by Jeffrey James Keyes

Whistler, B.C., Canada
The event: Now in its 16th year, Whistler's party-centric Altitude has morphed into the well-rounded WinterPride, with a more diverse apres-ski lineup, including culinary classes and health and wellness symposiums, rounding out the fun offerings for skiers and nonskiers alike.

When: Feb. 3-10, 2008

The crowd: Even though about 80 percent of the 3,000 snow worshippers attending are men, it's the most lesbian-friendly of the bunch, and nonskiing Vancouverites pop in for hot-tubbing and schmoozing.

Bragging rights: Whistler and Blackcomb mountains offer the most skiable terrain (nearly 8,200 acres) of our list, along with a chance to test one of the 2010 Winter Olympics sites.

Don't miss: Snowball, the dance-until-dawn party, which brings boys out of the woodwork en masse.

Info: Gay Whistler -- www.gaywhistler.com

Aspen, Colo.
The event: This year brings the 31st installment (themed "Mining Camp") of Aspen Gay Ski Week, the world's oldest event of its kind. Innovative activities like the downhill costume parade, masquerade ball and annual Gay vs. Straight Ice Hockey Championships help make this posh Colorado resort town's fete the leader of the pack. (GaySkiWeek.com)

When: Jan. 13-20, 2008

The crowd: Some 4,000 affluent queer snow bunnies, mostly men in their 30s and 40s, show off their designer ski garb. Snowboarders have a slight edge over skiers in the head count.

Bragging rights: The 12,510-foot skiable summit of Snowmass rises above other gay ski event locales.

Don't miss: The weekend pool party in a multimillion-dollar aquatic complex, perfect for viewing parka-less bodies.

Info: Aspen Gay Ski Week -- www.gayskiweek.com

Mammoth Lakes, Calif.
The Event: In California's scenic Sierra Nevada mountains, the sixth annual Elevation is the new kid on the gay ski week slopes, and it's rapidly growing in popularity and size year by year.

When: March 12-16, 2008

The crowd: The motto of "zero attitude" appeals to first-timers and budget-minded powder fans, especially the young crowd driving in from Los Angeles. This year, attendance should top 2,000.

Bragging rights: After your friends have hung up their poles, Mammoth delivers great spring snowfall.

Don't miss: Catching the nighttime gondola ride up the mountain for the Party at 10,000 Feet dancefest.

Info: Mammoth Gay Ski Week -- www.mammothgayski.com

Stowe, Vt.
The event: The East Coast's longest-running gay ski event (in its 24th year), Winter Rendezvous enjoys a loyal following in the down-home yet tony village of Stowe in northern Vermont, as it features hot-tub gatherings, DJs, snowshoeing, massage, pizza parties and drag entertainers.

When: Jan. 30-Feb. 3

The crowd: Stowe's cozy size and smaller attendance (250 to 300) mean everyone makes friends with everyone. About 70 percent of participants are East Coasters, and what was once a bearish granola crowd is slowly becoming younger and hipper each year.

Bragging rights: Schuss down the longest trail length (on average) in the East on Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak. Stowe is set to become the Vail of the East, thanks to a stunning $300 million base village under construction; parts are already open.

Don't miss: Special spa discounts for participants at the Golden Eagle Resort.

Info: Winter Rendezvous -- www.winterrendezvous.com

Get into slope shape!
by Benjamin Ryan

Gay personal trainer Dirk Schultz, who teaches ski conditioning at the Aspen Club and Spa, wags his finger at anyone who doesn't spend a good two months prepping for ski season. Schultz says it's not all about the pecs when the slopes are at stake.

"Don't forget your legs or core muscles -- including both the abs and lower back," he advises.

"Pilates, yoga, or abs and back classes are good for whipping your midsection into shape. I recommend leg workouts two to three times a week. The goal is to increase endurance. Do three sets of 25 reps for each leg exercise, and make time for your favorite cardio class. Once you're at the slopes, don't forget to drink lots of water and spend a good amount of time stretching before and after to prevent injury and keep your muscles from cramping."

Then you'll be in shipshape for your apres-ski aperitif.