Whiteface has the East's biggest vertical drop and it has twice been used for the winter Olympics. The most recognizable thing about this resort is that it is smoke free and it has

a small-town friendliness about it. There are a number of double black diamond runs to test your ability to the maximum and the slides are complex but natural.

There are 74 runs and 10 lifts with 168 inches of annual snowfall. While there are some good slopes that will test your advanced ability, the main focus is on activities including luge rides, speed skating and international hockey matches.

Mammoth Mountain

The Mammoth Mountain resort has 156 runs and 28 lifts. Situated in California with 384 inches of annual snowfall, this resort offers a number of challenging runs for the advanced skier. The Panoramic Gondola will take you to the very top, where you will then tack all the way up to the Upper Bowl where you will be faced with plunging drops which fan into a wider bowl.

The most famous slope is Hangman's Hollow which is a chute bordered with nasty looking rocks which only leave room for perfect turns. Usually most skiers will not even attempt Hangman's Hollow if there isn't at least a foot of snow there to cushion their fall. It is by far one of the most advanced challenges for expert skiers around. If you do fancy a break from skiing you can always try a spot of fly fishing or try your luck at a round of golf, before heading over to the various shops situated throughout the resort. There are many places where you can stop and eat and refuel before taking on the slopes again.

Squaw Valley

Also situated in California, the Squaw Valley resort boasts 177 runs with 34 lifts and 450 inches of annual snowfall. Ideal for the expert skier, it offers two extremely popular runs - the KT-22 and the Headwall Express. Granite chief is also good one and less crowded.

If you want to take a break from skiing you can always try other activities out such as bungee jumping and ice-skating. High Camp is the most popular place in the resort with climbing walls, a lagoon and spa, scenic cable car rides and a games museum.

Taos

Taos is an extremely popular resort with 110 runs, 12 lifts and around 305 inches of annual snowfall. The High Traverse Ledge offers views of runs that have extreme drops and ma ny advanced skiers find that vertigo sets in. Another challenging slope can be found at the top of Kachina Lift. You have to hike for around 45 minutes to get to the top where you will then be faced with the popular Kachina Peak.

If you do need a break from skiing, staying in the town area of the resort is a good option. There are art galleries and plenty of dining options and shops to keep you preoccupied. The lodging options are either within the town or on the mountain and there should be something for all budgets.

Whistler-Blackcomb

The Whistler-Blackcomb resort boasts 200 runs and 37 lifts. It generally has 360 inches of annual snowfall and a great nightlife atmosphere. Situated in British Columbia, the weather is somewhat unpredictable and it is possible to go through 3 different types of weather while traveling up the 7,500 foot summit.

Whistler and Blackcomb are two separate mountains and they used to be two separate competing resorts. Now joined together, the resort is aimin g to provide an additional 1,100 acres of terrain and Blackcomb mountain also has a new Superpipe which is lit for night skiing. There is something to do for all ages and unlike most other resorts listed, this one is mainly designed for all abilities and focuses on allowing novice skiers to try out bigger runs.

What is The Best Way to Book?

There are advantages and disadvantages of booking with a travel agent. It is often best to book direct from the resort as you can also state whether you want to rent your equipment or not. Obviously agents take the hassle out of booking, arranging flights, accommodations and even activities. They can also offer travel insurance and in general act as a middle man. If you decide to book direct through the resort you will have to also arrange separate flights. Overall it depends on how much responsibility you want before your holiday.

So whether you want to go to Mammoth Mountain, resort ski Squaw Valley, visit Big Sky Montana or even go to the Lake Placid resorts, there's a ski adventure waiting for you.

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