Though it’s only a 2-hour drive from Seattle, Crystal Mountain feels a world away from the city. It's located within the dramatic landscapes of the Cascades, it’s next-door neighbors with Mt. Rainier. Take the Mt. Rainier Gondola for unparalleled views of the slumbering volcano’s snowy peak. Then, cap off the experience with a gourmet meal at the Summit House (officially the highest-elevation restaurant in Washington State at 6,872 feet, or 2,095 meters).

High in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe—the largest alpine lake in North America—promises dramatic scenery all year long, but winter is an especially good time to explore, even if you plan not to ski. Begin with the region’s Olympic history: Palisades Tahoe hosted the Winter Games in 1960, and you can still see vestiges of that heritage aboard the resort’s sweeping aerial tram—learn more at the on-site Olympic Museum. And for impressive views of the area, consider a helicopter tour.

Billed as “America’s first ski resort,” Sun Valley has drawn winter sports enthusiasts since 1936. But shredding on Bald or Dollar Mountains is only one option among many. If lacing up a pair of skates is more your speed, head to the Christina Potters Ice Rink in Atkinson Park, where pro figure skaters are often seen training. If culture’s more your speed, plan a day of exploration in downtown Ketchum instead, where dozens of galleries have helped make the region a leading arts destination.

Jackson Hole is known for its expert-level ski slopes—but that’s not the only option in this great Western getaway. While you don’t need to be going downhill, the region’s natural beauty means time outdoors is a must. Book a dog-sledding adventure, go snowmobiling in the shadow of the Grand Tetons, or plan a national park excursion: both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, as well as the National Elk Refuge, are a quick drive away, making it easy to plan a day trip.

Park City, nestled among the Wasatch Mountains near Salt Lake City, is host to Olympics-approved slopes and primo powder—but skiing is not a prerequisite. Instead, enjoy a different way to discover its cloud-capped height: ride the Mountain Coaster (an open-air roller coaster) at Park City Mountain Resort, feel like a cast member of Cool Runnings with the Winter Bobsled Experience, or go on a sleigh ride like no other when you’re towed up a mountainside by the Viking Yurt snowcat.

Aspen comprises four different ski areas (Aspen, Buttermilk, Aspen Highlands, and Aspen Snowmass) which span over 5,500 acres (2,225 hectares)—no wonder it’s one of the top winter destinations. But for all the bounty of its slopes, Aspen offers just as much culture. If staying indoors is your preferred type of escape, stop bu the artist-founded Aspen Art Museum, indulge in sushi at the Nobu-run Matsuhisa, and even take in an evening performance at the Wheeler Opera House.

Stowe offers the classic ski trip experience on a smaller scale—its resident mountain, Mt. Mansfield, is the highest in the Green Mountain State at 4,395 feet (1,340 meters). Its non-skiing offerings are similarly accessible, whether it’s ice skating at the Stowe Mountain Resort or dog-sledding at Spruce Peak. Plan on exploring Stowe too, the village is home to boutiques, galleries, and museums like the Green Mountain Fine Art Gallery and a vibrant craft brewing scene.