Idaho, United States

Capital City: Boise
Closest Airport: Eckhart International
Population: 1,293,953
Resort Areas Include: Boise - Sandpoint - Fairfield - Kellogg
Snow Season: November/December - March/April
Main Language: English
Currency: United States Dollar

With the Rocky Mountains running through it, Idaho has no problem finding height. The loftiest point is 3,862 metres or 12,662 feet, which this far north (Idaho borders British Columbia in Canada) is guaranteed a good dusting of the light, dry stuff.

There are 18 ski resorts in Idaho providing something for everyone, from the beginner-friendly Brundage Mountain ski resort, to the traditional charm of Sun Valley (the original American ski resort) to the mainly-expert terrain of Pebble Creek.

Because much of the state is elevated (the average altitude is 1,500 metres (or about 5,000 feet), Idaho is also a good place for backcountry skiing. And with so many state parks, terrain is extensive. In all, there are thirteen separate trail systems across the state, several with overnight yurt lodging.

Idahoans take their winter fun seriously. Not only do they hold a Winter Games each January and February - a sports festival created for amateur athletes of the region. They also hold a historic dog sled race in Ashton, attracting mushers from all over the western United States.