What was once a critical north-south link over the Norwegian mountains is today the gateway to some of Norway’s best outdoor experiences. At one end, the mountain ski resort of Beitostølen. At the other, Norway’s tallest mountains in Jotunheimen National Park. But soaring to 1,389 meters (4,557 feet) above sea level, the 49km (30 miles) long Valdresflye road is also a tourist attraction in itself.

Dancing in ski boots on a high-altitude terrace could be a thing of the past as the future of booze-fuelled ski holidays hangs in the balance. The first ski resort in Europe has reopened without lifting the shutters on its après-ski bars – sparking speculation that many will follow suit in the future.

Kaylin Richardson charges toward the fjords in "Line of Descent." (Warren Miller Entertainment/Jay Dash)

Coming off the high of the recent Xfinity Killington Cup in Vermont, the stoke for skiing and ski racing is high in the Northeast and across the country. While we all aren’t destined for the World Cup, finding the joy of skiing and riding is attainable to anyone who puts boards on their feet.

UPDATE (March 1): Travis Ganong, who 24 hours earlier stamped the first Audi FIS Alpine World Cup top three of his career, finished fourth Saturday, a mere .05 from a second downhill podium in Kvitfjell.