BIG SKY, MONTANA
I love Big Sky Montana!  I went there about 12 years ago before I knew what was going on.  I am lucky enough to have my cousin and great ski partner now live there.  I went back to visit during the 1999/2000 season. That place rocks.  They have a ton of challenging terrain, hardly any lift lines up on the mountain, and an awesome tram that takes you to the top of Lone Peak and gives you a tremendous view, and some great runs...well, chutes are more like it.  There is a ton of building going on in the base lodge area.  I can't really say how expensive it is to stay there because I was able to stay with my cousin.  I didn't think the lift tickets were too bad, even more so when you compare 'em to what I pay here at home in the Mid West for a 1/16th of the Mountain.  So if anybody is interested in some tremendous skiing, check this place out. 
BIG SKY