Come Thanksgiving, you can sense the collective excitement sparked by the arrival of the snow season. As skis and boards get dusted off from their summer rest, the anticipation of the first great snowfall has snow fanatics trembling in their boots. For many, winter sport is more than a hobby; it’s a passion. It’s no wonder that more and more Californians are sweeping up properties from Mammoth to Aspen to play out their ultimate winter vacations. The luxury and convenience of a private mountain getaway means less hassle booking lodges and chalets and more time spent surrendering to the slopes. Here are a handful of snow destinations promising a taste of luxury with the added advantages of ownership.

LAKE TAHOE

When seeking both phenomenal snowfall and a breathtaking setting, nothing quite rivals Lake Tahoe. The year-round vacation spot welcomes countless winter guests eager to fall under the Sierra Nevada spell.

Heavenly, one of the premier ski resorts in Tahoe, recently announced plans for a $420 million redevelopment project in collaboration with RockResorts International, LLC, a luxury hotel company owned by Vail Resorts, Inc. The Chateau at Heavenly Village will feature two luxury condominium-hotels with 477 rooms, a 50,000-square-foot convention center, complete destination spa, a 1.5-acre park and a collection of shops and restaurants.

The six-story condominium-hotel is the first major full-ownership, full-service real estate offering in South Lake Tahoe. Best of all, the resort will be located within 50 yards of Heavenly Village and gondola access to the slopes and ski center. chateauheavenlyvillage.com

MAMMOTH

Californians have long valued the convenience and quality conditions found in Mammoth. Now they have something more to look forward to – not one, but two new residences coming to the mountain oasis.

Gearing up for a winter 2007 opening, the Westin Monache resort brings an internationally recognized reputation for instinctive service and signature amenities to a new condo-hotel setting. This upscale property will open its doors at The Village at Mammoth, adjacent to the 15-passenger express gondola and all the mountain action. Spectacular views, 24-hour service, pools, hot tubs, fitness center and ski valet are only a few of the deluxe amenities to be offered. With a design inspired by European alpine ski towns, the charming development will also boast year-round activities, shops, restaurants and sparkling nightlife. westinmammoth.com

Sleek and seductive, 80/50 Mammoth brings a new refinement previously reserved for upscale skiing destinations like Vail and Aspen. The member-owned private residence club offers one-, two- and three-bedroom residences with up to 3,000 square feet of beautifully furnished, amenity-rich living space. Some highlights include a rooftop deck with three hot tubs, panoramic views, a private members’ lounge, fitness center, climate-controlled wine storage and first-class spa. Snow lovers enjoy a personal ski valet and gondola access via skybridge. 8050mammoth.net

DEER VALLEY

Less than an hour outside Salt Lake City, Deer Valley and neighboring Park City attract snow enthusiasts with upscale charm, thrilling slopes and famous Utah powder.

Buyers in search of the best in home ownership and club membership should take a serious look at Talisker, a premier community on 10,000 acres of private wilderness. Members receive incredible access to world-class skiing, golf and any outdoor activity you could dream of, all in the beautiful setting of Park City. The privileges are unique and unrivaled, from private Pilate lessons to midnight sleigh rides. The Talisker Club Park houses everything from an elegant dining lodge to an amazing spa and fitness center. Nearby Deer Valley Resort offers the best skiing around, with 21 lifts, 91 ski runs and majestic views.

Ownership at Talisker varies from multiple residence buildings to private single-family homes. Red Cloud is perhaps the most impressive and best for the ski-inclined. The gated ski-in ski-out community of 30 distinctive homes sits atop the slopes of Deer Valley Resort with endless views, towing pines and aspen and large homesites. talisker.com

Fans of fractional ownership have another reason to celebrate with the debut of The Residences at the Chateaux, an equity residence club of elegance and distinction. Just a few steps from the Deer Valley mid-mountain ski lodge and lifts, the residences provide easy access and total luxury from arrival to departure. Floor plans range from 2,200 to 2,800 square feet and three or four bedrooms. The four-bedroom penthouse has already sold out quickly under high demand. With a long list of amenities, including a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, private deck, oversized fireplace, views and more, it’s not hard to understand why. chateauxresidences.com

ASPEN, VAIL & BEYOND

For decades, Aspen has been the preferred winter playground of celebrities and skiers alike. With an established reputation for luxury and exclusivity, it should come as no surprise that Ritz-Carlton would tap into the market and set up a fabulous property of its own.

The Ritz-Carlton Club, Aspen Highlands, a fractional-ownership property, offers all of the benefits you’d expect from legendary service to top-notch amenities. Stone fireplaces, heated marble floors and a fully equipped gourmet kitchen are only a taste of the comforts and fine touches available. Hosting a state-of-the-art fitness center, resort spa, and members’ lounge for delightful après ski activities, you’ll be having as much fun off the slopes as you are on.

In Vail, Ritz-Carlton will soon offer the option of full ownership. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Vail, overlook Gore Creek with access to a proposed new gondola up to Vail Mountain. The property will feature approximately 71 homes, ranging from spacious two-bedroom residences to a deluxe six-bedroom penthouse. ritzcarltonrealestate.com

Wildhorse Meadows in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, will create a diverse, integrated and architecturally rich community true to its Western roots and rugged landscape. The master plan includes unique residential opportunities, boutique shops, restaurants and convenient access to the snow-rich trails.

wildhorsemeadows.com