As ski season draws near, our 2024 Gear Guide ensures you’ll be ready, with test results for almost 50 new skis, boots, poles and bindings, plus previews of additional items. Need some inspiration on where to use that new gear? Winter is the perfect time to visit a national park, and we feature ski trips to three of them—Glacier, Yellowstone and Waterton Lakes—as well as Quebec’s Gatineau Park. Veteran ski journalist Peggy Shinn previews the World Cup races slated for North America this season and highlights up-and-comer Sammy Smith, while writer Tom Weaver talks to U.S. Ski Teamer Ben Ogden about his breakthrough season. Plus, Hannah Halvorsen explores honing her leadership skills as a collegiate coach. Also included: two stellar ski destinations in Washington and Oregon; the story behind an old Colorado trail system; odes to sketchy ski conditions and arctic temps; a Vermont woodsman’s quirky ski career; the beloved Cabin at Trapp Family Lodge; how to care for your gear, old or new; and technique tips from a World Cup pro.