Anyone can book a stay at a condo or hotel room for a ski vacation. But finding a unique vacation rental guarantees looks of envy when you share your vacation photos with friends. So we’ve chosen a selection of unique vacation rentals, beyond just your typical ski cabin, to stay within a relatively short drive of the slopes. Consider these some of the best, coolest ski vacation rentals in North America, located at or near ski areas.
East
If you want camping without the work, then look no further than Getaway. Getaway has a number of tiny house outposts throughout the U.S., including New England. Getaway Blake Brook is located 90 minutes from Boston, and within an hour’s drive to a number of ski areas including Gunstock and Mount Sunapee. Cabins come fully equipped with a queen bed, shower, AC and heat, stove, refrigerator, and an outdoor area with a fire pit and grill grate. Getaway has outposts just outside of many other major cities, including L.A., Boston, Seattle, Minneapolis, NYC, and more.
Canada

We use the term hotel loosely here, as Hotel de Glace, in Quebec City, features beautifully ice-sculpted rooms and suites for a luxurious night’s stay. Unwind at the hotel’s Nordic relaxation area featuring outdoor hot tubs and a sauna. Some 44 rooms and themed suites are available January through March. The hotel is 20 minutes north of Quebec City, a jump off to Le Massif, Mont Ste. Anne and Tremblant. Each room has a thermal insulated mattress, artic sleeping bags, insulated bed sheets and pillows. The room temp stays between 23-27F regardless of outdoor temperatures, but the hotel does everything it can to keep you comfortable. Getting cold feet about your decision? Staff provides comprehensive information orientation for your night’s stay.
Midwest
Looking for unusual group accommodations? Try Mt. Bohemia, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Stay in a Yurt right on the mountain. These yurts are located at the bottom portion of Claim Jumper, so you can ski out your front door in the morning. The yurts sleep ten (bunk beds and pull-out couch), though you’ll need to bring your own linens or sleeping bags and towels. Yurts include a bathroom, shower, sink, heat, electricity and WiFi. There’s a two-night minimum for winter reservations. Note: No pets or smoking.
West

Idaho is famous for its potatoes, and you can stay inside a giant one at Big Idaho Potato Hotel in Boise that has been transformed into a getaway for two. The six-ton potato was recycled from the Idaho Potato Commission’s Big Idaho Potato Tour after traveling the country for seven years, and has seen 48 U.S. states. It sits just south of downtown Boise and includes a custom-built bed, power outlets, a mini-fridge and old records that you can play. The Big Idaho Potato Hotel comes with one bed, one bath and a Jersey cow who will be your fuzzy pet for the stay. It’s only 19 miles from Bogus Basin .
The Mesa Studio Earthship is located near one of the most iconic ski resort destinations, Taos Ski Valley. The lodging is about 15 minutes from the city of Taos, approximately a 45-minute minute drive to the slopes. It offers the chance to experience off-grid living with modern amenities included. The Earthship generates its own electricity, rainwater, and stays at a comfortable 72 degrees year-round without using any fuel or electricity. It also includes Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV along with a full kitchen, washing machine, and bathroom with a deep stone tub. There’s nearby skiing at Taos, and not far from Angel Fire and Red River. Note: The exact location will be provided after booking.

Each of the four designs at the Green O in Greenough, Montana offers views of the glacier-carved Blackfoot River Valley but with total privacy. It’s only 38 miles from Missoula International Airport with free shuttle available. Green O guests can choose from 12 sophisticated luxury accommodations, known as Hauses, with four distinctive designs: Tree Haus, Green Haus, Round Haus, or Light Haus. Ski or snowboard at Lost Trail, Discovery Ski Area, and Snowbowl. This is an adults (21+) only hotel. All meals are included in the nightly rate. At the center of the Green O is a freestanding private restaurant venue (the Social Haus), which includes a lounge area, dining area, open kitchen concept, and chef prepared meals. It’s just a short walk from each of the resort’s Haus accommodations.