Fly down groomed slopes and slip away to a world of soft backcountry powder at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. With a vertical drop of more than 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) and 2,500 acres (1,012 hectares) of in-bound terrain, the area is gaining a reputation as one of the most exciting alpine playgrounds in the U.S.

Expert skiers can take the aerial tram from the village to the top of Rendezvous Mountain. From there, enjoy a spectacular view across the jagged peaks of the Teton Range. Then take on the Rendezvous Bowl black run or Corbet’s Couloir, a double black run with a legendary status among skiers.

There are 116 named trails at the resort with half designated expert level, while the others are for intermediates and beginners. Try the invitingly named Easy Does It and Sleeping Indian trails. Novices have seven green runs to learn on. There is also the Mountain Sports School, where skiers of all levels and ages can benefit from expert tuition.

Freestylers will feel at home in the resort’s terrain parks. If you are a beginner, make tracks for Bronco Park. Intermediates and advanced skiers will find challenging features at Eagle’s Rest Park. Look for the four stash parks dotted around the mountains that use aspects of the natural terrain and local wood to create structures, such as jumps.

Explore more of the fabulous scenery surrounding the resort by hooking up with a guide and going on a backcountry tour. Other snow-based activities include snowboarding and nordic and telemark skiing. An adaptive program for skiers with disabilities is also available.

If you have brought the children with you, treat them to the fun and excitement of the Kids Ranch. There are programs and activities for children aged from 6 months to 17 years.

Reach Jackson Hole Mountain Resort by flying into Jackson Hole Airport, a domestic airport with connections to several major cities within the U.S. Then rent a car or take a bus, shuttle or taxi for the 30-minute drive to the resort.