East’s Most Exotic Terrain Zone: Sugarloaf Snowfields and Sidecountry
Sugarloaf’s Snowfields, Brackett Basin and Burnt Mountain rarely open at the same time. We spent a February 2026 weekend trying to ski all three, through wind holds, crowds and long hikes.
How Japan Tried to Take Over American Skiing
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Japanese companies bought up ski resorts across North America, then sold most of them almost as quickly. Here’s how the boom happened, what it built, and why it ended.
Mountain Review: St. Moritz
This storied Swiss ski region pairs world-class dining, spectacular views and one of the most storied ski towns anywhere. But modest snowfall and three separate, mid-sized ski areas hold it back for those who value a truly-well-rounded on-mountain experience.
Mountain Review: Cortina d’Ampezzo
This Dolomites icon pairs towering rock walls and world-class carving with legendary mountain huts. But its two ski areas are separate, and lower-mountain snow can be unreliable.
Mountain Review: Zermatt
Zermatt pairs the Matterhorn, a world-class lift system and one of the best ski towns anywhere with a huge cross-border footprint. But thin snow, mostly groomed terrain and confusing navigation hold it back.
Mountain Review: Crans-Montana
Sunny views, more than 20 on-mountain restaurants and a modern lift system make Crans-Montana an easygoing luxury ski trip. But its south-facing slopes and intermediate-focused terrain hold it back.
Mountain Review: Verbier 4 Vallées
Six linked ski areas and patrolled freeride terrain make Verbier 4 Vallées one of the best big-mountain destinations in Europe. But south-facing snow and a confusing layout between sectors hold it back.
Mountain Review: Les 3 Vallées
The largest interconnected ski area in the world links Courchevel, Méribel, Val Thorens and Les Menuires across more than 25,000 acres. Each resort is excellent on its own, but navigating the whole domain is a serious undertaking.
Mountain Review: Chamonix
This France destination pairs some of the most dramatic scenery in skiing with demanding moguls, huge lift-served off-piste and a real year-round town. But its ski areas are small, separate and served by a dated lift network.
Super El Niño Is Coming: How Much Should Ski Forecasts Shape Your Trip?
South America just had a record-setting winter, and a strong El Niño is on the way. We compare preseason forecasts with what actually happened over six North American winters to see how much they should shape your ski trip plans.