Colorado is a hot spot for skiing out West. It has over 25 ski resorts, and I've caught the first tracks in Vail, Breckenridge, Winter Park, and Aspen Snowmass, my all-time favorite.
Aspen is often derided for its "ski-and-be-seen" ethos, but I celebrate its decadence and am partial to the champagne showers at Cloud Nine, the rowdy chalet atop Highlands Mountain.
During my last stay at Aspen Meadows Resort, I realized that it's possible to just relax in nature there. It felt like a contained oasis of mountain views and aspen trees, even though it's a mere 1.6 miles from the downtown area.
Also in Colorado, Breckenridge's annual Ullr Fest is not to be missed. A celebration of the Norse god of winter, this festival features colorful costumes, shotskis, and Viking hats. When I attended, I was delighted that the enormous bonfire provided warmth on even the coldest winter nights.