GRAND TARGHEE, WYOMING
Annual snowfall: 500 inches
Vertical drop: 2,270 feet
Skiable acres: 2,100
One-day lift ticket: $69

Perfect for: Intermediates who want to experience the Tetons but don't have the skills to tackle Jackson Hole

Why here: Snow. Powder. Fluff. The white stuff. Whatever you call it, Targhee's got lots. When storms blow in over Idaho, they get hung up on the west side of the Tetons, unloading much of their precious cargo on this small mom-and-pop resort before moving on to Jackson Hole. Targhee is also more affordable and far less intimidating than its cousin on the other side of Teton Pass. Its terrain is mellow (some gripe that after a four-foot dump, it's not steep enough to ski), and it's got a friendly, potato-farmer vibe.

The highlight: While you're here for the snow (have we mentioned that it gets a lot?), pray for one day without it: The eye-level, front-row views of Grand Teton are life list–worthy.

Sleep for cheap: The Teewinot Lodge (pictured) is the exception rather than the rule: It's both the nicest lodging in the area and the most affordable. This ski-in/ski-out hotel was refurbished in 2006 in tasteful, log-cabin style; post-ski perks include pillow-top mattresses, boot warmers, and flat-screen TVs.

The Roll Outta Bed & Ride package—one night's lodging at the Teewinot Lodge and one lift ticket—starts at $89 per person; 800-827-4433; www.grandtarghee.com

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