So I was having issues with Skyrim crashing, so I decided to do a clean install following http://wiki.step-project.com/Guide:Troubleshooting#tab=Restore_Vanilla_Skyrim. I did everything to the letter, deleted all my saves and INI files and then started the game. I made it to the main menu fine, but when I selected to start a new game (still with no mods) the menu options disappeared and I was stuck at the menu with my cursor still visible. The music was playing, the fog was moving, but nothing loaded.

Out of curiosity, I decided to try installing Alternate Start and I was able to get into the game just fine. So, that means I can play, but I'd still like to know if there's a possible fix for this strange bug.

I would recommend you completely reinstall the game. Remove local content in steam. Then manually delete the Skyrim directory in Steamapps\common (steam doesnt delete it). Redownload the game and give it a try.

Delete the two .ini files before you start the launcher just so the game remakes them. The saves folder you can leave.

To do a real clean install, deinstall the game completely (put the whole Skyrim folder into the waste bin) and download it from Steam.

Just to clarify this, run the Uninstaller first, then delete the Skyrim Directory.

No need but you can do it. Once the Skyrim directory deleted, close Steam (or close it before) and restart it.