Mountain Review: Mission Ridge
Sunny slopes, high quality snow, and a lack of lift lines make this central Washington resort a compelling regional option, although snow totals aren’t the highest.
Mountain Review: White Pass
While not as large or steep as some competitive resorts in the Pacific Northwest, White Pass features diverse intermediate terrain and an unbeatable setup for beginners to progress.
Mountain Review: Castle Mountain
Though somewhat lacking in facilities and lift infrastructure, this Western Canadian resort offers fantastic snow conditions, unique terrain, and incredible views when it's clear.
Mountain Review: Mount Shasta Ski Park
The only decently-sized California ski area north of Tahoe offers limited lift lines and stunning views of the Southern Cascades, but it’s hurt by uncompetitive infrastructure and a bizarrely-integrated recent expansion.
Mountain Review: Dodge Ridge
The closest ski area to the Bay Area offers lower traffic than Tahoe, but it’s hurt by limited snowmaking and outdated lift infrastructure.
Mountain Review: China Peak
While it’s no substitute for a true destination ski resort, this Central California mountain offers admirable terrain variety within a convenient driving distance of Fresno.
Mountain Review: Bear Valley
This Northern California resort has interesting terrain for skiers and riders of all ability levels as well as a unique and isolated feel, but it lacks the infrastructure to fully compete with the best resorts in the state.
Mountain Review: Loveland
This local Colorado ski area doesn’t deliver the same well-rounded experience as destination resorts, but it’s hard to beat the quality for the price on a powder day.
Mountain Review: Monarch
This Colorado ski area is way too small and underbuilt to be a destination mountain, but several facets make it a strong regional choice.
Mountain Review: Mount Hood Skibowl
This small, no-frills mountain offers less crowded slopes and extensive night skiing close to Portland.