The 20 Can't Miss Ski Experiences of the 2018-2019 Season
The 2018/19 ski season is off to a riotous start. Snow reports from across the globe are pointing to record accumulations of "white gold," early season openings, and conditions for what stands to be an incredible season. Here, we've gathered 24 new ski experiences that range from just plain luxe to truly over-the-top. It is time to get your skis waxed and start packing...
The Dining Experience: EMP Winter House
Location: Aspen, Colorado
Why you need to go: Chef Daniel Humm of Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park fame is bringing his much beloved Hamptons pop-up, EMP Summer House, to the Rocky Mountains through April 2019. Taking over a residency at the Chef’s Club at the St. Regis in Aspen, Humm will draw upon his upbringing in Switzerland to deliver lavish après ski snacks such as charcuterie and bone broth, in addition to hearty lunch and dinner menus featuring Smoked Trout Toast, Veal Schnitzel, and, of course, fondue. For the ultimate mountainside feast, make sure to book a large format feast in your own private yurt.
Opening date: December 15, 2018
The damage: Reservations are available for American Express Card Members only and require a $50 deposit per person; experiences start at $175 per person.
The All-Inclusive: Club Med Les Arc Panorama
Location: Les Arcs, France
Why you need to go: Wake up among the alpine peaks of France’s Paradiski resort (near Chamonix) at the new Club Med Les Arcs Panorama. A perfect family all-inclusive destination truly has it all: a well-appointed spa with turkish bath, a variety of kids clubs, indoor and outdoor pools, and ski-in, ski-out access. Three restaurants and a main bar offer a wealth of dining and drinking options, while the all-digital hotel allows for a seamless experience across check-in and out, plus effortless reservation processes. Book "Le Belvédère" Exclusive Collection for an even more luxurious experience, featuring elevated suites, specialized concierge service, and access to private lounge areas.
Opening date: December 16
The damage: From $1,600 / week per adult
The 'Gram: @clubmedarcspanorama
The Chalet: Eleven Experience at Chalet Hibou
Location: Le Miroir, France
Why you need to go: The latest offering from Eleven Experience invites you to ski like royalty with a stay at Chalet Hibou located in the French Alps where Switzerland, Italy, and France. Equipped with seven bedrooms (each with an en-suite bathroom), plus a sauna, a steam room, and a hot tub, perhaps the biggest draw is the off-piste outpost, The Alpage, a former sheep herders hut turned fully stoked off-piste hideaway. There’s also easy access to seven world-class ski resorts including Sainte-Foy, Val d’Isère, Tignes, Les Arcs, La Rosière and more. Local guides will take guests on a luxe ski safari that zig-zags across the French-Italian borders in search for the freshest powder. Gourmet meals, plenty of beverages, lift tickets, and all transportation is included.
Opening date: November 25, 2018 to May 5, 2019
The damage: Rates start at $9,300 for a chalet buyout of up to 10 guests
The 'Gram: @elevenexperience
The Cat: The Little Nell
Location: Aspen, Colorado
Why you need to go: Aspen is known for exclusivity and privacy, but the most coveted reservation isn’t a restaurant or a club-it’s actually a seat on the Little Nell's's private Powder Cat. Available to only 11 skiers at a time, those lucky enough to snag a seat will be treated to around 10 - 12 powder runs on the backside of Aspen Mountain. When it’s time for a late lunch at a mountainside cabin, a private gourmet meal is served with wines sourced from around the globe. The best part? A massage therapist will be on hand to help ease sore muscles and prepare for the next day (or three) on the slopes.
Opening date: December 2018
The damage: $625 per person
The 'Gram: @thelittlenell
The Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Megève
Location: Megève, France
Why you need to go: Picture the pinnacle of alpine-chic lodgings-sky blue accents, pale alpine wood beams, views of nearby Mont d’Arbois and creamy cashmere throws cover nearly every surface. As one expects from a Four Seasons resort, Hotel Megève, now in its first full season, fires on all cylinders. With just 41 guest rooms and 14 sumptuous suites, designed by the revered Pierre-Yves Rochon and Baroness Ariane de Rothschild the property summons the finest the ski gods have to offer. Your options are endless: a concierge and valet for a day on the slopes, or partake in snowshoeing, skating, hockey, curling, and icefall climbing. When it comes to dining, tuck into traditional French cuisine at the two Michelin-starred Le 1920, helmed by Executive Chef Julien Gatillon or opt for a lighter meal at Kaito, a breezy sushi bar. Finish off the evening with a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride. Oui, bien sur...
Opening date: December 15, 2018
The damage: Starting at $878/night
The 'Gram: @fsmegeve
The Home Away: Caldera House Jackson Hole
Location: Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Why you need to go: For a ski escape with all the necessary amenities of a luxury hotel but the solitude of a stunning private residence, book one of Caldera House’s eight sprawling two - and four-bedroom suites. Each comes equipped with chef’s kitchen, wood burning stoves, and custom décor in a nod to the vastness of the American West. Just a short stroll from the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort tram (literally, outside your door), this rustic chic destination also doubles as a private ski club, where members can take advantage of the ski valet, visit the on-site local ski shop, The Mudroom, for custom boot fittings and tunes, or make use of the state-of-the-art ski lockers. Tapping into the local spirit of Jackson Hole, the six-year, $100 million construction of Caldera House included the revival of the gourmet Italian institution, Old Yellowstone Garage, and the opening of Southcable Cafe?, a slopeside eatery for a quick, casual bite.
Opening date: November 26, 2018
The damage: From $2,500
The 'Gram: @calderahouse
The Lift Ticket: Ikon Pass
Location: 38 ski resorts across the world
Why you need it: The first season of this over-the-top ski pass is a guaranteed game-changer for globetrotting skiers. Offering access to 38 premiere resorts around the world (in both hemispheres), including Valle Nevado in Chile, Coronet Peak & The Remarkables in New Zealand, Niseko United in Hokkaido, Japan, and a slew of North American heavy hitters, like Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Aspen/Snowmass, Banff/Lake Louise, and east coast favorite, Killington. With easy access to 79,000 acres of the best terrain on earth-across 12 states and 5 countries-it’s never been easier to enjoy a ski season that lasts 365 days.
The damage: From $749
The 'Gram: @ikonpass
The Brew: Roadhouse Brewing Co.
Location: Jackson Hole. WY
Why you need it: Roadhouse Brewing Company co-founders- Colby Cox and Gavin Fine-debut the Roadhouse Pub & Eatery in the heart of Jackson Hole’s iconic Town Square, featuring more than 30 unique taps alongside a menu of elevated gastropub fare that only Gavin could provide.
The 'Gram: @roadhousebeer
The Edge of the World: Sheldon Chalet
Location: Denali National Park, Alaska
Why you need to go: Perched atop the Ruth Glacier in Denali National Park is a chalet so remote that guests have to helicopter in. As such, a stay at Sheldon Chalet is a complete adventure, with daily excursions including a snowshoe or ski Nunatak tour, snow cave or igloo construction, a visit to the nearby remote hot springs and, of course, heli-skiing. Each evening, 10 guests max. get to enjoy a gourmet chef-prepared dinner, accompanied by a program of sommelier selected wine, beer, and spirits.
The damage: $2,300 per person/night
The 'Gram: @sheldonchalet
The Ski Safari: The Dolomites
Location: Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
Why you need to go: Traverse 50 miles in the Dolomite mountains of Northern Italy, following an itinerary packed with stunning ski runs and historical sites. The four day adventure starts in South Tyrol, a region not far from the Italian-Austrian border that played a pivotal role in World War I and winds along the interconnected ski resorts of the region. Along the way skiers encounter ancient mountain huts, rock trenches, parapet walks, and one of the longest ski runs on the globe. Perfect for skiers of all levels, this adventurous trek includes three nights of accommodations at both 5-star hotels like the Cristallo resort and Spa and mountaintop rifugios, plus all breakfasts and dinners.
The damage: Rates from $6,000
The Guides: Hokkaido Storm Chasing, Japan
Location: Hokkaido, Japan
Why you need to go: Brothers Jake and Charlie Cohn grew up skiing Telluride, CO and much of Southwest, but became obsessed with chasing powder on the pistes of Japan in 2011. Not long after they founded SnowLocals.com, translating the old-school mentality of Japanese resorts for modern, adventurous skiers. Those with flexible schedules will love the Hokkaido Storm Chasing package, spontaneous trips that are organized around Japan’s notorious “pow-pocalypse storms” dumping face-deep powder found few other places on the planet. The Cohn’s take care of all the details such as flights, accommodations, and, of course, delicious local meals. All you need to do is show up and shred.
Opening date: Based on weather reports
The damage: From $3,600 / week per person
The 'Gram: @snowlocals
The Recovery: Grand Resort Bad Ragaz
Location: Ragaz, Switzerland
Why you need to go: Even amateur skiers can train (and recover) like an olympian at Bad Ragaz’s Medical Health Center, which is one of 12 Olympic Medical Centers in Switzerland. The state of the art health clinic is nestled within the 5-star luxury retreat, where guests can book preventive check-ups, performance diagnostics, in-patient rehabilitation services, and a variety of medical examinations. Work with a trainer to build a customized training program and test your newfound strength on the neighboring slopes of Flumserberg and Pizol. Don’t forget to take a dip in the thermal spa with waters from the Tamina Gorge, for a soothing and restoring après ski.
Opening date: Open since 1872
The damage: Starting at CHF 565 for two nights
The 'Gram: @resortragaz
The New Kid on the Block: The Josie
Location: Rossland, British Columbia, Canada
Why you need to go: Billing itself as the newest ski-in, ski-out hotel in North America, The Josie is perfectly situated on Canada's famous 'Powder Highway.' Entranced with the historic Josie Mine at RED Mountain, Spencer Clements and David Segarsand decided to pay homage with this witty, playful hotel. The Josie is appointed with 106 modern-minimalist guest rooms and suites, offering ski-in, ski-out access to some of British Columbia’s best powder. However, you’d be remiss not to partake in The Josie’s snowcat packages that offer access to 18,900 stunning acres of backcountry. The hotel is still a work in progress, as their slopeside spa won’t open until winter 2019, but visitors can book a table now at onsite eatery, The Velvet, which offers local Canadian cuisine from Chef Marc-André Choquette.
Opening date: November 28
The damage: From $127/night
The 'Gram: @Thejosiehotel
The Boutique Ski Hotel: Limelight Snowmass
Location: Snowmass, Colorado
Why you need to go: The third property in the Limelight portfolio is a cheery addition to the Snowmass Base Village, offering 99 family-friendly rooms, plus 11 residences, all decorated in a colorful, contemporary scheme. Roll out of bed right to Snowmass Mountain’s Elk Camp Gondola, which is located steps from the hotel; the ski concierge will make the ski-in, ski-out experience seamless. And don’t forget to check out the Limelight’s 54-foot climbing wall that clocks in at 5 stories and happens to be Colorado’s largest indoor rock-realistic climbing wall.
Opening date: December 14
The damage: From $159/night
The 'Gram: @limelighthotel
The B&B: Dunton Town House
Location: Telluride, Colorado
Why you need to go: A welcome new addition to the Telluride scene, The Dunton Town House offers an exclusive five charming rooms featuring a touch of rustic European wit in this sleepy Colorado town. Guests have access to a house manager who will arrange lift tickets, dinner reservations and any other excursions that guests would like to embark on. Located in 'town' it is just a stone's throw to the gondola and Telluride's legendary pistes.
Opening date: Open now
The damage: From $450/night
The Lodge: Snowpine Lodge
Location: Alta, Utah
Why you need to go: They say timing is everything-and that rings entirely true for the Snowpine Lodge, Alta’s first luxury resort with ski-in/ski-out access that will open their doors at the very same time that the neighboring Snowpine ski lift starts running. With 78 accommodations, Snowpine’s offerings range from a sprawling King-size suite to compact and kitschy dorm-style bunk rooms. They’ve also developed a well-rounded array of fun and relaxing après ski activities, including the game room (equipped with karaoke), movie theaters, slope-side heated pool, oxygen bar, and outdoor fireplaces. Enjoy globally-inspired gourmet meals at Swen’s Restaurant or opt for an elevated bar experience at The Gulch Pub.
Opening date: January 2019
The damage: From $329
The 'Gram: @snowpinelodge
The Private Club: Cimarron Mountain Club
Location: Cimarron, Colorado
Why you need to go: Have you ever dreamed about having your very own ski resort? Former natural resources lawyer, Jim Aronstein and his wife, Patsy are making that once far-fetched dream a reality by offering only 13 memberships to the first and only private ski resort in Colorado. Spanning 1,000 exclusive acres of terrain and 950 acres on adjacent public lands in the peaks of the San Juan Mountains, there are over 60 professionally designed runs that are only accessible by snowcat. Each Cimarron member receives a 35-acre plot to build their own cabin, while also having access to the three-bedroom Club Cabin and four yurts. As more memberships are claimed, a lodge, mid-mountain Barn, and a lakeside Warming Hut will be built, rounding out the secluded property.
Opening date: Now open
The damage: $2.285 million
The 'Gram: @cimarron_mountain_club
The Ranch: Sleeping Indian Ranch
Location: Cimarron Range, Colorado
Why you need to go: Book this sprawling 40,000 square foot lodge for an epic getaway with just 16 of your closest friends. The seven-bedroom abode was designed by Douglas S. Ewing, awarded by the American Institute of Architects, and is located on a 15,000 acres 47 miles northwest of Telluride. Make use of the 24-hour butler service and staff, who can prepare your meals in the 2,000 square-foot chef’s kitchen and will serve dinner in the dining hall that has space for 30 guests. The concierge can arrange any outdoor adventure, from heli-skiing that departs from the onsite airstrip to snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing.
The damage: Rates available upon request
The Remodel: La Table de l’Alpaga
Location: Megève, France
Why you need to go: La Table de l’Alpaga is celebrating five years in the Michelin Guide in the best way possible: with a major mountain-inspired remodeling. Drawing on the seasonal and locally foraged cuisine from Chef Anthony Bisquerra, expect accents of green and brown marble and plenty of smoked oak in the Alpaga hotel’s posh eatery.
Opening date: December 13
The damage: From $118 per person
The 'Gram: @alpagamegeve
The Event: 'The Next' at The Aspen Art Museum
Location: Aspen, Colorado
Why you need to go: The 'must-attend' event of the Aspen holiday season benefitting the Aspen Art Museum.
The date: December 28
The damage: $500
The 'Gram: @aspenartmuseum
The Ultimate Spring Break: CMH Adamants
Location: Interior British Columbia
Why you need to go: You, your family, and your own helicopter tackling 247,000 skiable acres of untouched powder. The bragging rights alone are worth it. This heli-access only lodge truly shines in April when days are long, temperatures are warm, and the memories last a lifetime.
The date: April 2019
The damage: $1,200 per person, per day (4, 5, and 7 day trips)
The 'Gram: @cmh_heli
The Custom Gear: Wagner Skis and Franco Snowboards
This season treat yourself to some custom equipment. You don't buy off the rack in the rest of your life, so why stop now?
Skis: Wagner Custom (Starting at $1,750)
Pete Wagner continues to produce some of the best performing (and looking) custom skis on the market. Based out of Telluride, CO, their “Skier DNA” fitting process is as easy to use online as it is going in and talking to Pete himself. All focused on helping you discover find your perfect pair of sticks.
Snowboards: Franco Snowshapes (Starting at $1,400)
This tiny shop in Jackson Hole’s Teton Village is quietly putting together some of the most progressive boards available. This winter, founder Mikey Franco will offer a line of ready-to-shred boards outside of custom crafted pieces as well called the RPK Line. Named simply “1,” “2,” and “3”, each one is crafted with a different rider in mind. Of special note is the “2,” which has specific features tailored towards female riders.
The 'Grams: @wagnerskis // @francosnowshapes
The Life-Hack: TripHero
Location: The Cloud
Why you need it: Let's face it the worst part of a ski trip is most likely getting there. Lugging bags to the airport, bag fees. waiting to pick them up at the oversized luggage carousel, and getting them to where you are staying. No ones wants this. That is why TripHero developed an ingenious way to get your precious gear from point A to B with the least amount of hassle imaginable. Like Uber for your skis, just log on to their site, provide the address of where you are staying (or hotel), they pick it up, and 1-5 days later (overnight delivery is available for powder chasing emergencies) your things arrive safe and sound. What could be easier?
The damage: $80 per ski/snowboard bag each way
The Backcountry Excursion: Skoki Lodge
Location: Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada
Why you need to go: For those ambitious enough to leave electricity, running water, and gasp Wi-Fi behind for two to three days, Skoki Lodge has catered to the adventurous (and even a royal or head of state, we hear) since it opened as Canada's first backcountry ski lodge in 1931. First tackle a "modest" seven-mile ski tour (with your clothes for the next few days in your backpack), then a off-the-grid oasis awaits you filled with a roaring fire place, gourmet home cooked meals, and all of the natural wonders you can ever desire.
Opening date: December 21
The damage: Starting at $170 per person per night
The 'Gram: @skilouise
The New Offering: Beaver Creek Reserve
Location: Beaver Creek, Colorado
Why you need to go: Elevate your ski experience with the very best service that Beaver Creek has to offer. Boost your trip with Beaver Creek’s exemplary take on First Tracks (that includes a tour and breakfast), or take an open-air sleigh ride to dine at one of the resort’s on-mountain cabins. Plus, you won’t want to miss out on Ski & Savor, a new program that offers the chance to ski with a pro, followed by a four-course lunch at Trapper’s Cabin. Finally, access to the White Carpet Club will make a day on the slopes a breeze, with exclusive access to lockers, on-site concierge, slopeside gear check, preferred parking and more.
The 'Gram: @beavercreek
Here's what's hot on the slopes this year.