Great Basin National Park is one of the least visited parks in the system, and once you see it for yourself, it will leave you wondering why. Towering cliffs, groves of ancient bristlecone pines, complex ski terrain, what's not to love?!

Talk about remote. Just getting here is about half the battle. A high clearance 4x4 vehicle is very much recommended. If you don't have access to such a rig, then prepare for a long hike or bring a mountain bike to hasten the approach. This unique landscape is phenomenally beautiful, but doesn't give itself up easily.

Literally and figuratively overshadowed by the Sierra Nevada to the west, the White Mountains are remarkable in their own right, and belong on every backcountry skier's dream list. For those looking to make turns, the best terrain is found among the complex labyrinth of canyons, couloirs, and cliffs at the north end of the range (read, not beginner friendly).

Santa Rosa Peak is a very worthy backcountry ski destination. It is not, however, easy to get to. There are rumors of approach routes from the east side, but private land in-holdings and questionable right-of-ways can turn you back far from the peak.

Apart from its share of the Lake Tahoe Basin, Nevada doesn't get much credit as a backcountry ski destination. Those who do cast their gaze into the Great Basin most often end up looking at Lamoille Canyon (and for good reason).