After being taught how to snowboard by Shaun White a couple of years ago, Cactus Jack is still shredding.

Last Friday, Big SNOW American Dream, located just outside New York City, shared a video of rapper Travis Scott getting some turns in at their indoor ski slope. It looks like he was able to secure some private slope time to enjoy some quality corduroy. He’s starting to become a frequent guest at Big SNOW, so I hope that he continues shredding.

Here’s the biggest question from this shredding sesh: Does this mean that Travis will reference snowboarding on his next album?

Image/Video Credits: Big SNOW American Dream

For many ski enthusiasts, the dream of a ski trip to a top-level ski resort is often dimmed by concerns about high costs. Fear not, because fantastic skiing doesn’t have to come with a quite so hefty price tag. Across the United States, there are hidden gems where the snow is just as fluffy, the runs just as exhilarating, but the prices far more wallet-friendly. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of some of the best ski resorts that offer a great ski experience a a major ski resort without burning a hole in your pocket. From the powder-rich grounds of Montana to the serene slopes of Utah, and the unique terrain of New Mexico, we’ve covered a range of destinations that cater to every skier’s desires – all while keeping an eye on the budget. So make that big trip to a major ski resort without blowing you budget.

Top Affordable Ski Resorts Across the USA

Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana: Whitefish Mountain Resort is a haven for skiers who watch their wallets. Not only does it offer affordable lift tickets, but its variety of terrains suits all levels of skiers. The charming town of Whitefish enhances your experience with its budget-friendly accommodations, perfect for family trips or solo adventures.

Bridger Bowl Ski Area, Montana: A short drive from Bozeman leads you to Bridger Bowl, a non-profit ski area known for its cost-effective pricing and excellent powder skiing conditions. It stands as a competitive option against pricier resorts.

Grand Targhee Resort, Wyoming: Experience less crowded slopes and heavy snowfall at Grand Targhee Resort, located on the beautiful western slope of the Teton Range. Its affordability shines in comparison to the famed Jackson Hole, offering value-for-money lodging and lift tickets.

Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico: Taos Ski Valley is more than just a ski resort; it’s a culturally-rich experience blending challenging terrains with a unique ambiance. It’s a budget-friendly alternative for skiers seeking something different from larger, commercial resorts.

Solitude Mountain Resort, Utah: In the heart of Big Cottonwood Canyon lies Solitude Mountain Resort, a serene skiing destination with modest pricing compared to other Utah resorts. It’s ideal for those seeking tranquility on a budget.

Sugarloaf, Maine: For East Coast skiers, Sugarloaf offers fantastic skiing conditions and varied terrain at a fraction of the cost of more famous resorts in Vermont or New Hampshire.

Wolf Creek Ski Area, Colorado: Known for the highest snowfall in Colorado, Wolf Creek provides an ideal setting for powder enthusiasts. Its competitive lift ticket prices and relaxed atmosphere make it a standout choice for budget-conscious skiers.

Embarking on a ski adventure in the USA doesn’t have to deplete your savings. Our guide to budget-friendly ski destinations shows some good opportunities for enjoying world-class skiing without the world-class prices. Each of the resorts we’ve highlighted offers a unique blend of affordability, quality, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re carving down the slopes of Whitefish Mountain or basking in the cultural richness of Taos Ski Valley, you’re bound to find a destination that aligns with both your skiing aspirations and budget constraints.

Remember, the key to a successful budget ski trip lies in careful planning. Keep an eye out for package deals, explore off-peak seasons for the best rates, and don’t shy away from lesser-known resorts. These hidden gems often provide the best value, offering lower prices and fewer crowds, enhancing your skiing experience.

As you prepare for your next ski journey, think beyond the price tag. Focus on the experiences, the joy of skiing, and the beauty of the mountains. With the options available across the USA, you’re sure to find a resort that not only fits your budget but also enriches your love for skiing. So, gear up, choose your destination, and get ready to hit the slopes in a way that’s both economically and experientially rewarding. Happy skiing!

Featured Image Photo Credit: Dakine

As the winter season approaches, snow enthusiasts worldwide are eager to hit the slopes and carve their way through the pristine powder. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time snowboarder, having the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Last week we dropped into some deep pow and took a look at three winter kits for your riding preferences. This week, it’s time for everything else. Navigating the vast array of accessories can be a daunting task. However, our comprehensive ski and snowboard accessories guide will provide you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your equipment this winter. 

The Ski and Snowboard Accessories You Need this Winter

Dakine Mission 25L Backpack – $95 

Photo Credit: Dakine

The Dakine Mission 25L backpack is your versatile companion when conquering the slopes this winter. Its durable construction is unrivaled. The ample storage and dedicated snowboard/ski carry system make it ideal for mountain excursions in the backcountry. However, it is also an ideal pack for a resort day if you are looking to stow away some extra gear in a bag that is just the right size. Plus, its hydration compatibility is an added bonus that will allow you to enjoy the thrill of the ride without having to stop for breaks. (pictured in the Dakine Mission 32L)

Arcade x Teton Gravity Research Belt – $37.95

*Photo Credit: Arcade Belts

Elevate your style and comfort with the Arcade x Teton Gravity Research belt. Two iconic brands have crafted a durable nylon belt with a low-profile buckle. This belt is certain to provide a secure and stylish fit for all your adventures. Whether you’re dropping into Corbet’s or navigating city streets of Jackson, the Arcade x Teton Gravity Research belt will keep your pants in place and your style on point.

Ridge Men’s Inversion Heavyweight Merino Wool Base Layer Crew Shirt & Bottoms – 99.95 & 79.95

*Photo Credit: Ridge Merino

Embrace the warmth of winter in Ridge’s combination Men’s Inversion Heavyweight Merino Wool Base Layer shirt and bottom. Made with 100% merino wool, this base layer provides exceptional insulation and breathability, and its soft merino is so comfortable, it’s luxurious. The relaxed fit and flatlock seams ensure all-day comfort, while the odor-resistant properties of merino wool mean you can wear it from the slopes to the bar without stinking up the joint. 

SnoStrip – $49.95

*Photo Credit: Rig Strips

We have all been there. You lean your skis and board against your car. Inevitably someone bumps them and they slide down leaving your ride all scratched up. Enter the SnoStip by Rig Strips. This magnetic strip securely holds your skis or snowboards upright, preventing them from falling over and scratching your vehicle. The soft, waterproof material protects your car’s paint, and the strong magnets ensure the SnoStrip stays in place even at highway speeds. Easy to install and remove, the SnoStrip is a convenient and effective way to keep your skis and snowboards safe and your car scratch-free.

Rossignol Opside Hooded Jacket (Men’s & Women’s) – $250

*Photo Credit: Rossignol

The Rossignol Opside Hooded Jacket is an ideal midlayer option that seamlessly blends functionality and style. The waterproof exterior and breathable fabric keep you dry, while the synthetic insulation provides excellent warmth without adding bulk. The Opside’s sleek European fit and stylish colorways allow you to transition effortlessly from the slopes to the streets, making it a versatile addition to your winter wardrobe.

Hot Chillys Thermal Socks – $23 and up

*Photo Credit: Hot Chillys

Brave the cold with Hot Chillys thermal socks. Crafted from a soft and breathable blend of merino wool, these socks provide exceptional insulation and moisture-wicking properties that are sure to keep your feet warm. Their seamless construction and reinforced toe and heel add comfort and durability making for a cozy and comfortable combination. 

The Toe Spacer – $19.95

*Photo Credit: The Toe Spacer

Having your feet smashed into ski boots all day can be debilitating. Enhance their recovery and your skiing experience with The Toe Spacer. By gently realigning your toes to their natural position, The Toe Spacer alleviates discomfort and improves circulation. This will reduce the risk of common ski-related foot issues such as plantar fasciitis and have you skiing pain-free while enjoying the thrill of the slopes.

Smith x Oyuki collab –  Helmet $140 Goggles $240

*Photo Credit: Smith Optics

Inspired by the legendary deep snow culture of Hokkaido, Japan, Smith and Oyuki have created a collab helmet and goggles that will have you riding the slopes in style. The Method helmet features Zonal KOROYD® coverage and a Mips® Safety System for enhanced protection. Meanwhile the Squad MAG goggles boast MAG Tech lenses for quick lens changes and ChromaPop lens technology for exceptional clarity. The final touch is the collaboration’s unique artwork. Inspired by the beauty of the Niseko region, it gives your gear the personality you want this winter. 

Otterbox 3 in 1 Charging Station with Magsafe – $149.95

*Photo Credit: Otterbox

No more bringing multiple charging blocks and wires on your next ski trip. The Otterbox 3-in-1 Charging Station with MagSafe is far more efficient. A compact and versatile charger it will keep all of your essential devices powered up amidst the snowy adventures. Its sleek design seamlessly integrates into your ski lodge or cabin perfectly.

The MagSafe compatibility ensures effortless charging for your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods simultaneously. Your devices will be ready for the next day’s adventures with minimal effort. Capture the excitement of the slopes and navigate the après-ski scene without worrying about battery life. The Otterbox 3-in-1 Charging Station with MagSafe will keep your devices powered up for whatever winter brings.

About the Author

Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Beyond the Après podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont.  @allaboutapres

Earlier this year, an unpleasant interaction between a snowboarder and a skier at Sun Valley went viral.

Back in April, Alex, known on YouTube as TheGoodObserver, shared an interaction that he had with a feisty skier over at Sun Valley Resort. The snowboarder was going down the slope and began to pass a skier who was making wider turns. The snowboarder waited to pass the skier until the guy began to make his turn radius to the right. Alex got past him and was a few feet away when they were side by side, meaning that there was a very minimal chance of a collision.

The skier didn’t appreciate being passed so closely while making his GS turns. While the snowboarder was slowing down next to a trail intersection, the skier made a hockey stop to intentionally spray the rider with snow. They then interacted in the lift line, with the skier throwing the following insult at Alex:

“I know you’re a hero and all, but fuck off.”

Boom! Roasted.

To explain the full circumstances of the situation, Alex released a video this week detailing the before and after of the argument. He explains his logic of how he got around the skier, and then why he stopped in what appeared in the middle of the trail. He then detailed his regrets about the situation, which included giving the skier more space to turn. Overall, it’s a decent explanation video, although he could’ve done better by not calling the skier a r*****.

Alex’s video breakdown is below.

Image/Video Credits: TheGoodObserver

“I know Jake would be cheering from the sidelines.”-Donna Carpenter, Owner and Chair of Burton.

If there’s something that comes close to my passion for skiing, it’s basketball. I’m personally a Celtics fan, so I was pretty stoked to see a major announcement from the NBA team and Burton Snowboards yesterday.

On November 13th, the Boston Celtics and Burton Snowboards announced that they will be selling 77 snowboards that hold a major significance to the NBA franchise’s history. Mine77, which is Jake Burton’s signature collection of limited-edition outerwear, apparel, and equipment, has a special ingredient with this collaboration. The wood used to build the snowboard is from the 2008 NBA Finals Celtics parquet floor, which is the last time they won the chip.

The snowboards are on sale today at 10:00 a.m. for $1300.77, with only seventy-seven available to the public (Update 11 a.m.: They’ve sold out ). The 77 number comes from the year 1977, when Burton Snowboards was founded in Londonderry, Vermont. Jake fell in love with the number, which is why they’re doing this in honor of the Celtic’s 77th year.

Jake Burton Carpenter was an avid Celtics fan. The Carpenter family has had season ticket holders for the past 29 years, which included the 2008 title run.

In addition, Celtics superstar Jaylen Brown and Burton Snowboarder Zeb Powell are good friends, as they are both Red Bull athletes. JB got a snowboard from Zeb earlier this year, so it’s pretty cool to see these two link up again.

Here’s hoping that a Miami Heat fan doesn’t grab one of these boards.

Image/Video Credits: Boston Celtics, Burton Snowboards, Donna Carpenter

Breckenridge Ski Resort opened for the season this past Friday (11/10). With the launch of their opening day, Breck offered immediate access to the brand new FIVE SuperChair. I headed to Breck for opening weekend, and I can confirm that the new lift is solidly running as planned!

The FIVE SuperChair is a high-speed quad which replaced the unbelievably old 5 Chair double. This new lift closely follows the original towers, though the new towers are to the side of the alpine slide instead of directly over it. This new lift doesn’t access any new terrain and strictly serves as a capacity improvement.

Having used the original 5 Chair, I would say this new lift is a huge improvement for the resort. The FIVE SuperChair now allow’s Breck to boast that all of the Peak 8 base area lifts are at least high-speed quads. Breck anticipates this improvement (along with last year’s opening of the new Rip’s Ride) to allow for quicker egress out of the base area and shorter lines.

An immediately evident improvement was the ride time. The previous ride time was over 7 minutes, and the new ride time is just over 3. I would anticipate this ride time improvement to actually be greater during peak season due to reduced stopping. The previous lift had the typical swing of a fixed grip, and this swing paired with the tight two-person fit caused a lot of beginners to completely biff loading the lift. This lift used to stop all the time, and hopefully that will be less of an issue in the future.

Another huge improvement to the beginner experience is the unloading pitch. If you’ve ridden the old chair, then you know just how surprisingly steep the unloading zone was. Beginners would fall constantly, and skiers/snowboarders would crash into each other all the time. The new pitch is much more mellow and wider to accommodate the new lift. While this won’t prevent all newbies from falling, I would bet these falls and collisions will be greatly reduced.

Lastly, the new lift maze is aligned better to the base area. The maze entrance is now easy to ski into from the main run Springmeier. It allows for better crowd flow compared to the past lift, which required a good amount of speed and traffic crossing in order to make it the lift without taking your skis off.

Overall, I’m impressed by how much of an improvement this new lift is to the beginner experience at Breck. I’m excited to see how the crowd flow improves this season as a result of the FIVE SuperChair. Fingers crossed for shorter lift lines! Check out the opening day highlight reel from Breck below:

Photos and Video Courtesy of Breckenridge Ski Resort and skiingsolo

As they make snow in the hopes of opening this month, Winter Park has released an update to their trail map. Following in the footsteps of Keystone and Steamboat, it seems like October is the month of the new trail maps!

Winter Park has two updates to their map. After teasing the expansion on last year’s map, Winter Park has included new hike-to terrain in The Cirque. This terrain was shown as closed on previous maps, but the map for this year features the extreme Jelly Roll glades. This terrain will be accessible for the first time this season (although an opening date is TBD).

Winter Park’s map also highlights the new Wild Spur Express lift. This update is definitely the bigger impact of the two, as this new high-speed 6-person lift replaces the old Pioneer lift (which was an ancient 4-person lift). While this new lift appears to have the same terminal and tower locations, the Wild Spur Express has added a mid-load station. This station will be a big quality of life improvement for snowboarders, as the return to the bottom of the lift is notoriously flat.

You can check out the full map below, or download a copy from Winter Park’s website. Winter Park is set to open “as early as possible” for this season, so keep an eye out for the opening announcement!

Photos Courtesy of Winter Park

This winter, the home rental service VRBO is offering a very unique ski and stay experience.

This week, VRBO announced their ultimate winter escape and private mountain experience with Shaun White. Situated at Eagle Point Resort in Utah, the five-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom slopside property will be available to rent from January 29th to February 1st. This stay will include two days of hanging out with three-time gold medalist Shaun White. The cost of this experience? $12.60 a night, which is in honor of Shaun’s signature move: the Double McTwist 1260.

Booking a reservation will open on October 27th at 1 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The first person to book the cabin will get the bragging rights for the rest of their life.

Click here for more information about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. More details about the stay from Shaun White and VRBO are below.

Vrbo’s ultimate winter escape and private mountain experience with Shaun White

Snow-filled adventures are calling!

Private vacation rental brand Vrbo is teaming up with five-time Olympic legend Shaun White to unveil the ultimate winter escape: an entire ski resort and luxury cabin in the mountains of Utah where the only other person you’ll see on the slopes is your personal snowboard guide, Shaun.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity includes a four-day/three-night stay at this luxury ski-in/ski-out Vrbo cabin, the entire mountain and ski resort at Eagle Point Resort to yourselves for two days, and quality 1:1 time with Shaun White.

HOW TO BOOK

Mark your calendars! Be the first person to request to book this experience on Oct. 27, 2023, beginning at 1 p.m. EDT on the dot. The stay accommodates you and up to 14 friends for just $12.60 per night — a tribute to Shaun’s signature move, the Double McTwist 1260.

EXPERIENCE DETAILS

> Stay from Jan. 29 – Feb. 1, 2024 in The Boulders, a five-star contemporary ski-in/ski-out Vrbo cabin nestled along Eagle Point Resort, Southern Utah’s steepest and deepest ski and snowboard resort. This sleek mountaintop property includes a fireplace, soaking tub, eight-person bunk room and game room for après-ski evenings together playing ping pong, air hockey, and darts.

> Enjoy private access for you and your group at Eagle Point Resort on January 30 and 31, 2024 for two full days of skiing and snowboarding. This includes all lift fees, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing passes, rental equipment, ski/snowboard instruction and mountain ski hosts. Guests will also have access to the resort’s bar and grill and other on-site amenities, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

> Receive private snowboarding tips from three-time gold medalist and the best-known snowboarder in the world, Shaun White. As a special bonus commemorating the experience, the stay also comes with $5,000 worth of boards, gear, and merch from Shaun’s namesake snowboard and outerwear line, WHITESPACE.

> Get $100 in OneKeyCash for each guest in the group. One Key is the first loyalty program from a major online vacation rental platform and travelers can earn OneKeyCash on Vrbo stays that can be redeemed on thousands of private vacation homes around the world.

Image Credits: VRBO, Shaun White, Eagle Point Resort

We asked ChatGPT, “What are the most underrated ski areas?” The list it came back with included some very well-known and very popular ski areas that in no way can be considered underrated by the vast majority of skiers. A few areas on the list, including Red Mountain Resort and Andermatt, could make the argument are “underrated”.

“What is the most underrated ski area?” According to ChatGPT.

The perception of an underrated ski area can vary depending on individual preferences and priorities, but there are several ski resorts around the world that are often considered underrated or hidden gems by avid skiers and snowboarders. Some of these lesser-known ski areas may not have the same level of recognition as the more famous ones but offer great skiing experiences. Here are a few examples:

1. Mad River Glen, Vermont, USA: Mad River Glen is known for its challenging terrain and commitment to maintaining a more traditional, no-frills skiing experience. It’s often overlooked in favor of nearby resorts like Stowe or Sugarbush, but it has a loyal following among those who appreciate its unique atmosphere.
2. Red Mountain Resort, British Columbia, Canada: Red Mountain is a smaller resort compared to its more famous neighbors like Whistler or Banff, but it offers excellent powder skiing, diverse terrain, and a laid-back atmosphere.
3. Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana, USA: Whitefish is located in northwest Montana, and it’s often overshadowed by resorts in Colorado and Utah. However, it boasts stunning scenery, ample snowfall, and a welcoming, down-to-earth vibe.
4. Andermatt, Switzerland: Andermatt is a picturesque Swiss village with a charming, old-world feel. It offers fantastic off-piste and backcountry skiing and is not as crowded as some of the more well-known Swiss resorts.
5. Hakuba Valley, Japan: While not entirely off the radar, Hakuba Valley is sometimes overshadowed by Niseko when it comes to skiing in Japan. However, Hakuba offers a diverse range of ski areas, reliable snowfall, and a more traditional Japanese experience.
6. La Grave, France: La Grave is known for its extreme, off-piste terrain and lacks groomed runs. It’s definitely not for beginners, but for advanced skiers and riders seeking adventure, it’s a hidden gem.

Remember that the perception of underrated ski areas can change over time as more people discover them. What’s underrated today may become more popular in the future, but these resorts often maintain their charm and unique character.

Regenerate

After years of planning and construction, Steamboat has unveiled their new trail map. As their Full Steam Ahead project wraps up the remaining construction, Steamboat is preparing to welcome visitors to their fully revamped resort.

The new map has two key new features. Front and center stands the new Wild Blue Gondola. This gondola connects the base area with the top of Sunshine Peak, allowing for a single ride that previous required multiple lifts.

The other exciting feature is the new Mahogany Ridge Express chair. This new chair gives access to Steamboat’s brand new 650 acre terrain expansion. This expansion has added a large portion of black and double black runs to the resort (which was very much lacking in past seasons).

The full Wild Blue Gondola and Mahogany Ridge Express are expected to open this upcoming season. You can check out the full trail map below, or download it directly from Steamboat’s website.

Photos Courtesy of Steamboat Resort