Why did Colorado and Utah struggle for snow while the Northeast and the Alps saw massive storm cycles?

In this episode of Where to Ski, we break down one of the strangest ski winters in recent memory with two mountain weather experts:

• OpenSnow meteorologist Alan Smith
• WePowder forecaster Koen Stewart

We dive into the weather patterns that shaped the season, including persistent high-pressure ridges over the western U.S., huge snowfall events in the Alps, and why avalanche danger stayed elevated for weeks.

We cover:

• Why Colorado and Utah saw a snow drought
• How the Northeast ended up with one of its best winters in years
• What drove huge storm cycles in Europe
• Why avalanche conditions were so dangerous
• What skiers should watch heading into next season

If you spent this winter chasing snow — or wondering where it went — this episode explains it all.

🎧 Listen now for the weather story behind one of the most unusual ski seasons in years.

Southern Vermont has been one of the most important skiregions in the eastern United States for decades. Within just a few miles of each other sit three legendary mountains: Stratton Mountain Resort, Bromley Mountain, and Magic Mountain Ski Area—each with its own personality,terrain, and deep roots in the history of New England skiing.

In this episode of the Where to Ski podcast, we talk with Benzi Ross, who grew up skiing these mountains and knows their terrain, culture, and evolution firsthand.

We explore why southern Vermont became such a hub for EastCoast skiing, from storms that seem to stall over the valley to thoughtful mountain design that created some of the best cruisers and learning terrain in the region.

Benzi shares how Stratton was built with progression in mind—from beginner areas with magic carpets to flowing groomers that follow the natural shape of the mountain. We also talk about the sunny slopes of Bromley, one of Vermont’s oldest ski areas, and the rugged steeps and powder stashesthat give Magic Mountain its loyal cult following among expert skiers.

Along the way, we dig into trail design, classic Vermont skiculture, why this valley has produced generations of passionate skiers, and what keeps people coming back year after year.

From smooth corduroy to tree skiing and old-school NewEngland character, southern Vermont delivers a skiing experience that blends history, community, and great terrain.

🎧 Listen now to discover why Stratton, Bromley, and Magicremain icons of East Coast skiing.

If you haven’t heard much about Andermatt, that’s exactly why you should listen.

Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Andermatt has quietly transformed from a sleepy mountain town into one of Europe’s most exciting ski destinations — without losing its authentic alpine soul.

In this episode of Where to Ski, we explore what makes Andermatt truly special: reliable snowfall from multiple storm directions, steep high-alpine terrain, and the legendary Gemsstock — a freeride playground known for pitch, powder, and technical skiing.

Our guest, Swiss big-mountain skier Leonie Zopp, grew up here. A former Swiss national junior champion turned freerider and psychology student, Leonie shares how Andermatt shaped her skiing.

We break down:

• Why Gemsstock is a mecca for advanced skiers
• How Sedrun and Disentis expand the ski region
• What to expect from Europe’s off-piste rules
• Where to ski when visibility drops
• Why Andermatt’s small-town vibe still feels authentic

From steep alpine faces to sunny cruising terrain, Andermatt offers serious skiing with Swiss precision — and just enough development to elevate the experience without overwhelming it.

If you’re looking for luxury party scenes, look elsewhere.
If you’re looking for terrain that builds great skiers, this is your mountain.

🎧 Listen now and discover why Andermatt may be Europe’s best under-the-radar ski resort.