The once and current king of the early ski season is Lake Tahoe, which last year topped Orbitz’s list of top ski destinations.

Colorado makes the most appearances of any state with five destinations, led by Breckenridge at No. 3 overall.

Orbitz said, “We bent the rules a bit for our only non-U.S. entrant – Whistler, in British Columbia, Canada – due to its size, scope and popularity as a top destination for the U.S. Pacific Northwest.”

Orbitz Index – Top 2010 Ski Destinations

1. Lake Tahoe, CA/NV

2. Park City

3. Breckenridge

4. Vail

5. Whistler, BC

6. Aspen

7. Mammoth

8. (tie) Jackson Hole and Snowmass

10. Steamboat.