Don’t Miss Out on These Top 10 Winter Resorts That Are Perfect for Non-skiers

So, you're not a two-planker or a snowboard shredder. You'd rather not rip down triple black diamonds or gear up for a day in the park. And god forbid you have to ride up a chairlift. And you know what? That's OK. Winter wonderland vacations don’t always have to be about skiing. If you’d like to enjoy a wintertime adventure, make sure to check out these list!

1. Sun Valley, Idaho

Sun Valley Resort has been voted the #1 ski resort in North America by SKI Magazine readers two years running. However, this resort offers so much more than the freshly groomed, uncrowded ski slopes for which it is so well known. From luxury accommodations and delectable cuisine offerings to abundant outdoor activities and a world-class spa, everyone in your group can enjoy a perfect vacation at Sun Valley.

2. Keystone, Colorado

Keystone is one of the most popular ski resorts for families. Not only does it offer plenty of great skiing, but there is also practically an endless number of other things to do. The resort’s Lakeside Village is home to the largest outdoor ice skating rink in America and the largest Zamboni-maintained outdoor rink anywhere in the world. You can enjoy gliding across the ice while gazing at the soaring snowcapped mountains as well as taking part in a host of other winter activities like horse-drawn sleigh rides, tubing, and even snow biking. Yoga, group exercise classes, and outdoor tennis courts are available year-round, not to mention the numerous options for shopping as well as great spa services too.

3. Whistler Blackcomb - Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

Whistler Blackcomb is often ranked among the best ski resorts in the world, but that doesn’t mean non-skiers will be left twiddling their thumbs either. The resort’s village has so much to do, it almost feels like a big city that’s been dropped right into the mountains. There are practically endless shopping opportunities as well as outstanding restaurants and plenty of fun activities too.

4. Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico

From delicious New Mexican food to unique art and even a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Taos, New Mexico, has plenty to offer travelers. Taos is a haven for artists, and there are endless galleries and museums to delight any art lover. Stroll through the historic Taos Plaza and you’ll find shops filled with handmade art, pottery, jewelry, and more. After all of the shopping, you can refuel on authentic New Mexican fare featuring traditional green chiles and mole — and grab a drink and enjoy live music at Taos Mesa Brewery.

5. Stowe Mountain, Vermont

Known for some of the country’s most beautiful fall foliage and as the “Alpine Ski Capital of the East,” Stowe Mountain Resort attracts the majority of its visitors during fall and winter. The resort and surrounding areas offer plenty of excitement and activities for skiers and non-skiers alike.

One of the most popular outdoor activities in Stowe besides skiing is fatbiking. The wide tires on this bike enable you to easily glide through the snowy, groomed trails. Many area shops offer fatbike rentals and can direct you to one of the many free-to-explore trails.

6. St. Moritz, Switzerland

Skiers know St. Moritz as one of the best ski destinations in Switzerland and as a two-time host of the Winter Olympics, but the possibilities for non-skiers are pretty amazing too. The active can take advantage of all of the usual off-piste options like snowshoeing, and adrenaline seekers won’t want to miss the heart-pounding ride on the Olympic bob run that comes complete with a professional pilot and brakeman – it reaches speeds of 80 miles per hour.

7. Avoriaz, France

Ideal for families who want to split their time between the slopes and non-skiing activities, Avoriaz was previously awarded the “Best Family Resort” at the World Ski Awards. This car-free resort, the only one of its kind in France, offers a relaxed, safe village with lots of restaurants, cafes, and shops that are all accessed by foot or horse-drawn sleigh.

8. Breuil-Cervinia, Italy

If you want an ideal destination that’s great for families with non-skiing and skiing members, Cervinia is a great choice. Plus, it’s a lot more affordable than Zermatt, which sits just across the Swiss border. Ski passes, ski rentals, and even coffee are much less expensive here. It also offers kids’ playgrounds and snowparks as well as a natural ice rink that features a bar and sun terrace.

9. Cranmore Mountain, New Hampshire

Nestled in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire, Cranmore Resort is known for its family friendly atmosphere and easy to manage size with about 50 runs for all levels. However, the biggest draw may be North Conway, an idyllic New England town perfect in all seasons, but extra charming with a fresh layer of snow. It’s an amazing weekend getaway even if you have no plans to enjoy the slopes.