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NATIONWIDE SKI INFO
FEBRUARY - SPRING 2007
VOL. 20 - ISSUE 74 - GET OUT & SKI ISSUE
| Editorials,
Cover Story and
Feature Articles |
Updates
& News Technical & Instructional |
Featured
Lodging - Great Hotels and Lodges with Great Deals |
| EDITORIALS COVER STORY FEATURE ARTICLES TECHNICAL INFO ...by Tony D. Crespi, SKIER NEWS Instructional Editor |
UPDATES
& NEWS MORE WESTERN RESORT INFO 2006-07 Utah, New Mex & Colorado Favorites 2006-07 Tahoe's Best - Travel Planner 2006-07 Destination Western Canada & the Northern U.S. Rockies EASTERN RESORT INFO |
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by Publisher and Editor, Dave Leonardi REMEMBERING PRESIDENT FORD  President Gerald Ford was kind enough to pose with SKIER NEWS’ Publishers and Editors Dave and Lorie Leonardi at a 1994 Vail World Cup event, The Subaru American Ski Classic World Cup Finals. President Ford was an avid skier and is credited with bringing Vail to the forefront of the skiing world in the 1970’s. Perhaps our most athletic President, he was an All-American football player in college at the University of Michigan - playing both offense and defense. He frequently skied at Vail and had a home in Beaver Creek. He was a board member and an advocate for the Vail Valley Foundation and assisted in presenting medals at Vail’s World Cup Races when possible A Vail Daily article on December 28, 2006, mentioned that “While Ford’s name is well-known through(out) the valley, and attached to a park and amphitheater in Vail, according to Vail Valley Foundation Director Ceil Folz, Ford never sought those honors.” “President Ford recognized that people want to recognize him, and he (would) do that in the name of a good cause,” Folz said. “But he would always ask if someone else didn’t deserve the honor. Both of them (he and Betty, his wife) are very humble.” The article continues to report that Folz was always struck by Ford’s “regular guy” nature. At the 1994 Vail race award ceremonies, we were struck by his relaxed, unhurried nature. President Ford posed for three pictures with us, at the time it seemed that no Secret Service agents were nearby but the same guys were always in the background of the photos. It was refreshing that while some politicians only travel with an entourage, President Ford quietly moved about, with his competent but unnoticed security force. A few years later, at Beaver Creek, we sat at a table behind him at a fireworks display that was the kick-off to another race event. He attended the event with his friends from the Foundation although he most likely could have watched the display from his nearby home. That event also was special to us, sitting behind a former President, skier and someone we had met a few years earlier. There was no need for more photos or even another introduction, for us it was special and more fond memories indeed. The SKIER NEWS’ photo above was taken by our staff member, Jennifer Hawkins. A link to the complete article in the Vail Daily can be found on the left side of the home page of www.skiernews.com. BAD GUYS -- Part Three -- GUILTY PLEAS BAD GUYS -- GUILTY PLEAS In our October-November Issue I reported in this column that the alleged arsonists were indicted for the fire set to Vails’ Two Elk Lodge and other buildings atop Vail Mountain in 1998. Two pleaded guilty and the alleged ring-leader William Rodgers, committed suicide by suffocation in an Arizona jail. In May 2006 eight counts of arson were delivered by a Denver federal grand jury. A group of three women and one man were indicted in connection with the sabotage against the resort. Chelsea Gerlach, 29, and Stanislas Meyerhoff, 28, were in custody when indicted. Two others, Josephine Overaker, 31, and Rebecca Rubin, 33, were thought to be outside of the U.S. at the time and remain at large. Gerlach and Meyerhoff, according to the Vail Daily, had already pleaded guilty to some of the $20 million worth of arsons committed between 1996 and 2001 by a group based in Eugene, Ore., known as the Family. The group reportedly planned and perpetrated the attack on Vail to discourage the resort from expanding in Blue Sky Basin, claiming it would ruin lynx habitat. The fires followed a final approval of Vail’s expansion plans after several other enviro groups lost in court to the ski area. Also according to the report, in Eugene, Judge Ann Aiken asked the pair if they pleaded guilty to the charges. Gerlach responded “yes” and Meyerhoff responded “Yes, I do.” The hearing lasted about ten minutes. The Vail Daily report also states that “according to court records, Rodgers recruited Meyerhoff and Gerlach to help him firebomb the ski resort in Vail to prevent it from expanding into endangered lynx habitat.” The report continues that Gerlach “has already pleaded guilty to 18 counts in five attacks, saying she was motivated by “a deep sense of despair and anger at the deteriorating global environment,” but has since realized the firebombings did more harm than good for her cause. Meyerhoff has since renounced the ELF (Earth Liberation Front) and has pleaded guilty to 54 counts from seven attacks, according to the paper. Sentencing for Meyerhoff will be on April 10 and for Gerlach on April 18. Another eight in the case who have pleaded guilty will be sentenced at the end of April. You can read the full Vail Daily report from a link on the left side of the home page of www.skiernews.com.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- And once again, we ask God to bless our troops who continue to defend America against terrorism in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world so that we can enjoy the blessings of liberty here at home. Please continue to travel and enjoy the freedom of skiing and thank our heroes for helping to preserve our outstanding way of life.
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STEAMBOAT IS STILL SETTING STYLE by Don "Snoshu" Thompson Steamboat Springs in northwest Colorado, with a mountain called Mt. Werner, has been a trendsetter for many years and continues today. A few years ago the first wind-powered ski lift, Burgess Creek, went into operation saving as much energy during the season as taking 48 cars off the road for a year. Last year it was a “Mountain Watch,” a device that you secure on your wrist that sends out a signal, showing where you are, every 12 seconds as long as you are in the area of the resort. What a great item for smaller kids who may not be able to work a cell phone or a walkie-talkie radio. You can rent them for as many as ten people. The cost is about $5 per day per device. This season Steamboat installed a Leitner-Poma of America high-speed quad chairlift, replacing the Sunshine fixed grip triple chairlift. The Sunshine Express will significantly enhance the guest experience by reducing travel time from 11 minutes to five minutes. Sunshine Express will have a vertical rise of 1,400 feet, a slope length of 5,500 feet, and a top speed of 1,000 feet per minute. As a part of its long-standing commitment to the environment, Steamboat purchased renewable energy certificates to offset the electricity needed to power the Sunshine Express lift. Steamboat is purchasing renewable energy certificates from 3 Phases Energy Services to ensure the delivery of clean, natural power to the “grid,” thereby displacing an equivalent amount of energy that otherwise would have been created by non-renewable sources. Under the energy certificates, the Sunshine Express will operate on a combination of wind and solar power, the first lift in the country to use solar power. Earlier innovations included “Ski with a Naturalist.” Every Tuesday and Thursday from 1:30 to 2:30, a Yampatika naturalist will guide skiers and boarders down a green, beginner trail. Yampatika is a local non-profit environmental education organization. They also offer snowshoe and cross-country ski tours around the area. It is a great program for all ages but especially kids. Yampa is the name of the valley in which the town of Steamboat and other small communities are located. You could ski with a world famous racer, Billy Kidd, winner of a silver medal in the 1964 Olympics, which is one of the first alpine medals won by an American. Meet at Billy’s signpost just outside the gondola at 1 p.m. and let him give you pointers as you glide down a blue trail. Billy is great with kids and loves photo-ops. If you do not ski but would like to meet Billy, then ride the tram for a moderate fee and then use the voucher for a discount on food at one of the three restaurants on the hill. This is a great way for older folks or non-skiers to see the kids in action. The woman we rode up with was pregnant and enjoying the views during her pregnancy. Did you know they had over 33 feet of snow the 2005-06 season? They are well on their way to getting close to that mark again this season. Steamboat is a large mountain with plenty of terrain and lifts for all. It is legendary among U.S. ski resorts. If you need to research the resort, log on to www.steamboat.com. There is a lot more to a ski area than the mountain, for town info and more housing, shopping and dining info try www.steamboatsprings.com. Don "Snoshu" Thompson is a local legend in the Reno and Tahoe area. His ski writing and travels take him throughout the west and we try to publish his accounts as often as possible.
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SUBARU U.S. FREESKIING SERIES EXPANDS SALT LAKE CITY, UT — The Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Series continues to grow and establish itself as the premier big mountain freeskiing series with over $100,000 in cash prizes and the addition of a fifth event, the Subaru Squaw Valley USA Freeskiing Open. Winter 2007 marks the 10th Anniversary of the Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Nationals at Snowbird, and returning for a second year are the Subaru Telluride Freeskiing Open and the Subaru Jackson Hole Freeskiing Open. The Big Mountain Heli Ride in Valais, Switzerland, takes the place of the Verbier Ride and joins the Columbia Freeride Les Arcs, in Les Arcs, France, as World Tour events. Registration for all confirmed U.S. Freeskiing Series events sold out in only four days. The events are organized by Mountain Sports International (MSI). “On the freeskiing tour there is a common goal shared among the competitors and organizers,” said veteran competitor Tyson Bolduc. “I am excited for this season’s tour not only for the amazing experience, but for the new venues and adventures MSI has created. I can’t wait to hit the road and experience the thrills and camaraderie of another winter skiing on the Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Series and World Tours.” Title sponsor Subaru of America, Inc. has reaffirmed its support of competitive big mountain freeskiing by signing a two-year deal. Presenting sponsors The North Face and Nordica have also stepped up their commitment along with new presenting sponsor Corona Extra. Additional sponsors Tramdock.com, Yakima, Scott USA, Leatherman, Scullcandy, sportsinsurance.com, Grabber, and Emergen-C join media sponsors Powder Magazine and Ski Press in welcoming athletes from around the world who will compete for the title of U.S. Freeskiing Series and World Tour Champions. “Subaru is pleased to once again sponsor the U.S. Freeskiing Series,” said Tim Mahoney, Senior Vice President and CMO, Subaru of America, Inc. “Freeskiing is a dynamic and fast-growing sport and Subaru all-wheel drive is the best way to go to check out the new tour.” New in 2007, MSI will be posting real-time daily video broadcasts on the newly redesigned usfreeskiing.com (re-launched in Jan. 2007), featuring state of the art video and photo player technology. The daily uploads of video, photos, news and results of each day’s competition action will be available mere hours after each day concludes. The North Face Young Gun Award returns, honoring outstanding new talent in competitive freeskiing. Spectators can anticipate freeskiing’s elite battling it out for the Tobias Lee Sickbird Award, renamed for the winner of the final Sickbird of 2006. Tobias Lee passed away in an avalanche in April. “Being an announcer for over 10 years, I have seen some of the most spirited competition runs ever. The Sickbird Award represents those performances,” said MSI Winter Sports Director Dak Williams. “I look forward to watching the youth and the legends come together to tear it up in the Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Series.” SUBARU 2007 FREESKIING EVENT SCHEDULE Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Series Subaru Telluride Freeskiing Open Telluride, Colorado • February 8-11 Freeskiing World Tour Columbia Freeride Les Arcs Les Arcs, France • Feb 5-9 Freeskiing World Tour Big Mountain Heli Ride Valais, Switzerland • Feb. 22-25 Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Series Subaru Squaw Valley USA Freeskiing Open Squaw Valley USA, California •Feb. 14-17 Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Series and Freeskiing World Tour Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Nationals Snowbird, Utah •March 6-11 Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Series Subaru Jackson Hole Freeskiing Open Jackson Hole, Wyoming •March 15-18 Subaru U.S. Freeskiing Series Finals and Freeskiing World Tour Subaru North American Freeskiing Championships Kirkwood, California • Dates TBD Freeskiing World Tour Finals Tignes, France • April – Dates TBD SUBARU'S MASTER the MOUNTAIN PROGRAM CONTINUES (from our previous issue.) This year marks the 13th anniversary of the Subaru Master the Mountain program that tours popular destination resorts throughout the U.S. providing skiers and snowboarders alike with the opportunity to learn to ski or improve their current skills through professional instruction. Subaru’s Master the Mountain 2006-07 Schedule: December 16-17, Seven Springs, PA January 6-7, Kirkwood, CA January 6-7, Jack Frost, PA January 20-21, Telluride, CO January 20-21, Bear Creek, PA January 20-21, Durango, CO January 27-28, Camelback, PA February 3-4, Taos, NM February 10-11, Blue Mountain, PA February 17-18, Loveland, CO March 3-4, Camelback, PA March 10-11, Seven Springs, PA March 24-25, Eldora, CO WHY SUBARU? Subaru hosts hundreds of outdoor events each year from coast to coast. This approach helps Subaru learn more about their customers’ interests, and enables them to demonstrate how Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive can complement active lifestyles. Simply put, it is much more than hanging a banner on a mountain or sponsoring a racing team – it is the real deal. It is what makes Subaru unique. You could say that Subaru is the official vehicle of the outdoors. Please log on to Subaru’s Outdoor Life website via an easily found link and Subaru logo banner on the homepage of www.skiernews.com. You can also log on directly to www.outdoorlife.subaru.com.
SUN VALLEY GETS MORE SNOWMAKING & DEALS SUN VALLEY INTRODUCES NEW MULTIPLE-DAY LIFT EXCHANGE PROGRAM SUN VALLEY, ID — Sun Valley’s new Lift Exchange Program, is on its way to becoming one of the resort’s unique and distinctive traditions. Because of the myriad of wintertime activities and adventures tucked within the Sun Valley walking village, the resort has developed a program providing skiers and snowboarders many other options with the purchase of a multiple- day lift ticket. Sun Valley Resort owns and operates the entire ski area, Sun Valley hotels, accommodations and all the village amenities and goods that 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. Now you can choose one of the following options already built into your multiple-day lift ticket: • A massage at the Sun Valley Salon & Day Spa • A 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 • Shopping at the Sun Valley Lodge or Village Gift Shops. Exchange options also include a Sun Valley musical snow globe, a vintage porcelain platter or a hand painted, numbered edition Christmas ornament. Also available is a Sleigh ride and lunch at Trail Creek Cabin. For more info on this program, which optimizes your Sun Valley ski experience for the whole family, please call the Sun Valley Recreation Office at (208) 622-2135. Or log on to their website at www.sunvalley.com. SUN VALLEY INSTALLS NEW SNOWMAKING SYSTEM ON DOLLAR MOUNTAIN SUN VALLEY, ID — Sun Valley’s Dollar Mountain will sport state-of-the-art snowmaking from top to bottom this ski season, with 44 York Safyr Snow Gun Towers and new snowmaking infrastructure on four runs: Sepp’s Bowl, Sepp’s Road, Dollar Face, Old Bowl Lane and Race Hill. New ski technology is nothing new to this sunny and gentle old mountain. In 1936, the world’s first chairlifts were engineered and installed here by Union Pacific Railroad, founders of Sun Valley Resort. From the opening of Sun Valley to the present day, Dollar Mountain has maintained its reputation as one of the finest ski teaching areas in the world. Lots of Sun Valley sunshine graces this 6,638-foot, treeless mountain with seven lifts and a lift capacity of 3,400 skiers per hour. Dollar Mountain’s base lodge, the new 26,000-square-foot family center, opened in 2004 and completes the ultimate ski experience for all ages – an ideal winter playground for the young and young-at-heart. Sun Valley Resort’s owners, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Holding, began the reconstruction of the resort’s on-mountain lodges in the mid-90’s. All nationally acclaimed as some of the world’s finest mountain facilities, this newest development will embrace Sun Valley Resort’s commitment to providing an unparalleled winter family vacation experience. Learn more about Sun Valley by logging on to their web site from an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com pr directly at www.sunvalley.com. SUN VALLEY LODGE GETS $6-MILLION REMODEL SUN VALLEY, ID — A $6-million remodel of Sun Valley Resort’s Lodge Apartments was completed for Sun Valley’s 71st ski season, 2006-07. The 50 two- and three-bedroom apartments are graciously appointed with the very finest European fabrics, carpeting, top-of-the-line kitchen appliances, granite and marble counter tops and fireplace surrounds. Deep, rich, wood cabinetry, stainless steel and granite accent the open air kitchens overlooking the living rooms and new gas fireplaces. Aconvivial color palette of rich earth tones of rose, forest and moss greens, and vibrant Sun Valley autumn gold is carried throughout the richly upholstered, custom crafted furniture and the all wool, woven patterned carpeting milled by Brinton’s Axminster in England. State-of-the-art technology also has been incorporated into the renovation with 36-inch, flat-screen plasma televisions and high-speed Ethernet access. Guests staying at the new Lodge Apartments also enjoy all the amenities of the adjacent Sun Valley Lodge including the Sun Valley Lodge Dining Room, Gretchen’s Restaurant, cocktails and entertainment in the Duchin Lounge, the year-round outdoor ice rink and the outdoor glass-enclosed heated pool. It is easy to make reservations for the new Lodge Apartments or any of Sun Valley’s 500 hotel rooms, condos or cottages, please call 1-800-786-8259.
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STAY at UTAH’S WOLF CREEK RESORT EXPERIENCE WOLF MOUNTAIN, POWDER MOUNTAIN and SNOWBASIN EDEN, UT – In 2007 the readers of SKI Magazine rated Powder Mountain No. 1 for Snow and Value and Snowbasin Resort No. 1 for Lifts. Chances are you have probably never heard of either of these resorts amongst Utah’s more notorious mountains. What they lack in fame is good news for you, because it means uncrowded slopes, nary a lift-line, and fresh powder, days after a big dump. Both resorts are located in northern Utah, the “soft snow” capital of the state, just one hour from Salt Lake International Airport. POWDER MOUNTAIN Powder Mountain offers 5,500 aces of in-bounds and backcountry skiing and two unique adventures. Powder Country, a portion of Powder Mountain, is a wideopen series of steep glades and chutes where you pick your own line. Then you ski down to the access road to the resort where a big school bus and friendly driver are waiting to take you back up to more powder stashes. The other unusual experience at Powder is Lightening Ridge. For a nominal fee, a snowcat will pull you along a ridge. You can choose to be dropped off wherever the snow looks most appealing. Upgrading the in-bounds skiing, the resort added the Hidden Lake Express Quad this year, so you will get to that No. 1 rated snow much sooner. SNOWBASIN Snowbasin, a Sun Valley Resort, is across high mountain valley from Powder Mountain. The resort was home to the downhill events during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, so you can test your turning skills on the Grizzly Downhill (Men’s) or the Wildflower Downhill (Women’s). You can even turn on the same trail as Bode Miller, when his most amazing recovery earned him a silver medal. When it is time for a rest, there are three magnificent day lodges and the finest restrooms anywhere. High-speed gondolas whisk you to almost 3,000 acres amidst rocky ridge lines that remind most skiers of Switzerland’s landscape. Once you sample Snowbasin, you will know why SKI Magazine readers rated them No. 1 for Lifts. WOLF MOUNTAIN Wolf Mountain is perfect for those just learning or getting back into the sport. The resort offers a very affordable option with excellent learn to ski & ride programs. It also has a cool and edgy, yet safety minded terrain park, and Utah’s largest night skiing operation. Check it out at www.wolfmountaineden.com. Skiers and riders who want to visit these resorts need look no further for accommodations than Valley Lodging at Wolf Creek Resort. With a full assortment of fully outfitted vacation homes and condominiums within 20 minutes of all three mountains, they can accommodate just about any group size. Their friendly staff can assist with your entire post ski adventures, including snowshoeing, sleigh rides, snowmobiling and more. Check them out at www.valleylodging.com WOLF CREEK RESORT Wolf Creek Resort is located in a small town that really is called Eden, just 8 miles up canyon from Ogden, which offers all the urban conveniences with fine dining, shopping and cultural events. The wide-open feel and rural open spaces differentiate this area from Utah’s more crowded and congested resort towns. The future is very bright for this family friendly, master-planned community. Wolf Creek Resort’s Resident’s Club program includes an existing par 72 Championship golf course, with an 18 hole private member course on the horizon. The Family Recreation Village will offer every possible amenity for all to enjoy, such as the indoor Adventure Lagoon and Pool, climbing walls, tree houses and playing fields. In addition, there will be a lake for sailing and kayaking, tennis courts, basketball courts and an infinity edge pool. They will also offer a Little Trappers Clubhouse for arts and crafts and a seasonally changing interactive science exhibit so the kids can learn how all that stuff out there in the world actually works. There will also be a Day Care Cabin for the little ones, and a fully trained staff will be on hand to provide endless enjoyment. Trails meander through dense forests of trees so your kids will never know what they will find next, perhaps a teepee, an old tire swing or a fishing pond. Endless opportunities for discovery will be offered. For quieter enjoyment, the new Members Lodge overlooking the 18th green will offer his and hers locker rooms, a Club Room, indoor pool, fitness facility, a family theater room and a full service day Spa. The Resident’s Club program is so full of fun and value that it’s no wonder so many folks come out for a vacation quickly decide they want to join the Club and become property owners. Please visit www.wolfcreekresort.com or call 1-800-301-0817 to learn more or for reservations. Also log on to www.valleylodging.com and you can easily find a link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com. ###
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DENVER - THE MILE HIGH GATEWAY TO GREAT SKIING DENVER, CO — Contrary to public belief, Denver is not in the mountains, it is near them. The “Foothills” are a gentle series of peaks ranging from 7,000 to 11,000 feet high that start to rise 15 miles west of the city. Just beyond that is the Continental Divide and a series of peaks soaring to heights of 14,000 feet, known locally as the “Front Range.” These Front Range peaks are home to Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, Breckenridge, Copper and Vail. The city of Denver itself, however, is located on high, rolling plains. Denver’s airport (D.I.A). is east of town. Although considered “Western” in character, Denver is actually located in the center of the country, just 346 miles west of the exact center of the continental United States. With the exception of Kansas City, Denver is closer to the exact center of the nation than any other metropolitan area. As far as Denver’s altitude, everyone knows it as the “Mile High City.” In fact the 13th step on the west side of the State Capital Building is exactly 5,280 feet - exactly one mile - above sea level. Denver can be a transition city, in terms of altitude, for those coming from near sea level towns. Many skiers begin their vacation with a day or two in Denver to help them become familiar with the higher altitude and it really pays dividends. Nothing can ruin a well-planned ski vacation more than altitude sickness when you move from sea-level to 10,000 feet. Many skiers have little or no problems, and there are some helpful hints to avoid altitude sickness. But if you have a chance to visit this beautiful, cosmopolitan gem of the West, why not take it? Denver’s architecture reflects the city’s three boom periods: Victorian, when silver was discovered in Leadville; turn-of-the-century, when gold was discovered in Cripple Creek; and contemporary, when the energy boom added 16 skyscrapers to the downtown skyline in three years, 1980-1983. In Denver’s central downtown area you will find, within easy walking distance, 5,300 hotel rooms, the city’s convention complex, performing arts complex, a wide variety of shops, department stores, restaurants and nightspots. Also within easy walking distance are some of the city’s top attractions including the Denver Pavilions, Denver Art Museum and Colorado History Museum. Lower Downtown, called “LoDo” by locals, is on the northern edge of northern Denver and offers a great concentration of Victorian buildings and warehouses, many of which have been refurbished to house restaurants, art galleries, offices and shops. It is also the center of the city’s brew pubs. No matter what season you visit Denver, there will be a major league franchise playing baseball, football, hockey or basketball in a new and modern arena, close to the downtown area. Denver is one of the few cities in history that was not founded on a road, railroad, lake, navigable river or body of water. Denver just happened to be where the first few flakes of gold were found in 1858, and it was there that the first camp was made. Thus began the great “Pikes Peak or Bust” gold rush. The first permanent structure was a saloon. In its first few years Denver survived a flood, two major fires, several Indian attacks and even raised an army that defeated an invading force of Confederates from Texas during the Civil War. For more info, log on to www.denver.org. For lodging locations convenient to all of the downtown attractions, check out either of the two Denver Hyatt hotels at www.grandhyattdenver.com. ###
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ON-LINE TRAVEL EXPERTS DEPEND ON RENTSKIS.COM DENVER, CO -- More and more skiers and snowboarders are discovering an alternative to schlepping skis and snowboards through busy airports and across slippery parking lots. They have found the convenience of www.rentskis.com, a service that allows skiers and riders to order their preferred equipment in advance to be available for pick up at dozens of major resorts in the western United States. The trend is mushrooming in popularity, with reservations sky rocketing 481 percent from inception of the service in 2000 through the 2005-06 season. Rentskis.com allows skiers and riders to reserve the hottest new skis and boards on-line before their trip to the mountains, then select the shop closest to their lodging for convenient pick up. Skis and snowboards can be reserved either on-line at www.rentskis.com or toll free at 1-800-544-6648. Once guests arrive at the resort, they simply go to the shop, sign their paperwork, get their reserved equipment, and they are out the door. With numerous locations throughout Colorado, California, Utah, and the Rocky Mountains, rentskis.com also allows skiers and riders to now simplify their winter vacation with the largest and most efficient rental equipment system in North America. Travelocity, Expedia, Orbitz, ski.com, and skireport.com all use rentskis.com as their preferred equipment provider. Most shops are slopeside for maximum convenience, but there are additional locations in a variety of mountain communities as well as at metropolitan ski shops in Denver, Colo.; Salt Lake City, Utah; and the Bay Area in Calif. Advance reservations receive up to 20 percent off the regular daily price. For every adult rental, a junior (age 12 or younger) gets a free rental for the same number of days at selected stores during non-peak periods. Renters even have a rock solid guarantee – if the equipment is not satisfactory, they receive a refund for that day’s rental and can exchange their board(s) for another set-up. Options range from the Sport Package for beginners through intermediates, the Performance Package for intermediate to advanced skiers, and Demos for the most cutting-edge equipment, including popular skis from K2, and the most sought after models from Rossignol, Salomon, Atomic, Volkl, and Dynastar. Snowboarders can choose from Burton’s entire line including their innovative Learn to Ride equipment. Boards are also available from Salomon, Rossignol, and Palmer with either step-in or traditional strap bindings. Skis designed specifically for women are available at all locations. Depending on location, Sport Packages start as low as $13 per day up to $36 per day, while Performance Packages start at $16 per day up to $38 per day. Demo equipment rates begin at $24 per day and range up to $50 per day, and a snowboard package begins at $18 per day to $36 per day. Rentskis.com Gold For a seamless rental experience that is efficient and practically effortless, www.rentskis.com offers an upgraded gold program. The Gold Service guarantees that skiers get the specific demo equipment they request with their bindings already adjusted and ready-to-go, free ski and boot storage, daily equipment tuning and fitting appointments. Gold Service guests are escorted through the entire rental process with a personal ski concierge. This service is tailored to skiers and riders with exacting standards and tight schedules. “The appeal of rentskis.com is that it allows skiers and riders to spend more time on the slopes because their equipment will be pre set and waiting for them,” said Chris Swallows, national sales manager for rentskis.com. “Our Gold Service customers are raving about the exceptional service they receive when their goal is to move through the rental process quickly and emerge with exactly the equipment they want.” Here is a review of the best reasons to use rentskis.com: • Advance reservations receive up to 20 percent off • Age 12 and younger get free junior rentals with every adult rental at selected stores during non-peak periods • If the equipment is not satisfactory, receive a refund for that day’s rental and you can exchange your board(s) for another set-up • Skis designed specifically for women are available at all locations. • Gold Service guarantees that skiers get the specific demo equipment they request Save the hassle of lugging your skis and get the latest gear. Reserve either on-line at www.rentskis.com or toll free at 1-800-544-6648. You can also log on to rentskis.com from an easily found link on the homepage of wwwskiernews.com.
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ASPEN GETS NEW GONDOLAS and MORE TERRAIN for 2007
ASPEN/SNOWMASS, CO — As they celebrate 60 years of skiing in Aspen, they also look ahead to the future and wonder what the next 60 years might bring. This year, they took a big step toward that future with major improvements. The resort spent more than $23 million in capital improvements this year including the new Elk Camp Gondola in Snowmass and new cabins on Aspen Mountain’s Silver Queen Gondola. The Renaissance of Snowmass is continuing at full speed, and this winter you will see the first phases of the new base village springing from the ground. The 25,000- square-foot Children’s Center and the new residential and commercial space are scheduled to open for next season. Added terrain is opening at Aspen Highlands in the newly opened Deep Temerity area of the mountain. Forty new acres of steep, gladed terrain will be added to the 180 acres that opened last season off the new Deep Temerity lift. Here are more details and highlights: Aspen’s gondola cabins are new this season. The Silver Queen gondola began running the cabins this past summer to rave reviews. The outer shell of the cars are mainly glass, so the views of the surrounding peaks, weather permitting, are outstanding whichever direction you are facing. Those hardy Aspen skiers of old may remember the three, slow, cold lift rides that took 45 minutes to reach the summit. The gondola has provided comfortable transportation and a 15-minute ride. Now the cabins’ upgrade continues to provide the unmatched luxury expected from this resort. Aspen Highlands open an additional acreage. Last season Aspen Highlands opened the new Deep Temerity lift and 180 acres of new advanced, expert and extreme terrain. This year, up to 40 additional acres of new terrain will open, depending on snowfall, in the area bringing the total acreage for Aspen Highlands to 1,010. Highlights of the new terrain are in the area to the skier’s right of the lower Highland Bowl boundary which will include portions of the “R” Zones, Lower Child’s Play, Child’s Play Gully and Sleepy Hollow. In the Temerity area, Mushroom is extended to run to the bottom of the Deep Temerity lift and additional acreage and length were added to Lucky Find. The Renaissance of Snowmass continues. A long-term vision of Aspen/Snowmass is coming to life. A new base village and mountain plan to match your passion for skiing and snowboarding. Already one of North America’s premier resorts, Snowmass is undergoing a renaissance. A host of on-mountain improvements will greet skiers and riders in the 2006-07 season. The new eight-person Elk Camp Gondola makes quick work of the distance from the new base village to the Elk Camp lift in a mere 8.5 minutes. The existing Funnel chairlift was replaced with a new 8-passenger, high-speed gondola. The gondola provides access to Elk Camp, Alpine Springs and Burnt Mountain areas of Snowmass. Comfortable cabins transport 2,800 people per hour. Elk Camp Gondola is 8,560 feet long, with 1,360 vertical feet of rise. Combined with last season’s new Village Express six-pack and Sky Cab gondola, the lift network at Snowmass promises to whisk you up the mountain almost as fast as you can come down. Other on-mountain upgrades for 2006-07 include a new and improved terrain park and halfpipe area, while future projects such as the new Elk Camp Meadows activity center and the new Sam’s Knob restaurant are just a season away. With development underway on the new base village at Snowmass, families and guests alike will soon be able to enjoy a 25,000-square-foot children’s center in 2007. Guests can also expect 15,000 square feet of conference space and 64,000 square feet of new shops, pubs and restaurants, a 246-unit Westin conference hotel, The Little Nell at Snowmass, and 359 condominiums — all connected to the upper village by a two-minute gondola ride via the Sky Cab. For more info on all of the four mountains owned and operated by the Aspen Ski Corp., please visit www.aspensnowmass.com.
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JACKSON HOLE'S FAMED TRAM LEGACY CONTINUES
TETON VILLAGE, WY — Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR) officials have announced their intention to enhance the legacy created over the last 40 years by committing to build a new 100-passenger, state of the art, aerial tramway from the base in Teton Village to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain, a vertical rise of 4,139-feet. This lift will have the longest continual vertical rise of any ski lift in North America. It will replace the aerial tram that ceased operations on October 1, 2006. With the tram gone for the 2006-07 season, skiers will be able to access Rendezvous Bowl, Corbet’s Couloir and the backcountry gates via the Bridger Gondola and a series of lifts including the new East Ridge Chair. This new chair rises 600 feet from the top of the Sublette Chairlift to just below Corbet’s Cabin. This temporary double chairlift will take skiers to Rendezvous Bowl this winter and until a permanent tram replacement lift is installed. In addition to construction of the East Ridge Chair, JHMR is adding capacity to the Bridger Gondola and Thunder Chair to ensure seamless mountain access. The Bridger Gondola will have 18 more cabins and Thunder Chair will have 16 more chairs added. From the base, the Gondola will now offer an uphill capacity of 2,400 skiers per hour where there were 1,800. “I am very proud of our company leading this two and a half year process to a successful conclusion,” stated Jerry Blann, JHMR President. “This outcome would not have been possible without our dedicated owners, the Kemmerer Family and our Board of Directors. They deserve recognition for their commitment to Jackson Hole, Teton County and the State of Wyoming.” JHMR has contracted with Doppelmayr/CTEC to construct the new Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Aerial Tram and anticipates a scheduled opening December 2008. Preliminary discussions are taking place with the Forest Service regarding approvals required for the replacement of the tram. With an increased capacity of 100 passengers per cabin, the uphill capacity will increase to over 600 passengers an hour, pending Forest Service approval. Carney Architects, a local Jackson firm, is developing concepts for bottom and top terminal enclosures. “We hope with this decision Jackson Hole will remain the truly unique place it is for all who love the mountains year round, like we do. When we bought the Resort we knew it needed investment and were prepared for that, but the tram replacement has taken a lot of deep thinking to resolve,” stated John Kemmerer III, Owner JHMR. “Our family considers Jackson Hole Mountain Resort an integral part of this incredible community and we feel privileged to be able to leave such a legacy for years to come.” Kemmerer added. “The enormity of this project was obvious from the beginning. When we identified the need to decommission the existing tram we immediately began researching what could replace such a lift,” continued Blann. “We studied many options and reduced them to a Tram or Bi-Cable Gondola. We all agreed the iconic nature of our “red box” was something to be treasured but we kept options open until the final and most recent decision. Ultimately the final analysis was financial. We are a small, family owned company with finite resources. This new tram will cost an estimated $25 million and so far, we have had to plan to fund the entire project privately. In conjunction with the $14 million already committed to capital improvements there will be a strain felt on our company resources, but we are steadfast in this decision thanks to the commitment from our owners.” stated Blann. “The new tram will ultimately require additional improvements including a redevelopment of Nick Wilson’s Café into a multi-purpose base lodge. The Kemmerer family’s dedication to invest in JHMR core business on public lands for the enjoyment of this community and visiting guests is completely unique in the winter recreation industry.” Blann added. “This huge investment by JHMR ownership to build a new tram stands alone in our industry,” stated Michael Berry, President National Ski Area Association. “The tram at Jackson Hole is iconic. It is recognized around the world as a lift that accesses some of the most spectacular terrain in North America. It is beloved by locals and sought after by destination visitors,” added Berry. While making improvements, Jackson Hole remains committed to preserving the Old West. Entering their 40th season, the same old-fashioned hospitality that welcomed yesterday’s mavericks and outlaws, still welcomes today’s skiers. With the new Bridger Restaurant, new East Ridge Chair to the summit and a new 100-passenger tram in the near future, the legend continues. For more Jackson Hole Mountain Resort info, please visit www.jacksonhole40.com.
BIG SKY RESORT MAKES THE BIGGEST SKIING IN AMERICA BIGGER Big Sky adds to terrain shared with Moonlight Basin with 200 acres BIG SKY, MT — As if 5,300 acres were not enough terrain to explore in a day, if not a lifetime, Big Sky opened the Dakota Territories for the 2006-07 season. Dakota is accessed from the Lone Peak Tram and is located directly west of Liberty Bowl. The addition will bring the official acreage between the Big Sky and Moonlight Basin Interconnect to 5,512 acres and Big Sky’s terrain to 3,812 acres. Dakota Territories is primarily open bowl, above tree line skiing at an intermediate angle. The run out includes wellspaced, natural glades that border Bavarian Forest. After the giant sweeping open bowl turns, the run contains plenty of natural rollers and kickers before reaching the exit. At the bottom, there is a path through the forest that connects with the Hippy Highway, which is the road that leads to the bottom of Shedhorn. From there, skiers and riders will be able to return to the front of Lone Mountain. “We made history last season by partnering with Moonlight Basin to create the largest skiable acreage in the U.S. on one ticket,” said Big Sky general manager, Taylor Middleton. “We are pleased to announce that the biggest just got bigger.” The new terrain complements the healthy dose of some of the most varied lift accessible terrain in North America. Big Sky’s beginner area had extensive reconstruction this past summer with the addition of a third magic carpet and a tube park. Intermediates have their hands full with access to Andesite Mountain which offers three high-speed lifts with big, wide, blue intermediate cruisers that are regularly groomed. The real treat is for the adrenaline-fueled advanced and expert skiers who can explore the steeps on the Challenger chair and the Lone Peak Tram. The 11,166 foot tall Lone Peak offers never-ending, Alps-like terrain between a series of open bowls, tight couloirs and technical gullies. The steepest parts of the south wall of Lone Peak are 50 degrees where the next turn requires faith and skill instead of vision. Dakota Territories will fit snugly in the overwhelming menu of choices for Big Sky skiers spread over three mountains and 5,512 acres. For more info, please visit www.bigskyresort.com. Big Sky is owned by Boyne USA Resorts, a Michigan-based corporation, the largest privately owned four-season resort company in North America. Boyne USA Resorts owns and operates numerous mountain and golf destinations throughout the United Sates and Canada including Boyne Mountain, Boyne Highlands and The Inn at Bay Harbor in Michigan, Brighton in Utah, Crystal Mountain in Washington, Gatlinburg Skylift in Tennessee and future site of five 2010 Winter Olympic events, Cypress Mountain near Vancouver, British Columbia.
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BIG MOUNTAIN - MORE IMPROVEMENTS
WHITEFISH, MT – Big Mountain Resort has been busy planning and implementing many new exciting changes for this ski season and for the immediate future. Here is a brief look at some of their recent accomplishments. New Super Pipe Big Mountain Resort opened their new Super Pipe in March 2006. The pipe is 450 feet long, 57 feet wide, with 18-foot-high walls, and a 16-degree pitch, all to Federation of International Skiing (FIS) competition standards. Snowmaking, lights for night use during scheduled night skiing and a sound system complete the pipe package. It is located on the Ranger Trail headwall to the east of the Question Mark trail in the Chair 3 area. The Fish Bowl terrain park also includes revamped hits, rails and other features. $10 Million Day Lodge Expansion Big Mountain’s new Day Lodge premiered at the start of the 2006-07 ski season. The $10 million expansion creates a central location for mountain services including the Snowsports School, kids’ center and day care facility, rental shop, full-service cafeteria, main ticket office, guest services, seasonal lockers, group space, and day-use basket-check. In addition, plans include a viewing lounge to enable guests to watch skiers and boarders on the beginner slopes. There are added parking and drop-off zones. New Beginner Skiing Area and Chairlift Big Mountain has installed a new beginner quad chairlift to the east of the free Big Easy carpet lift. The new chair loads from just outside the new Day Lodge and covers 269 vertical feet with a sixminute ride time, accessing beginner terrain on lower Inspiration and Over Easy ski runs. Big Mountain Village Planning In addition to the Day Lodge area expansion, resort management has engaged the local community with several open forums and has approvals from the City of Whitefish on a new master plan for Big Mountain Village. While more details on specific steps of the plan will be forthcoming and will require additional approvals, plans for the new village include a hotel and conference center, a new high-speed quad to replace Chair 2, and a village plaza at the loading area of the Glacier Chaser high-speed quad. New High Speed Quad for 2007-08 This summer, Big Mountain will replace the Glacier Chaser (Chair 1) with a new lift. The new lift will be a quad detachable chairlift in the same alignment as the existing lift. The construction will eliminate lift service to the summit of the mountain this summer. However, the resort is planning a full slate of mountain activities during the construction of the new lift. In addition to the Walk in the Tree Tops adventure, mountain biking, hiking and horseback trail rides, new events and activities are planned for next summer including a summer concert series and a kids’ day camp For more info, please visit Big Mountain’s web site at www.bigmtn.com.
SCHWEITZER MOUNTAIN IMPROVES for 2007
SCHWEITZER MOUNTAIN, ID – This past summer and fall, Schweitzer Mountain invested just under $2.5 million in improvements to the mountain, guest amenities and infrastructure. Improvements to the Terrain Park, the grooming system and terrain improvements top the list for the 2006-07 season. Stomping Grounds Terrain Park The purchase of a dedicated Park Bully permits the park staff to build and groom better features quicker, allowing them to do more each night. Terrain park manager, Dan Nylund, will focus on building more small and medium features that appeal to the majority of park users. Skiers and riders can expect to see two to three additional jib features. On-Mountain Improvements Schweitzer is already known for its abundance of tree skiing. Extensive forest thinning throughout the mountain will add even more, particularly in the Chair 4 area over to the Great Escape Quad and in the North Bowl where the exit out of the expert chutes has been improved. Three state-of-the-art grooming machines were purchased. The three replaced two older machines and increase the fleet by one. The Schweitzer Road will be better maintained with the purchase of a Zogg snow blower, and the shuttle fleet has been upgraded with additional buses with coach seating that is more comfortable. Shuttle bus trips from the park and ride lot will be more frequent in the morning. Beginner Area The learning area continues to be improved with a new snowmaking gun and a re-graded Magic Carpet area. To support future development and growth, $1 million was invested in improving the resort’s infrastructure including sewer and water facilities, technology and networking. Other Guest Amenities The ski and snowboard rental fleet has been updated, and the rental process streamlined for a smoother and faster guest turnaround time. Special Deals – Kids stay and ski free Stay slopeside in the Schweitzer Mountain Village and kids stay and ski free this winter with any Schweitzer lodging package. Packages start at $89 per person, per night based on double occupancy. Visit www.schweitzer.com for info and online booking. About Schweitzer Mountain Resort Schweitzer Mountain Resort, one of the premier winter resorts in the Northwest, is situated in the Selkirk Mountains on the Idaho panhandle. Overlooking the town of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille, Schweitzer Mountain has long been famous for its massive bowls and breathtaking views. Schweitzer is owned by a Seattle-based investment group, and is currently in the process of a 10-year master plan process, which will see the transformation into a four-season destination resort.
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TAHOE'S SUGAR BOWL - WHERE HISTORY MEETS THE FUTURE
DONNER SUMMIT, CA — In 1938 Walt Disney was among the visionaries who helped pick this picture-perfect location, and placed upon it the first chair lift in California. It is believed that because they were up there first, they naturally picked the best site. What Mr. Disney and his fellow adventurers found was a prime location near Donner Summit: a place of precipitous peaks, steep narrow chutes and wide-open bowls. But more than that, they picked a spot that receives more snow than almost anywhere in North America, on average, receiving over 500 inches of feather-light snow per year. It also happened to be easier to get to than many other sites in the Tahoe area. Once you discover Sugar Bowl, you will see how the same man who brought the Matterhorn to Southern California, out did himself with a grand, true alpine experience in the Sierras. One with lots more fun and tons more snow. A spectacular view of the stars Sugar Bowl became a popular mountain hide-away for the Hollywood jet set of the 1940’s and 50’s. Stars and starlets like Claudette Colbert arrived in style by train spending beautiful timeless days on the slopes of Sugar Bowl. The original action hero, Errol Flynn, could be found dashing down the steep chutes of Hari-Kari Gully. In fact, the skiing sequence in the movie, The Two-Faced Woman starring Greta Garbo was filmed at Sugar Bowl. The Lodge itself was a place to see, and be seen. Modeled after the classic Hotel Solaise in the French Alps, Sugar Bowl conveyed an authentic alpine ambiance. When the Tyrolean music played from the deck, skiers swore they had been plunked down in the middle of Kitzbuhel. Steeped in racing tradition In terms of racing lore, Sugar Bowl is perhaps best known for the Silver Belt Classic — a world-class race attracting Olympic caliber skiers. Silver Belt itself may be the resort’s defining run. Picture a long, nearly halfpipe-shaped trail that demands many short-radius turns and a few hundred vertical feet of courage. Now imagine your quadriceps on fire, and your heart about to explode with adrenaline, and then you will be close to understanding what it took to climb the victory stand. Over the years, racers who captured the “Silver Belt” acquired much more than a prestigious winning buckle. It was also accompanied by the head-shaking awe of hundreds of spectators. A new generation, the same dedication There is a pride of ownership that you can sense about this resort. That is because Sugar Bowl is still family owned. These fifty or so families read like a Who’s Who of San Francisco success. Ken Castle of SKI Magazine wrote, “Many of them own chalets at Sugar Bowl and cherish this place as a kind of family heirloom.” What that means to you and your family is simple: At Sugar Bowl you are treated as guests, not a commodity. You will see that they do not just welcome your business, they welcome you. Vintage old, high-tech new Sugar Bowl is still the grande dame. The snow-mantled peaks, the inspired terrain and challenging runs are as impressive as ever. The cherished Magic Carpet Gondola can still transport you from your car to an authentic alpine hide-away. Of course, in the age of wireless phones and instant gratification, people want easy access, modern facilities, faster lifts and the highest-performing equipment, Sugar Bowl has all of that too. Millions in improvements Sugar Bowl is in the midst of a seven-year, multi-million dollar improvement schedule. In the past three years, they have added a new road with easier access to slopeside parking. They installed new high-speed quads on each peak and race area. They opened a glistening new Main Lodge near Mt Judah and then opened an expansion of that lodge to satisfy the visitors with more room. They also have recently added another new high-speed quad on Disney, a new larger Learning Area with a dedicated parking lot for beginners, and a brand new Beginner Quad. So, if you have not been to Sugar Bowl in a while, there is a whole new side to discover. For more info, please visit www.sugarbowl.com.
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MONTBLEU EXCITES TAHOE’S SOUTH SHORE New Resort Casino, Hotel & Spa is Ready for Action STATELINE, NV — MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa adds a taste of Las Vegas sophistication and excitement to the beautiful natural wonders of Lake Tahoe. Formerly known as Caesars Tahoe, the 440-room MontBleu will made its official debut on May 24, 2006. The new resort has an array of new and contemporary venues, including seven distinct restaurants, four chic nightlife venues, a 40,000-square-foot remodeled casino, a brand new poker room and a luxurious spa. MontBleu will offer guests an elevated casino-resort experience set within the natural beauty of South Lake Tahoe, an ideal combination, perfect for all four seasons. With unparalleled attention to detail, the MontBleu design team was inspired by the natural beauty and pristine waters of Lake Tahoe. Through the use of vibrant color palettes and natural materials such as wood and stone, MontBleu creates a cool and contemporary environment in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Genesis Associates, based out of Santa Ana, Calif. developed and implemented MontBleu’s interior design. MontBleu sits on a total of 21 acres and is poised to create a new standard of luxury in Lake Tahoe. The 17- story MontBleu has 440 spacious rooms and suites featuring breathtaking views of the tranquil shores of Lake Tahoe and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. Rooms and suites range from 424 to 1,250 square feet. All MontBleu rooms and suites feature the luxurious “Bleu Cloud Bed,” wireless Internet access and a complete set of premier toiletries by Aveda. MontBleu’s collection of shops offers a wide variety of items from unique gifts to swim and skiwear. CASINO MontBleu features 40,000 square feet of gaming space, including more than 900 slot machines and 50 table games including Blackjack, Roulette, Craps and a variety of other popular games. MontBleu recently opened a brand new poker room offering eight tables of the popular Texas Hold ‘Em at various buy-in levels. The newly remodeled race and sports book, The Zone, features 40 large-screen TVs, projection screens and plasmas showcasing the day’s hottest action. In conjunction with its opening this past May, MontBleu announced the Cobalt Player’s Club which allows guests to accrue points and participate in a wide variety of exciting casino promotions. RESTAURANTS Opal Eurasian Cuisine & Ultra Lounge will offer dozens of unique tapas and sushi before transforming into a sexy and sophisticated ultra lounge later in the evening. Opal will also feature an impressive martini, sake, wine and champagne list. Ciera Steak + Chophouse will offer a stylish and chic dining atmosphere, with an exquisite array of meat, poultry, seafood and vegetarian entrees in addition to 200 wines and champagnes from around the world. Open for dinner only. Continuous Cuisine at 20-Four will be MontBleu’s retro take on the 50s diner with a warm, nostalgic feel and a limitless, round-the-clock menu. Open 24 hours a day, this is the essence of comfort food and convenience for guests with any craving, at any hour. The Unbuffet will offer a new perspective on the traditional buffet as chefs prepare fresh ingredients right before your eyes. Action stations, carving tables and international cuisine will allow guests to taste flavors from every continent and eat to their heart’s content. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Zone Race and Sports Book features its own deli that offers panini-style sandwiches, hot dogs, sausages and other popular stadium-style treats. Starbucks Coffee will offer its world-famous array of delicious coffee blends and specialty drinks. Starbucks will also feature a selection of breakfast pastries and lunch sandwiches perfect for a relaxing reprieve or a meal on the run. NIGHTLIFE Opal Eurasian Cuisine & Ultra Lounge redefines Lake Tahoe dining and nightlife, as guests move seamlessly from a decadent meal into a sultry, intimate ultra lounge setting. Opal will introduce the concepts of “bar chefs” and will host some of the top regional and national DJ’s from around the country. Blu Nightclub sets a new paradigm for nightlife at the lake. Located where Club Nero once stood, this worldclass venue will become Lake Tahoe’s hottest new nightclub and will exude an energy level that the area has never seen before. HQ Center Bar, located in the middle of the casino action, is the ideal place to meet up with friends any time of day. The main circular bar located in the center of the room surrounds a “fire and ice” pit that creates a soothing sense of bringing the outdoors inside. Del Soul Mexican Grill, located right off the casino floor, takes northern Nevada south of the border, with its “Nuevo Mexican” dishes, each with its own exotic flavor and zest. Complimenting the colorful menu, Del Soul will also boast live salsa music and an extensive tequila list and a host of creative concoctions that will heat up even the coolest Tahoe evening. Open for dinner only. SPA Reward yourself with a day of luxury or an hour of relief at the full-service Spa at MontBleu. Featuring inspirational views of the picturesque Sierra Nevada and a plethora of relaxing and invigorating services, the spa is a destination in and of itself. From soothing massages to revitalizing facial and body treatments for men and women, this world-class spa incorporates elements of nature throughout all of its services. The spa features Aveda products exclusively. The spa also features a fitness center complete with contemporary cardiovascular machines and weight training devices. Separate men's and women's locker rooms feature saunas, whirlpool baths and eucalyptus steam rooms. POOL The heated, indoor pool at MontBleu is an escape from the routine and ordinary with its gentle waterfall and rock islands. It provides an inviting and inclusive environment for relaxation 365 days a year. SKI PACKAGES FROM $207 Get your winter started with MontBleu’s stellar ski and snowboard lodging packages starting at $207. Valid Nov. 26 - April 26 based on availability. Holidays are excluded. Package includes two lift tickets per day booked. The offer does not include tax. Management reserves all rights. Please visit them on-line at www.montbleuresort.com or from an easily found link on the home page of www.skiernews.com. To reserve your Tahoe excitement at MontBleu, please call 1-866-844-2743, please mention code PTSKI07 for the best deals.
THE HOTEL TELLURIDE, TELLURIDE’S PREMIER HOTEL TELLURIDE, CO – The Hotel Telluride’s 59 beautifully appointed guest rooms feature a balcony or patio with sweeping views of the 14,000-foot peaks of the San Juan Mountains, custom furnishings, refrigerator, plush soft seating, CD player/radio, and The Incredible Bed. The Incredible Bed has been designed with the ultimate night’s sleep in mind. Surround yourself in the most luxurious, natural feather bedding, cozy down comforter, 250-thread count embroidered sheets and lots of pillows. The Hotel’s spacious baths feature thick terry monogrammed robes, huge thirsty towels, hair dryers and AVEDA Spa Amenities. Pampering guests is the main goal. The ultimate in Telluride lodging. The Hotel Telluride features two magnificent suites along with oversized luxury hotel accommodations. The Bridal Veil Falls Suite and Ingram Falls Suite each feature a fabulously decorated living room with gas fireplace, large screen television, antique furnishings, wet bar and original artwork. Large balconies and windows lend magnificent views of the San Juan Mountains. The Suites can be configured into one- to three-bedroom arrangements. There are several other sets of rooms that can also be configured together with a private entrance, perfect for your family or group. They have not missed a detail in planning for your visit to Telluride. You will enjoy the sense of arrival in the beautiful lobby with its soaring two-story atrium, vaulted ceiling and views of the magnificent peaks in every direction. If Robert Redford met Ralph Lauren, it would be The Hotel Telluride. The decor combines colors and textures of the wide-open American West with the style and comfort of a fine European Hotel. You’ll find the heavy stone floor of a Western lodge, warm wool rugs, comfortable leather sofas, Old World chairs, and an iron and antler chandelier, along with heavily carved antiques, plaids and tweeds. The huge stone fireplace is the centerpiece of the expansive lobby. Curl up with a book from the lending library or linger with friends over a drink from the cozy Bistro. The in-house massage therapist offers a range of massage therapies, facials, manicures and pedicures in the treatment room or, for the ultimate in luxury, in your guestroom. Enjoy a hearty breakfast or cozy après ski in The Bistro. You will find every service and convenience that you need right at your fingertips. Of course, when you think of Telluride, you think of superlative skiing: alpine, backcountry and cross-country skiing. Telluride Ski Mountain, open since 1972, offers exceptional trails with terrain for all skill levels. There is a separate area for beginners, featuring some of the finest beginner terrain in the country; and nearly 38 percent of the mountain is designated for intermediate skiers (24 percent beginner and 38 percent advanced/expert). Experts will find the steepest mogul run in the Rockies and plenty of dry, deep powder with over 300 inches of snowfall annually during a ski-season that runs from late November to early April. Snowboarders, too, will find some of the best facilities in the World. The new Super Pipe snowboard park is the largest in the Southwest, featuring a 12-foot competition halfpipe and terrain park with berms, banks and table parks. Thanks to the grand opening of Prospect Bowl, there are now over 1700 skiable acres of “must ski” terrain for every type of skier, from the beginner to the extreme. Finally, several exciting Nordic ski trails are available around Telluride, with lessons and rentals readily available. Suggestions for other winter activities: • Take a breathtaking half- or full-day backcountry skiing trip. • Go heli-skiing in high-country powder bowls and basins. • If you are looking for a new adventure, try the fun and easy to learn snowbiking. • Sign up for art classes in painting, drawing, ceramics, photography and other subjects at the Ah Haa School for the arts. • The easiest way to enjoy the breathtaking backcountry is on a snowshoe tour. • Take a guided ski or snowboard tours of some of the historic locations around Telluride. • Take a half- or full-day trip with a team of Alaskan sled dogs. • Indulge in a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride in town, or enjoy a unique dining experience on a dinner sleigh ride. • Enjoy a relaxing apres-ski drink or specialty coffee in the soaring Lobby Bar with it’s cozy seating areas and huge fireplace. • Go snowmobiling.or go ice skating. • Go ice climbing, with terrain for beginners and experts. • Attend a movie at The Nugget Theatre. You can log on to their website www.thehoteltelluride.com via an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com. For reservations and information, please call 1-866-468-3501
THE PEAKS in TELLURIDE OFFERS ENDLESS ADVENTURE TELLURIDE, CO -- There’s nothing like The Peaks Resort & Golden Door Spa, starting with the location on the far-western slopes of the Colorado Rockies. This alpine hideaway is located in Telluride Mountain Village and connected by a scenic gondola to the historic town of Telluride, where quaint Victorian charm meets the rugged Old West. Southwest Colorado’s premier grand resort and spa does justice to its spectacular surroundings, combining the recreational pleasures of a breathtaking natural environment with the relaxing comfort of an Old West retreat. Not just the Golden Door Spa, but the entire resort, is designed to pamper the body, mind and spirit. In fact, the setting is so casually homelike that it’s not unusual to find guests lounging in the great room in their Spa bathrobes. Each of the 174 rooms, suites and penthouses reflects this appealing combination of comfort and luxury. Homelike amenities include down comforters, plush terrycloth robes and slippers, and free high-speed Internet. On the upper floors of The Peaks, the one- to five-bedroom penthouse condominiums are individually furnished…from the spacious living and kitchen to options like an inviting fireplace. Adjacent to the resort are luxurious splitlog cabins with multi-level floor plans. These two- to five-bedroom residences feature vaulted ceilings, rustic stone fireplaces, custom furniture and top-of-the-line amenities including cable TV, stereo sound systems, kitchen items and steam showers. All guests enjoy complimentary access to the resort’s world-class restaurants and to the Golden Door Spa at The Peaks. Dining at the resort lives up to the splendor of the natural surroundings. Legends overlooks the golf course in summer, the ski slopes in winter and the breathtaking color of aspens on Mount Wilson in the fall. Legends serves breakfast and lunch, while Appaloosa offers great steaks and chops complemented by the best sunset views in town. For après ski or just relaxing by the fireplace, nothing compares to the inviting comfort of the Greatroom with its dramatic vistas, fireside chats and live entertainment. The Golden Door Spa at The Peaks takes rejuvenation of body and soul to the next level, a level that’s different for every individual. Inspired by the Southern Ute tribes that once roamed this rugged terrain, The Spa recreates the distinctive rituals that bring body, mind and spirit into harmony. Guests can explore the pleasures of native American traditions like The Peaks Purification Ritual in the men’s or women’s kivas or in the family kiva, all of which feature saunas, steam and whirlpool baths. Spread over four levels and 42,000 square feet, the Spa offers an indoor rock climbing wall and dramatic floor-to-ceiling window views from the cardiovascular deck, Cybex weight room and Olympic-size lap pool. In fact, the entire Spa is designed to make the most of its environment, with specialized treatments using natural ingredients found only in the fresh, alpine terrain of the Rocky Mountains. Favorite treatments include the Blue Spruce Herbal Soak, Golden Harvest Facial, and the Skier’s Salvation Massage after a day on the slopes. For younger guests, Base Camp offers children excitement, education and entertainment. Activities include arts & crafts, playground time, swimming, gondola rides, tumbling and more. Also available are extended hours, party nights, play groups and special programs — so the kids can have as much fun as the adults can. All year round, The Peaks is a delightful setting for recreational adventures. There’s hiking through the mountains in springtime, golfing against the backdrop of summer wildflowers, biking and horseback riding past brilliant fall foliage, fly fishing in cool canyon streams, and river rafting amidst the rugged mountain terrain. In winter, the romance of the Rockies comes alive with a thick blanket of snow that makes Telluride ideal for all types of sports. Sleigh rides, snowmobiling and snowshoeing are among the popular cold-weather options, but the real star is the skiing. Guests at The Peaks have ski in/ski out access to the Telluride Ski Area, one of the most appealing in America because of its short lift lines and spectacular scenery. Overlooking it all The Peaks Resort & Golden Door Spa is an alpine paradise for every season. It offers a wealth of pleasures undreamed of by the early-day miners. For more details and info, please visit www.thepeaksresort.com or contact your travel professional. You can also log on to The Peaks Resort and Golden Door Spa’s web site from an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com. For hotel reservations or questions, please call 1-866-282-4545.
The HYATT REGENCY LAKE TAHOE OFFERS LUXURY, GAMING and GREAT PACKAGES INCLINE VILLAGE, NV -- Located on Lake Tahoe in Incline Village amidst the Sierra Nevada, the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is surrounded by magnificent peaks and extraordinary ski resorts. This winter season, there is something for every member of the family whether it is relaxing at the spa, tackling double-black diamond runs or enjoying the fresh alpine air while snowshoeing on one of the many local trails. One way to make your resort experience fun and hassle- free is the Hyatt Regency’s Alpine Meadows VIP Lift Line Package. Using the hotel’s shuttle, guests can leave their cars behind, skip the line at the ticket window, and quickly access the chairlift to get onto the slopes. This package, valid Dec. 1, 2006, through April 14, 2007, includes deluxe accommodations, two adult lift tickets at Alpine Meadows, complimentary shuttle to and from Alpine Meadows, and access to the Ski School/Season Pass holder lift line, an exclusive for Hyatt guests who book this package. Also included in the package are valet parking, in-room coffee, bottled water, use of the fitness center, year-round heated pool and jetted hot tubs, business center and complimentary transportation within Incline Village. The cost for the package is $250 per night for Sunday to Thursday arrivals and $299 per night for Friday and Saturday arrivals. Additional lift tickets for Alpine Meadows may also be purchased at the hotel. If Alpine Meadows is not your mountain of choice, complimentary shuttles from the hotel, will get you to and pick you up from Northstar-at-Tahoe, Diamond Peak or Squaw Valley. If skiing isn’t your cup of tea, the resort and surrounding area offers a host of other activities to experience the bountiful Tahoe snow. These activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dog sledding and sleigh rides. The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, is the perfect base for a winter getaway. It is ideally located in Incline Village, Nev., with only a short ride to either North or South Lake Tahoe ski resorts. The property recently finished the final stage of a $62-million upgrade, completing the renovation of their 24 Lakeside Cottages. The cottages are the highlight of the property, providing guests with the feeling of staying in a private home while having access to all the amenities and activities of a four-star hotel. Towering pines line the hotel’s secluded beachfront property, creating a perfect natural backdrop for contemplation and meditation at the Stillwater Spa at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe. Located in a deep mountain valley and surrounded by breathtaking lake vistas, the 20,000- square-foot, state-of-the-art Spa offers a full menu of Lake Tahoe-inspired spa services, from their Sierra Stones Massage to an Alpine Luxury Facial and Mountain Pine Footbath. If you are looking for a place to relax after a long day of snow sports, head to the Lone Eagle Great Room Lounge or sit by one of the outdoor fire pits for an aprèsski cocktail or hot chocolate. You can also have dinner at the award-winning Lone Eagle Grille while enjoying an incomparable lake view. Beamed ceilings, overstuffed chairs and river-rock fireplaces coupled with gourmet American cuisine make the Lone Eagle Grille the ideal place to enjoy a meal in a relaxing Tahoe atmosphere. The Lone Eagle Grille’s contemporary and traditional “lodgestyle” menu has received a People’s Choice Award three years in a row. It also boasts an amazing collection of wines to accompany the specially prepared dishes by Chef de Cuisine, Brian Motola. About Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort Spa & Casino A recent $62-million renovation has transformed the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino’s accommodations into Tahoe’s “New Grand Lodge,” offering sweeping lake, garden and mountain views from the 422 guestrooms, suites and lakeside cottages. In addition, the resort has a 24-hour casino, spectacular lakeside dining, year-round heated pool with swim in/out feature and two oversized jetted hot tubs. Add to that a kids’ arcade, Pier Bar, Pool Bar, four outdoor fire pits for roasting marshmallows or enjoying a cocktail. There are also modern workout facilities and the largest, most indulgent spa facility at the Lake, the 20,000-square-foot Stillwater Spa. Year-round recreation such as skiing, boating, hiking, biking and golf are all just minutes away. Hyatt has an onsite sports shop and boat rental in addition to Camp Hyatt for supervised kids activities. Situated on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, the Hyatt is located at 111 County Club Drive at Lakeshore Boulevard in the beautiful neighborhood of Incline Village, Nev. The hotel can be reached by phone at (775) 832-1234 or toll free at 1-800-553-3288. Visit The Hyatt Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino on-line at www.laketahoehyatt. com or from an easily found link on the right side of the homepage of www.skiernews.com.
EMBASSY SUITES’ PREMIER SNOWFEST PACKAGE KEEPS WINTER GOING INTO SPRING SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CA – Whether you want an outdoor ski adventure, great entertainment, a scenic gondola ride, gaming, or shopping, Embassy Suites Hotel Lake Tahoe Resort is the perfect base for your winter vacation. You will feel right at home in a comfortable tworoom suite each night, while being steps away from a whole world of indoor and outdoor activities. This year, Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe Resort is offering the Premier Snowfest Package, which includes a seven-night stay and five days of lift tickets to the area’s best ski resorts. The Premier Snowfest Package is $1,999; the rate is based on a 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.) All packages, whether mid-week, weekend or nightly, include a two-room suite with a private bedroom featuring one king-size or two double-size 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. You can also 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 within walking distance to the base of the Gondola at Heavenly Ski Resort. Embassy Suites also provides shuttles to and from several other nearby excellent ski resorts. The resort is adjacent to two movie theatres, an outdoor ice skating rink, restaurants, clubs and pedestrian shopping. The famous Nevada casinos with 24-7 gaming, nightlife and big-name entertainment are just across the street. For more information or reservations on all packages, contact Embassy Suites 1-800-988-5192. Visit www.embassytahoe.com. You can also link to their web site from the homepage of www.skiernews.com.
TAHOE'S CAMP RICHARDSON RESORT HAS HISTORIC WINTER FUN CAMP RICHARDSON, CA— Located near south Tahoe’s “Y” intersection, Camp Rich is an easy drive from Kirkwood and Sierra-at-Tahoe. Passage around Emerald Bay makes Homewood and Alpine the closest North Shore ski areas. This famous lakeside campground provides winter lodging in their historic two story hotel on Highway 89. 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 along and near Lake Tahoe. The miles of summer bike trails are changed to a scenic winter wonderland for skiing and snowshoeing. With a wide selection of skis and snowshoes (including youth and children’s sizes), lessons are available. Please call for more details. Winter fun does not stop at the Camp Rich’s Sports Center, you can look forward to Full Moon Cross Country and Snowshoe parties, and the famous “Snowshoe Cocktail Race” held on the shore of the lake at Camp Rich’s Beacon Bar & Grill. Imagine the fun of wearing snowshoes, holding a drink on a cocktail tray, and “racing” around a course. Prizes are awarded and everyone has fun. THE BEACON BAR & GRILL Lakeside dining at its best. Home of the famous Rum Runner, voted “Best Drink” by locals, the Beacon offers great menu selections for the entire family. Whether you are looking for appetizers, lunch, dinner 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 and Snowshoe Parties- Stop 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 the Tahoe 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. Prizes are awarded for the fastest time and for the person who falls the most. HAPPY HOUR Everyday from 4 to 7 p.m., stop in at the Beacon for great drink and appetizer specials, including their famous Rum Runner. WINTER WILD WEDNESDAYS When the snow flies, the fun begins, at the Beacon Bar & Grill. Happening every Wednesday night, all winter long, enjoy specially priced Rum 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 or via an easily found link on the home page of www.skiernews.com.
LAKE TAHOE ACCOMMODATIONS HAS GREAT LODGING AROUND THE LAKE LAKE TAHOE, CA/NV – Wherever you would like to enjoy your Lake Tahoe winter or summer vacation, Lake Tahoe Accommodations provides a wide variety of lodging choices at their web site, www.tahoehelp.com. 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. You can choose a region on the Tahoe map and be directed to lodging in that area of the lake to help with your decision making. From North and West Shore California, to North Shore Nevada, South Shore Nevada, or South Lake Tahoe California, and the Tahoe Keys, you can get to know the area and then start your search in the region of the lake where you would like to stay. Once you decide on a region, the site offers a virtual tour of some of the more than 400 better condos, mountain cabins and homes for rent. This great feature gives you the ability to take the guess-work out of your lodging. You will see each property on your computer screen and take a 360-degree tour of the rooms. You will find out all the details of the rental, such as washer and dryer availability, a fireplace and more. After the lodging has been viewed and decisions made, the user can easily book their stay on-line. You can also call 1-800-577-1504 and discover how their friendly, knowledgeable staff will assist with your choice among the 400 rentals. They can answer your questions and help you book that perfect vacation. Remember, from cozy cabins and condos, to comfortable family homes or exquisite executive retreats, they have it all. The convenience continues after you select your site since Lake Tahoe Accommodations has check-in locations in several Tahoe cities. You will 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.tahoehelp.com.
IN THE MIDDLE OF IT ALL 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 a short distance off of Interstate 70 at exit 205, this Days Inn offers comfort, convenience and affordability. Have you read about the new gondola in Breckenridge? The Days Inn has a free bus ride at its door to take you 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 You can log on directly at www.daysinnsummitcounty.com
LA QUINTA INN & SUITES is CONVENIENTLY LOCATED in SILVERTHORNE, CO 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 the La Quinta Inn & Suites in Silverthorne, Colo. It is located in Colorado’s Summit County in close proximity to four great ski 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 happy-hour specials and enough TVs to view every sporting event that is broadcast. This La Quinta Inn and Suites is one 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. Log on to their web site via this direct link to Silvethorne's LaQuinta Inn & Suites.
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POLE USE ENHANCES SKIER PERFORMANCE by Technical Editor, Tony Crespi How do we best use ski poles? Are poles actually necessary? If folks on snowboards do not have poles, what do we gain with ski poles? One of the more perplexing challenges facing skiers involves the correct use and timing of ski poles. Do we truly need poles? Yes! Poles can help propel us from one place to the next, poles are key to stabilization, and poles provide an important aid in balance and timing. Somewhat curiously, though, of all the skills skiers struggle with, particularly at advanced levels, the pole swing looms as one of the more frustrating. Pardon the pun: Let us get a grip on the situation. Consider, momentarily, what poles can do for you. On the one hand, poles serve as extensions of our arms and hands. In this way poles help us establish greater sensitivity with the snow, provide ongoing feedback and input on snow conditions, and help us refine balance and flow much as a white cane can enhance sensory input and timing for a person with visual deficits. That is well and good but which pole should we swing for each turn? Should we forcefully jam and jab the snow with our poles or should we keep our pole swing light? Should we swing the poles with the entire upper body, arms or wrist? Should we? Stop! We get the picture. The questions and problems are complex. (We cannot resist!) Let us swing through each issue. First, as a general rule, whether beginner or expert, accomplished skiers find it most effective to hold their arms (and hands) up and forward. In other words, accomplished skiers keep hands within their vision. “Poles and hands have a lot to do with effective balancing,” emphasizes PSIA Regional Clinical Leader and Bromley Mountain Assistant Ski School Director John Baymore. “Done well they can enhance skiing but if you swing late they can block movements.” Do not let your hands drop to your sides. Second, whether enjoying an intermediate run on Solitude in Utah or at Okemo Mountain in Vermont, it is important to keep your arms relaxed, and your hands up and forward. Third, keep your arms relaxed. Third, realize that if your arms are relaxed, you should find other parts of your body relaxing as well. Likewise, if your hands are clenched and stiff, it’s equally likely your shoulders, back, arms, and legs may be stiff. So, practice relaxing those arms. “True of any muscle group if you are tense,” notes Baymore, “it can effect other muscle groups. It spreads. Holding poles with a death grip can tense your upper body and affect your ability to move effectively and smoothly. However, it is not to say you want your pole coming out of your grip. So much is timing and momentum. Done well it helps you move into the direction of the new turn.” Fourth, keep your “grip” light. Finally, which pole do I swing for each turn? Answer: Swing the right pole for right turns. Swing the left pole for left turns. Stop. Absorb this for a moment. Whether an aspiring intermediate or emerging expert, practice refining your timing on unintimidating terrain. Also, do not practice on short quick turns. Short quick turns can amplify the timing difficulties that we are hoping to refine. Instead, practice long graceful giant slalom-type turns. “Use intermediate terrain and moderate turns,” suggests Baymore. “When changing to a more modern movement a short turn tends to have you use older plant and move around the pole movement. Intermediate sized turns are great.” The Skier’s Clinic: Welcome To The Mountain Class If pole swings have been a weakness, try this sequence. First, using a wedge position, on well-groomed terrain, practice a series of slow turns. Match your skis together as you complete each turn. Be sure to swing the right pole for a right turn and swing the left pole for a left turn. After four turns, stop. Visualize your turns in your mind’s eye. Picture that you are keeping your arms up and forward. As you smoothly execute your turns, see yourself gradually moving progressively into more challenging turns - from wedge-christies to parallel turns. Remember to swing the pole as you face the fall line. Give yourself a break. Likely you will feel awkward and stiff about your poles as you try to refine your timing and balance. Typically, when anyone learns a new skill, things regress momentarily. If you play tennis, you may remember a similar experience when you practiced your serve. Regression is part of the learning curve. Always keep your hands up and forward. “There is a big misunderstanding about the timing of the pole swing,” reflects Baymore. “On days gone by the pole swing timing was that you swung, planted the pole, and turned around it. The pole touching the ground was the trigger to turn. Today, on modern gear, the turn begins as you begin the swing. So, I talk about pole touch and pole swing rather than plant.” More often than not, it takes time and practice to refine and master the correct use of poles. The very best skiers often have worked for years to refine foundation skills. So, remember to savor the day. More often than not, the difference between a mediocre day and a great day is attitude. Keep learning fun, and remember instructional drills are only a tool designed to enhance your pleasure. Take a moment. Enjoy the scenery. Savor the camaraderie. Practice. Practice. Practice. Technical Editor Tony Crespi is a former Ski School Supervisor and Coach whose work has appeared in regional and national publications throughout the United States. His column is published throughout the season in SKIER NEWS. Recent archived columns can be found on www.skiernews.com from our “Info Center” page. |
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