(CNN) — While ski resorts worldwide have become increasingly attractive to the non-skier with breweries, distilleries, Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class shopping and wellness centers all available slopeside, they haven't forgotten their roots.

That's great news for the avid skier and snowboarder who books a ski holiday with one purpose in mind: Hitting the slopes. And hitting them hard. Après-ski activities may be a welcome respite after a full the day on the mountain, but to the ski enthusiast, they're ultimately just what comes after the main event.

Resorts in the United States and Canada can hold their own against Europe's most elite ski areas. From heli-skiing to uphill climbing to private backcountry tours, here are eight of the best destinations for skiers who really care about skiing.

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