Spring has officially sprung…at least it feels that way here at Curbed Ski Headquarters and most academic schedules are already underway with a pretty good chunk of time off. The month of March in most ski towns is filled with end of season deals, special events and warm bluebird days. So if you have yet to get that much needed break, Curbed Ski has rounded up our top 5 picks for where to go and who to go with. Have a spring break secret we missed? Let us in on it and we'll keep adding to this list! Also, don't forget to check out our picks for the best ski town dive bars, breweries, and distilleries to really take your Spring Break to the next level.
Families: Snowmass, CO
Where to stay: The Westin Snowmass Resort
One of the friendliest to those with kids in tow, there's no better place to learn than Snowmass Mountain. There's something for everyone with plenty of expert terrain to explore and the best blues in between. The whole clan can setup shop at this mountainside property with everything you'll need inside the resort and outside your door. Opened in 2012, the hotel is ski-in/ski-out with all of the amenities you expect from a Westin – Kids Club included. And when mom and dad want a night out on the town, Aspen is just a short 20-minute drive with killer restaurants like this. Kids ski and eat free in March and April. Yes, you read that right.
College Coeds: Mammoth, CA
Where to stay: book a mountainside pad (like this one) for your whole crew on Airbnb
California college kids can ski all day and party all night at Mammoth – within a reasonable budget. The base village has seen a recent resurgence of the nightlife scene with swanky clubs, live music and après ski spots. The old standby's like Whiskey Creek are always happening and there's always an epic house party you'll stumble upon. Elevation Mammoth also kicks off on March 12, marking the town's 12th annual gay ski week. With 2,500 riders and nine official parties – anyone and everyone is in for a wild time.
Couples: Taos, NM
Where to stay: Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs & Spa
A total departure from the megaresorts in the west and where desert meets mountains, Taos is known for its uncrowded slopes, relaxed vibe and vibrant arts scene. For a perfect ski and soak combination, hole up off the mountain at the affordable Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs & Spa – where natural mineral waters throughout the entire resort have healed visitors since the 16th century. The recently renovated Cliffside Suites include a private soaking tub – or take your pick from the property's Kiva Pool, Mud Bath and full spa service menu. Spring skiers save 20% off spa and lodging with any New Mexico lift ticket or season pass.
Bros Trip: Jackson Hole, WY
Where to stay: The Wort Hotel
With only 10% of the mountain dedicated to beginners and the gates open to get after thousands of miles of backcountry terrain, Jackson Hole is an extreme skiers dream. So, if your lady friends can't hang – it's one of few excuses you have to leave 'em at home. Keep it classy with a couple of rooms at the Wort Hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and right in the center of town. The Silver Dollar Bar (inside the hotel), Stagecoach Bar and Million Dollar Cowboy Bar are where you can bond over plenty of whiskey.
Gals weekend: Stowe, VT
Where to stay: Stowe Mountain Lodge (One of our 38 Essential Ski Town Hotels)
An easy escape for east coast city dwellers, Stowe is full of award-winning spas to truly get away from it all. Spend a few hours in the morning cruising groomers in the sunshine and spend your afternoons in Stowe Mountain Lodge's cozy relaxation room between treatments. There are enough options to spa hop, like the Stoweflake Mountain Resort, Topnotch Resort and Trapp Family Lodge. And who better to bust out the neon spandex and celebrate Stowe's annual 80's Weekend (March 14-16) than with your girlfriends?
-By Katie Shapiro
· The Ultimate Après Ski: The Best Ski Town Distilleries [Curbed Ski]
· Dirt Bags, PBRs, and Shot Skis: The Best Ski Town Dive Bars [Curbed Ski]