Ski Vacation News

Goodbye Winter, Hello Summer!

Kristen — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:21:42 +0000

It’s April and the end of the season is near. While it wasn’t the best season we’ve had, it wasn’t the worst either. Tahoe got dumped on late in the game, the East has some pretty spectacular storms, New Mexico had their best season in memory and Alaska received a mind-boggling 800+ inches of snow this season. The Rockies got pelted with some impressive storm systems too. In the Pacific Northwest and Idaho/Montana, slopes got absolutely inundated with snow.

Burton’s U.S. open celebrated 30 years of exalting the sport of snowboarding. Lindsey Vonn had an impressive season and swept the vast majority of races. January’s Learn to Ski Month was one of the most popular and well-attended in history. There were expansions, improvements, additions and renovations made at resorts around the country that will help ensure the safety of skiers and riders as well as enhancing overall resort experiences. All in all 2011/12 was a pretty good season for skiers and riders.

As we say goodbye to yet another ski and shredding season, many of us are excited about the upcoming summer season. From whitewater rafting and mountain climbing to hiking and biking and swimming, the mountains offer up tons of great activities. The flowers bloom, the deciduous forests spring to life and the rivers, lakes and streams churn with trout. Check out our summer coupon site, featuring tons of great discounts and deals on lodging, activities, rentals and more, all season long. Pull those shorts and sandals out of storage, stock up on sunscreen and bug spray and get ready for another wonderful summer in the mountains!

Spring Skiing 80′s Style!

Kristen — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 14:26:51 +0000

Spring skiing is in full swing and it is a perfect time to don those ridiculous 80’s snow pants, slather on the zinc oxide and grab the most ridiculous accessories you can find. The resorts that remain open have fantastic and fun closing day celebrations, tons of tailgating, barbecues, live music and more to herald the close of another ski season.

Vail has posted a hilarious and nicely shot homage to spring skiing. Vail’s throwing a wild party in honor of closing weekend (April 15 is the last day) it is one of the biggest end-of-season bashes in the Rocky Mountains. Spring Back to Vail is a full week of fun in the sun that starts April 9. Free concerts, the World Pond Skimming Championships and a whole lot more! Get up to the mountains for your last chance at skiing until next fall.

Video Courtesy of Vail

Snow Totals in North America Pile up!

Kristen — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:25:42 +0000

The totals are in for snowfall this year and the Pacific Northwest swept it. While we all sadly acknowledge this winter was rather disappointing in some respects, the ten ski areas listed below had mighty impressive totals which should give us hope that winter hasn’t completely left us in the…warm.

#1 – Alyeska, AK = 824”

#2 – Mt. Baker, WA = 777″

#3 – Whistler, B.C. = 517″

#4 – Timberline Lodge, Mt. Hood, OR = 481″

#5 – Mt. Bachelor, OR = 467″

#6 – Revelstoke, B.C. = 430″

#7 – Jackson Hole, WY = 364″

#8 – Alta, UT = 334″

#9 – Squaw Valley, CA = 327″

#10 – Snowbird, UT = 324″

Some Alyeska eye candy, featuring Tim Durtschi and Sage Cattabriga-Alosa.

Tim Durtschi – GoPro TGR Athlete Video Series Season 2 Episode 2 from Teton Gravity Research on Vimeo.

Alyeska had an extraordinary showing with 824,” which translates into an impressive 69 feet of snow! Mt. Baker wasn’t far behind with 777”. Maybe the lesson here is that we should all think of moving to the Northwest in time for next winter, just a thought.

Lindsey Vonn Tops Again!

Kristen — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:23:16 +0000

This is a beautifully written piece by Tim Layden applauding the stellar season that Vonn has had this year. He does a wonderful job highlighting her many accomplishments while shedding light on the double edged sword on which she finds herself. Her overwhelming success, he argues, may appear so easy that audiences may under-appreciate her achievements and become bored. One fact remains, Vonn’s performance this year is close to being the best overall performance of any female skier of all time, and nothing can overshadow that.

Lindsey Vonn has quietly dominated the obscure world of ski racing – More Sports – Tim Layden – SI.com.

Photo courtesy of SI.com

Spring Skiing Tips!

Kristen — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:18:52 +0000

Sadly, in many parts of the country the snow is melting away at astonishing speeds leaving many skiers and riders stuck yearning for a season that was less than stellar. However, there are plenty of resorts where the snow is still falling, the powder days are plenty and the conditions remain fantastic. Some consider spring skiing to be the best of the season for several reasons. March and April are usually big months for snowfall, the sun is out more often meaning more delectable bluebird days, and with the rash of spring holidays more people have time to hit the slopes. In order to make the best of your day on the mountain keep in mind these important tips.

Layers – They are important at any time, but with the drastic temperature fluctuations and rapid changes in snow conditions, it is highly advised that you wear a waterproof layer, as well as a moisture wicking layer when it heats up during the day.

Sunscreen – Perhaps this should be number one, but it is vitally important that you protect your winter paled skin from the harsh rays found at altitude. Of course, the higher the SPF the better off you will be, dermatologists recommend a minimum of SPF 45. There are an array of fantastic oil free, waterproof, sports oriented choices out there

Sunglasses – Bluebird days are some of the most breathtaking days on the mountain, but they can also be some of the most glaring. Protective eye gear is absolutely necessary in the spring, tinted goggles, sunglasses, whatever you choose make sure to bring them with you so you can see well enough to enjoy the beautiful day.

Discount lift tickets – Most resorts offered discounted lift tickets or extremely low priced late season passes. Since spring conditions can be touch and go there is a risk inherent in picking one up, but if there is a good storm that passes through, it is absolutely worth the money you spent on it.

Bring your own food – The weather is nice enough to sit outside and bask in the warm sun, it’s also a perfect time to avoid the cafeteria lines, save some money and spend more time with friends and family. The weather is pleasant and you can bring exactly what you crave after some fierce runs

Plenty of areas in the country are still open for skiing and riding. Washington and Oregon have been getting pounded as of late. Even Tahoe has been blessed with some substantial snow after having an extremely dry winter. Arizona, New Mexico, Montana, Utah and Colorado are still reporting skiable conditions and a significant amount of runs open. What are you waiting for? Get up to the mountains as soon as you can and enjoy the bliss of spring skiing.

Spring is Looking Up at Tahoe!

Kristen — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:47:38 +0000

The beginning of the winter was quite unkind to the Tahoe area with little to no snowfall caused one of the worst season starts on record. Fortunately, Mother Nature got to work in February piling on the snow and by March things were looking up. North and South Lake Tahoe have both received nearly 9 feet in the last few weeks ensuring a great Tahoe spring skiing season. It comes just in time as the spring season at Tahoe is incredibly popular and a great time to visit. In fact, South Lake Tahoe is one of the ultimate spring destinations for everyone, including families, Spring Breakers, powder hounds and hardcore park riders. Heavenly, Sierra and Kirkwood have revved up for last push into spring, plus the deals are as plentiful as the snowfall and now is the perfect time to take that spring ski vacation.

“This storm sets us up for another unparalleled spring season – powder, corduroy, afternoon corn snow and sunshine,” said Carol Chaplin, executive director of the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority. “Party-goers can expect ample amounts of snow combined full slate of events and entertainment on and off the slopes.” It’s the perfect time to enjoy great skiing, fantastic activities and really experience the pinnacle of what a resort experience can be. Check out great discounts in and around South and North Lake Tahoe, California. Click here to find deals on rentals and equipment, here for lodging and here for deals on lift tickets. Check out the list of upcoming events and competitions in and around the area that were compiled by the wonderful local paper, Carson Now.

Special Events In Lake Tahoe (see full article CarsonNow.org):

The Stateline Showdown Slopestyle series concludes March 24 at Heavenly’s Ante Up Terrain Park. Skiers and riders of all ages are welcome to enter. Plenty of prizes and a huge cash grand prize for the final event. (530) 542-5133.

A one day musical event, High Up Fest, brings together the popular Reggae movement with rock and hip hop. Kirkwood will host a national line-up of musical acts on March 24. Artists include Collie Buddz, The Movement and Kelley James. Tickets are available online at highupfest2012.com.

Sierra will host the all-day Women’s Camp Presented by Gnu Girls, March 25, with specially trained female instructors to build self-confidence and skills in a variety of categories: beginners, running gates, park/halfpipe, steeps or backcountry escape. www.sierraattahoe.com

The annual Spring Loaded at Heavenly, March 31 – April 15, combines the best of spring and winter together with two weeks of parties, pond skimming, concerts, the Gunbarrel 25 and springtime mischief. Ski or ride all day and party all night. www.skiheavenly.com/springloaded.

2012 Showroom Entertainment:

The 2012 Harrah’s South Shore Room lineup includes: Rock Sugar, March 24; Blue Oyster Cult, March 31; Ozomatli, April 7; Little Feat, April 14; Chickenfoot, May 4-5; Rick Springfield, May 12. www.harrahslaketahoe.com

MontBleu Resort Casino and Spa’s 2012 features: George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelics, March 22; comedian Rob Schneider, March 24; BANFF Mountain Film Festival, April 2; Yonder Mountain String Band with special guest Bird Brown, April 12. MontBleu is offering its “Buy 2, Get the 3rd Night Free” lodging packages through May 25, book by April 3. www.montbleuresort.com

Illusion Fusion is a new family-friendly, high-energy show in South Shore starring award-winning magician Alex Ramon, nightly (Thurs.-Mon.) in the Golden Cabaret at Horizon Casino. It features mind-blowing illusions, slight-of-hand close-up, audience interaction and never-before-seen magic. Tickets are $24.95, with free tickets on Sundays for kids 12 and under (one free ticket with each paid adult).

50% Off Lift Tickets at Brian Head, UT

Kristen — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:57:57 +0000

If you’ve never had the opportunity to visit Brian Head in Utah, then you have done yourself a great disservice. It has some of the absolute best snow conditions in all of North America, the snow has an average moisture content of 4%. The resort is rarely crowded and guests will have the chance to carve first tracks all day long. The prices are affordable for everything including food, lodging and lift tickets. Ski midweek and get 2-for-1 lift tickets through the anticipated April 15th season end. Plus there is a great tubing hill which is a perfect reprieve from skiing and riding and makes an excellent activity for the whole family to enjoy.

The resort spans 650 acres and enjoys a vertical of more than 1,200 feet. There are 65 total runs, 35% are ideal for beginners, 35% intermediate, 20% advanced and 10% expert. There are two terrain parks for riders and freestyle skiers. Brian Head also has a great tubing park adjacent to the Navajo Lodge Learning Center. The resort encompasses two peaks, Brian Head Peak, which tops out at 11,307 feet, and Navajo Peak, with an elevation of 10,300 feet, Navajo Peak features the easier runs while Brian Head Peak is completely blue and black runs.

In all there are several reasons why you would be remiss not to make the trip to Brian Head. The resort is easy to get to; it’s along a major highway and only a few hours from Las Vegas. There really are no crowds, so you can enjoy entire runs to yourself. The lift tickets, food, lodging, and rentals are incredibly affordable. The varied terrain is great for all ability level skier and rider, so everyone can find suitable runs. The resort staff is super friendly, they will even store your equipment in the lodge for free.

It really is a stunning, world class ski area with a modest, homey atmosphere. Visit Brian Head and see for yourself, but be careful not to tell too many people about how much fun you had.

Spring Back to Vail for Serious Savings!

Kristen — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:57:06 +0000

Vail is prepping to host one of the largest end of the season bashes in the Rocky Mountains. It’s an entire week of fun and great warm weather skiing and riding in order to honor the close of another great ski season. Vail is one of Colorado’s most fiercely beloved resorts with more than 1,300 acres of named trails and nearly 3,500 feet of vertical, there is terrain that suits all ages and ability levels. They also have great deals on lift tickets, activities, rentals and more throughout the season that help skiers and riders save serious money.

The end of the season party lasts a week and features the World Pond Skimming Championships as well as free concerts and much more. On Thursday, April 12th in Vail Village Grace Potter and the Nocturnals will perform, and rumor has it they will play songs from their new unreleased album. On Friday, April 13th Thievery Corporation will play and on Saturday, April 14th JJ Grey & Mofro, a blues/southern rock band, will take the stage. The World Pond Skimming Championships return once again to Lake Golden Peak at the Golden Peak base area on April 15th. “The annual competition entails floatable (and sometimes sinkable) athletes launching themselves off an on-snow jump onto an icy pond in attempt to successfully exit the pond on both feet. Competitors will vie for both fame and glory in a showing that defies the laws of physics – and perhaps even common sense.” It’s fun for the whole family and a great way to spend a spring vacation this year.

The events start April 9th until April 15th, 2012. All the concerts and events are totally free! Vail will be positively abuzz with activities, events and incredible experiences. Make sure to get your discount lift tickets before you head up to enjoy some excellent spring skiing. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Video courtesy of Vail Resorts

Two-for-One Lift Tickets at Mt. Shasta Ski Park

Kristen — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 14:53:08 +0000

The northern mountains of California were made famous by the photography of Ansel Adams, the stunning jagged peaks rise sharply and dramatically and it’s no wonder people venture from all around to experience their grandeur. Mt. Shasta Ski Park is an equally stunning resort located atop a massive dormant volcano in the Cascade Range of Northern California. Mt. Shasta is the fifth highest mountain in California; it’s one of the nation’s youngest resorts. Although its history as a ski area dates back to 1959, the resort opened for the first time as Mt. Shasta Ski Park in 1985, to this day it remains managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Mt. Shasta has worked incredibly hard to become the premiere resort that it is today, and this year is no exception.

There are 425 acres of skiable terrain, 1,435 feet of vertical and more than 30 trails. The runs are greatly varied; 20% are ideal for beginner skiers and riders, 55% for intermediate levels and the remaining 25% is suitable for advanced and expert levels. There is night skiing on nearly half the terrain, three terrain parks perfect for all experience levels of riders and skiers, and a 300 foot long super halfpipe for the more daring to enjoy. There are plenty of challenging runs for all experience levels.

Off the slopes, Mt. Shasta Ski Park boasts several restaurants and bars to relax in after a long day on the mountain. While there isn’t lodging located at the resort, the ski area has partnered with many of the area’s local lodgings and offers some great ski and stay deals throughout the winter. It’s a pure and unadulterated ski resort that offers the best terrain without the unnecessary glitz and glamour of other resorts.

Mt. Shasta has some of the best night skiing in the area and now with their great new deal, skiers and riders will get two lift tickets for the price of one on Tuesday and Thursday nights throughout the season. It’s a 50% savings and a perfect way to spend a work or school night with a friend or family member. Additionally, every day the resort offers a wide variety of affordable lift tickets, so skiers and riders can enjoy the resort any day of the week. Check out why people rave about Mt. Shasta Ski Park and enjoy.

Photo of Mt. Shasta courtesy of Michael Zanger

The Biggie Pass for Lincoln Woodstock Saves Visitors Big Bucks

Kristen — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 13:49:06 +0000

New Hampshire is a wonderful place to spend a winter getaway. It has long been a favorite ski destination for East Coast skiers and riders, in part, because it has great and diverse number of resorts, pristine snow-covered scenery, quaint but well-appointed ski towns and virtually unlimited activities to experience. Trust us, there is a perfect ski and ride vacation in New Hampshire and there are tons of ways to save money while there. The Lincoln Woodstock area is a great place to visit and the Chamber of Commerce has an excellent website with lots of information about the area, its businesses and the plethora of events throughout the year. They also have an impressive deal on the Lincoln Woodstock Biggie Pass, which entitles holders to discounts on dining, lodging and attractions throughout the area.

Loon Mountain is the closest resort to Lincoln Woodstock and offers skiers and riders great terrain, exciting parks, excellent amenities and a whole lot of fun. In total, Loon has 350 acres of skiable terrain and 2,100 feet of vertical to shred and explore. There are three mountains at Loon and a great variety of terrain from easy beginner runs to more harrowing steeps and even a double black diamond for experienced skiers.

The possibilities are endless in Lincoln and Woodstock, there is just so much to see and do all winter long. It’s a truly beautiful area with tons of lodging, dining and shopping options. It’s an all in one winter destination that is well worth a visit. “Save hundreds of dollars all winter long with your 2012 Winter Biggie Pass! It’s full of great offers at area attractions, restaurants and shops all over Lincoln-Woodstock. You can purchase your pass for only $10 at the Chamber of Commerce office, located on Main Street Lincoln at the Village Shops or you can order online and have them mailed directly to you.” It’s an excellent deal and helps support businesses in the area while saving you money in the process.

Photo Courtesy of Lincoln Woodstock Chamber of Commerce