TravelWorld International Magazine Winter 2023

Boutique
Ski Resorts
Offer Visitors
Buckets of
Benefits
S
ki resorts are a great choice for
an upcoming winter vacation,
though travelers have many
options to consider when
choosing a ski resort. A primary
distinction within the range of ski resorts
is between the larger, corporate-owned
resorts that are on a nationwide ski pass -
and the smaller boutique resorts, many of
them independent.
If you are a new skier, or looking to
travel with children who are new to
skiing, boutique resorts can offer several
advantages to the traveler willing to seek
them out. Advantages include demandbased
lift ticket pricing, affordable
equipment rentals, family-friendly ski
programs, and the ability to experience
ski terrain as many locals do.
Monte Holyfield and his
daughter, Mandy, pose for
a portrait while skiing at
Tamarack Resort.
We will explore these advantages within
three options for ski resorts in three
states: Purgatory Resort, thirty minutes
outside Durango, Colorado; Tamarack
Resort, two hours from Boise, Idaho;
and Brian Head Resort, in southwestern
Utah. Each option offers visitors a unique
experience that is friendly to skiers of all
levels and is often very affordable for a
winter getaway.
Boutique ski resorts tend to be in
locations that are in distinct, off-thebeaten-path
areas, and visitors seeking
out these experiences are greatly
rewarded. They offer more room to ski
on the hill, less traffic, and an easier time
experiencing the sport as a local does.
The view from the lifts
at Tamarack resort
include chalet style
accommodations.
42
Story and Photos by Kathryn Wagner
Are you looking for an active winter holiday?
Want to try a new-to-you sport?
Skiing in a winter wonderland should be on your list this winter.
Picture snow covered trees, blue skies, and the feeling of gliding on snow.
Taking that connecting flight, or renting
a car to drive the extra miles to the resort
is well worth it. Amber Palmer, marketing
manager at Brian Head Resort says, "As
a smaller and more independent resort,
we place value on originality, uniqueness,
and a local feel. Guests enjoy lower skier
density, and more affordable ticket prices,
ski rentals, and lessons. The lower costs
take the pressure off feeling like you
have to maximize that investment in the
sport, which leads to a more laid-back
experience overall."
43