While large ski resorts such as Vail and Aspen continue to draw high numbers of skiers, several upscale additions and renovations have been made to some of the western region’s smaller resorts, opening up more options to hit the slopes this season.

One of these new improvements is the launch of a new rail service from Denver International Airport to the city’s popular ski areas, allowing guests to avoid dreaded I-70 traffic from the airport. The Winter Park Express, which ran sporadically over the past several years, returns Jan. 7, and will continue every weekend through March 26. The train will run from the airport to Denver’s downtown Union Station and on to the popular Winter Park ski destination.

Another new convenient option for Western skiing this season is in Taos, a ski town recently voted North America’s Best by USA Today’s 10 Best Reader’s Choice Survey.

While the resort was primarily known for its challenging terrain, a new $300 million expansion and revitalization project will see the opening of The Blake, an alpine-style guesthouse featuring 80 rooms and suites, guest-service hausmeisters, a luxury spa and fitness center and a tapas-style restaurant. Skiers now have access to some of the best conditions in the Northwest with the added convenience of luxurious lodging.

“For more than 60 years Taos has offered some of the best skiing in North America in addition to unrivaled culture, art, cuisine and outdoor activities,” said Suzanne Brown, vice president of marketing, Taos Ski Valley. “Today Taos continues to be a place full of history and a distinct mountain mystique. We are evolving to bring even more modern amenities and new experiences to the ski valley, without compromising our unique personality and appeal.”

Other resort upgrades include two new chairlifts, three new snowmaking guns and all new rental skis, snowboards and boots at Crystal Mountain and a new Bomber Bowl terrain park at Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort.