6 Year-Round Alpine Escapes That Shine in Every Season

Vail, Colorado

Vail's reputation is built on its legendary slopes. In winter, skiers fan out across more than 5,000 acres of terrain. But come summer, the same mountains become a tapestry of greens, crisscrossed by hiking and biking trails that wind past alpine lakes and wildflower meadows. And don't skip the shoulder seasons. In fall, the forests glow gold with aspen leaves, while spring brings a mix of lingering snow and warming days—the slopes often stay open till mid-April for some late-season action. Between these outdoorsy pursuits, the village itself offers year-round fun, from art galleries to boutiques to restaurants.

Where to Stay: Tivoli Lodge
Just steps from Gondola One and Vail Village, the 65-room Tivoli Lodge offers an intimate alternative to Vail's larger resorts.

South Lake Tahoe, California

South Lake Tahoe is a true year-round destination, peaking in both the winter and the summer. Winter, of course, is ski season, with adrenaline seekers flocking to the three ski resorts here. And summer is all about the crystal-clear lake: Beaches fill with sun-seekers and boaters skim across the water. And in all seasons, you can don either hiking boots or snowshoes to explore trails throughout the area.

Where to Stay: Forest Suites Resort
A relaxed, all-suite property, Forest Suites is designed for longer, more comfortable stays: Full kitchens and separate living rooms make it especially appealing for families or groups.

Bend, Oregon

While technically located in the high desert, Bend sits adjacent to the Cascade Mountains. Winter brings reliable snowfall to nearby Mt. Bachelor, one of the few ski areas in North America with 360-degree terrain. In warmer months, the Deschutes River provides both adrenaline-pumping rapids and leisurely inner-tube floats. Plus, Bend's downtown hums with craft breweries, independent shops, and a food scene that punches well above its weight.

Where to Stay: Riverhouse Lodge
Set along a scenic stretch of the Deschutes River, Riverhouse Lodge directly connects you to nature. Some of its rooms even have private riverside fireplaces perfect for year-round use.

Lake Arrowhead, California

It might just be a couple of hours from Los Angeles, but the charming Lake Arrowhead feels a world apart. Perched in the San Bernardino Mountains, it's one of Southern California's few true four-season destinations, where snow falls in winter (yes, there's skiing!) and summers remain pleasantly cool for outdoor activities like hiking through the San Bernardino National Forest or fishing on the lake.

Where to Stay: Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa
Positioned directly on the lake, Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa leans into its setting with private beach access, a fishing dock, and even guided lakeside stargazing.

Park City, Utah

Yes, the cold months bring world-class skiing into focus in Park City. But the mountains hold far more than slopes: There are more than 400 miles of non-motorized trails here, making Park City one of the country’s premier mountain biking destinations in warmer months. And that's not to mention fly-fishing on the Provo River and watersports on the Jordanelle Reservoir. Blend all that adventure with outdoor concerts, food festivals, and farmers' markets, and the summer is quite an appealing time to visit.

Where to Stay: Black Rock Mountain Resort
The chic (and dog-friendly!) Black Rock Mountain Resort provides full-service multi-bedroom accommodations, a sprawling game room, an outdoor pool, and a sauna and steam room in a quiet spot just outside of town.

Bishop, California

Bishop, located on the eastern edge of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, is a gateway to some of California's most dramatic all-season terrain. Adventure-seekers might opt for ski mountaineering in the winter or bouldering in Buttermilk Country in the summer. Leisure seekers, don't worry—there's plenty to do for you, from soaking in the Keoughs Hot Springs or fishing on alpine lakes.

Where to Stay: Wayfinder Bishop
Wayfinder Bishop brings a fresh, design-forward perspective to this rugged destination in its 87 guest rooms. Don't miss the art by local talent found throughout the property.

Explore more mountain destinations across the Benchmark Resorts & Hotels portfolio, a collection of distinct, independent properties by Pyramid Global Hospitality. Located in diverse destinations across the globe, Benchmark’s resorts and hotels reimagine immersive travel, inspiring guests to create memories born from meaningful exploration, authentic moments, and innovative experiences – no matter the occasion. Benchmark guests can earn complimentary gift cards, on-property perks, and destination experiences through the collection’s signature Mosaic Rewards program.