Ski in, ski out accommodation isn’t really a concept the Americans have conquered yet, but more options are gradully creeping in to Colorado’s repertoire.
Most Europeans by contrast have grown up with ski in, ski out lodging as the norm. Alpine villages, and the ski areas they were associated with, grew alongside one another and developed into the large ski areas we know today. The ski resorts began as part of the centre of the town and naturally as new ski lifts and runs were added and more people wanted to ski, the towns expanded around them to accommodate their needs. Ski in, ski out properties just became a normal part of the expansion and although often commanding a premium prices are relatively easy to find.
Skiing in the US is increasing in popularity with the Europeans, but especially the Brits due its superior snow conditions and uncrowded slopes.
Several US ski towns such as Breckenridge, Telluride and Aspen started life as mining towns, before they grew into the world famous ski areas they are today. Steamboat Springs was originally a ranching town and still retains much of its Old West character. Many of these ski towns in the US were already established before the ski areas were developed, so the ski lifts are a mile or two from the town associated with them.
Winter Park was originally home to railway workers and gradually developed into a small town. The town is about 3 miles from the ski area, but an easy 5-10 minute free bus ride. The vast majority of accommodation is still in the town of Winter Park and the small towns of Fraser and Tabernash, a little further along US Highway 40.
However, gradually the powers that be are recognising the importance and desirability of ski in, ski out accommodation. The base area is now being developed to include more lodging options closer to the lifts in addition to the one true ski in, ski out accommodation already completed – Zephyr Mountain Lodge. Restaurants and shops are now also being added at the base area to give ski in ski out residents more dining options near their accommodation. Chalets USA have added a luxury one bedroom and a luxury 2 bedroom apartment in Zephyr Mountain Lodge to their portfolio to give their guests the option of enjoying this newly improved ski in ski out experience. They only have one ski in, ski out catered chalet, due to the very limited properties available near the mountain. Thunderhead chalet is in Steamboat Springs, sleeps up to 14 in 6 ensuite bedrooms and is literally ski to the door.
Maybe with higher gas prices and Americans gradually relying a little less on their vehicles, ski in, ski out lodging will become increasingly popular and perhaps more ski in, ski out possibilities may be just around the corner….
For more info on these new chalets or other luxury ski accommodation in Colorado visit www.chalets-usa.co.uk
