The secret to a successful late-summer getaway lies in eliminating travel friction: choosing destinations that require minimal transit time but offer maximum immersion, allowing your family to step off the plane or out of the car and straight into vacation mode.

This season, the ski and snow industry is driven by unprecedented expansion, a quest for personalized luxury, and a growing focus on sustainability. Here is our guide to defining your perfect winter escape, complete with top ski destinations both in the United States and across the globe.