I haven't skied most of the places on your list but, while it's not in the US, have you considered Whistler? It seems to fit the criteria you're looking for. It's about a two-hour drive from Vancouver, beautiful ski in/out hotels (Chateau Whistler and the new Westin Whistler are both terrific), lots of activities for the rest of the family, great little town, plenty of restaurants (although can't help you on steak houses), lots of good terrain and nice snow. I think it's perfect.

I also really enjoy Sun Valley, which is not on your list and it also seems to fit your criteria.

The Tahoe resorts - Squaw Valley and Northstar - would be worth looking at too and there's certainly lots to do around the lake. Both areas can have extreme delays getting out of the parking lots though if you don't stay right in the villages.




[This message has been edited by letiole (edited 02-20-2002).]