We went to Big Sky last year and loved it. Would like to go back but my son wants to take a friend along that can't afford the airfare to Montana. Can anyone suggest another place similar to Big Sky? This is what we like, lots of trails, no or little crowds, we don't need the town, nightlife etc., usually stay in and cook meals. Thanks for any ideas.

It might help to know where you're coming from, but I'll say Steamboat Springs:

http://www.steamboat.com/mountain/facts.aspx

or Alta/Snowbird:

http://www.alta.com/
http://www.snowbird.com/about/index.html

Thanks, I was wondering about Alta/Snowbird, how are the lift lines there?

Not bad Monday-Friday. Heavier on weekends, no surprise. We haven't been to Utah yet this season, but I'm wondering how the economy will affect ski crowds. The one place we have been (Mammoth) was a ghost town mid-week.

Any suggestions on places to stay? We have been using VRBO lately.

Sorry, can't help. We stay at a friend's house in Sandy or in downtown SLC.