2003 Number 17 Resort in the East: Mount Snow, Vt.

Ask anyone at Mount Snow what's new this season and they're quick to reply: "attitude." While Mount Snow has long been among the most popular destinations for New York City folk, this year it aims-via a revved-up events program-to show the rest of the world that it's not just convenient, it's also fun. That should placate readers who worry Mount Snow has become "unexciting" and has been "run down by the American Skiing Co." This season, under a new manager who hails from The Canyons in Utah, Mount Snow hosts a giant Mardi Gras celebration, band concerts and all sorts of off-hill fun. Having just completed trail-work and lift upgrades that were greeted with approval, the resort plans no major improvements this year. As for snow conditions, no one has any complaints. "Even with the 2002 winter being so dry, snowmakers did an excellent job," one reader says. On-hill, skiers can enjoy a diverse offering of intermediate cruisers such as Ridge Run and Deer Run, which one reader rates "an intermediate's delight."Beginners and advanced skiers can find their niches, too. The long greens on the frontside are "great for beginners," says one reader. Another points out that Mount Snow has "lots of advanced terrain, if you know where to look." (Here's a hint: Head to the North Face or into the Fantastics tree runs.) Take all that-enjoyable trails at every level, diligent snowmaking, good lifts-and stir in spicy events: You may indeed have the recipe for good on-snow attitude. Mount Snow is counting on it. - Moira McCarthy