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NATIONWIDE SKI INFO
DIRECTORY - FEBRUARY/SPRING, 2004 - ARCHIVE
VOL. 17 - ISSUE 63 - GET OUT & SKI ISSUE
| Editorials & Current News | Feature Articles | Technical/Instructional Features |
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by Tony D. Crespi |
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Our Fifteenth Year Publisher and Editor, Dave Leonardi Sixteen years ago, the idea of creating a new ski related publication, SKIER NEWS was born. The “miracle” of desktop publishing had just begun and it helped that idea to become a reality. After taking a year gathering facts, studying the ski industry, attending various publishing conferences and exploring software and hardware options, SKIER NEWS was established. Today, you are reading the 60th edition of “America’s Free Ski Publication.” SKIER NEWS is the only hard-copy, nationally distributed, dedicated ski source that can publish information that actually happened during the current season. Last season, for example, our February-Spring issue had a cover photo that was taken on opening day of Peak Seven in Breckenridge, as they inaugurated lift service on December 20, 2002. In 1997 our web site www.skiernews.com began. Its almost daily updates during ski season added to the immediacy of the SKIER NEWS concept. The web site features most of the articles found in the print version of SKIER NEWS as well as links to more than 80 ski resorts and companies, like SUBARU, who provide great products and services for skiers. The web site is beholden to the concept, “If It’s Not in SKIER NEWS, It’s Not Important.” We pride ourselves of weeding through the nonsense and the noise to help you decide where to ski and how to get there. We visit and ski with our advertisers. We stay in the hotels, use the services, and we are proud of the companies that give us the privilege of representing them. And we highly recommend all of them. We drive more than 10,000 miles each ski season attending consumer ski shows, conventions and skiing the slopes from New England to Lake Tahoe to western Canada each ski season. We have visited every major ski resort in North America, and we have skied most more than once. Last year, while skiing Mount Morrisey at Sun Peaks Resort in British Columbia, I realized that my wife, Lorie, (president of SKIER NEWS) and I had skied all three major terrain expansions that happened in 2002-03. We are probably the only people in North America who skied Jackson Gore at Okemo in Vermont, Peak Seven at Breckenridge in Colorado and Sun Peaks’ Mount Morrisey. I know we were the only ski writers that did. It has been a great fifteen years. It has been hectic at times as when ads don’t arrive at deadlines or when we prepare for the ski shows, or as last year when our new iMac seemed to crash every week in October. But the reward of working is enjoying the freedom of skiing and visiting the majestic mountain villages and towns that make up ski country. As we began SKIER NEWS in 1988, something else was at its beginning, snowboarding. One by one ski resorts began deciding whether or not to allow it, and now just four resorts are ski only; they are Alta, Deer Valley, Mad River Glen and Taos. Snowboarding has added many customers to the fun of the mountains, and perhaps sadly driven many skiers away from the slopes. We have participated in covering major ski events. We have met inspirational skiers like Jimmie Heuga and Diana Golden. We’ve met champions like Bode Miller, Tommy Moe, Alberto Tomba and Diann Roffe. And we’ve met celebrities who ski who are truly great individuals like Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, actors Cliff Robertson and James Sikking, and former President Gerald Ford. We have experienced the re-birth of “Two Elk Lodge” atop Vail, which was tragically destroyed by an arson fire in 1999. We stayed at the now famous Cordillera Lodge (of the Kobe Bryant case) in Edwards, Colorado the first year that it opened and before the road to the mountaintop hotel was paved. We were some of the first on the slopes to use shaped skis and predicted that within five years straight skis would be a thing of the past. I remember riding lift with a ski instructor at a large Colorado resort as he told me he would never ski on shaped skis; I’d like to speak with him now. We’ve covered the tragic deaths of Steve McKinney (ski racer), Michael Kennedy and Sonny Bono. We’ve seen the passing of ski icons like Tony Matt, whose daredevil run down Mount Washington is still legendary, and Ernie Blake whose vision created one of America’s great ski resorts, Taos. Perhaps nothing was as shocking as that fateful day in September in 2001 when our world changed forever. The ski industry, part of the travel industry, is still recovering. On a happier note, we’ve also told you about some of our favorite off-mountain places like “Billy’s Burgers” in Jackson (Best Burger Award); “Little Annie’s” in Aspen (Best Bar in Any Ski Town Anywhere); and “Steamworks Brew Pub” in Durango, Colo. (Best Brew Pub in a Ski Town). All three received 10th Anniversary Awards and five years later are still the “Best” in their categories. Reflecting back, sometimes it seems like those 15 years flew by, other times it seems like they stood still. Please continue to enjoy this 63rd FREE issue of SKIER NEWS in our 15th year. Please continue to help us achieve success by using the phone numbers for our advertisers that are in their ads to help you plan you next ski trip. And, as we have written before, please remember our brave Armed Forces who are continuing to defend America against terrorism, making it possible for us to enjoy our freedoms here at home and to enjoy our magnificent country.
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Partnership enhances Subaru “Master the Mountain” program CHERRY HILL, NJ -- Subaru of America, Inc., the only car company that offers symmetrical all-wheel drive as standard equipment on every vehicle in its product line today, announced a new marketing partnership with Nordica USA. Under the terms of the partnership, Nordica USA will officially join the Subaru Master the Mountain program, an instructional ski tour for skiers and snowboarders. Nordica USA will provide free ski demos to anyone with a valid lift ticket at Subaru Master the Mountain events this season. The partnership also designates Subaru the official vehicle of Nordica USA, while Nordica USA in turn, is named the official ski and boot of Subaru of America, Inc. “Subaru has a long history of supporting snow sport enthusiasts and the organizations that are important to them,” said Tim Bennett, director of marketing, Subaru of America, Inc. “We are pleased to announce our partnership with Nordica USA, and are glad to have them on board this season at Subaru Master the Mountain events.” The Subaru Master the Mountain program tours many destination resorts throughout the USA providing skiers and snowboarders alike with the opportunity to learn to ski or improve their current skills through professional instruction. “We are very pleased to be working so closely with Subaru and their Master the Mountain program,” said Andy Knittle, CEO, Nordica USA. “The partnership represents a tremendous opportunity to team with another premium brand company who is also dedicated to winter sports.” Following is a list of the 2003/2004 Subaru Master the Mountain events:
For additional information about the Subaru Master the Mountain program and other active lifestyle events please visit: www.outdoorlife.subaru.com. About Nordica USA Nordica USA has been the country’s premier winter sporting goods supplier for over 50 years. Nordica was founded in 1938 by two Italian businessmen in Montebelluna, Italy and began manufacturing mountaineering and work boots. In 1945, Nordica began to specialize in the manufacturing of ski boots and shortly thereafter became the world-leading ski boot producer. Nordica currently supplies high quality ski boots, skis, and ski apparel around the globe. Nordica USA is currently a leading equipment supplier to the United States Ski Team as well as the Professional Ski Instructors of America. Nordica USA is a subsidiary of Nordica SpA and is located in West Lebanon, NH operating under the direction of CEO Andrew Knittle. About Subaru of America, Inc. Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered near Philadelphia, the company markets and distributes all-wheel drive Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru is the only car company that offers symmetrical all-wheel drive as standard equipment on every vehicle in its product line. Subaru has been the best-selling import wagon in America for the past 20 years; based on R.L. Polk & Company new vehicle retail registration statistics calendar year-end 2002.
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Nationwide Initiative Targeted at Kids and Parents Designed to Increase Participation in Winter Sports; Retailers, Resorts, Manufacturers, Corporations and Health Organizations Invited to Participate McLEAN, VA (June 17, 2003) -- In response to numerous government reports citing the lack of physical activity in the United States, SnowSports Industries America (SIA) is launching WINTER FEELS GOOD this summer, a nationwide public awareness campaign that promotes the health, fitness, social aspects and benefits of snow sports participation. This initiative, targeted at kids under 14 and their parents (particularly moms) includes: an educational component through its website, www.winterfeelsgood.com, a community outreach program and a media relations component. WINTER FEELS GOOD is a public relations component of Project Kids established by SIA, an industry-wide program that encourages snow sports participation among youth. "More than 61 percent of Americans are overweight and there are three times as many overweight adolescents in the U.S. now compared to 30 years ago," noted David Ingemie, president of SIA. "WINTER FEELS GOOD promotes physical activity through snow sports. This campaign provides an abundance of information to consumers about how to become involved, where to go, what to wear, how to get in shape and specific statistics about health benefits. Retailers, resorts and organizations involved in the winter sports community will participate through their own programs. This is an industry first." As part of the community outreach effort, SIA also is pursuing partnership opportunities with community organizations that are addressing the lack of physical activity issues in the U.S. These groups include the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association, Girl Scouts, Boys Scouts, and The National Coalition for the Promotion of Physical Activity, Winterkids and others. Educational institutions from the elementary level through higher education, government agencies, such as the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services, and corporations interested in health issues also are being targeted as partners in the WINTER FEELS GOOD campaign to further the messages of the campaign. "Kids certainly are interested in the fun aspect of snow sports," said Mary Jo Tarallo, director of public relations and education at SIA. "We're banking on the fact that parents, and especially moms, will be more interested in activities that can keep their kids healthy. In fact, a recent study conducted by the National Association for Sports and Physical Education (NASPE) found that optimal health for their children was of utmost concern for the parents involved in the study." Fact sheets included in the WINTER FEELS GOOD information kit cover getting in shape for snow sports, advances in equipment and apparel that make participation user friendly, calories burned while skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, innovative and affordable learning programs and much more. The Web site will be expanded during the summer to include links to resorts and retailers with programs that encourage snow sports participation. "This is a different public relations approach for us," continued Ingemie. "We think it's timely considering all of the media coverage about health concerns in the U.S. It's a program that the entire snow sports industry can support." Retailers, resorts and other organizations involved in the winter sports arena are encouraged to use the WINTER FEELS GOOD messages in their own promotions and are urged to participate in the campaign through their own programs that target their customers and members. A public relations "tool kit" with suggestions on how to utilize the WINTER FEELS GOOD information package is now being prepared for distribution to retailers later this summer. A similar package will be available for resorts. The media relations component of WINTER FEELS GOOD kicked off in May with visits to 28 national magazines located in New York City, including Shape, Self, Fitness, Sports Illustrated for Kids and Nick, Jr. Other national media as well as regional and local media will be receiving the WINTER FEELS GOOD information now and through the fall.
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PACKING FOR A SNOW SPORTS VACATION MCLEAN, VA -- All too often, winter vacationers wait until the last minute, cram a bag full of clothes, and rush off to the slopes. And what happens? Essential items get left behind. Create a packing list well before your trip, and then check off each item as it is packed. If you're handy with a computer, create a customized packing list and print one out before each of your trips. Pack garments that protect your body, especially your fingers and toes, against cold, wind, and precipitation. Sounds so simple. But it's not, because you need to plan for varying temperatures and snow conditions. It might be wet, it might be dry. It might be below freezing, or balmy. You've heard it before, but the trick is to take clothes you can layer. Put them on when it gets cold; take them off when it's warm. Essentials (don't leave home without 'em)
Money, credit cards, ATM card, phone numbers for resort and home. Don't forget your boss' phone number, just in case you get snowed in. Optional items:
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NEW YORK, NY -- SPORTS ILLUSTRATED FOR KIDS and SNOW MONSTERS are launching the Sports Illustrated For Kids nextXsnow SEARCH, a series of Freeride competitions at U.S. and Canadian resorts, which will culminate in a championship series at Keystone, Colo., April 2-4, 2004. The announcement was made today by Peter Krieger, Publisher of SI FOR KIDS and Jack Turner, President of Snow Monsters. The goal of the search is to find kids who best represent the next generation of “extreme” athletes. “It’s not just a competition,” says Turner. “We are looking for great all-round skiers and riders, but style, attitude, and personality are also factors.” There will be one class of skiers and snowboarders, which will include boys, girls, and all others interested in participating, including adaptive athletes. The “Sports Illustrated For Kids nextXsnow SEARCH” is the first all-round, all-mountain, all-people competition to make the 2004 SPORTS ILLUSTRATED FOR KIDS nextXsnow Team. Contestants must be 9 through 13 years of age to compete and can do so at participating local ski resorts (locations and all event rules to be announced in coming weeks at resorts and www.nextxsnow.com). Boys, girls, skiers, snowboarders, and adaptive athletes are all eligible to enter. Ski resorts participating in the “Sports Illustrated For Kids nextXsnow Search” will host local versions of the competition to nominate kids for the Series Final in Keystone. Selections will be made through judging and online voting at each resort’s website. All kids will have the opportunity to be involved in the event at some level, by either competing themselves or by voting for their favorite athletes. “The nextXsnow search brings to life the mission of SPORTS ILLUSTRATED FOR KIDS,” says Krieger. “The event is action-driven, fun and most of all it recognizes kids for getting out and becoming the athletes they all aspire to be.” Resort operators agree. "This program will get every young skier and rider amped for the season,” says Bill Stenger, President of Jay Peak Resort, VT. “It’s also a way for kids from smaller ski areas to compete on an even field with the large resorts.” Major ski areas are excited as well. “Keystone – with its newly expanded terrain parks, superpipe, and other big-mountain features - is a perfect location for the final event,” Turner says of Keystone Resort. “The nextXsnow SEARCH is an exciting concept to showcase America’s best kids and for our industry to reach out to a new generation.” SPORTS ILLUSTRATED FOR KIDS, the first sports magazine written for kids ages 8 and up, connects with its readers through their passion for sports. The magazine offers kids the access to athletes and sports information that they want with in-depth reporting, action photography, first-person athlete accounts and other features. The magazine, books, syndicated strip and web site www.sikids.com, promote positive values, good sportsmanship and the fun of reading. SNOW MONSTERS is the national ski & snowboard program for kids. Snow Monsters promotes on-snow safety, courtesy, an active outdoor lifestyle, environmental respect, and respect for other people. It is endorsed by the National Ski Areas Association, SnowSports Industries America, Professional Ski Instructors of America, American Association of Snowboard Instructors, National Ski Patrol, and the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Teams. www.snowmonsters.com.
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LAKEWOOD, CO – The National Ski Areas Association has prepared information to help you prepare your children for the slopes, the info appears below. Have your child memorize the “Your Responsibility Code.” It is the seven rules of the slopes and many accidents can be avoided by adhering to the Code. Ski helmets are a good idea. If your child wears a ski helmet, remember you may have to raise your voice more to get their attention because a helmet may impede their hearing. Make sure the helmet fits correctly. A ski helmet is not an item you buy for your child to grow into. Educate your child about the benefits and limitations of the helmet. Wearing a helmet does not give permission to ski or snowboard faster or recklessly. Dress in layers. Layering allows you to accommodate your body's constantly changing temperature. For example, dress your kids in polypropylene underwear (top and bottoms), which feels good next to the skin, dries quickly, absorbs sweat and keeps you warm. Your kids should also wear a turtleneck, sweater and waterproof jacket. Be prepared. Mother Nature has a mind of her own. Kids should wear a hat or headband, 80 percent of heat-loss is through the head. Kids should also wear gloves or mittens (mittens are usually better for kids who are susceptible to cold hands). Be sure they wear sun protection, even on cloudy days. The sun reflects off the snow and is stronger than you think! A ski vacation with sunburn is no fun! Kids should have sunglasses and goggles with them. Skiing is a lot more fun when you can see. Always wear eye protection. When buying skiwear, look for fabric that is water and wind-resistant. Look for wind flaps to shield zippers, snug cuffs at wrists and ankles, collars that can be snuggled up to the chin and deep pockets. Be sure to buy your children quality clothing products. Be sure you child has the name and phone number of your hotel written down on a piece of paper and it is in a secure pocket. If you carry a cell phone, include this number too. When you have decided where you are taking your ski trip, call the ski resorts in the area and research how each area's children ski school programs are structured. Ask about the number of kids in the class? What if your child gets cold? What if your child wants to stop skiing after one hour? Does the ski school offer pagers? Put your kids in ski school to get them on the right track. Children’s instructors know how to teach kids, it is their business. Then you will enjoy skiing with your kids and they will be proud to show you their skiing abilities. An observance from a long-time skier is that when his daughter skied with him, she regressed, as opposed to skiing with her peers in a lesson. "She wanted to ski in-between my legs and fell down more often. We had fun with her being silly, but a lesson allowed her to focus on her skiing and she really excelled." Although it is very unlikely that your child would get separated from the instructor, be sure your child has a trail map and is able to remember the instructor's name. Make sure your child knows when to stop skiing. For example, if the clothing layer next to their skin stays wet and they’re chilled, if they’re injured, have a problem with equipment or even if they’re simply worn out. Educate them that it is all right to stop before the end of the day and breaks are fun. Make a meeting place if you get separated, for example, at the bottom of chairlift #2. The walkie-talkies that are now available are convenient and a big hit on the slopes. Starting your kids early, opens a world of adventure, fun, laughter and beautiful scenery unsurpassed, from many other sports and interests. It's a tremendous feeling to learn that your kids' fondest childhood memories were of your family ski vacations and now skiing has become an important element in their lives. Your kids will be forever grateful to you when they become adults! DID YOU KNOW: Nationally, 43 percent of skiers and snowboarders are part of a family with children (living at home), according to the NSAA National Demographic Study. In 2000, when parents were asked what their kids do on the slopes (kids would be 15 years and under), parents say that 66 percent of their children ski only, 30 percent snowboard only, 19 percent do both and 10 percent don’t do either (may be too young), according to the National Skier/Boarder Opinion Survey. Of all the children on the slopes, 13 percent are under age 5 years, 41 percent are between the ages of 5 and 10 years and another 46 percent are between the ages of 11 and 15 years), according to the National Skier/Boarder Opinion Survey. Prepared by the National Ski Areas Association
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BRECKENRIDGE EASILY ACCESSIBLE FROM SKI VILLAGE RESORTS BRECKENRIDGE, CO — If you have never been to Breckenridge, you are missing a great ski destination. The ski resort boasts four great mountains apply named, Peak 7 - the most recent addition, Peak 8, Peak 9 and Peak 10. The “peaks” are lift serviced by a variety of high-speed lifts, including six-packs. The terrain ranges from family-style gentle, to steep. With the crowning point for the adventurous: Horseshoe Bowl - a T-bar ride above the quads on Peak 8. If that’s not enough, Keystone, Copper and Vail are all within a 40-minute drive. Ski Village Resorts is a lodging group that offers ski-in/ski-out accommodations to Breck, complete with 24-hour concierge service. When booking a condo, or other accommodation, you are also able to line up a snowmobile tour, ski rentals, and a reliable (not to mention highly recommended) baby-sitter for your special night out on the town. Not only are most accommodations in prime ski-in/ski-out locations; many are also just a short trolley ride into the heart of Main Street. If cost and convenience are considerations, Ski Village Resorts has some of the best rates in town. There will be plenty of space in your condo, and you can even have Ski Village Resorts stock the refrigerator with the essentials before your arrival. Unpack and relax. Think maybe slopeside isn’t for you? Are you ready to hit the slopes with your family? How much gear and how many family members do you need to get to the slopes? What are your choices? Get your family and their skis, boots, and poles onto a bus for the trek to the slopes. As you unload your gear and gaze uphill at the climb to the lift you realize that if you’re lucky, you’ll make the lift by lunchtime. Now imagine waking up in the morning to a beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains, eating a breakfast prepared in your well-equipped kitchen, and getting everybody dressed and ready to have some fun. Step out your front door. Snap on your skis and you are on your way to the lift. A few turns and you are at the lift and ready for your next run. At the end of the day you ski to your front door and head in for some hot chocolate and a little R&R; another advantage of booking your vacation with Ski Village Resorts. Less stress – less cash – lots of VERY BIG WINTER FUN! Contact Ski Village Lodging to book your family vacation and experience the riches of Breckenridge at www.skivillageresorts.com, or call them toll free at 1-888-972-8200.
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THE CANYONS GRAND SUMMIT HOTEL GETS FOUR DIAMONDS PARK CITY, UT -- The prestigious AAA Four Diamond designation has been awarded to the Grand Summit Resort Hotel and Conference Center at The Canyons Resort. The award means the Grand Summit joins a select group of lodging properties that have received the designation nation-wide. According to AAA, only 2.84 percent of the estimated 30,000 AAA-rated lodging properties are awarded the Four Diamond designation annually. “We are all very proud to join the elite family of Four Diamond properties,” said Jeff Zogg, Vice President of Lodging at The Canyons Resort. “The staff, managers and supervisors have worked extremely hard to make the Grand Summit Resort Hotel one of the premier mountain destinations in North America,” Zogg added. “The team here at The Canyons has truly been dedicated to delivering sincere quality service over the three years that we have been open. This is a testimonial to their efforts.” More than 60 AAA/CAA tourism editors visit nearly 70,000 lodgings, campgrounds, restaurants and attractions each year throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Tourism editors conduct unannounced evaluations of lodgings and restaurants, scrutinizing such areas as cleanliness, ambiance, amenities and service. AAA has included lodging information in its travel publications since the early 1900's. The association began rating hotels and other accommodations in 1963, adopting the current rating systems in 1977 in celebration of AAA's 75th anniversary. In addition to the AAA designation, the Grand Summit Resort Hotel was recently awarded the coveted Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its second year. The destination property made its international debut during the 2002 Winter Olympics when it served as the broadcast center for NBC’s Today show. More recently, the number one-rated reality dating show, The Bachelor, chose the Grand Summit Resort Hotel as its location for Andrew Firestone’s fantasy date, airing in the spring of 2003. The Grand Summit Resort Hotel is located just steps from the Flight of The Canyons gondola, providing ski in /ski out service from its 358 rooms. Guests can choose from hotel rooms, studios, one, two and three bedroom suites as well as expansive penthouses. Amenities at the Grand Summit include a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, a full-service health club and spa, room service, valets, as well as four in-house dining options and a general store. In the past few years, the Grand Summit has become one of the most popular meeting and convention sites in the Park City and Salt Lake area. Meeting planners are attracted to the Grand Summit for its first-rate accommodations and its easy access to the Salt Lake International Airport. The Canyons Resort is owned and operated by American Skiing Company, headquartered in Park City, Utah. ASC is one of the largest operators of alpine ski, snowboard, and golf resorts in the United States. Its resorts include Killington and Mount Snow in Vermont; Sunday River and Sugarloaf/USA in Maine; Attitash Bear Peak in New Hampshire; Steamboat in Colorado; and The Canyons in Utah. More information is available by calling The Canyons at 1-877-698-0882 or visiting www.thecanyons.com.
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CRESTED BUTTE HAS THE RIGHT FIT FOR FAMILIES CRESTED BUTTE, CO -- Which would vacationers rather think about: A) Iraq, B) their credit card limits or C) which slopes they'll explore before gathering with friends and family to share tales of the day? Crested Butte invites them to try answer “C”. In its April 4, 2003, issue, acknowledging unsettled economic and political times, USA Today scoured the country to find "five getaways that are safe and cheap (but not too boring)" and discovered Crested Butte fit its criteria perfectly. "You can't get much farther away from the world's troubles than this high alpine hideaway, located in one of the most remote parts of the Rockies," USA Today writer Gene Sloan wrote about Crested Butte. And many agree that once you are there, you won’t want to go home. The attributes that make Crested Butte an appealing vacation spot in current times also make it a great fit for families - any time. In a recent county-wide branding study conducted by Strategy First Partners, guests repeatedly portrayed Crested Butte as the ideal place to disconnect from the rat race and reconnect with friends and family. Here are some of the reasons that families love Crested Butte: Size Crested Butte is large and diverse enough to offer unique shops, exceptional restaurants and diversions for all ages and tastes, but still small enough that it's pretty darn hard to get lost. Safety A fan once commented that Crested Butte is "like Mayberry...with sushi." Despite the town's culinary and cultural sophistication, it still feels small, remote and safe. Young people can enjoy their independence while parents enjoy peace of mind. Ski and snowboard terrain From gentle slopes to gnarly extremes, Crested Butte lets each person in the family find the right degree of comfort or challenge. On-mountain terrain parks, a halfpipe and a tubing hill complete the fun and games. Family programs Kid's World offers programs for young people ages 3 to 16, with a nursery for infants as young as 6 months. Programs encompass beginners to rippers, with tag-a-long lessons and evening activities as well (see details below). Pricing Kids 4 and under ski free, kids 5-12 pay their age per day (e.g. an eight-year-old pays $8 for a daily lift ticket), and teens 13-16 pay a discounted rate of $20-38 depending on the season. "This pricing reinforces our message that we are a family-oriented resort," said Gina Kroft, vice president of public relations for Crested Butte Mountain. Convenience A central base area makes it easy for family members to scout out their favorite runs or shops, then gather for lunch and aprés ski. The free shuttle between the historic town and ski resort also allows everyone in the family to get around easily and independently; no car needed. Recreational cornucopia Don't want to ski every day? Family members can also try dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoe tours, cross-country skiing, hot air ballooning, sledding, horseback riding, sleigh rides, ice skating, tubing, snowcat dinners, torchlight parades, museum tours, special kid's activities, plays, live music, shopping and gallery tours. Atmosphere Among its practical family-friendly attributes, one remains a little less tangible - the feeling of Crested Butte. Small, real, friendly, remote, surrounded by vast wilderness, the place has an effect that people can't always put into words. "It always clears my head," one guest said. "Being here makes it easier for me to tune out the daily static, remember what's important and reconnect with my husband and kids. Everyone always has fun, but there's something even more important going on when we're here together. We really feel like a family." Kid's Ski and Snowboard World programs:
For more info, log on to www.crestedbutteresort.com.
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WHAT’S NEW AT SKI BANFF – LAKE LOUISE - SUNSHINE BANFF, ALBERTA (Canada) -- Skiers enjoyed excellent conditions this past winter and the season ended on a high note with frequent snowfall throughout April and May. The resorts are now looking forward to upcoming season that is only a few weeks away (Depending upon when you read this.) Planned opening dates for “The Big 3” are: Nov 7 for Lake Louise; Nov 7 for Sunshine Village; and Dec 12 for Ski Banff at Norquay. NORQUAY at BANFF! The terrain park was the best ever last season, with a Superpipe and several awesome hits and rails. With the addition of a $250,000 grooming machine and several new automated snow guns to the extensive fleet of equipment, the snow grooming and maintenance program at Norquay was top-notch throughout the season, as always. Norquay opens in December 2003, for more great skiing and riding. Free night skiing with the tri-area lift ticket is back on Friday nights starting January 2004. LAKE LOUISE Food & Beverage Services Improvements This season will be the first in a three-year plan that will see a complete overhaul of the food and beverage services offered at the four on-mountain day lodges. The improvements include new menus with a fun, healthy and light offering. Yum! Snowmaking & Grooming Systems Improvements Canada's largest snowmaking network is growing with 75 new snow guns which will mean a 30% increase in snowmaking capacity. The new machines use less water for snowmaking, which is good for the environment and the snow quality. As a result, the snow is drier and lighter. Lake Louise's grooming fleet is also expanded this season. SUNSHINE VILLAGE Another New Quad Chair! Construction this summer was underway at Sunshine Village so that a new high-speed quad chair will be in operation for opening day (November 2003). Sunshine Village features eight Super Lifts: the World's Fastest Gondola, and seven quad chairs - the most in the Canadian Rockies! Extreme Terrain Expansion Two new areas on Sunshine Village's Goat's Eye Mountain will be included in the "inbounds" offering of hard-core extreme terrain this season, opening an additional 158 acres to explore. Sunshine Inn Renovations Banff's only ski-in, ski-out hotel will have a $500,000 - $1M renovation to a large number of rooms this summer. Last summer, the hotel lobby area was renovated to offer a beautiful open welcome area, new fireplace and slopeside coffee shop. New Start Date Club Ski / Club Snowboard will start next year on Sunday December 7, 2003. That's right Sunday. The program will now run Sunday-Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday; which is a better fit for the majority of travel schedules. Private Lesson Program Private Lessons are available with the Club Ski/Snowboard Pros! The one-on-one attention from Ski Banff – Lake Louise – Sunshine’s friendly, fun and knowledgeable Pros makes for the ultimate learning environment. 2003 is the 25th Anniversary year of Ski Banff - Lake Louise - Sunshine. Founded in 1978, Ski Banff-Lake Louise-Sunshine is a partnership of the three ski resorts in Banff National Park: Ski Banff @ Norquay, Lake Louise and Sunshine Village. The tri-area lift ticket attracts skiers from around the world to this beautiful mountain setting for a truly world-class experience. Packages for five nights, four days with lift tickets for all three areas, begin at $269. For more information, please call (toll free) 1-866-549-0816 or log on to the Ski Banff-Lake Louise-Sunshine web site - www.sblls.com.
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15th Anniversary Note: We’ve visited this Canadian resort the past three years and we cannot wait to return to experience the truly “new” Panorama. It is one of our favorites and we highly recommend it. PANORAMA MOUNTAIN VILLAGE, BC, CANADA -- New for this season are two quads, one high-speed and another that will get skiers and riders to Panorama’s massive vertical, huge mountain terrain and epic views faster than ever. Here is a brief overview of what to expect when staying at skiing at Panorama. The skiing and riding Panorama Mountain is about big vertical and big mountain terrain – over 4,000 vertical ft and over 2,800 snow-covered acres. Panorama’s newest expansion, Taynton Bowl, has made the resort into one of the largest ski resorts in Canada and the addition of two new quads this season will get skiers and riders into this former heli-skiing terrain, in Taynton Bowl, with ease and speed. The Taynton experience in the back, is complemented by super-long cruising runs that feature Panorama’s award-winning grooming. For freestyle enthusiasts, an expert and an intermediate terrain park flesh out the mountain’s offerings with rails, tabletops, and halfpipe. The resort Framed by the Canadian Rockies and the ancient Purcell Mountains, Panorama is an intimate mountain village. Ideally located between Fernie and Banff, Panorama provides the ultimate base for touring and experiencing some of the greatest skiing and powder snow in the Canadian Rockies. After a day on the slopes, sink into the soothing waters of the giant, slopeside, Panorama Springs Hot Pools. Soak, stargaze and recap the day’s events with friends and family before heading into the pedestrian village to check out a variety of family activities, restaurants and après-ski options. Ski and Snowboard School The School of Skiing and Snowboarding (SOS) at Panorama Mountain Village offers excellent service and has been voted the best ski school in Canada two years in a row by Ski Canada Magazine. Sign up for a powder, bumps or a freestyle clinic to take advantage of Panorama’s best terrain. The accommodation The ski-in/ski-out accommodations at Panorama define mountain elegance. Lodging is separated into Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze levels to accommodate every budget. The Platinum, Gold and Silver suites feature full kitchens as well as fireplaces. All accommodations allow access to the Panorama Springs Hot Pools. Other stuff to see and do Head to the Beckie Scott Nordic Center to snowshoe or Nordic ski over 11 miles of groomed and track-set trails lined with spectacular scenery. If self-propelled transportation isn’t your thing, hop onto a helicopter at R.K. Heli-Ski for untracked powder or snowmobile into the wilderness as part of a guided tour. Besides all of the great activities offered in the village, a day excursion is also a fun option. Ski at nearby Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, to soak at the natural Radium Hot Springs, or to shop and browse quaint shops and galleries in Invermere on the Lake. Activity Descriptions Mountain Friends Guided Tours Fun and informative! Our local experts tell you how to get the most out of your visit to Panorama Mountain Village. It’s a great way to get the “insider’s edge” on where to find the best snow. Tours are complimentary and are easily found at the base area. Night Skiing and Showzone Terrain Park Nighttime runs and the terrain park are available off the Toby Chair Thursday through Sunday evenings. A reduced “Night Only” ticket is available. Nordic Skiing Enjoy over 11 miles of spectacular scenery. These pristine trails are groomed and track-set daily. Come glide in the tracks of Olympic Medallist and local hero Beckie Scott. Snow Shoeing Rentals and guided programs available for your tour through the beautiful backcountry surrounding Panorama Mountain Village. Ice Fishing Excursions Join our fishing experts as they lead you out onto a frozen lake and into the warmth of the fishing hut. An unforgettable experience. Snowmobile Programs with Toby Creek Adventures Snowmobile from the bottom of Paradise Basin to the to the top at 8,000 feet. An abandoned silver mine and a wide-open bowl for powder riding make this trip an exhilarating, unforgettable experience. Summit Hut Fondue Meet at the mountaintop Summit Hut at the end of the day to enjoy a hot cheese fondue with wine, topped off by a delectable chocolate fondue for dessert. Afterward, ski down the mountain with a guide in peaceful mountain silence. Torchlight parade and BBQ Skiers meet at the Elkhorn Cabin prior to 4 p.m., have a delicious barbeque meal, enjoy the view in comfort, and then ski down the mountain with a guide. Perfect for private groups. Trappers Cabin Horse-Drawn Journey This is an authentic Rocky Mountain experience not to be missed! This two-hour program takes you along Toby Creek and returns to the stables overlooking Panorama Mountain Village. A roaring campfire, piping hot chili, marshmallow roasting, hot chocolate, beautiful views and entertainment await. Skate the Lake Head down the mountain and into the charming village of Invermere for ice-skating on Windermere Lake. Snow is cleared off the lake to create skating paths reminiscent of canal skating. Natural Hot Springs Within 30 kms of Panorama are the world-famous Radium Hot Springs as well as Fairmont Hot Springs. These popular spots feature huge outdoor pools of steaming mineral water heated to 106 degrees by the core of the earth. After a thigh-burning day on the slopes, the rejuvenating effects of the water and steam will work wonders on your muscles and your mind. Après Ski and Restaurants Take your pick from the variety of restaurants & après bars in the village like the T-Bar & Grill for casual après and dinner; Jackpine Pub for delicious finger food; the celebrated Toby Creek Dining Room for upscale regional fare; Starbird Steakhouse; The Great Hall at Ski Tip Lodge; Lusti’s Cappuccino Bar; Heli-plex Casual Dining; or on mountain at the Summit Hut and Cappuccino Hut for lunch with a view. Excursions to nearby Invermere on the Lake provide additional options like Strand’s Old House, Black Forest Steak House, Lake Side Inn & Myrtles’ on Main. Family affairs Panorama always goes the extra mile when it comes to activities for children and families. The on-mountain daycare facility is convenient for parents and fun for kids. In addition to skiing and riding there are a host of other family focused activities available including skating, magic shows, horse drawn wagon rides, on-mountain arcade, and Teen Nights at the Glacier Night Club throughout the winter season. What the critics say Ski Canada Magazine Awards include: “Best Ski School in Canada” “Best Grooming and Cruising” “Best New Terrain – Taynton Bowl” “Best Fall Line Cruising” “Best Fine Dining – Toby Creek Dining Room” What’s new for 2004 Two, new, state of the art, Doppelmayr quad chairlifts will replace a double chair and two t-bars this season at Panorama! A new detachable high-speed quad will replace a double chairlift and t-bar while another new fixed-grip quad chair will replace another t-bar. The lifts were built and installed by Doppelmayr, the world’s premier lift manufacturer. 5 reasons to visit Panorama:
Panorama Vital Stats
Getting there: Panorama is 3.5 hours from the Calgary International Airport. Shuttle services connect Panorama, Banff, Kimberley and Fernie.
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SPORTS EXPRESS SAVES SKIERS AIRLINE COSTS DURANGO, CO – Traveling skiers and snowboarders can lessen their baggage burden through Sports Express. Their experts arrange for skis, snowboards, luggage and other sports equipment to be delivered door-to-door from wherever you are, to wherever you are going, one-way or round-trip. WORRY-FREE TRAVEL Having sports equipment delivered eliminates the hassles of lugging bulky items around on a vacation, and the risk and uncertainties of checking sports gear as airline baggage. Sports Express – working in association with FedEx, UPS and other trusted shippers – guarantees that equipment will be at any destination prior to arrival. Deliveries can be arranged online (www.SportsExpress.com) or by calling Sports Express toll-free at 1-800-357-4174. The website provides online booking, instant price quotes, 24/7 delivery tracking and travel cases. At the call center, professional Travel Concierges" offer personal service and keep travelers informed every step of the way. Their mission is to improve their customers travel experience, and they take the job very seriously! AIRLINES CHARGE FOR SKIS Two major trends make Sports Express’ service such a good idea. First, there are the hidden costs of flying with your gear. Airlines charge up to $80 per bag each way for items exceeding their “free baggage allowance,” generally two checked pieces and one small carry-on per passenger. Skis and snowboards can be checked, but they count toward the baggage allowance. Winter travelers take note: the airlines are enforcing baggage restrictions this season, so even if you haven’t been charged on previous trips, you might be unpleasantly surprised at the ticket counter this season. New rules are being enforced that limit the size of bags to 62” (136 cm), and some airlines have added additional weight charges on bags over 50 lbs. The bottom line: if you travel with two bags plus your skis or board, you’ll face up to $160 in round-trip excess baggage fees, and you may face additional fees even with only one bag plus your gear. There also are no assurances that checked items will arrive on time or undamaged, especially if you change planes en route. TRAVELING LIGHT The second trend is a new travel light attitude among savvy fliers. Winter vacationers have discovered what business travelers have known all along: it is far more enjoyable to travel without being burdened by lots of luggage. “With all of the security delays and extra charges that travelers face these days, traveling light is the new mindset – and Sports Express makes it easy to travel without being slowed down by extra equipment,” says David Welz, of Sports Express. “When you know your gear is already there, your vacation starts right at your front door.” IT’S AFFORDABLE Sports Express rates vary by travel distance and delivery priority – and they are far less than excess baggage fees. For example, Sports Express delivery rates from New York City or Boston to many Western resorts (Vail, Jackson Hole, Aspen, Park City or Sun Valley) range from about $47 for 3-day express to $57 for overnight service. Want to know the specific rates from your town to your destination? SportsExpress.com has an exclusive “quick quote” feature that provides instant delivery prices across the U.S. for a variety of equipment and luggage types. First, type in hometown and destination Zip codes. (If you don’t know a Zip code, you can just enter the city and state.) Then just enter the number of skis or boards you are traveling with. In a few seconds, several delivery options will appear, and you can simply choose whichever option meets your budget and travel plans. Online booking is fast, easy and secure – and you can schedule your return delivery at the same time. Need a travel case? You can purchase top of the line travel cases for a variety of sports equipment from Sports Express, and they will make sure it gets to you in time for your scheduled pickup. WAXED ‘N WAITING For the ultimate in travel convenience, they’ll have your skis delivered to a slopeside ski shop and arrange for them to be waxed and tuned to local conditions. Ask a Travel Concierge about this cutting-edge service when you call. DELIVER YOUR BIKE AND GOLF CLUBS, TOO Sports Express specializes in transporting many different types of sports equipment, and is the perfect way to send your luggage ahead as well. Even though it is winter, some of the most prestigious golf destinations in the country are just beginning their peak seasons. So if you have plans to head to places like Phoenix, Las Vegas, Pebble Beach or Orlando, or want to try out your bike this spring in Moab, Sports Express will make sure that your gear is waiting for you when you arrive. Visit the Sports Express web site, or call one of their friendly, professional Travel Concierges at 1-800-357-4174.
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SUN VALLEY RESORT UNVEILS WORLD CLASS REMODEL FOR HISTORIC SUN VALLEY INN SUN VALLEY, ID -- Sun Valley’s historic Sun Valley Inn will greet winter guests with a world class remodel including an all new lobby, lounge, convention center and 106 hotel rooms. Described as, “exuding the charm of a Viennese palace,” the hotel décor is elaborate and graciously appointed with the very finest European fabrics, carpeting and ornate wall coverings. The scene is quickly set at the new entrance to the Inn with a matchstick hickory doorway intricately chiseled with the traditional Sun Valley sun and Idaho wildlife. Handsome Italian granite exterior entryways flow into all wool woven patterned carpeting, milled by Brinton’s Axminster in England. Handpicked matchstick hickory veneer paneling lines the walls and hallways and is accented with imported French wall coverings and draperies. Custom-crafted and antique furniture from Italy, France, Canada and the U.S. creates sociable nooks for intimate gatherings. The new 12,000-sq.ft. convention center and exhibit hallway features 12 hand-blown chandeliers designed in Murano, Italy, and includes the 8,470 sq. ft. Limelight Ballroom which is as grand in interior décor as it is impressive with its concealed state of the art audio-visual technology. Adjacent to the Convention Center is Sun Valley’s newest “Inn” meeting place – The Lobby Lounge overlooking the new Terrace, Swan Lake and Opera House Promenade. This new full service bar sports a 52-inch plasma TV and serves light bistro fare, soups and sandwiches. Hotel rooms are appointed the same luxurious furnishing and continue the color palette of rich earth tones of rose, forest and moss greens and autumn gold. While everything inside the Inn is new in furnishings, functionality and technology, every effort has been made to restore its original charm. Originally named “The Challenger Inn” after Union Pacific’s fast and streamlined “sit-up” passenger trains called the Challengers, the hotel was built in 1937 “to set the style of the Sun Valley Village.” It was Averell Harriman’s idea to base the hotel’s design on a Tyrolean façade created for a “romantic winter tale” being filmed nearby Sun Valley by Paramount. Starring Claudette Colbert and Robert Young, the movie, “I Met Him In Paris,” ultimately put the “face” of old world charm on America’s first destination resort’s second hotel, (after the Sun Valley Lodge built in 1936). The same front elevation depicting a quaint European village with over-hanging eves, carved balustrades and a little church steeple has been carefully preserved, complete with Bavarian-style wall murals replicating the original design. Today, 67 years later, the façade and the romance have been restored and the Sun Valley Inn continues to set the style for the Sun Valley Village. But now it plays an even more important role for Sun Valley Resort with the most technologically equipped convention center in the Northwest - all concealed “behind the scenes.”
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VAIL OFFERS SIZZLING WINTER DEALS VAIL REPEATS AS NO. 1 RANKED RESORT VAIL, CO -- For the second year in a row and for 12 of the past 16 years, SKI magazine readers recognized Vail Mountain as North America’s No. 1 resort in the publication’s October "Top 60 Resort Guide" issue. Vail’s emphasis on staying fresh and innovative in an industry full of change and delivering something for every member of the family landed the resort on top according to magazine editors. Vail continues to set the standard on the hill and off to be the ultimate winter destination. SKI readers ranked Vail in the top 10 in 11 survey categories including off-hill activities, aprés ski, family programs, dining, lodging, service, on-mountain food, weather, lifts and terrain. Size Does Matter At Vail everything is big and size really does matter. With 5,289 acres, 193 trails, 34 lifts and seven huge Back Bowls, we're talking about North America's largest single mountain ski resort. You'll find bump runs, steeps, powder, trees, groomers, terrain parks and everything you look for to meet your on-mountain needs. Not to mention there are 15 on-mountain eateries including the famous Two Elk with 1,300 seats and cuisine from every corner of the globe. Or, take a lesson from the more than 1,000 professionally trained ski and snowboard school instructors from over 30 countries. Once you've conquered the hill head into town and chose from one of the over 80 restaurants and bars or purchase that must-have souvenir from one of 136 shops and boutiques and then refresh for the next day on one of 19,000 pillows in town. With more nightlife, more terrain and over 347 inches of snow annually, things really are bigger in Vail. Action Heroes on Snow Vail events are where can you see amazing athletes perform superhuman tricks. As a youngster, we’ll bet you never thought today’s maneuvers on snow would be possible. Between the spinning, flying skiers and riders criss-crossing a pyrotechnics show, witnessing huge air off jumps or rail slides and great live music, come see how the snowsports industry has evolved to meet the expectations of youth as well as adults, and how athletes have taken both skiing and snowboarding to new heights. Signature events such as the Session snowboarding event set for Jan. 15-18, 2004 or the US Freeskiing Open Jan. 27 to Feb. 1, 2004, provide adventure and excitement for the entire family. Nighttime venues, fun crowds and lots of action keep your blood pumping. While you may not yet have a Playstation or X-Box action figure named after you, you can be a hero at Vail’s end of season bash, Spring Back to Vail, which features the World Pond Skimming Championships. The event takes place April 8-18, 2004 and, encourages costumes and lots of bravado to avoid spilling into the churning cold water. This may be your chance to shine and is a great event for spectators. For more details on Vail winter events, go to vail.com or call the Activities Desk at 970-476-9090. Learn How to Score a Perfect 10 for Your Vail Vacation Vails Perfect 10 allows vacationers to ski or ride 10 days at Vail or its sister resorts Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Heavenly as well as Arapahoe Basin. The multi-day lift ticket program rewards guests who ski early and often. Early, because it must be purchased and used at least once before Jan. 31, 2004 and often, because it includes up to 10 days of skiing and snowboarding which can be used consecutively or non-consecutively throughout the season. An adult Perfect 10 sells for $349, and a child (under 12) Perfect 10 is $199. Valid all season with the exception of Dec. 19, 2003 – Jan. 3, 2004. Additional restrictions apply. The Perfect 10 is available at any Vail ticket window during the season or by visiting www.vail.com. Vail Delivers Family Adventure for Every Generation Families will find that a vacation to Vail will make memories that last a lifetime. It starts with the ease of booking an inclusive package online at www.vail.com. Once here, there are on-mountain adventures for all ages including the Kids’ Adventure Zones, Chaos Canyon Café and Blue Sky Basin. The Vail Ski and Snowboard School offers classes for ages 3 and up as well as licensed day-care at the Small World Play School. The fun continues with non-skiing alternatives for every family member from Adventure Ridge to world-class spas. Vail has even developed special programs to entertain the younger set certain evenings so that parents can enjoy all Vail offers after the lifts close. To book a family vacation and find out about all Vail offers, visit www.vail.com. 2004: The Focus is on You Now is the time to focus on you. Whether you’re new to winter sports, your turns are a little rusty, or you’d just like to try something new, Vail’s Ski & Snowboard School offers specialty programs designed to tune you up, improve your skills, get you off the groomers or even teach you how to spin and jib in Vail’s terrain parks. Choose from the First Time Series for beginners, which offer three consecutive days of lessons and lift tickets for the price of one for $120 during value weeks or $260 during regular season. Mountain Guides take advanced skiers to hit the hot spots and best-kept secrets on the mountain. Offered Sundays, Mondays or Tuesdays only with a three-person minimum, the cost is $70 for value weeks and $80 for regular season. Pepi’s Wedel Weeks offers a season tune up that includes intermediate and advanced instruction, lodging, social activities and more. Vail3 delivers exploration of the three faces of the mountain- Front Side, Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin. The two-day clinics are offered Saturday-Sunday or Tuesday-Wednesday for only $190 during value weeks and $280 regular season. Price includes lift/ lesson for Vail3. No matter what your skill level may be, Vail offers a specialty ski and snowboard school program to suit your needs. To learn more about these and other programs go to vail.com or call 800-475-4543. US Airways adds Philly and Charlotte Flights New this season US Airways is offering direct roundtrip flights into Vail/ Eagle County Regional Airport from Philadelphia, Pa. and Charlotte, N.C. on Saturdays. Service begins on Dec. 20, 2003 and continues through April 4, 2004. Philadelphia - Vail service will operate each Saturday and Sunday, using Boeing 757 aircraft. Flights will depart Philadelphia at 9:45 a.m., and will arrive in Vail at 12:14 p.m. Return flights will depart Vail at 1:15 p.m., and will arrive in Philadelphia at 6:42 p.m. Charlotte-Vail service will operate using Boeing 757 aircraft. Flights will depart Charlotte each Saturday at 8:30 a.m., and will arrive in Vail at 10:28 a.m. Return flights will depart Vail at 11:40 a.m., and will arrive in Charlotte at 4:45 p.m. Steep Savings on All-Inclusive Packages The Real Deal: Save up to $500 with Vail’s Season Starter Package Get a jump on winter by purchasing Vail’s Season Starter Package. The package provides four nights of lodging, a three-day lift ticket, adult group ski or snowboard school lesson or mountain tour, equipment demo’s from Vail Sports, dinner at two of Vail’s premier restaurants, bar specials, ground transportation discounts, two free drinks at the Street Beat concerts and a T-shirt. The Season Starter package starts as low as $97 per person, per night, based upon quad occupancy in a two-bedroom condo, with a four-night minimum stay. This package is valid Dec. 1-19, 2003. To purchase the Season Starter Package, or for more information, go to www.vail.com/seasonstarter or call 1-800-404-3535. Children’s packages are available. Additional restrictions may apply. Spring Back to Vail Package: Save up to $300 Skiers and riders at Vail know April offers great deals, including the April Spring Back to Vail Package. The package provides four nights of lodging, a three-day lift ticket, adult group ski or snowboard school lesson or mountain tour, equipment demo’s from Vail Sports, dinner at two of Vail’s premier restaurants, bar specials, ground transportation discounts, two free drinks a the Street Beat concerts and a Mountain Madness T-shirt. The Season Starter package starts as low as $89 per person, per night, based upon quad occupancy in a two-bedroom condo, with a four-night minimum stay. This package is valid March 30 to April 18, 2004. To purchase the Spring Back to Vail Package or for more information, go to www.vail.com or call 800/404-3535. Additional restrictions may apply. Spring Back to Vail Ticket: Six Days at Vail for just $99 or less than $17 per day Get up to 6 days of skiing and riding for just $99 for adults from April 8 – 18, 2004. Ticket must be pre-purchased 14-days in advance at vail.com. *Valid for one purchase per person only, valid six of nine days from start date, extra days available at window rate. Vail Ski Free Stay Free Packages Ski 3 days and stay 3 nights and receive your 4th day of skiing and lodging FREE! Packages start at just $296 per person Nov. 26 – Dec. 19, 2003; $375 per person Jan. 4 – Feb. 13, 2004; and $220 per person April 4-18, 2004. Rate based on quad occupancy in a 2-bedroom condominium. Lift ticket valid at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin. Other rates and room types are available. Four-night minimum stay required. Specific offers available during designated periods. Additional costs including taxes and surcharges may apply. January air packages available. Additional restrictions may apply. Buy One Get One Free WEB ONLY Buy one night of lodging and one day of skiing at Vail and get the next night of lodging and the next day of skiing for FREE! BOGO Web special starts at $126 per person Nov. 22-25, 2003 and $132 Nov. 30- Dec. 18, 2003. Rate based on quad occupancy in a 2-bedroom condominium with a two-night minimum stay. Offer not available Nov. 26-29, 2003. It’s only bookable online at vail.com. Other dates, rates and package options are available. Taxes, surcharges and gratuity NOT included. Offer based on availability and other restrictions may apply. Head to Adventure Ridge for Unlimited Family Fun Adventure Ridge is Vail’s mountaintop activity center located at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead. Catering to kids of all ages as well as adults, this non-skiing activity center offers lift-served tubing, snowmobile tours, ski-biking, ice skating, snowshoe tours, laser tag and the kids’ snowmobile track. Kids ages seven to 14 also can give mom and dad the night off and experience Adventure Ridge on their own through the weekly chaperoned Night Owl program, taking place Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Everyone meets at 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays in Lionshead and Thursdays at Golden Peak. For more info or to book lodging at Vail, Breckenridge or Keystone please call 1-888-222-9440. For Heavenly in Lake Tahoe, please call 1-877-243-0018.
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SALT LAKE CITY, UT -- In a state where the culture encourages families large enough to constitute baseball teams, Utah ski resorts have had plenty of experience providing fun, safe, diverse and flexible family programs and amenities. From kid-oriented resort mascots, to ski lessons for children as young as two, to state-licensed childcare facilities, to kid-specific camps and clinics, Utah’s resorts truly make it possible for the entire family to enjoy a relaxing vacation. While kids enjoy their favorite snow sports or camps, parents will have the freedom to do the same, knowing their children are well cared for and entertained. Some of the highlights: Alta has expanded its Cubs Den located on the snow level of the Albion Ticket Office. The Cubs Den is the epicenter for the Alf Engen Ski School's Children's Programs. The expansion of the facility makes it possible for parents to enter from the parking lot and take an elevator down to the registration area. There they will be able to register their children for all aspects of the Alta skiing experience. Access to Alta's detachable, family-friendly Sunnyside lift is just steps away from the door of the Cubs Den. ALTA The Alta Children's Center provides a unique atmosphere, blending warm, personal attention with creative educational activities. The children play and learn in various environments designed to make fun and education come together. A special area is dedicated to meet the needs of infants. Under private ownership of Redwood Preschool, Inc., the Center is a state- licensed facility for children from ages 3 months to 12 years old. The Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are requested. If your children are skiers, the Alf Engen Ski School has programs that allow every child to have the best possible learning experience in a spectacular mountain playground. The ski school offers Ski Adventures to children from ages 4 through early teen, of all skill levels. Alta's goal is to give children the skills for a lifelong enjoyment of skiing. Participants can choose a two-hour adventure, an all-day mini adventure that combines skiing, lunch and childcare, or an all-day adventure that includes lunch. The all-day Mountain Explorers offers five hours of skiing and lunch to competently skiing children ages 7 to early teens. BRIAN HEAD RESORT The Family Travel Forum selected Brian Head Resort as a Top Family Getaway in 2002. The resort’s Kids Camp, for all kids ages 12 and under, is a fully supervised childcare and winter coaching facility especially for children. Lesson programs for children include carefully planned days of exploring the mountain on special trails, playing in the terrain parks, learning new skills, meeting new friends, and having fun. Kids Camp is located at the Navajo Lodge Learning Center adjacent to the Resort’s Navajo Mountain, and includes a state-licensed Day Care facility. Navajo Mountain is one of the only places in the U. S. where beginners and children have an entire mountain to themselves. The mountain has two lifts and 10 beginner trails, and is completely separate from any more advanced terrain. Special children’s lessons include Mountain Explorers for children ages 6 to 12 for skiing and 7 to 12 for snowboarding. This is by far the best way for young first timers to learn to ski or snowboard and for the others to “Get Better.” More advanced classes will use all mountain terrain applicable to their ability including our terrain parks designated beginner, intermediate and expert areas. Mountain Explorers includes coaching, lunch, rental equipment, all day supervision and lift ticket and is offered every day from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Tiny Tracks program is for children ages 3 to 5. All 3-year-olds go out on the slopes twice daily, up to one hour each session, with a semi-private lesson (2-to-1 ratio). Three-year-olds must register through the Day Care facility. Four- and-5-year-olds have a morning and afternoon two-hour group lesson with up to a 6-to-1 ratio. This program is offered daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations are required and children must be potty-trained. Brian Head also offers individual attention to children ages 6 weeks and older at their state-licensed Day Care facility. Hands-on activities and low child-to-caregiver ratio combine to make this a very popular program for our youngest guests, offered daily from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Reservations are required. BRIGHTON At Brighton, kids 10 and under ski and ride free. Brighton’s Kinderskister/Young Ridester program meets consecutive Saturdays or Sundays to help children master skiing or snowboarding through continuous practice. Brighton’s Kinderskister/Young Ridester instructors are specially trained to make skiing/snowboarding fun and safe while teaching valuable skills. Classes are limited to seven or fewer and children are grouped by ability level. Kinderskister/Young Ridester is offered in December, January and February. Skister/Boardster, ages 8 to 15, has been a tradition at Brighton for over 25 years. Lessons focus on fun and safety but also help children meet their skiing and riding goals. Children learn new skills and improve their ability on more challenging terrain and variable conditions. Children are grouped by age and skill level, and class sizes are limited to 10 students or less. These lessons are offered on Saturdays in December, January and March. The Canyons Resort offers daily Perfect Kids programs. Canyon Cubs, for children ages 2 to 3 years old, offers a fun filled experience on skis, one-on-one with a special 11/2-hour private clinic. Canyon Cats, for children ages 4 to 6, offers an all-day program, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The lesson includes a group clinic, lift ticket, indoor supervised activities and lunch. Canyon Carvers, for children ages 7 to 12, offers the same. For families with younger children, the Little Adventures Daycare Center is conveniently located in the Grand Summit Resort Hotel, just steps from the Flight of The Canyons gondola. Little Adventures offers a true mountain experience for children as young as 6 weeks old. Daycare staff members take the little ones to play in the snow, to sled and to meet the friendly Snowmonster mascots who ski throughout the resort (see snowmonsters.com for details). Reservations for Little Adventures and Perfect Kids are recommended. DEER VALLEY RESORT Deer Valley Resort has just completed a 2,000-square-foot expansion of its Snow Park Lodge Children’s Center. The expansion allows the state-licensed Center to offer separate rooms for infants, crawlers and toddlers, dividing and managing children of like age groups more effectively. The renovated center also offers built-in nooks for reading, entertainment purposes and performances and a new outdoor play area. The Children’s Center provides loving care for children ages 2 months to 12 years. A new “early drop off” policy this year will allow parents whose children are enrolled in ski lessons to drop the children off at the Children’s Center as early as 8:30 a.m. Children’s Center staff will then get the children dressed in their ski gear and escort students to their lesson meeting place at the appropriate starting time. This is a completely complimentary service. Deer Valley offers a variety of children’s ski lessons, for kids ages 3 years old and up. Other scheduling improvements offered for children’s ski programs this year include an expanded pre-school program created for skiers as young as 3 years old. In years past, the popular Saturday and Sunday Ski Adventure for children ages 4 to 12 have reached maximum capacity, so additional staff has been dedicated to the popular weekend programming, ensuring room for all interested skiing kids. Be sure to have the kids check out deervalley.com to access the “Kids Adventure” section. Here, they will meet Deer Valley’s colorful mascots. Silver the eagle helps the children understand the skier’s safety code. Quincy the bear encourages the children to improve their skiing ability level. Bucky the deer hosts the “Bucky’s Backyard” section of the Web page, where kids will be introduced to the mascots with printable coloring pages. Ruby the raccoon offers “Ruby’s Ready Set and Go” checklist to ensure that parents and kids pack the proper clothing for a Deer Valley ski day. PARK CITY MOUNTAIN RESORT Park City Mountain Resort offers a variety of lessons to entertain all levels of skiers and riders. The Little Groomer’s program, a semi-private lesson for children ages 3 to 5, includes two sessions of ski instruction, and indoor child-oriented activities and lunch. The Resort’s Bombardier program includes a 6-hour, all-day group lesson for beginners to intermediate level skiers ages 5 to12. The Resort’s Freeriders and Superriders programs are taught by highly professional snowboard instructors, ensuring a fun atmosphere where riders, age 7 to 13, will develop skills and confidence on varied terrain. In addition to the programs mentioned above, all children age six and under receive FREE skiing or riding privileges at Park City Mountain Resort when accompanied by an adult. Park City Mountain Resort also offers family adventure off the mountain. Gorgoza Park, located five miles from the Resort’s base, provides lift-served tubing for all ages. With up to eight groomed runs of variable incline, Gorgoza Park provides a safe tubing environment for everyone’s taste. And guests won't want to miss a Gorgoza favorite, Mini Z snowmobile rides, for the kids. POWDER MOUNTAIN Powder Mountain offers the Powder Kids program in two groups, for children ages 3 to 5 and 6 to 12. Children ski or ride with kids their own age, either from 10 a.m. to noon, or all day, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. No more than eight children participate in each class. SNOWBASIN Snowbasin has an active ski and boarding program for children and young people. At the smallest end of the scale are the Little Cat Kids and Bobcat Kids programs for children 4 to 6 years old. Though these young ones get to ski free, two-hour lessons beginning at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. cost $46, and an all-day lesson (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and lunch costs $93. For children aged 7 to 11 who have never skied or snowboarded, a two-hour beginning lesson costs $46. A two-hour improver lesson for young people already adept on snow costs $53, while an all-day lesson (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) that includes lunch costs $93. Also available is a $319 Mountain Vacation package for young people that includes a lift pass, three all-day ski lessons (from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) and lunch. Snowbird’s Kids Ski Free program lets up to two children 12 and under ski the chairs free with an adult all-day lift ticket purchase. From Family Ski Zones to the Kids’ Park Mining Town replica, Snowbird has plenty to please budding skiers and boarders. The resort plans events especially for kids, including Kids’ Club evening parties, ski movies and videos, and boasts three game rooms in Snowbird Village. Camp Snowbird offers state-licensed day care with great activities and crafts to make the toddler’s day as eventful as moms and dads. Skiing and snowboarding lessons can be a part of the day care service, and evening baby-sitting is also available. Snowbird has child care programs for children from 6 weeks to 12 years and Mountain School classes for children 3 and up. Snowbird’s Kids’ Freeride camp gives kids the opportunity to improve their big mountain riding and sharpens their skills in the more technical park and pipe. Youths ages 10 to 17 are invited to participate in the camp, which runs Feb. 18 - 20, 2004. SOLITUDE Solitude has a new “family-friendly” terrain park, built with fun in mind for everyone. The goal of the park is to have an area where everyone feels welcome, young and old, first time or a veteran, whether on snowboard or skis. Most of the features are snow based (no steel structures) and are a manageable size for all riders. Another unique feature is a sitting area for families to take a break from the action. The park is located in gentle terrain and will be accessible from four of Solitude’s eight lifts. Solitude also offers a full compliment of children’s lessons, for skiing kids ages 4 through 12, and snowboarding kids ages 7 years and older. Small by design with 41 ski runs on 450 acres of powdered slopes, Sundance offers the perfect environment for family skiing. Each member of the family can ski at their own ability level, yet everyone meets at one central location at the foot of Ray’s base. The small size does not detract from the experience, though. It in fact enhances it, with an excellent array of runs on world famous Utah powder -- minus any long lift lines. There is also plenty for families to do off the mountain. Adults can relax in the Native American-inspired spa while children explore their creative sides in the Art Shack. Kids will enjoy ski school programs that include day supervision, lunch and instruction. In addition, the concierge can outfit your accommodations with age-appropriate toy boxes that include a variety of games and toys. For more information on family-oriented programs and amenities at Utah’s 13 mountain resorts, call Ski Utah at 1-800-754-8824 or visit the newly redesigned skiutah.com.
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BOOTS KEY TO HIGH PERFORMANCE SKIING: INSIDE THE BOOT CENTER by Technical Editor, Tony Crespi There are two things that can keep really you off the hill, improper boot fit and cold. "Boots are literally the steering mechanism. Skis are nice but in the end they are just the tires," notes Tait Wardlaw, Product Manager for Lange Boots (and Dynastar Skis)." Because boots are this steering mechanism, a correct fit delivers accurate steering and a poor fitting boot delivers not only pain - it can deliver pain - but also delivers sloppy steering, similar to having a couple of inches of play in your steering wheel." "If you have pain, and it doesn't fit right, you can't ski well. And if it's too sloppy you lose contact," reflects Leslie Baker Brown, Former U.S. Team Racer and Director of Marketing at Tecnica Boots. "You don't want to be slopping around." The past few seasons it has seemed that changes in ski technology has captured the lion's share of interest among skiers. Now, while shaped skis can certainly help enhance performance, it is not the sole ingredient to high performance skiing. In fact, proper boot fit, (and proper "alignment") can produce startling improvements. Don't undervalue boot fit. The Performance Center In many ways, ski boots are the heart to performance skiing. Unfortunately, though, many skiers purchase boots that are too big. Too stiff. Or not correctly fit. Which compromises performance. Interested? To help you learn more we spoke with some of the most knowledgeable experts in the industry: Lange's Tait Wardlaw, Tecnica Marketing Director and former U.S. Ski Team Racer Leslie Baker Brown, and we spoke with elite Plymouth, New Hampshire, based Boot Fitter Paul Richelson, a Certified Pedorthist who has worked with a number of top racers. After all, we didn't want you to (dare we say it) have a fit over a poor boot fit! Keys To Proper |