The Ultimate Guide to Ski-Friendly Assignments

Imagine wrapping up a fulfilling shift, grabbing your gear, and hitting fresh powder in some of the most breathtaking mountain ranges in the country. Traveling with FlexCare Medical Staffing, you can make that dream a reality by combining your passion for healthcare with the opportunity to work near some of North America’s most iconic ski destinations. Here's our guide to the top places for travel healthcare professionals to work and ski. 

Top Ski Areas: Vail, Breckenridge, and Keystone 

Denver is a popular choice for travel nurses, offering a strong healthcare industry and a high demand for medical professionals. The city is just a couple of hours from world-renowned ski resorts like Vail, Breckenridge, and Keystone, where you’ll find runs for every skill level. Denver itself has a vibrant downtown with a fantastic food scene and cultural activities, making it an ideal spot for balancing work and play. 

Why Denver? Denver is ideal for nurses who want to enjoy urban amenities and access some of the best skiing in the country. Flexibility is key for travel nurses, and Denver offers a wide variety of shifts across major hospitals, allowing you to coordinate your work schedule around your ski days. Plus, many hospitals here offer short commutes and competitive pay packages. 

Top Ski Areas: Park City, Alta, and Snowbird 

Salt Lake City is renowned for its powdery snow, diverse terrain, and welcoming ski culture. Just 30-45 minutes from some of the best ski resorts in the country, Salt Lake is a fantastic option for travel nurses who are passionate about skiing. Resorts like Park City, Alta, and Snowbird are known for their epic snowfall and challenging runs, perfect for advanced skiers looking to push their limits. 

Why Salt Lake City? With some of the highest snow totals in the country, Salt Lake is ideal for nurses wanting consistent skiing options all season. Utah’s healthcare system is one of the most efficient in the U.S., and travel clinicians are often in high demand, particularly in the winter months. The city also has a relaxed vibe and an affordable cost of living, making it easier to maximize your earnings. 

Top Ski Areas: Heavenly, Squaw Valley, and Northstar 

For those who love the combination of mountain and lake views, Lake Tahoe offers a stunning backdrop to some epic skiing. Located on the border between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe provides a unique mix of activities, from skiing to water sports (in the off-season) and great nightlife. Heavenly, Squaw Valley, and Northstar are a short drive from Reno and offer everything from smooth beginner trails to steep, challenging slopes. 

Why Lake Tahoe? Travel nurses who take assignments in Reno, Nevada, are only a short drive from Tahoe's legendary slopes. With its proximity to major cities, it’s easy to commute from your shift to the mountain. The healthcare system in Reno and nearby cities has a high demand for skilled nurses, especially during winter. Lake Tahoe’s laid-back lifestyle and access to outdoor recreation make it a perfect spot to unwind after a busy week. 

Top Ski Areas: Stowe, Jay Peak, and Killington 

For those who prefer East Coast vibes, Burlington, Vermont, is a gem of a destination that combines small-town charm with impressive ski resorts. Resorts like Stowe, Jay Peak, and Killington offer a mix of trails with the best snow Vermont has to offer. Burlington’s cozy downtown, craft breweries, and local eateries make it a delightful place to explore when you're off the slopes. 

Why Burlington? Burlington is ideal for nurses seeking a tight-knit community and access to excellent winter sports. Hospitals here tend to be smaller but provide a strong sense of community support, which is particularly comforting for travel nurses. The assignments in Burlington often come with competitive pay and a supportive environment, allowing you to fully embrace your time off by skiing some of the best mountains in the East. 

Top Ski Areas: Big Sky Resort and Bridger Bowl 

Montana might be lesser-known in the ski world, but Bozeman’s Big Sky Resort is one of the best-kept secrets, offering a more remote and less crowded experience. Bozeman is perfect for travel nurses looking for a quieter, scenic escape with dramatic landscapes and fewer lift lines. Big Sky offers incredible terrain, and Bridger Bowl is famous for its steep, technical runs that will satisfy even the most advanced skiers. 

Why Bozeman? Bozeman is a fantastic choice for travel nurses who want a bit of peace, stunning scenery, and high-quality skiing. Bozeman Deaconess Hospital frequently needs travel nurses, especially in winter, and the area's smaller community offers a welcoming vibe. Montana’s outdoor culture, along with its low cost of living, makes it easy to maximize your income and focus on the skiing and snowboarding lifestyle. 

By combining your career as a travel healthcare clinician with the joys of skiing, you can experience some of North America’s best ski destinations while advancing your nursing skills. FlexCare Medical Staffing is here to support you every step of the way, so grab your skis and get ready for an unforgettable assignment that lets you embrace the call of the mountains!