Pursuits

The Least Annoying Ski Weekend Ever

Skiing is an expensive hassle. But it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how to make it less of one

On the mountain at Vail ResortPhotograph by Benjamin Rasmussen for Bloomberg Businessweek

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By Alex Pasquariello

February 15, 2013 at 4:36 AM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

BusinessWeek Cover Image (13_08, portrait_2x)

This article is part of the February 18, 2013 issue of businessweek.

Lake Tahoe, Calif.
Days: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, is the nicest hotel on the lake and the closest to the airport (from $369 a night). Slopeside at Northstar California, it offers ski-on, ski-off access, maximizing mountain time. Tahoe is Shaun White’s home resort, and aspiring X Gamers can sign up for the Burton Snowboard Academy near the hotel’s back door ($250 for a full-day lesson). For wilderness runs, ride the lifts to Monument Glades.

Après: Take the 15-minute drive to the PlumpJack Squaw Valley Inn, a cozy establishment that attracts pro skiers but is better known for its wine cellar. Too sore to leave the hotel? Book the private chef’s table at the Ritz’s Manzanita and watch as chef Traci Des Jardins prepares a personalized tasting menu (from $75 per person).