>>>Actually I had looked up some of the resorts in the US - from the pictures it seems the mountains are steeper,
>>>and telluride area really looks interesting. I'm pretty sure it was one of the areas I had wondered about before. The other might have been Jacson Hole. Before I scheduled side trips to mexico for some diving when coming to the states.
>>>But WOW, your ticket prices are hefty... Switzerland is considered high priced in europe, but was way cheaper.
>>>Still, would be a nice counterpoint. Not sure when I will hit the US again, but if it is within the ski season I will pester you for advice on timing: I absolutely hate standing in line -
>>
>>PMFJI, if you hate line, this is your ski area in the US
>>
>>http://www.bigskyresort.com/Activities/Winter/the-mountain.asp
>>
>
>noted and no pardon needed ;-)
>What makes Bigskyresort linefree or less crowded in particular ?


We are a long way from any major metropolitan area. There are only about 975,000 in the entire state. The closest city is Bozeman MT, population ~40,000. There is a great community ski area just 20 miles N of Bozeman

http://bridgerbowl.com/

which is our (and most locals) preferred ski area (cheaper, but longer lines). Big Sky has also implemented many high-speed quad lifts which has helped to largely eliminated lift lines.

I enjoy skiing both areas and try to get time at both of them most winters.