Our Top 7 Local Ski Resorts

Justin and I are off to June Mountain this weekend for some California spring skiing! Fortunately for us, winter has been very kind to the western resorts this year. Mammoth just announced they'd be open through July 4th! We love ski resorts because they're inherently local. Well, most of the time. Of course, some stand out more than others. In our opinion, to be a great local ski resort, you must be friendly, laid back and affordable. The less overwhelming, the better. The more local flavor, the better. So in advance of our weekend trip, I thought I'd discuss our favorite local ski mountains--up until now. Let it be known, we have high hopes for June!

ELDORA MOUNTAIN: Nederland, Colorado

Eldora Mountain

Eldora is a real hidden gem. It’s about 45 minutes outside of Boulder, kind of in the middle of nowhere to be honest. There are plenty of runs and several high speed lifts. The skiers here are overwhelming local, which translates to friendly and laid back. You won’t find the glitz and glamour of the bigger resorts here, but you will feel like you’ve discovered something special. Tip--stay in Boulder and make the short commute. Do as the locals do!

Loveland Ski Area

LOVELAND: Loveland, Colorado

Unlike its flashy neighbors--Vail, Copper, Beaver Creek--Loveland has absolutely no pretensions. It's often crowded, since it's quite close to Denver, but the people are majority locals just looking for good snow and good times. It's hassle free and low maintenance--a good idea if you only have the day.

PURGATORY/DURANGO MOUNTAIN RESORT: Durango, Colorado

Durango Mountain Resort

Out of all the mountains discussed here, I'd argue Durango is the most local. I dare you to ski Durango and not make a handful of friends on the mountain. This is where my dad taught me to ski—it’s a great place for all levels, but especially for beginners because the environment is so welcoming and festive. Tip-explore downtown Durango, it's like stepping back in time!

Deer ValleyDEER VALLEY: Park City, Utah

There’s no denying Deer Valley is a bit flashier than other mountains considered here, but since it’s also one my favorite places on earth, I can’t leave it out. Despite its borderline luxury amenities, Deer Valley feels like its own village. The employees are friendly, the food is thoughtful and delicious, and the mountain pulsates with energy all day long. 

MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN: Mammoth Lakes, CA

Mammoth Mountain

Mammoth is an interesting case. It has a local feel, even though most of the skiers come from all across California. It’s also bigger than most of the resorts on our list, but don’t worry, we won’t hold that against you, Mammoth. There’s always some sort of party going on here—you’re bound to meet locals and visitors alike.

BIG SKY: Big Sky, Montana

Justin's favorite. He wrote about it here. 

TELLURIDE: Telluride, Colorado

Telluride needs no introduction. We all know it’s a favorite of mine. The small mining town offers world class amenities, but with true local flair. You won't find a Hyatt or Holiday Inn, but instead, countless unique bed and breakfasts and family-run eateries. On mountain, you're like to be surrounded by locals from neighboring Colorado towns. Everyone wants you to feel at home. Tip-rent a condo and use the excellent public transportation system to get around downtown!

UPDATE/ADDITION - JUNE MOUNTAIN: June Lake, California

Local ski destination in every sense of the word. See here for the full run down, but if you're looking for a quiet, family friendly, laid back mountain, this is it. Slightly isolated and genuinely serene, you'll get a strong dose of local at June.

Do you guys have any favorite local ski resorts? Anyone want to represent the East Coast?

-Lindsey