• From the Publisher's Desk - A GREAT SEASON, AN AGELESS FRIEND and A NEW SKI

• From the Publisher's Travel Diary - TALE of TWO GREAT SKI TOWNS and TWO GREAT LODGES

• Article 1: SUBARU SPONSORS FIRST MAJOR U.S. FREESKING SERIES

• Article 2: UTAH RESORTS LISTS 05-06 IMPROVEMENTS

• Article 3: SALT LAKE’S RESORTS DO IT AGAIN - HUGE SNOWFALL WITH EASY ACCESS

• Article 4: LAKE TAHOE RESORTS SHARE INSIDER TIPS and BEST KEPT SECRESTS

• Future Article 5:

• Technical 1: FIVE POINTERS FOR BLACK DIAMOND THRILLS

• Feature 1: RENTSKIS.COM ENDS THE HASSLE OF RENTING GEAR

• Feature 2: SUN VALLEY GREAT SNOW MEANS GREAT SPRING SKIING

• Feature 3: TELLURIDE OFFRS MOUNTAIN MILES & GEAR FOR BEGINNERS

• Feature 4: VAIL'S SPRING SAVINGS CONTINUE

• Feature 5: LAKE TAHOE HAS STEEPS, BUMPS & CRUISERS FOR ALL TYPES OF SKIERS

• Feature 6: PANORAMA IS A COMPLETE RESORT

2005-06 Utah, New Mex & Colorado Favorites

2005-06 Tahoe's Best - Travel Planner

2005-06 Destination Western Canada & the Northern U.S. Rockies

2005-06 Destination Northeast

2005-06 New York & Pennsylvania's Best

2005-06 New England Favorites

• Lodging 1: PEAKS RESORT in TELLURIDE HAS SPECIAL SKI PACKAGES

• Lodging 2: SKI VILLAGE RESORTS OFFERS BRECKENRIDGE CONVENIENCE

• Lodging 3: RADISSON PARK CITY HAS GREAT UTAH PACKAGE

• Lodging 4: TAHOE'S HYATT REGENCY MAKES IT EASY TO STAY & PLAY

• Lodging 5: EMBASSY SUITES - LAKE TAHOE OFFERS "PREMIER" SKI PACKAGE

• Lodging 6: TAHOE'S CAMP RICHARDSON RESORT HAS WINTER RECREATION FUN

• Lodging 7: LAKE TAHOE ACCOMMODATIONS PROVIDES UNIQUE ON-LINE BOOKING

• Lodging 8: In Colorado, DAYS INN in SILVERTHORNE

• Lodging 9: In Colorado, LA QUINTA in SILVERTHORNE IS MINUTES AWAY FROM FAMOUS RESORTS

FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK:

by Publisher and Editor, Dave Leonardi

A GREAT SEASON, AN AGELESS FRIEND and A NEW SKI

For those who have been lucky enough to ski at a Western resort so far this season, you no doubt have been impressed by the abundant snowfall.

The Eastern U.S. has had some great dumps of snow, followed by a day of lessthan- perfect conditions, only to rebound to great conditions again.

During the second week in January, we took to the slopes of Okemo, Killington Stowe and Whiteface, all with great snow conditions. Four days before or five days later and it may have been a different story. But like all the great Eastern resorts, they recover quickly with around-the-clock snowmaking as soon as temperatures permit. That is why Easterners are hardy skiers and great racers, at least those who keep their edges sharp.

MEET “VICTOR” STARYKOWICZ

One person who keeps his edges sharp no matter where he skis is our friend Witold “Victor” Starykowicz. We first met this Illinois resident at the Chicago Ski Show in 1988. We met him again a few years later at Jackson Hole, where he was being awarded a gold belt buckle for skiing one million vertical feet at the resort. He was 69 at the time. We ran a photo of that ceremony in a 1992 issue of SKIER NEWS. Every year at the Chicago show we look forward to seeing him.

He is now 82 and enjoying every minute of it. He has skied more than 30 resorts in the Midwest. Wilmot Mountain is close to his home and he gets there at lest 15 times a season. Last season, for at least four-to-five hours each visit, he skied at Wilmot 25 times and twice at Alpine Valley. He has skied at 32 resorts in the West, four in Canada and six in the Eastern U.S. All the trips made possible by the three Ski Clubs he belongs to and the Chicago Metropolitan Ski Council.

Victor meticulously documents each trip and seems to have saved all his skis. Sporting his “HA! 80” tee-shirt, given to him on his 80th birthday, he can be seen with ten pairs of his oldest-to-newest skis, his RV, motorcycle, Mountain Bike and scooter. (We hope to publish that photo in an issue early next season.) Missing in the photo is his jet ski and his boat, which he takes to a nearby lake. All of these he uses when he is not roller-blading! Victor is retired from his job as an industrial electrician, so he has come by his lifestyle through hard work and good genes. He is truly an inspiration

MEET “FAT-YPUS” SKIS

Something that might inspire Victor, or just about anyone, are a new line of fat skis with the name “Fat-ypus.”

Made in Breckenridge, Colo., these skis combine the powder platform of a fat ski with the technology of shaped skis. The result is effortless gliding through deep powder. Their developers, Dave Gelhaar and Jared Mazlish, must have seen the awesome snow in Breckenridge coming this year.

Prototyping for two years prior to the final design helped them create what they believe is an excellent all-mountain ski as well as the best big mountain, big powder ski you can buy. The flex pattern is evenly stiff throughout and the twin tip construction allows for optimal switch skiing in powder conditions. It has bomber sandwich construction to strengthen the ski throughout.

The first ski they are offering for 2006 is called the “A-lotta.”

It is available in 180cm and twin-tipped at 172/140/158. The creators claim that the “A-lotta” will provide the glide in powder like no other ski you have tried before. The twin-tipped versatility opens up a whole new view in the powder and the ski’s overall size and shape will change the way you look at the mountain, they claim. New lengths and new models will be available soon.

For more info, please visit their web site at www.fat-ypus.com, e-mail Jared directly at jared@fat-ypus.com or as I did, visit the Breckenridge Brew Pub and ask about the fat ski hanging on the wall. Then order food and a beer from Fat-ypus co-owner Dave, found usually behind the bar, who will fill you in.

But however old you are, wherever you ski or whatever you are skiing on, get out and enjoy yourself. Get out and ski.

And once again, we ask God to bless our troops who continue to defend America against terrorism in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world, as we travel about and enjoy the blessings of liberty here at home.

FROM THE PUBLISHER’S TRAVEL DIARY:

by Publisher and Editor, Dave Leonardi

A TALE OF TWO GREAT SKI TOWNS and TWO GREAT LODGES

Very similar in nature, but on either side of the U.S. - Canadian border are two great places ski. Banff, located in beautiful Alberta, Canada and Jackson located in scenic Wyoming. Both cities are know for their Western style and both are known for the elk that roam nearby. Both resort towns brag about the awesome mountain resorts nearby, and you cannot speak of either without the phrase “national park” in a sentence.

Banff is part of Banff National Park, which also contains Mount Norquay, the smallest of the three resorts and it is located in town. A short distance away are Lake Louise and Sunshine ski resorts.

Jackson is the gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and it is home to the smallest of the three ski areas, Snow King. Jackson Hole and Grand Targhee are a short distance away.

Travel to each is convenient. It is a longer, but easy ride from the Calgary Airport to Banff. There are no mountain passes to climb. You leave the city, pass Calgary’s suburbs and the mountains begin to rise around you as you follow the Bow River Valley past majestic peaks.

For Jackson, simply fly into Jackson, Wyo. The town and Jackson Hole Ski Resort are a short ride away.

Bus and shuttle transportation from both towns to the ski areas is frequent, so you really do not need a car.

Fantastic skiing and easy access is something for which these towns are known. If your vacation plans take you Banff or to Jackson you will have several choices for lodging, let me try to help you narrow them.

TRAVEL TO JACKSON

Jackson is busier in the summer than in the winter. Most of the hotels that turn away summer business will welcome you with deep discounts during ski season.

I had the pleasure of staying a few nights last season at Cowboy Village in Jackson. I have always been intrigued by the place, passing it as I drove through town in past years. It is ranch style entrance, lit with its Cowboy Village marquee, always seemed interesting.

It was great. The drive leading to the front-door parking space for my cabin allowed me to pull the van right to the door to easily transfer my gear into the living room of the warm, comfortable cabin. Inside I found a living room, kitchenette, small dining table, bath and bedroom. All the furnishings blended with the log cabin décor and with the “Western feeling” of the town and the property.

Cowboy Village consists of 82 log cabins of various sizes and bed configurations. Families, groups, couples and friends can find something perfect for their needs. Each unit is a single cabin, and some have kitchenettes. There is a Business Center, hot tubs and continental breakfast in winter in the main area. There are smoke free cabins; all have cable TV; and the resort provides a shuttle to Jackson Hole. The daily bus to Grand Targhee, a pay-for-service shuttle, stops at the Village, also. The START bus service, the area transportation system, stops on the property as well.

I found that although it is set amid Jackson’s wonderful main street restaurants, shopping, art galleries and nightspots, it is also a surprisingly short walk to the Jackson Hole Brew Pub. The Brew Pub is off-the-beaten path but only three blocks away. It is also a few minutes walk from the famous Town Square, where everyone goes to have their picture taken under one of the four elk horn arches. That also makes it within “hobbling” distance from the World Famous Cowboy Bar.

There are other great lodges to stay in Jackson. We have written in the past about The Wort Hotel, www.worthotel.com, which is one of Jackson’s finest in the center of town; and Spring Creek Ranch, www.springcreekranch.com, which is a hilltop village with a spectacular view of the Tetons.

To contact Cowboy Village, call 1-800-4-TETONS. You can find Cowboy Village on line by logging on to www.townsquareinns.com or e-mailing them at cowboy@townsquareinns.com.

Cowboy Village Resort is the ultimate in convenience with a definite Western flavor. Cozy cabins and easy accessibility to the area’s activities bring guests back, year after year. I will be glad to return.

TRAVEL TO BANFF

If you are going to Banff, then you will want to stay at the Banff Caribou Lodge on the main street in town, Banff Ave. I also stayed there last winter, and I highly recommended it. I parked in the hotel’s free underground lot and easily found the elevator to my room. The room was one of the six loft units with plenty of space on the living-room style lower level and a full bath and bedroom in the upper level.

The lodge features 189 additional well-appointed rooms that have high-speed Internet access. There is also a 35 person jetted hot pool, a steam room, and exercise equipment. Downtown shops and restaurants are accessible via a pleasant 10-minute walk or by the complimentary evening shuttle service. The friendly and outgoing staff was always happy to provide information or suggestions on any of Banff’s many exciting activities.

In the lobby there was a happy crowd enjoying aprésski festivities in The Keg Steakhouse and Bar, which is located right in the hotel. When the music stopped, I could get a seat at the fun and casual bar and had a great steak dinner there. The Keg has a casual ambiance and friendly staff. You will also find comfortable and satisfying sit-down dining for your group. The food was great and so were the Canadian ales.

The Banff Caribou Lodge has “Standard” rooms with a courtyard view, and “Superior” rooms with an exterior view, with some rooms having a balcony. The rooms feature maple furnishings and artwork inspired by Canada’s magnificent Rocky Mountains. The rooms have varying bed configurations and can accommodate up to four adults. All rooms have hairdryers, cable TV and a coffee maker with complimentary tea and coffee.

Expected to open in February 2006, is the Red Earth Spa. They claim the spa will draw on Earth’s essential elements to create sanctuaries, a place where your sense of balance will be nurtured and rediscovered. They hope to be reinventing wellness by creating a private holistic spa experience that includes luxurious head to toe treatments, a Yoga room, regenerating bathes, and much more. The Red Earth Spa is expected to become an elevated level of spa experience.

I skied at Sunshine Village, enjoying the wide-open terrain and excellent variety from beginner to expert. Sunshine has the most high-speed quad chairs in the Rockies. This is another great resort, where they brag that the snow is from nature, not from snowguns. Every year nature does not disappoint, and from groomed to powder runs, you will not be disappointed either.

In past visits I have skied at Lake Louise, where everyone stands and stares at the beauty of the entire area. This scenery is what really catapults a ski vacation in Banff into a class of its own.

I have also skied at Mount Norquay, which is the ski area for Banff locals. It is just minutes from town. Mount Norquay, though smaller than the other two resorts, has everything you need for a great day on the slopes no matter what your ability.

Contact the Banff Caribou Lodge on line at www.bestofbanff.com or by calling 1-800-563-8764. Like Cowboy Village in Jackson, I’ll be happy to return to the Banff Caribou Lodge.

SUBARU TO SPONSOR FIRST MAJOR U.S. FREESKIING SERIES

CHERRY HILL, NJ — Subaru of America, Inc. announced that it will return as title sponsor for U.S. Skiercross series and present the new U.S. Freeskiing series in 2006. Subaru joins tour producers Mountain Sports International (MSI) in sponsoring the events.

“Subaru is proud to be the title sponsor of both the U.S. Freeskiing and U.S. Skiercross series,” said Rick Crosson, vice president of marketing, Subaru of America, Inc. “These tours bring the top Big Mountain and Skiercross competitors in the world to center stage at some of the best resorts in North America.”

Over the years, these competitions have helped launch the careers of skiing legends such as Shane McConkey, Kent Kreitler, Ingrid Backstrom, Seth Morrison, Hugo Harrison, and Reggie and Zach Crist. This year skiers from around the globe will raise the bar of Freeskiing in pursuit of a $100,000 overall prize purse.

“Our goal this year is to strengthen the tour by focusing our resources into three major events to create solid, packed competitions that will form a strong core for the growing sport of Skiercross,” says Comey.

MSI will be posting online, video-on-demand footage of all events on the 2006 tour. In addition, MSI has secured television coverage on OLN and Rush HD for the Snowbird and Kirkwood events.

SUBARU U.S. FREESKIING SERIES

The 9th Annual U.S. Freeskiing Nationals in Snowbird, Utah and 6th Annual North American Freeskiing Championships in Kirkwood, Calif., will join the inaugural Telluride Freeskiing Open and Jackson Hole Extremes to comprise the inaugural Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Series.

“We’re very excited about the continued growth and success of Freeskiing. The U.S. Freeskiing Series is the first major U.S.-based Freeskiing tour, and we are honored to have Subaru step up as title sponsor. New stops at Telluride and Jackson Hole, combined with huge increases in prize money, will bring the sport to a whole new level,” says MSI founder and president Adam Comey.

SUBARU U.S. SKIERCROSS SERIES

The Subaru U.S. Skiercross Series enters its third year with an increased prize purse and more focused schedule. The three-stop series will consist of the U.S. Skiercross Nationals in Snowbird, Utah; Rocky Mountain Skiercross Classic in Steamboat, Colo., and North American Skiercross Championships in Kirkwood, Calif. In addition to a $30,000 prize purse for the series, the overall, top five men from the Skiercross tour will earn spots to the 2007 X Games in Aspen, Colo.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. and headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. The company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru makes the best-selling All-Wheel Drive car sold in America based on R.L. Polk & Co. new vehicle, retail registration statistics, calendar year-end 2004.

For additional information, visit www.subaru.com either directly or via many easily found links on the home page of www.skiernews.com.

UTAH RESORTS LIST IMPROVEMENTS for 2005-06

SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Having just notched the best season in Utah’s 69-year history, area resorts are not resting on their laurels. They continue to hone, polish, create, add, build, renovate and revise their equipment, amenities, facilities, products and programs. Utah’s 13 powder playgrounds invested millions of dollars in improvements this past summer. Here is what is new this season.

ALTA

BELOVED ALTA LANDMARK REPLACED: Skiers will find a new mid-mountain day lodge this winter at Alta. Watson Shelter, a favorite spot for lunch by both local skiers and out of town guests, has been replaced by an all-new Watson Shelter, completed this Fall. The new Watson Shelter was built near the Angle Station of the Collins Lift (installed summer 2004). Like the original, most of the materials for construction are granite and wood. The shelter’s footprint is nearly 5000 square feet. The building has three levels with plenty of deck space for outdoor dining. It offers an “Alta logo” ski shop, generous restroom facilities and an extensive cafeteria. The Watson will also preserve the Collins Grill experience and offer an area for private dining.

BEAVER MOUNTAIN

WIDER RUNS & PREP WORK: Crews worked hard at the “Beav” this past summer, widening existing runs off of Marge’s Triple as well as creating several new runs in the area.

BASE LODGE IMPROVEMENTS: A facelift of base lodge restrooms including new vanities will greet guests this season.

NEW SNOWCAT: Beaver’s new $200,000 Piston Bully snowcat guarantees dreamy and creamy cruising on their groomed runs.

BRIAN HEAD

NEW EQUIPMENT: Brian Head Resort has purchased two new snow grooming machines for this winter season, including a brand new 2006 Camoplast bi350 and a Bombardier br350. The machines are faster, have the latest technology, can cover more acres per hour and have more horsepower to push snow than previous machines. They not only can create improvements in area grooming but also in freestyle terrain and parks.

EXPANDING FREESTYLE TERRAIN & PARKS: Under new park management, the Park Crew has great expectations and fresh ideas to improve and expand the existing freestyle terrain. The park will have beginner and intermediate boxes, rails and jumps on the Navajo lift as well as beginner, intermediate and expert terrain parks at Giant Steps. With the addition of the new snow cats, steeper angles can be cut and formed to enhance the expert freestyle terrain.

WINTER SPORTS SCHOOL: New for 2005- 06, Brian Head offers a “Get Better” lesson for only $20 to guests regardless of their ability – beginner to expert – giving skiers and snowboarders of all abilities the opportunity to improve their skills with a qualified instructor at a very affordable price.

BRIGHTON

GROOMING: Brighton Resort added two new Park Bully snow cats for even better grooming. With over 85 years combined experience, Brighton’s cat drivers know each aspect of the runs and the best way to produce the finest surface for both skiers and snowboarders. Only their most experienced drivers groom their terrain park and half pipe.

INCREASED SNOWMAKING: Brighton added two SMI Pole Cat tower guns to their snowmaking arsenal which will provide an earlier opening to the Terrain Park.

GAZ EX AVALANCHE CONTROL: To continue to ensure the safety of their guests, Brighton installed cutting-edge avalanche control equipment produced by the Gaz Ex Company. This system needs no explosives or fuses. Controlled remotely from the ski patrol office, the system affords increased safety for Brighton personnel who will no longer need to enter avalanche danger zones while carrying explosives. Using this method, avalanches can be triggered in all weather conditions and from a safe location, away from the blast site.

THE CANYONS

$400 MILLION EXPANSION PLAN: In the next 3 years, The Canyons Resort will continue its master expansion plan that will total more than $400 million in improvements both on and off the mountain. They include new lifts, more terrain, new lodging facilities, a golf course and continued development of The Canyons Resort Village. This is the result of the combined efforts of the many landowners at The Canyons Resort and American Skiing Company.

NEW BEGINNER TERRAIN PARK: First time terrain park skiers and riders can feel comfortable in The Canyons’ new beginners terrain park located off of Saddleback Express. The park will cater to first-time park users and will compliment The Canyons Ski & Snowboard School Terrain Park, the advanced terrain park remains in place off the Sun Peak Express.

DEER VALLEY

NEW SULTAN CHAIRLIFT: Part of $8 million in improvements, Deer Valley has replaced and extended the Sultan chairlift on Bald Mountain with a high-speed detachable quad. The new lift offers 1,000 additional linear feet, bringing its vertical drop to 1,760 feet. Extending the lift opens 75 additional skiable acres that include a new intermediate run and approximately 65 acres of glade skiing.

EXPANDED SKI CORRAL: The Ski Corral has been added on to the Silver Lake Lodge and will be expanded to hold 2,000 pairs of skis. The Silver Lake Lodge deck will be increased by 1,200 square feet with the heated Village Plaza being expanded by 2,200 square feet.

ADDED RETAIL AND RENTAL SPACE: Deer Valley’s Rental Shop and Signatures store will take over the existing Royal Plaza Conference Center that is located adjacent to the Silver Lake Lodge. The Rental Shop will be expanding inventory by 15 percent.

NEW EQUIPMENT & SNOWMAKING: Deer Valley has replaced four snowcats, 12 snowmobiles and 10 snow guns with new equipment. Expanded snowmaking has also been added around the new and improved Sultan chairlift.

PARK CITY MOUNTAIN RESORT

NEWLY RENOVATED LEGENDS BAR AND RESTAURANT: Legends, the spot for après ski, has been relocated to the plaza level of the Legacy Lodge. The new Legends will boast excellent drinks and food making.

BIGGEST SUPERPIPE IN NORTH AMERICA: Park City Mountain Resort purchased a new pipe cutter that gives a new definition to “super” in the Eagle Superpipe. With 22-foot walls, the superpipe will be the largest in North America. Park City Mountain Resort will add new rails and funboxes to its four terrain parks.

NEW GROOMING AND SNOWMAKING EQUIPMENT: Last season Park City Mountain Resort introduced grooming on several of its advanced, black diamond runs. These “Signature Runs” helped to open more of the mountain to the intermediate skier. Park City Mountain Resort has added two new snowcats, including a winch cat, to its fleet. The resort also added 10 snowmaking guns providing more efficient snowmaking.

POWDER MOUNTAIN

-HIDDEN LAKE TERRAIN PARK: This offers features for more advanced park riders. Located on Hidden Lake trail, the park contains handrails, tabletops, a spine hit and a quarterpipe. It will be open for daytime operation hours, seven days a week and groomed nightly.

SHE-SKIS EXTREME: Advanced and expert skiers can sign up for the Black Diamond women’s clinics. SheSkis is Powder Mountain’s women only program and it is taught by women. Learn to ski bumps, powder and the backcountry. Weather and conditions permitting, a helicopter ride to the backcountry will be available for an additional charge.

SNOWBIRD

NEW CREEKSIDE LODGE: A new day lodge in Gad Valley, the Creekside Lodge, will greet skiers. The two-story lodge houses the Creekside Cafe, a ticket office, a Mountain School office, retail space and locker rooms. The kicker, a 3,000-square-foot deck, offers skiers the ultimate in post-powder lounging.

IMPROVED GAD VALLEY PARKING LOT: Snowbird’s Entry 1 parking lot received a makeover this summer. The main entrance from the parking lot to Gad Valley will be by the new Creekside Lodge (approximately where the old bathrooms were). The two-level, paved parking lot includes stairs and a green strip in the middle to allow easier access to cars and the slopes. For added convenience, UTA will add a bus stop in Gad Valley.

SNOWBIRD EXPEDITIONS: The dream of Dick Bass, Snowbird’s owner and the first person to summit the tallest mountain on each of the world’s seven continents, has been to create a renaissance center for enhancement of body, mind and spirit. This dream becomes a reality this year as Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort launches Snowbird Expeditions. David Breashears, a world-famous climber, author and cinematographer, designed these expeditions to combine the optimum blend of intense athletic activity, technical climbing instruction, mountaineering skills, world-renowned healthful cuisine and restorative spa treatments. Visit www.snowbirdx.com for more information.

CLIFF LODGE RENOVATIONS: The summer of 2005 marked the beginning of renovations to Snowbird’s flagship property, the Cliff Lodge. Lodging rooms will be upgraded with new furnishings, bedding, tile and bathroom fixtures. Most spa level rooms will provide flat screen televisions and Tempur-Pedic beds.

SNOWBASIN

TUBING: Snowbasin will have six lanes of lift-assisted tubing for the winter season. Three lanes will be for the beginning tuber with the other three designed with “more fun” in mind.

TRANSPORTATION FROM SALT LAKE: In conjunction with the Grand America and Little America Hotels, Snowbasin will be providing transportation to and from Salt Lake City for their skiing guests.

SOLITUDE

MOONBEAM CHAIRLIFT: Solitude has installed a new fixed-grip quad replacing the Moonbeam II lift and allowing skiers to get to beginner and intermediate terrain much easier from the parking lot. The new quad allows for easier unloading (due to a gentler off-load ramp) for beginners and makes the mid-mountain intersection much less congested. Moonbeam base visitors will enjoy the efficiency of moving people out of the area during high traffic times, including at the start of the day and at lunch.

MOONBEAM DAY LODGE: This new lodgestyle facility is designed to not only be functional and complement the mountain, but to blend with the architecture of the European-styled Solitude village. The 12,000-square-foot lodge sits adjacent the Moonbeam Center and is home to a new rental shop, lockers, indoor and outdoor food service, an après ski bar, heated patio, a rooftop sun deck and a spacious and inviting sitting den, which will make up roughly one-third of the new facility. The new lodge fills a void at Solitude in providing more amenities, and a comfortable place for day guest to relax. Solitude remains committed to providing a quality experience for each skier or rider on the mountain.

NEW TICKETING SYSTEM: Continuing the tradition of Solitude’s cutting-edge ticket and pass technology, they have upgraded their ticketing system to give skiers the ability to purchase tickets on-line and go directly to the lifts. Other new features include on-line tracking of vertical and lift ride data. Solitude Axess Cards must be purchased for an additional $5 (when purchasing a single day ticket) in order to access the full range of capabilities offered by this unique ticketing system.

SUNDANCE

FITNESS CENTER: A year-round fitness center will be located in Sundance’s yurt facility near the Screening Room. Guests can enjoy personal and private exercise, yoga or quiet time before venturing outside.

HOME BASE LEARNING METHOD: Sundance’s Ski and Snowboard School will incorporate a unique learning method and technique called “Home Base,” that makes learning fast, simple and more fun. In the past, this program was only available in Sundance’s special Performance Skiing Labs. It has now become a part of every learning experience. The method is state-of-the-art with each guest experiencing a new level of performance in a short period.

BEAR CLAWS CABIN: Sundance’s mountaintop lodge will receive some fine-tuning to further enhance this very special mountain dinning experience. From Bear Claws Cabin, visitors have 360-degree views that rival any European vista with slopes that are manageable for most levels of skiers and boarders.

WOLF MOUNTAIN

NEW OWNER AND NAME: Formerly called Nordic Valley, the latest addition to this Ogden Valley ski area is the name!

IMPROVED FACILITIES: A general clean up including repairs of equipment and buildings topped the list for Utah’s newest ski area. Wolf Mountain’s facilities improvement schedule includes demolition of some of the old buildings, recontouring and grading of the parking lot and reworking the entryway.

NEW GROOMER: A Bombardier Groomer, greatly increasing the consistency of Wolf Mountain’s snow quality, will provide perfect corduroy for 2005-06.

THE WOLF PASS: This new Wolf Creek Resort pass provides year-round access to Wolf Creek’s Recreation Center including a fitness center, racquetball courts, game room, summer- long access to the pool, tennis & volleyball courts and unlimited day or night skiing at Wolf Mountain.

This information was compiled and provided by SKI UTAH, link here to www.skiutah.com.

For more information, you can log on to SKI UTAH’S web site via an easily found link on the right side of the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

RENTSKIS.COM ENDS THE HASSLE OF RENTING GEAR

DENVER, CO — It is no secret that traveling through airports takes longer and is more complicated than it used to be. Checking ski and snowboard bags, even with the skier’s favorite equipment inside, is often an extra dimension of hassle en route to a mountain vacation. For skiers and riders who appreciate the ease and variety of using rental equipment or simply enjoy sampling the newest ski and snowboard models when they are on vacation, renting equipment has never been easier or more convenient than with the arrival of www.rentskis.com.

With 79 locations throughout Colorado, the Rocky Mountains and California, skiers and riders can now simplify their winter vacation with the largest and most efficient rental equipment system in North America. Skis and snowboards can be reserved either on-line at www.rentskis.com, or through a toll free phone number, 1-866-317-3508.

The beauty of the program is that all the paperwork is taken care of before skiers arrive at the resort so the preselected equipment is ready and waiting at the designated store. Skiers can breeze in, sign their forms, pick up their equipment and beat the crowds for first tracks. Nearly all of the shops are located slopeside for maximum convenience, but there are a number of other locations in mountain communities as well as at metropolitan ski shops in Denver, Colo.; Salt Lake City, Utah; and in the San Francisco Bay area.

The benefits are numerous. It gives skiers and riders a chance to demo the latest equipment; it significantly decreases the “schlep factor” while traveling through airports, and allows skiers and riders to avoid the often-lengthy lines of the rental shop. Advance reservations receive up to 20 percent off regular daily prices. Additional discounts may be available during selected promotional periods at some resorts. And, for every adult rental, a junior (age 12 or younger) can get a free rental for the same time as the adult at selected stores during non-peak periods. Skiers and riders even have a rock solid guarantee — if the equipment is not satisfactory, they are refunded for that day’s rental and can exchange their skis (snowboard) for another set-up.

Skiers can choose between three different types of equipment—the Sport Package for beginners through intermediates; the Performance Package for intermediate to advanced skiers; and Demos for the most recent and cuttingedge equipment available in the market from manufacturers such as Rossignol, Salomon, Atomic, Volant, K2, Volkl and Dynastar. Snowboarders can choose between top-end equipment from Burton, Salomon, Rossignol, and Palmer with either step-in or traditional strap bindings. Depending on location, Sport Packages start as low as $14/day up to $32/day while Performance Packages start at $20/day up to $36/day. Demo equipment rates begin at $28/day and range up to $45/day and a snowboard package begins at $23/day to $34/day.

Rentskis.com Gold

For the ultimate in convenience and extra services to make the rental experience convenient and comfortable, rentskis.com has introduced their Gold program. In addition to the easy booking and guaranteed equipment satisfaction, this program also assures skiers will get the specific demo equipment they request with their bindings already adjusted and “ready-to-go” upon arrival, free ski and boot storage, daily tuning of equipment, and fitting appointments. This service is tailored specifically for skiers and riders with exacting standards and tight schedules.

“We created rentskis.com so that visitors to the resorts could spend more of their actual vacation time on the mountains instead of standing in line,” said Chief Operating Officer Kat Jobanputra. “Because the simplicity and efficiency of the advanced reservations was so well received initially, it was a natural progression to improve on the service for guests who want ultra convenience and efficiency.”

RentSkis.com locations can be found in these Western resort towns

In Colorado: Aspen and Snowmass, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Crested Butte, Glenwood Springs, Keystone, Silverthorne, Steamboat, Telluride, Vail and Winter Park.

In Utah: The Canyons and Park City and Salt Lake City.

And in Lake Tahoe at Heavenly; in Idaho at Sun Valley; in Wyoming at Jackson Hole.

These Canadian resorts also have RentSkis.com locations: Banff and Whistler/Blackcomb.

You can find rentskis.com store locations as well in Denver, and Boulder and Colorado Springs, Colo.; and in the San Francisco Bay Area at Any Mountain Sports stores.

For more info, please call a toll free phone number 1-866-317-3508, or log on to www.rentskis.com/skiernews. You can also easily link to their site from the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

SUN VALLEY - MORE PROGRAMS & UPGRADES

SPRING PACKAGE SAVINGS TO MATCH GREAT SNOW

SUN VALLEY, ID - Sun Valley is having one of the greatest snow fall years in the past decade, and temperatures have remained winter-like through January. This is the resort’s 70th anniversary season and special March and April packages, offering enormous savings, make this Spring the time to visit Sun Valley.

SKI CLUB WEEKS ONE and TWO:

MARCH 4-11 and MARCH 11-18

As the weather warms up, so do the après ski parties. Live entertainment, a lively crowd and the sunshine for which the resort is named create the perfect mix. Ski clubs from around the U.S. converge to take advantage of either of the two seven night’s lodging and five-of-six-day lift ticket packages, starting at $694 for a one bed standard room, per person, double occupancy at the Sun Valley Inn. You can join them and get in on the fun.

SPRING SPECIAL and SUNSHINE SPECIAL:

MARCH 18-25 and MARCH 25-APRIL 1

Spring and sunshine have a lot in common and so do these two popular packages. They both offer welcome parties, ski race and awards party, seven night’s lodging and five-of-six-day lift ticket.

The Spring Special starts at $694 and the Sunshine Special starts at only $540.50.

For more info and reservations for these Special Week packages and the two March Ski Club packages, please call 1-800-786-8259 or visit www.sunvalley.com.

You can also log on to their site from an easily found link from www.skiernews.com.

For reservations and additional information about their affordably priced ski vacations, you can learn more by calling 1-800-786-8259 or visit Sun Valley's website.

SUN VALLEY PROVIDES NEW SKI BARN STEPS FROM LIFTS

SUN VALLEY, ID — New for Sun Valley’s 70th winter season will be The Ski Barn at River Run Plaza.

With this new addition to guest services, just steps from the lifts, Sun Valley Resort guests will enjoy free ski and pole storage. The drop-off and pick-up service will be available on an over-night basis or for the day.

Skiers and snowboarders who are not staying at the resort may also utilize The Ski Barn for a nominal fee.

Not only will the new facility house more than 1,500 pieces of equipment, the 800-square-foot building also will provide 200 spaces for boot drying.

River Run Plaza is located at the base of Bald Mountain and provides gracious amenities. From gourmet cuisine served at the River Run Lodge to top of the line ski wear, accessories, equipment, equipment rental and Locker Storage at Pete Lane’s Mountain Sports, everything is within steps at the very skier-snowboard friendly River Run Plaza.

Learn more about Sun Valley by logging on to their web site from an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com or visit Sun Valley's website.

SUN VALLEY INTRODUCES NEW MULTIPLE-DAY LIFT EXCHANGE

SUN VALLEY SUN VALLEY, ID — Sun Valley’s new Lift Exchange Program, introduced last season, is on its way to becoming one of the resort’s unique and distinctive traditions.

Because of the myriad wintertime activities and adventures tucked within the Sun Valley walking village, the resort has developed a unique program providing skiers and snowboarders many other options with the purchase of a multiple-day lift ticket.

Here is how it works. Since Sun Valley Resort owns and operates the entire ski area, Sun Valley hotels, accommodations and all the village amenities – goods and values can be exchanged.

This allows skiers and snowboarders purchasing multiple-day lift tickets the option of redeeming one day for many other activities – at no charge.

So, if you think you will need a ski break from the world-class mountains, then you can choose one of the following options already built into your multiple-day lift ticket:

• Massage at the Sun Valley Salon & Day Spa

• Sun Valley Nordic Package

• Snowshoe rental and lunch at historic Trail Creek Cabin

• Ice Skating Package and lunch at Gretchen’s Restaurant

• Sunday Brunch for two at the Sun Valley Lodge Dining Room

• Dinner at the Ram Restaurant and movie at the Opera House

• Dinner for two at Bald Mt. Pizza and movie for two

• Sleigh Ride and lunch at Trail Creek Cabin, and others.

For more information on this new program that optimizes your Sun Valley ski experience for the whole family, please call the Sun Valley Recreation Office, 208-622-2135.

Learn more about Sun Valley by logging on to their web site from an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com or visit Sun Valley's website.

TELLURIDE OFFERS MOUNTAIN MILES & GEAR for BEGINNERS

VAIL'S SPRING SAVINGS CONTINUE

VAIL, CO -- When it is your turn to choose the family vacation and you are looking for a great value and great terrain, Vail can be an easy choice. Here are some vacation values to heighten your interest.

March Mid-Week:

Get three skiing and three days lodging in a two-bedroom condo for $481 per person. Lift tickets are valid Monday- Thursday only, lodging arrivals begin Sunday or Monday nights with three-night minimum. It is based upon availability and quad occupancy. It must be pre-purchased seven days in advance and is valid 2/26/06 to 3/30/06. Additional restrictions may apply.

“Kids Fly, Stay & Ski Free” Package:

For families with children under 12, Vail Resorts and American Airlines are offering unbeatable savings on a winter mountain vacation at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone. Kids between the ages of 2 and 12 are eligible for a complimentary companion ticket on American Airlines when accompanied by a paying adult. Each child, with a paying adult, will receive a complimentary lift ticket for up to seven days and a free stay in the same hotel room or condominium, based on double occupancy.

The “Kids Fly, Stay & Ski Free” package is available from all cities served by American or American Eagle within the lower 48 states into the Vail/Eagle County Airport (EGE). Travel is valid between 1/2/06 to 2/16/06, with travel to the ski destination occurring on Sunday- Thursday and return travel on Monday-Friday. Other restrictions may apply.

For more info or reservations, visit www.snow.com or call 1-800-404-3535.

Loads of Snow, Loads of Savings:

As noted in the photo in the Vail Resorts’ ad on page two of the February-Spring 2006 issue of SKIER NEWS, Vail ski area, in Colo. is having the second snowiest year in their 43 year history. The other Colo. areas listed are doing well also. (Heavenly, in Lake Tahoe, is one of the leaders in that region for snowfall.) Here is more of the Stay Free - Ski Free package info.

VAIL from $652* per person

Ski 4 days, stay 4 nights and receive your 5th day of skiing and night of lodging free

It is valid from 2/21/06 to 3/3/06. It is based on quad occupancy in a two-bedroom condo. A similar package is available from 3/18/06 to 4/1/06 from $867* per person.

BEAVER CREEK from $551* per person

Ski 4 days, stay 4 nights and receive your 5th day of skiing and night of lodging free.

It is valid from 2/21/06 to 3/3/06. It is based on quad occupancy in a two-bedroom condo. A similar package is available from 3/18/06 to 4/1/06 from $1,052* per person.

BRECKENRIDGE from $355*per perso

Ski 3 days, stay 3 nights and receive your 4th day of skiing and night of lodging free

This package is valid 2/21/06 to 3/3/06. It is based on quad occupancy in a two-bedroom condo. A similar package offering 4 days of skiing and 4 nights of lodging with the 5th day and night free is available from 3/18/06 to 4/1/06 from just $552* per person.

KEYSTONE from $435* per person

Ski 3 days, stay 3 nights and receive your 4th day of skiing and night of lodging free.

It is valid weekdays only from 2/21/06 to 3/3/06. It is based on double occupancy. Asimilar package offering 4 days of skiing and 4 nights of lodging with the 5th day and night free available weekdays only from 3/18/06 to 4/1/06 from just $475* per person. The latter package is based on quad occupancy.

HEAVENLY from $379* per person

Ski 4 days, stay 4 nights and receive your 5th day of skiing and night of lodging free.

This package is valid weekdays only beginning 2/21/06 to 3/3/06 and again from 3/18/06 – 4/1/06. It is based on double occupancy.

* Other rates and room types are available. 4- or 5-night minimum stay required. Additional taxes and surcharges may apply. Other restrictions may apply.

Please call 1-888-222-9440 today for more information or visit snow.com.

You can also log on to the Vail Resort web site to obtain information on the five company resorts – Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Vail in Colo., and Heavenly in Lake Tahoe – via a link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com

LAKE TAHOE HAS STEEPS, BUMPS & CRUISERS

FOR ALL TYPES OF SKIERS

LAKE TAHOE, CA/NV — A perfect day on the mountain comes effortlessly with Ski Lake Tahoe’s vast array of terrain and amenities. With almost 19,000 acres to choose from among the seven resorts around Lake Tahoe, a trip to California’s ski nucleus offers something for everyone. A day exploring any of these outstanding resorts will leave guests satisfied and invigorated. Here are some insider tips from each resort on their favorite runs.

Alpine Meadows’ Keyhole, accessible via Summit Six Chair, is a “no-fall” zone, and as a bonus, it comes with an audience (all those riding the Summit Six and Alpine Bowl Chairs). Approximately 1,000 feet in length, this steep, rocky, exposed powder chute is an Alpine Meadows signature. For bumps, Waterfall offers both a steep pitch and big, thigh-burning moguls that challenge even the most advanced skiers. Hidden Knolls is a wonderland of rolling pitches amidst old-growth Western White and Lodgepole Pines. The forgiving space between the huge trees allows guests of high intermediate to advanced ability to pick and choose between endless pockets of deep powder hidden in the trees. Sherwood Run’s sun-kissed corduroy makes for a long, leisurely, intermediate run with a front-row view of Lake Tahoe. It is a wide, groomed snowfield.

Heavenly’s “Y,” located in Mott Canyon, features a narrow, steep bowl-shaped chute that is typically skier packed on the top leading into steep moguls on the bottom. Gunbarrel is a mogul skier’s dream, and Glen Plake’s favorite run, consisting of 1,700 vertical feet of steep skiing and riding jam-packed with Volkswagen-sized bumps. Perfect for intermediates, Stagecoach features well-spaced mature trees with a great pitch, steep enough to keep you moving on a powder day, but not intimidating. Heavenly’s Olympic Downhill run is a long, wide cruiser with lots of challenging natural terrain features. This is one long run; in fact, it is the resort’s longest, at 2.2 miles. And new for 2006, Heavenly has opened the trees, which hide some of the best skiing in North America. The sweet powder stashes that used to be exclusive local territory are now available to everyone.

Kirkwood serves up some of the most exposed and steepest in-bound terrain in North America. As far up the north facing side of the legendary Cirque that skiers are allowed to go, Hell’s Delight features sharp rock outcroppings and a super tight throat, which keep even the most technical skiers on their toes. A steep challenging run, Look Out Janet is known for big bumps and a great fall line. Located just on the skier’s left of the Cornice Express, you can check out your line on the way up and be checked out on the way down. Located on the far edge of Kirkwood’s boundary line on the backside, Fawn Ridge is a glade that offers well-spaced trees and a hidden stash of cold soft snow, often days after a storm. Buckboard is a north facing rolling intermediate cruiser that offers perfect fall lines top to bottom. It is wide open, always groomed and popular among carvers.

Mt. Rose – Ski Tahoe greets you as you approach with the ominous Chutes, which were opened in 2004-05. The Chutes provide some of the most accessible, extreme terrain in Lake Tahoe. Boasting almost 200 skiable acres and plunging over 1,500 vertical feet, these runs are primarily north-facing slopes comprised of approximately 16 named trails (nine double-black and seven black diamond) and easily navigated via eight entry gates from both six-pack summit lifts. For some of the longest drops, try out El Cap or Yellow Jacket with sustained vertical of 40 degrees or more for over 1000 feet! For a little less robust, yet a still adrenaline provoking ride, Mt. Rose grooms its’ face runs (Greg’s Gamble & Waterfall) providing the steep thrill without nearly the toll on the knees. To discover that hidden powder stash after all the smooth snow has been tracked out; hit the Pioneer Glade or the Olympic Trees in the Slide Bowl.

Northstar-at-Tahoe’s Lookout Mountain, which opened four years ago, features the resort’s steepest terrain. Check out Boca or Stampede for a steep, single fall line pitch where speed is a given, not an option. The Rapids off Northstar’s Backside lift offers over one mile of consistent moguls, long enough to test the legs of even the most well conditioned skiers. Tree skiing, especially on powder days, is a Northstar trademark. The resort’s entire Backside, as well as anywhere between Martis and Boca on the Lookout chair, is a playland of well-spaced, medium pitched tree runs. Running the length of the resort’s eastern boundary, Logger’s Loop is a wide, medium pitched cruiser that winds down the front of the mountain. Before you begin your descent, be sure to stop and admire the postcard-worthy views of Lake Tahoe.

At Sierra-at-Tahoe, check out the Castle run located off the top of Grandview Chair. On powder days, you have the option of great trees the entire way down, and when it’s groomed it will cure your need for speed. Under the West Bowl chair line, Clipper features rhythmic and consistent bumps the entire way down the 2,000-foot run. The choice for trees is Preacher’s Passion, known for widely spaced trees and stashes of powder fields. With no flats, this is also a great run for snowboarders. For powder stashes and the steepest terrain at Sierra, head to Sierra-at-Tahoe’s five back country access gates. Between the cliff bands and the Lake Tahoe views, this terrain is sure to take your breath away. For a trail that feels endless, follow Sugar n’ Spice to Upper Sleighride, then on to the intermediate Beaver Run in the West Bowl. Often you can ski down Beaver without seeing anyone.

Squaw Valley USA’s legendary KT-22 is a ski resort in itself. Descents from this chairlift are endless and include the secluded Chute 75 named for the 75mm cannon that was used for snow safety during the 1960 Winter Games. Also accessible from this popular chair is The Fingers. This cliff drop becomes a show of Squaw Valley personalities viewable from the chairlift. Also accessible is the actual Women’s Downhill from the Winter Games. This run offers some of the steepest, longest grooming around. For cruisable groomed runs, head to Shirley Lake where the Tree Runs 1-5 are consistently groomed to perfection. For beginners, we offer mountain top gentle slopes with slow moving chairs and attentive Lift Operators, on powder days, head to the runs off Red Dog Chair. This lift accesses hidden stashes of powder in the trees and it accesses long, groomed runs.

About Ski Lake Tahoe

This is a sampling of what the seven Ski Lake Tahoe resorts have to offer. With an average annual snowfall of well over 400 inches and a season that typically runs from November through May, there’s plenty of time to explore every mountain. Surrounding North America’s largest alpine lake, each Ski Lake Tahoe resort offers unparalleled scenic vistas of nearby forestry, panoramic mountains and lake views.

For the latest mountain news and conditions, visit the Ski Lake Tahoe Web site at www.skilaketahoe.com

For a Lake Tahoe Winter Vacation Guide, call 1-800-588-SNOW, ext. 1.

PANORAMA IS A COMPLETE RESORT

PANORAMA MOUNTAIN VILLAGE, BC, CANADA — Ever since Intrawest added two quads in the 2003-04 season, one high-speed and another that takes skiers to Panorama’s massive vertical, huge mountain terrain and epic views, the mountain became transformed into a major destination resort. Here is an overview of what to expect when skiing at Panorama in western Canada.

The skiing and riding: Panorama Mountain is about big vertical and big mountain terrain – over 4,000 vertical feet 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 those new quads gets skiers and riders into Taynton Bowl’s former heli-skiing terrain with ease and speed.

The Taynton experience is complemented by super-long cruising runs on the front side of the mountain that feature Panorama’s award-winning grooming. For freestyle enthusiasts, there is expert and intermediate terrain in addition to the mountain’s offerings of rails, tabletops, and a 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. Then head 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 famous Panorama Springs Hot Pools.

Activity Descriptions

Mountain Friends Guided Tours Fun and informative!

The 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.

Snowshoeing

Rentals and guided programs are available for your tour through the beautiful backcountry surrounding Panorama Mountain Village

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.

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 & Myrtle's’ 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

In recent years, Ski Canada Magazine has presented Panorama with these awards: “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”

The Top Terrain is Lift Serviced

It is now easy to get to premier terrain and scenery since the two state-of-the-art, Doppelmayr quad chairlifts replaced a double chair and two t-bars. One new detachable high-speed quad replaced a double chairlift and t-bar, while another new fixedgrip quad chair replaced a second t-bar. The lifts were installed by Doppelmayr, the world’s premier lift manufacturer.

Five reasons to visit Panorama:

1. Get to the top of Panorama’s 4,000 vertical faster than ever with two new quads.

2. Experience terrain with a backcountry feel in Taynton Bowl, terrain formerly only accessed by a heli-ski operation.

3. Soak tired muscles and relax in the giant, slopeside Panorama Springs Hot Pools.

4. Savor cheese fondue at Panorama’s summit after the lifts close before skiing down with a guide as the sun sets.

5. Enjoy luxurious ski-in/ski-out accommodations with abundant winter pastimes at your doorstep.

Panorama Vital Stats

Summit altitude: 7800 feet Vertical drop: 4000 feet Lift system: village gondola, 2 high-speed quads, 1 quad, 1 triple chair, 1 double chair, 3 beginner surface lifts. Skiable area: 2847 acres, 100+ trails Terrain mix: 30 percent advanced/expert, 55 percent intermediate, and 15 percent novice Parks ‘n’ Pipes: 1 halfpipe, 1 expert terrain park, 1 intermediate terrain park (night lit) Average snowfall: 13 feet Season: December – mid April Lift pass – approx. $50 U.S. Getting there: Panorama is 3.5 hours from the Calgary International Airport. Shuttle services connect Panorama, Banff, Kimberley and Fernie. For more info Panorama is owned and operated by Intrawest.

For more info, call 1-888-475-4226 or visit their web site through an easily found link on the home page of www.skiernews.

SKIERS SAVE at THE PEAKS RESORT AND GOLDEN DOOR SPA in TELLURIDE

in BRECKENRIDGE - SKI VILLAGE RESORTS OFFER PERFECT LODGING LOCATIONS

BRECKENRIDGE, CO — “The skiers that skied are sore but very happy. The non-skiers really enjoyed visiting with each other, shopping and eating at all the fun places in town.” Breckenridge, Colo. has the best of everything, for everybody. That is why Ski Village Resorts believes it is best to let the guests speak for themselves. They have been there. They know.

And as one group in town for some snow adventures recalled, the skiing in Breckenridge is unsurpassed; “The magnificent seven came and conquered Breckenridge by planting our butts and faces on all the trails from green to black diamonds. None of us could have asked for a better time.”

To make the most out of your ski vacation, Ski Village Resorts can set you up with ski-in/ski-out accommodations. It is the easiest way to enjoy the slopes and return without the hassle of hopping a bus or loading the car. This guest enjoyed the activities and the rest; “Thanks for the fun time skiing in Breckenridge, the condo was nice and cozy to come home to after a hard day of skiing.” With ski-in/ski-out and on-mountain locations that are convenient to the restaurants, stores and entertainment of town, you choose the “home away from home” that fits your every need.

“We’ve been to Breckenridge before and have stayed at different places, but this condo is the best by far.” This guest book entry epitomizes our philosophy. The properties offered by Ski Village Resorts are all first class. Whether you need a studio on the slopes or a private home in town you will get far more than you expected. “We celebrated Mom’s 60th birthday together and had a marvelous time. The Los Pinos town home was perfect. We appreciated the kitchen, and had a cooking competition with each couple responsible for a dinner. We traveled from Minnesota and San Francisco and could not have asked for a more splendid vacation.”

“Wow, what an awesome condo. It felt like home away from home, and we had everything we needed. The skiing was great and no broken bones. It was the best watching Hailey and Drew go up and down the Quicksilver (lift) after two days of ski school. We arrived from Hollywood, Florida and could not believe how awesome this place is!” Families are always welcome at Ski Village Resorts. Nothing compares to seeing your children zoom past you on the slopes with gigantic smiles on their faces. According to this 8-year-old, all school vacations should be this much fun, “A family condo for spring break, I had a great time, skiing, snowmobiling. The food was great and so was my room. I wish I could stay longer.” And when parents are happy, everybody is happy, “We enjoyed our stay. It was cool with lots of snow. The skiing was fun and the kids had a blast!”

Ski Village Resorts provides services that make your visit the best that it can be. Their commitment to you is to maintain all of their properties. They accept only the highest standards. So, if you are spending a romantic getaway with your significant other, then you are in luck. Nothing compares to Ski Village Resorts and Breckenridge, Colo., when it comes to getting the most out of your time together. Whether you want dinner for two at a classy, cozy restaurant, if you want to snuggle up together under a warm blanket for and evening sleigh ride, or if you want to stay inside and have food delivered to your door, they can help you make the arrangements. So, if you are only an hour away or if you are coming across the Atlantic, Ski Village Resorts’ complete concierge service will help you arrange everything from lift tickets, equipment rentals, snowmobiles, car rentals, shuttle service and airline tickets. Locals and international travelers alike enjoy the benefits of the easy connections.

You can check out all of the exceptional properties at www.skivillageresorts.com, but before you log on, here is a little taste of what they have to offer.

The Chateaux at the Village has private heated parking, access to hot tubs, heated pools and many other amenities. It’s the perfect place for a family vacation.

The Corral is one of Breckenridge’s finest lodging accommodations. It is close to the ski area and the downtown shops and restaurants.

Main Street Station occupies the perfect Breckenridge location. It is ski-in/ski-out to the Quicksilver Super Chair, walking distance to the Maggie Pond ice rink, and historical Main Street is at your door.

Pine Creek Townhouses is a beautiful town home sitting in the heart of Breckenridge. It is one block from the Quicksilver lift and is just steps away from the Blue River.

The Riverbend Lodge is a mere 20 yards away from the Snowflake Lift. Your legs will thank you for these accommodations.

The Bear House is a beautiful 4-bedroom Victorian style home nestled on quaint French Street in Breckenridge.

Ski Village Resorts is a full-service, property management company in Breckenridge, Colorado USA. Please give them a call to book your vacation at 1-888-972-8200.

Check out their web site, www.skivillageresorts.com or via an easily found link on the right side of the homepage of www.skiernews.com. Life’s too short. Do it now!

RADISSON PARK CITY HAS GREAT PACKAGE

PARK CITY, UT — The Radisson Inn Park City is ideally situated within minutes of three world-class ski resorts, the 2002 Winter Olympic Venues, restaurants, shopping and entertainment.

Family-owned, and known for friendly service and charming ambience, the recently renovated Radisson Inn Park City continues to provide a perfect setting for a relaxing stay. This hotel offers 131 guests rooms, situated on two acres. The king or double queen rooms feature: coffee-makers, high speed internet access, hair dryers, cotton robes, Asira Hair and bath products, an in-room safe, pay-per-view movies, Nintendo games, iron and ironing board.

Put all of that together with a special winter rate package and you have an unbeatable deal. This special lodging rate starts at just $95 per person, this big value package includes a lift ticket, lodging and breakfast.

To take advantage of this offer, please call 435-604-4011 and mention the ad on the left on page 6 of SKIER NEWS' November-December Issue or this article. For more information, log on to www.radisson.com/parkcityut or call toll-free 1-800-649-5012.

TAHOE'S HYATT REGENCY MAKES IT EASY TO PLAY & STAY

INCLINE VILLAGE, NV -- Planning a ski vacation this winter? Stay and play at Lake Tahoe’s most prestigious lakeside resort, the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe in beautiful Incline Village. The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe is nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, offering its guests unmatched outdoor recreation and backdoor access to the Tahoe basin’s world-class ski resorts. With more than 18 ski, board and cross country resorts within an hour’s drive of the Hyatt, it is the ideal destination to settle in, cuddle up and enjoy Lake Tahoe’s classic winter scene.

Ski enthusiasts staying at the Hyatt enjoy the perks of an all-in-one-vacation. From complimentary guest shuttle service to select ski resorts to the lake’s most inviting après ski activities, the resort caters to those looking to celebrate winter in style. The Hyatt also offers 2005-06 “Stay and Ski Packages” which come complete with a one-night stay, two-forone coffee vouchers and two lift tickets to the region’s top ski resorts including Alpine Meadows, Diamond Peak, Northstar-at-Tahoe or Squaw Valley USA. “Stay and Ski Packages” start at just $250.

Those planning an indoor winter retreat can visit the Hyatt’s Stillwater Spa, which offers a selection of locally inspired treatments. The new 20,000-square-foot facility provides the latest spa remedies available and features state-of-the-art spa technology with 16 private treatment rooms, including two couple’s massage suites. As one of the largest spa facilities in northern Nevada and northern California, the Stillwater Spa also boasts a full service salon and fitness center.

The spa is just one of the ways to unwind this winter at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe. The property provides guests with a one-of-a-kind experience featuring an array of on-site amenities including a year-round, lagoon-style outdoor pool with indoor swim-out access, outdoor fire pits and s’more kits made-to-order and delivered to you, plus 24-hour Nevadastyle gaming and live entertainment in the 18,900-square-foot Grand Lodge Casino. For the kids, the Hyatt offers its famed Camp Hyatt where children are entertained with a variety of daytime or evening activities such as nature walks, treasure hunts, stargazing, movies, story telling and more. The Hyatt’s 422 luxurious guestrooms, including suites and Lakeside Cottages, offer sweeping lake and mountain views and are the perfect home away from home.

When it is time to dine, the Hyatt tempts taste buds with four on-site restaurants, including the acclaimed award-winning Lone Eagle Grille serving up lunch specialties, elegant dinners and a renowned Sunday Brunch in an old-Tahoe atmosphere with awe-inspiring lake and beach views. Ciao Mein Trattoria prepares a unique mix of Chinese and Italian dishes under one roof while Cutthroat’s Saloon satisfies cravings with signature lunch and dinner options. For more traditional fare, visit Sierra Café and try the new Friday night Seafood Buffet or Saturday night Prime Rib Buffet.

Though the Hyatt has mastered the après ski experience, thanks to its recent $60 million renovation, there is still plenty to explore off property. The Hyatt is centrally located near countless non-ski winter activities such as snowmobile tours, sleigh riding, sledding, snowshoeing and year-round sightseeing or dinnerand- dance cruises.

With so much to do off of the slopes, the Hyatt also offers special seasonal packages. The Hyatt’s “B&B Package” includes overnight accommodations, breakfast for two at the property’s signature Sierra Café plus the resort amenity program, tax included, starting at just $199 per couple per night. Opt for the “Fall Package” and get all the perks of the B&B Package plus two-for-one spa treatments at the Hyatt’s Stillwater Spa, from $295 per couple per night. Offer valid daily through December 15, 2005.

So when it comes time to cozy up this winter, consider Tahoe’s “New Grand Lodge,” the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort Spa and Casino, and treat yourself to a winter getaway unlike any other. To book a package or for more information on the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort Spa and Casino, you can visit them on-line at www.LakeTahoeHyatt.com or call 1-888-510-0529.

You can also log on to the Hyatt Lake Tahoe’s web site via an easily found link on the right side of the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

EMBASSY SUITES - LAKE TAHOE OFFERS "PREMIER" SKI PACKAGE

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CA -- Whether you want an outdoor ski adventure, great entertainment, the most scenic ski gondola ride in the nation, gambling or shopping, Embassy Suites Hotel Lake Tahoe Resort is the perfect base for winter visitors. You will feel right at home in a comfortable suite each night and be close to a world-class ski resort to enjoy each day.

For the 2005-06 winter season, the Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe Resort is offering destination skiers the “Premier Snowfest Package.” This package is offered for an outstanding seven-night get-away and includes five days of lift tickets at Tahoe’s premier ski resorts. The Premier Snowfest Package is $1,799. The rate is based on seven night stay, single or double occupancy. (It does not include tax and surcharge and is subject to availability. It excludes holidays and special events.)

The Premier Package includes a tworoom suite with a private bedroom featuring one king or two double beds and a separate living room with a sofa bed. This provides comfort and flexibility for couples and families. All suites have a wet bar, microwave oven, coffee maker, and two remote-control cable color televisions with in-room movies.

Also included is a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast each day. Your aprés ski is complete as you join other guests at the nightly manager’s reception

In addition to the nightly manager's reception, you can enjoy one of three garden atriums; pamper yourself at the spa, swim in the large heated pool, soak in the whirlpool, work out at the fitness center and dine at Echo Restaurant.

Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe Resort is set on the California-Nevada border in South Lake Tahoe. It is located near the base of the Gondola at Heavenly Ski Resort and is a short drive from several other excellent ski resorts. The famous Nevada casinos with 24- 7 gaming, nightlife and big name entertainment are only 50 feet away, across the street in Nevada. It is perfect for families since the resort is close to a variety of entertainment options including two movie theaters and an outdoor ice skating rink.

For more information or reservations on all packages with various prices (The Premier Snowfest Package is $1,799) contact Embassy Suites’ informative staff at 1-800-988-5192 or visit their website www.embassytahoe.com.

You can also link to their web site from the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

CAMP RICHARDSON RESORT HAS WINTER RECREATION FUN

CAMP RICHARDSON, CA -- Once the snow flies the fun continues at Camp Rich with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at the Mountain Sports Center. Recently voted "Best Place to Cross Country Ski" by Tahoe locals, the Sports Center offers groomed and marked trails for the beginner to the expert and is a great place to ski along the shores of the water. With a wide selection of skis and snowshoes (including youth and children's sizes), lessons are available, call for dates and times.

The miles of bike trails from summer are magically changed to a beautiful white winter wonderland for skiing and snowshoeing. Winter fun doesn't stop at the Mountain Sports Center, you can look forward to Full Moon Cross Country and Snowshoeing parties, and the famous "Snowshoe Cocktail Race" (more info below) held on the shore of the lake at The Beacon. Imagine the fun of wearing snowshoes, holding a drink on a cocktail tray, and "racing" around a course! Prizes are awarding and everyone has fun.

For more information on any of the activities offered at Camp Richardson's Mountain Sports Center, please call (530) 542-6584.

The Beacon Bar & Grill

Lakeside dining at it's best! It is the home of the famous Rum Runner, voted "Best Drink" by Tahoe locals. The Beacon offers a great menu selection for the entire family.

Whether you are looking for appetizers, lunch or dinner on the deck, or a relaxed meal in the dining room, the Beacon has it all. Be sure to try the "Camp Richardson Resort Clam Chowder".

Winter Promotions

Full Moon Cross Country & Snowshoe Parties - Stop in at the Beacon for a hot drink, then take a walk through the woods under the light of a Full Moon. Enjoy the beauty and quiet of our winter wonderland, then return to the Beacon and finish off the evening with a wonderful dinner.

Snowshoe Cocktail Races - Race the course in snowshoes with a drink on your tray - see if you can go the fastest… without spilling! Great prizes awarded for the fastest time, and the person who falls the most.

Happy Hour

Everyday from 4 to 7 p.m., stop in at the Beacon for great drink specials, including our famous Rum Runner for $3, and appetizer specials.

Winter Wild Wednesdays

When the snow flies, the fun begins, at the Beacon Bar & Grill. Happening every Wednesday night, all winter long. Enjoy $3 Run Runners, and more.

You can reach Camp Richardson Resort by calling 1-800-766-4705 or log on to their web site www.camprichardson.com.

LAKE TAHOE ACCOMMODATIONS PROVIDES UNIQUE ON-LINE BOOKING

LAKE TAHOE, CA/NV – Skiers who wish to examine all types of lodging opportunities can find a wide variety at the web site of Lake Tahoe Accommodations, at www.tahoeaccommodations.com. This site offers the viewer a chance at a virtual tour of more than 350 of the better condos, mountain cabins and homes for rent around the lake. This is a great feature. It gives you the ability to take the “guess-work” out of the decision making to find the perfect rental. You will see each property on your computer screen and take a 360-degree tour of the rooms. You will even find all the details of the rental, such as washer and dryer availability, a fireplace, sleeping capcity and more.

Once the property has been viewed and decisions made, the user can easily book their stay on-line. If you need to call, complementing those 350-plus vacation rentals is their friendly, knowledgeable staff. They can answer your questions and help you book that perfect vacation rental. Cozy cabins, condos, comfortable family homes or exquisite executive retreats. They have it all.

Search Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals by Map

If you are not sure where to begin your search, then start with their interactive map. Lake Tahoe Accommodations has properties dotted around the lake. From South Lake Tahoe, to North Lake Tahoe, the Tahoe Keys to Incline Village, you can get to know the area and then start your search in the region of the Lake where you would like to stay.

The convenience continues after you select your site since Lake Tahoe Accommodations has check-in locations in several Tahoe cities. You’ll get your keys and be close to your rental, avoiding any extra mileage once you arrive at the Lake.

For more info, call 1-800-577-1504 or log on their web site via an easily found link on the right side of the home page of www.skiernews.com.

Log on to this unique site directly at www.tahoeaccommodations.com.

DAYS INN - SUMMIT COUNTY,

IS IN THE MIDDLE OF IT ALL

DAYS INN SILVERTHORNE, CO – Skiers who are looking for convenience in a Colorado ski trip need to look no further than the Days Inn in Summit County. Located off Interstate 70 at exit 205, this Days Inn offers comfort, convenience and affordability.

Have you read about the new lift in Breckenridge? The Days Inn has a free bus ride at its door to take you to the 11 miles to the resort. Would you like to ski the more gentle slopes of Keystone? They are found five miles away. Copper Mountain is eight miles and Vail is 30 miles. Lift tickets are sold on-site to make your trip on to the snow even quicker; equipment rentals are next door.

There are 73 unique rooms, many with a kitchenette and fireplace. There are condo-style accommodations with rooms that can sleep up to 14 people.

Each morning you will awake to a complimentary Continental Breakfast. Your in-room conveniences include free local phone calls and free wireless access. There is a full complement of cable TV channels.

After skiing you can relax in their hot tub, sauna or let the kids enjoy the wading pool. There is also a guest laundry facility in the hotel adjacent to the lobby and the pool.

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Front Range ski country, this is the perfect destination. Whatever the season, you will have a vacation to remember when you choose the Days Inn Summit County.

For more information or reservations, please call 1-800-520-4267.

Log on to their web site via an easily found link on the right side of the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

LA QUINTA INN & SUITES IS COLORADO’S

NEWEST PRIME LOCATION HOTEL

- FAMOUS RESORTS ARE MINUTES WAY

Breckenridge, Keystone & Copper nearby, Vail 30 interstate miles

SILVERTHORNE, CO - One of the travel items most skiers want is convenience. Perhaps no lodge is more convenient to as many great ski resorts as one of the newest in the national chain of La Quinta Inn & Suites in Silverthorne, Colo. It is located in Colorado’s Summit County in close proximity to four, great, well-known resorts, and 30 interstate miles from Vail.

The hotel is located off Interstate 70, just west of the Eisenhower Tunnel, at the Silverthorne exit, at mile marker 205.

Since the hotel is also located on the Summit Stage bus route, you can get a free ride to terrific skiing at Breckenridge, Copper, Keystone or Arapahoe Basin by just going to the hotel front door. These resorts are within a few miles of the hotel.

The La Quinta Inn and Suites, formerly a Sheraton Four Points, has 118 well appointed guest rooms, and 30 luxury suites. All have micro/fridge, coffee and hot tea, cable, movies and complimentary breakfast bar for every guest.

After skiing some of the best mountains in the world, you can relax in the heated indoor pool and hot tub, work the kinks out of your muscles in a state-of-the-art fitness facility then head to one of the mountain-view rooms to prepare for your next fun day.

For aprés-ski, dinner or watching sports at the bar, an Old Chicago restaurant is located in the hotel, an elevator ride away from your room. The bar features food favorites, happy-hour specials and enough TVs to view every sporting event that is broadcast.

As snow depths start to increase this winter, don’t wait to take advantage of one of the best values and greatest locations available for your ski vacation.

You can visit their web site via an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

To discover the convenience of this newly renovated hotel, please call the new La Quinta Inn & Suites Silverthorne at 1-800-321-3509 for info and reservations.

THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Mogul Class 101:

FIVE POINTERS FOR BLACK DIAMOND THRILLS

by Technical Editor, Tony Crespi

Looking down a steep bump run can be breath taking. Trails the likes of Honeycomb Canyon at Utah’s Solitude and Gunbarrel at Heavenly are steep and the troughs between the moguls are usually deep. It is easy to understand that trails such as Gunbarrel or Look Ma at Vail have challenged some of the finest bump skiers in the world.

Invariably on any given run, someone crashes.

Some skiers, of course, do not want to risk falling - or failing - and look for ways to avoid the bumps. This often means skiing other, less bumped-up terrain, and frankly, that just limits the menu. Moreover, most skiers realize that if you want to truly master the mountain, you need to learn to extend your skills to include mogul mastery.

Have you ever watched a fluid, bold, mogul skier and wonder how you might enhance your skills? Unfortunately, many fine skiers do not have access to the kind of top coaches who can help create the kind of powerful learning situations to help make good skiers into great skiers. After all, not all coaches are equal. Some teachers are stronger than others, some are faster and some are just more gifted. Plenty of ski pros can ski bumps well. But not all can teach other skiers how to reach that next plateau.

For this clinic, we enlisted two top black diamond coaches who stand above the crowd. Each skis differently, but each is knowledgeable and powerful. Here are our pros.

Meet Bud Randall; a veteran ski pro with PSIA Level III Certification, Randall has coached at a number of mountains - East and West. From stints teaching at places the like of Vail in Colorado to his current base at Bromley Mountain in Vermont, Randall has developed an impressive resume as a mogul coach. In fact, while actively coaching freestyle competitors, seven of his mogul squad qualified for the nationals. Tagging along behind Bud late last season - at high speed - I watched him dance through the moguls on some of the most challenging conditions of the season. The troughs were deep, and the trail was glazed in ice. He smiled and hopped down through the bumps with the finesse of a dancer. Bud Randall is a top coach.

Here is our second coach

Meet Brian Whatley; currently an Examiner for PSIA and a pro at Stratton Mountain Ski School, Whatley is a top gun who spends much of the winter teaching, testing, and certifying other pros for PSIA. Brian is good, very good.

Welcome to our bump clinic. Class in Session

The Advanced Class

1. Utilize A Positive Mental Edge

Do not neglect the mental side to advanced skiing. So often people enter a mogul field taking a “reactive” rather than a “proactive” stance. In bumps, this can spell disaster.

“The experience can be much nicer if you open your mind,” emphasizes Randall. “You want to stay relaxed. I like to think of skiing through bumps like running water - fluidly flowing. If I get into and go for it, I get hungry and attack. But if you hold back you won’t have control and won’t have a good experience.”

To start to enhance your mental edge, start by selecting appropriate bumps for positive learning. At Stratton Mountain, for example, the mountain has created “man made” moguls on green, blue, as well as black diamond terrain. This is perfect for skill development.

“It’s very important to find appropriate terrain,” emphasizes Whatley. “Do-or-die bumps won’t help anyone learn.”

To refine your skills, select bumps on terrain where you are very comfortable. In that way, you can refine technique without worrying about the pitch.

Next, consider watching some of the videos available on mogul skiing. As you watch the tapes, practice your visualization skills and gradually begin to visualize your turns.

The take home: Learn on terrain where you feel very comfortable. Think of taking a proactive rather than a reactive approach; and practice visualizing your turns in your mind’s eye.

Above all stay relaxed, have fun, be aware

2. Refine Short Turns for Maximum Control

Clearly, one key skill for bumps is a solid short turn. Skiers the likes of Whatley and Randall can ski a wide array of short turns. Some with lots of skid, some are carved, some are slow and some fast. Most critically, they can execute short turns on an array of conditions or trails.

“Keep your legs turning,” emphasizes Whatley. “Learn to be able to make more turns than there are bumps.”

To begin to master your speed control, start by dividing the hill. Practice making lots and lots of turns on very moderate bumps. Ideally, have a friend stand 50 feet away. Then ski to your partner executing as many turns as possible. Keep it fun! Develop your turning skills! Keep varying the rhythm.

“Bumps aren’t perfect,” emphasizes Randall. “Bumps used to be rhythmic. But nowadays that is not always true. Today we find all kinds of bumps. You have to be able to crank out the turns. Even on the flats I practice making turns. This forces me to be quick and it helps in the bumps because you can turn anywhere, skiing different patterns. Being able to vary the amount of turns gives you power.”

Develop your quickness and like Bud Randall, maximize your turning. Then, over time, you will be able to make more turns than are actually necessary.

3. Refine Your Speed Control for Mogul Mastery

“Go slow at first,” suggests Whatley. “Go slow as you practice. It is amazing how many people go into bumps at the same speed as they ski the groomed runs. Go half as fast as you think you should if you are practicing.”

“Speed control is important, especially on black diamonds,” echoes Randall. “If you go too fast, then you may lose your control as you try to reel it in.”

One key to speed control involves a good rhythm. But that can be difficult to capture. To begin to develop your rhythm, try humming a rhythm. Turn. Turn. Turn. Hup. Turn. Turn. Turn. Hup. Remember: if you can dance, you have a great chance.

“I suggest to start off at a comfortable speed,” explains Randall. “A lot of times people gain speed because they don’t complete the turns.“ Work on shaping the turn; this controls, or shapes, your speed.

I’ve been there. I have learned to bring the speed back to a controllable feeling as I enter the bumps. I work to set a pace from which to work, a pace that can make me comfortable.”

Make your skiing more flexible. Practice your speed control by refining the shape of your turns, which can control the speed of the turn as well. In this way, you more easily maneuver through different shapes of bumps, while continuing to refine your speed.

4. Find Your Center.

Many skiers lose their balance in the bumps. Have you found that you are sometimes kicked back on your heels? This happens to many people: they sit back, and they lose control.

“As long as you are centered you have more grace,” notes Randall. “If you are off-center, you’re going to end up in trouble.”

“I experiment pulling my feet back so I can quickly engage the tip of the ski,” notes Whatley. “Remember that the goal is to maximize ski and snow contact. Make the skis follow the contours of the snow.”

Start by getting yourself centered. Easier said then done? Start by learning how it feels sitting back, and then lean forward. The trick to maintaining your center is not only moving yourself forward but also pulling your feet back underneath you. Try skiing slightly forward and back, gradually rocking back and forth to refine your balance. Practice rocking both your body as well as your feet. Top skiers, after all, can correct their centering by moving both their bodies and feet.

“When you find what doesn’t feel good,” explains Randall, “you can learn to move yourself so you are more centered. That helps make you dynamic and precise. Sometimes I just put my body down the hill, which has helped me get back over the skis. But you have to develop the ability to do this.”

To maximize your contact, develop a centered stance.

5. Develop Quick Edges for Hard Bumps

Quick edge-to-edge short turns are the hallmark of the accomplished mogul skier. To build your skills, practice on a groomed slope similar in pitch to your mogul trail and pick a line. Practice the same turns that you would in the moguls. Then, begin to use the same skills in smaller moguls. As you become more proficient, extend into larger and more challenging bumps.

The quickness issue is important. Do not hang onto the turn so long that you cannot make the next turn. Just before the end of the turn give it up and start the next one. Be really light on the turn finish. Think about being light or gentle rather than heavy or hard at the turn finish. Before your skis stall, get them going the other way again.

“Being light is very good. If you just touch the edge you can find, if you just give them the chance, the skis really can perform. You have to let it happen, and learn to really work the ski,” emphasizes Randall.

The Take-Home

If mogul mastery is one of your goals, and if you do not have the advantage of following someone of the caliber of Bromley Mountain’s Bud Randall or Stratton’s Brian Whatley, consider slowly experimenting with the terrain at your favorite mountain, whether it is in Tahoe, the Rockies or in an Eastern resort.

Remember:

1. Utilize a Positive Mental Edge

2. Refine Short Turns for Maximum Control

3. Refine Speed Control for Maximum Control

4. Find Your Center

5. Develop Quick Edges for Hard Bumps.

Initially do not choose moguls that are overly challenging. Even novice runs can offer different terrain variations that you can use to begin to refine your bump skills. The point is to begin to expand skills, and explore lines, which you might not have enjoyed before. It builds technique, it keeps things interesting, and the ride can be enormously enjoyable.

Begin, gradually, to refine your skills. Begin on easy slopes. If possible, begin with superb snow and begin with a great instructor.

Be Aware - Ski with Care - Ski with a Friend.

Technical Editor Tony Crespi has served as both a Ski School Trainer and Development Team Coach. This season, when not writing his column, you might find him refining his mogul skills on his favorite black diamond terrain.

Other columns can be archived from SKIER NEWS' Previous Issues.