terrain: 485 ac.
Average Snowfall: 314 in.
Lifts: 12
Trails: 116
The author once fell in love in Stowe, Vermont, so consider this a personal pick of sorts.
The town of Stowe and Stowe Mountain Resort are separated by only a few miles, but both serve up some of the most romantic views on the East Coast. The ski resort itself descends Mt. Mansfield, the state's tallest peak, and provides sweeping vistas of Vermont's Green Mountains and beyond.
Now, the rumors are true that Vermont can get quite cold, but fear not. Stowe's iconic red Gondola provides a cozy and warm cabin to share with your significant other. Finish the day by going out to eat in one of Stowe's historic establishments or curl up next to the fire in a cozy cottage within view of the town's staple church spire.
4. Timberline Lodge, Oregon
Timberline Lodge is an alpine experience like no other in the United States.
Closest Airport: Portland International Airport (52 miles)
Vertical: 4,540 ft.
Skiable Terrain: 1,685 ac.
Average Snowfall: N/A
Lifts: 9 (+2 snowcats)
Trails: N/A
Timberline Lodge is a marvel. Built in 1937, the historic building has been preserved and fitted with modern updates that blend seamlessly together. The remoteness of the lodge adds an extra feeling of adventure, exploration, and wonder.
The rooms of the Lodge are quite cozy, but you'll want to spend the majority of your time exploring the ski resort's massive 4,450 feet of vertical, soaking in the jaw-dropping views of Mt. Hood towering overhead, or lounging in one of the Lodge's brand new outdoor hot tubs. The stay at Timberline won't necessarily feel luxurious, but the accommodations are quite nice for a couple looking for a romantic getaway.
5. Lake Louise Ski Resort, Alberta, Canada
The views speak for themselves at Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Photo: CSNafzger/Getty Images
Closest Airport: Calgary International Airport (124 miles)
Vertical: 3,250 ft.
Skiable Terrain: 4,200 ac.
Average Snowfall: 179 in.
Lifts: 11
Trails: 164
Lake Louise is beautiful enough to make you fall in love. Now imagine standing 3,000+ feet above it with your ski-loving partner by your side. It can't be understated that Lake Louise Ski Resort has some of the best views of any resort in the world. It consistently ranks high in ski media lists and is raved about by World Cup and average skiers alike.
Lake Louise Ski Resort is massive with terrain for all abilities. Cruisy groomers, steeps, powder fields, hike-to only terrain, you name it, Lake Louise has it.
Located not far from the town of Banff, Lake Louise Ski Resort can be your hub for a romantic getaway in Canada's stunning Rocky Mountains. Head into town for shopping, spas, and restaurants, or travel to one of Banff's other nearby ski resorts of Sunshine Village and Mount Norquay. You really can't go wrong.
6. Loveland Ski Area, Colorado
Dozens of couples gather for Loveland Ski Area's Marry Me & Ski for Free Valentine’s Day Mountaintop Matrimony event.
Photo: Courtesy Loveland Ski Area
Vertical: 2,210 ft.
Skiable Terrain: 1,800 ac.
Average Snowfall: 422 in.
Lifts: 11
Trails: 94
How can we discuss the most romantic ski resorts in North America without mentioning Loveland? It's simply impossible with a name like that. It's important to note, however, that Loveland is quite different from the other ski resorts mentioned on this list.
Loveland is technically a ski area, not a ski resort, as it does not offer on-mountain lodging to guests. Now, before that deters you, know that Loveland is just an hour's drive from downtown Denver. See where I'm going with this? Whether you want to explore the bustling city of Denver when you're not on the mountain, turn a work trip into a romantic getaway, or choose to stay somewhere affordable within the city limits, Loveland is within reach.
If you and your partner are true skiing aficionados, consider visiting Loveland for Valentine's Day. The ski area has been welcoming couples to their 'Marry Me & Ski for Free Valentine’s Day Mountaintop Matrimony' event for over 30 years. Just like the long name of the event suggests, Loveland marries dozens of couples each year in a joint ceremony and then churns 'em loose to ski for free. Hard to beat for a skier couple's wedding, eh?
