December 2008 Archives

Mountain High Resort, ROXY, and Snowboard Magazine have partnered to create Sunset Sessions, a new series of evening park clinics for girls in January and February.

Geared towards girls who are comfortable on green and blue runs, Sunset Sessions provides an encouraging environment where participants can progress at their own pace with Mountain High's certified female coaches.

The ROXY Team ups the experience by hitting the slopes with the girls and providing ROXY product demos.

 

Sunset Sessions is offered in two four-week sessions and takes place every Wednesday in January and February from 7-9pm.

For $99* each participant receives a four-week clinic, a free subscription to Snowboard Magazine, an opportunity to demo ROXY snowboards, and a chance to ride with the ROXY Team. Each clinic ends with complimentary hot drinks and dessert.

"At Mountain High we're always looking for new ways to encourage more girls to get involved with snowboarding," said Laura Johnson, Marketing Manager at Mountain High. "Last season we launched a successful 30+ women's learn-to-ride program and look forward to adding Sunset Sessions for the 16-29 year old demographic. We're excited to have ROXY and Snowboard Magazine as partners to add to the experience for the girls."

 ROXY has been supporting women's snowboarding since 2003 when the brand introduced its first line of snowboards. ROXY also puts on The Roxy Chicken Jams, a series of all-female pro snowboarding events that began four years ago in Innsbruck, Austria. ROXY's pro snow team includes world-class athletes Torah Bright, Alexis Waite, and Amber Stackhouse.

Don't just ride this season, up your ante at Sunset Sessions at Mountain High.

Sunset Sessions: Wednesdays from 7-9pm, $99* per session

Session 1: January 7, 14, 21, 28, 2009

Session 2: February 4, 11, 18, 25, 2009

Space is limited; please reserve your spot early by calling 760.316.7830. For more information visit http://mthigh.com/school/sunsetsessions.html.

 

* Lift tickets and rentals not included. Discounted lift tickets available at signup.

Volcom Peanut Butter & Rail Jam - January 3, 2009

This amateur snowboard contest is tons of fun for kids of all ages. Sierra Resort is the first stop on the series that lasts all season and travels all over North America. The rails challenge snowboarders to get creative and impress the judges to make it to the final competition in late spring where the prize purse can get upwards of $20,000.

 

40^th Anniversary Celebration - January 9, 2008

To celebrate Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort's 40^th anniversary of winter operations, we'll offer a specially priced $40 lift ticket for purchase online and give all Vertical Plus members that ski/ride on this day 40,000 feet. The first 40 people who purchase tickets at the resort that morning will also receive a commemorative T-shirt. There will be a Skiing through the Decades demonstration by Ski School and, beginning at 3:00 p.m., the Sierra Pub will top off the celebration by offering food & drink specials, a live DJ playing tunes from 1968, and footage from the early days of Sierra Ski Ranch.

Enjoy all the new snow at Snow Valley. All of the resort's terrain is now open.

Night sessions are available through Dec. 30 and Jan. 2, 3 and then every Friday & Saturday through Mid-March.

Enjoy skiing, snowboarding and snow play. Snow Play is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (lift serviced) and 5-8 p.m. (non-lift serviced). Enjoy a thrilling downhill sled ride.

Children ages 6-12 might enjoy their Mini Snowmobiles. This unique experience is available only at Snow Valley from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Looking to improve your terrain park skills? Check out our new Learn to Freestyle Program as well as our new Freestyle Learning Zone.

This winter, a vacation in Salt Lake just became more affordable and accessible than ever before.  The Ski Salt Lake Super Pass, sold in increments of one to six days good over a 7-day period, is valid at all four world-class resorts in the Cottonwood Canyons and provides an easy and inexpensive way to experience each of the resorts through a single lift pass, while enjoying all the dining, nightlife and value that downtown Salt Lake has to offer. 

With most major airlines operating flights into Salt Lake every day, many featuring non-stop morning arrival flights from major gateway cities, visitors can be schussing down the slopes when those bound for other destinations are still going through security lines.

Super Pass prices start at $114 for a two-day adult pass and goes up to a six-day pass for $336. It is valid at Alta, Brighton, Snowbird and Solitude, and is redeemable for a full-day lift ticket at any one of these resorts.

Available for purchase online at Ski-SaltLake.com, or through travel agencies, tour operators and Salt Lake hotels, the Super Pass gives visitors the opportunity to tour all of Salt Lake's famed resorts from a convenient base camp.
 
To make getting on the slopes from Salt Lake even easier, the Super Pass also includes free transportation on the UTA ski buses and the new TRAX-light-rail. The direct-to-resort ski buses run on regularly scheduled service, eliminating the need and associated costs of renting a car.
 
In addition to offering the Super Pass, a Salt Lake winter vacation provides a variety of lodging options to fit every interest and budget. From a luxury Five-Diamond hotel and spa, to a variety of remarkably well priced budget hotels, Salt Lake offers a downtown base camp that is high on value and low on stress.

Off the slopes, visitors can take advantage of the other activities Salt Lake has to offer, including a variety of cultural offerings, a happening restaurant and nightlife scene, and endless shopping.
 
For more information, visit www.visitsaltlake.com or contact Salt Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau toll-free at 800-541-4955.

At the end of a two year construction process to build one of the most expensive, and technically challenging aerial trams in the US, Jackson Hole once again has the longest continuous vertical rise in North America!

The new Aerial Tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is twice the size of the original, carrying 100 passengers.  The sleek, new cabins, and visually inspiring base terminal only add to the faster and more efficient "cable to the sky".

As well as the journey, it is the destination that captures the spirit of the Jackson Hole Tram. Soaring 4,139 vertical feet in 9 minutes to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain is unrivaled in the ski industry, cresting the Tetons with an endless choice of ski routes below, not to mention incredible 360 views.

Santa came to Crested Butte again last night with 13 inches of fresh powder for all the skiers and riders, bringing the season's total to 126 inches of natural snowfall. In the past 7 days, over 50 inches have covered the ski area making Crested Butte one of the snowfall leaders in Colorado! All this snow has 97% of terrain open, 481 acres of groomers, and 14 / 16 lifts running. This December is truly shaping up to be on par with last year's all-time record season.


"The forecast is calling for almost 10 more inches today and tonight," says Crested Butte Mountain Resort's Mountain Manager, Chris Corliss. "We have a total of 116 inches for December already! We are making sure all operations, terrain, and lifts are as safe as possible. The amount of snow we have is pretty awesome this year."


In celebration of breaking the 100 inch mark, Crested Butte Vacations is offering Ski & Stay packages starting from only $100. To book this package call Crested Butte Vacations at
(800) 600-2803  or visit www.skicb.com/100inches
*Package price is per person per night and includes lodging at the Grand Lodge Crested Butte and one lift ticket per person per night of lodging booked.

Imagine an infusion of distinct individual snow flavors. The new Pow Pow Platter pass offers one day of skiing at Steamboat, Copper Mountain and Winter Park for only $99.

The Pow Pow Platter is an ideal way to usher in the New Year with great value for skiing rat three of Colorado's favorite resorts. The Pow Pow Platter is a photo ID pass, is unrestricted with no blackout dates and days do not have to be used consecutively. One ticket is valid for one day at each resort. Think about it, $33 a day for three incredible resorts.

Skiers will enjoy Mary Jane's world-renowned moguls and Winter Park's extraordinary alpine bowl and back country Cirque; Copper's Free Tucker Cat Skiing, free parking and Naturally Divided Terrain; and Steamboat's western hospitality, famous trees and legendary Champagne Powder snow.

Pow Pow Platter connoisseurs have access to a combined total of 432 trails, 8,493 acres and over 9,300 vertical feet of terrain at Copper Mountain, Winter Park and Steamboat.  

Pow Pow Platters will be available while supplies last or until Jan. 31., whichever comes first. Platters may only be purchased online at  www.PowPowPlatter.com or by calling toll-free 866-763-5958. Platters must be purchased 48-hours in advance and may be redeemed at any resort.

Get your six-pack at Mountain High! No not beer or a washboard stomach, dude, we're talking six 8-Hour lift tickets good any day or night INCLUDING HOLIDAYS for $179.

That's just over $29 per ticket.  Regularly $54 non-holiday and $64 on peak weekends & holidays, you save $24 to $34 per visit. This 6-Pack will pay for itself in less than three visits! And you won't even have a hangover! Awesome!

Tickets are already activated, so you can go straight to the lift.  Each 6-Pack is encoded on a single electronic-access card giving users the benefits of Mountain High's ticketing technology such as hands-free lift access and guaranteed admittance during sellouts.

Anyone can use the 6-Pack but only one ticket may be used per day UNTIL March 30, at which time multiple tickets can be downloaded for family and friends.

So let's recap for those of us still soggy from last night's rain:

• Only $29 per day, everyday, INCLUDING HOLIDAYS!

• Save $34 per day on holidays & peak weekends!  Save $24 all other days!

• Pays for itself in less than 3 visits!

• Split the cost by sharing it with different people on different days.

• The 6-Pack is a LIVE ticket.  Go straight to the lifts.  No ticket lines.

• Guarantees your admittance during sell outs.

You'll find the 6-Pack at Sport Chalet, Big 5, The Sports Authority, Chick's Sporting Goods, and other specialty sport shops near you, but they are not available at Mountain High! Click here for a sales location near you.

Program not valid with any other discount or promotion. Unused tickets expire at the end of the 08.9 season.  Sale ends Jan. 4, 2009.

 

Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are 100% open with 438 acres of beginner to advanced terrain, 26 available lifts, a 3 to 5 foot base, and fresh machine groomed packed powder! Last week we received 3 to 4 feet of snow and additional snowfall is forecast periodically throughout this week. Park Staff is building the feature count with more than 60 jibs and snowfeatures and the halfpipe is currently under construction and will be opening soon!

Sierra at Tahoe is offering specially priced lift tickets because of early season conditions. 

Holiday Festivities began Sunday and continue through Wednesday. Family-friendly activities each day include snowman contests, Santa skiing and snowboarding around the resort, a hot chocolate and candy cane farewell, as well as a Jingle Bell limbo with fabulous prizes on Sunday and the Elk Grove Middle School Choir singing carols on Monday.

Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort offers some deals this winter season. The 3-Pak offers skiers and riders the chance to purchase lift tickets at last year's price, through January 1, 2009. 3-Pak tickets can be used any day of the winter season, including holidays, and don't have to be used consecutively. At just $45 per day for adults and $37 per day for young adults, the price can't be beat.

Ski & Stay packages are available online, starting at just $80 per person per night.

 Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort is located just 12 miles west of Lake Tahoe and receives an annual average of 480 inches of snowfall. For more information, visit www.SierraAtTahoe.com or call 530.659.7453.

Mountain High will host a USASA event on Saturday, Dec. 20.

The United States Amateur Snowboard Association is a series of events comprised of Slopestyle, Halfpipe, Slalom, Giant Slalom, and BoarderCross.  Competitors compete to build points toward qualification to the USASA Nationals held at Copper Mountain Colorado. 

There are age groups and divisions for all riders including multiple skier divisions.  These events have prize pools, raffles, and awards ceremonies.

Registration will be from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in the Big Pines Lodge

USASA Membership for 08/09: $75

USASA Non-Points Gathering Day Membership: $25

Entry Fee: $25

Lift Ticket: $25

Slopestyle:  This event is a judged freestyle competition with a course composed of table tops, hips, rails, and boxes.

Halfpipe: A judged Freestyle event located in the halfpipe.

Slalom & Giant Slalom:  This event is a timed race.

BoarderCross: This event is a race with multiple riders.  The course consists of Banks, Jumps, and Rollers.

For more information regarding the United States of America Snowboard Association please check out www.usasa.org

Big Bear has received 3 to 4 feet of snow in the past couple of days!

New runs are open today and plenty of terrain is available at both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain ski resorts with fresh machine groomed packed powder.

In addition to all the natural snow, they've had 5 days of continuous snowmaking and we will continue making more snow as conditions permit.

More runs and lifts will open Friday and the lifts will be at nearly full capacity by this weekend.Arrive early for a first tracks and enjoy a day on the snow.

Night Sessions are back!
Snow Summit's Holiday Night Sessions begin Friday Dec. 19 and last through Jan. 3. Scheduled Friday Night Sessions run through March 6 and Saturday Night Sessions are scheduled through March 14.

Night session hours are 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. All Night Sessions are weather permitting and subject to change.

Horizon Air's inaugural daily service from LAX to Mammoth Mountain began today. Just in time for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy more than four feet of fresh powder.

 The flight marks the beginning of regular LAX-Mammoth air service throughout the winter. Horizon's air service will provide travelers easy access to one of the most visited mountain resorts in the country, with daily flights scheduled through April 12, 2009.

         "Horizon's inaugural flight to Mammoth Mountain is one of the most pivotal moments in the history of the resort and the town," said Rusty Gregory, CEO of Mammoth Mountain. "The air service transforms a five plus-hour drive from Southern California into an hour's flight, making Mammoth even more convenient to experience."

         The one-hour-and-five-minute flight departs Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) daily at 2:20 p.m. and arrives at Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) at 3:25 p.m. The return flight leaves Mammoth at 4:05 p.m. and arrives at LAX at 5:10 p.m.  The flight will also facilitate inbound travel from a wide variety of national and international airlines with service into LAX.

Horizon will operate with the airline's Bombardier Q400 for the Mammoth route. This 74/76-seat, high-speed, twin-engine turboprop is one of the most technologically advanced regional aircraft in the world.

It's as quiet and comfortable as a jet - thanks to its special technology that suppresses noise and vibration, its generously sized overhead storage bins, its unobstructed under-seat space, and its ample headroom (6 feet 5 inches). The Q400 is also among the most environmentally friendly aircraft, burning 30 percent less fuel and producing 30 percent lower emissions than comparable jets.

         Mountain to Hit Full Operation With 4+ Feet of New Snow

         Since last weekend storms have dropped more than four feet of snow on the mountain, ensuring some of the best ski and snowboard conditions in the country. With even more snow predicted in this week's forecast, Mammoth will be opening Canyon and Eagle Lodges for the season this weekend, with the entire resort in full operation for the holidays.

         For more information on Mammoth, or to purchase vacation packages including transportation, lodging and lift tickets, visit MammothMountain.com or call 800-MAMMOTH. Flights may also be purchased through horizonair.com.

The First Major Tahoe-Area Snowstorm of the Season Hits Heavenly with More Than a Foot of Snow

• In Colorado, Vail and Beaver Creek are on track to break December snowfall records with more than 4 feet of snow this month and a winter storm advisory in effect through tomorrow
• Falling snow brings falling prices on lodging deals and flights into Reno for Heavenly and Eagle/Vail for Vail and Beaver Creek

 

Winter doesn't officially arrive until Dec. 22, but try telling that to skiers and snowboarders who are enjoying the first powder turns of the season at Heavenly Mountain Resort (www.skiheavenly.com). The first major Tahoe-area snowstorm of the season delivered lots of fresh powder on the Heavenly slopes.

Thanks to the new snow, the Heavenly mountain operations team has opened lots of new terrain. The same storm that's hitting Heavenly is expected to move into Colorado.

Over the weekend, the Colorado resorts of Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone were hit with up to two feet of fresh powder and are bracing for another winter storm. Since Dec. 1, Vail (www.vail.com) and Beaver Creek (www.beavercreek.com) have tallied more than four feet of snow and Beaver Creek is on track to break its December snowfall record.

 

Deep Snow, Deep Savings

Now is the time to book your last-minute holiday stay or January ski vacation. Airfares have dropped significantly in the past few weeks and Vail Resorts vacation planning experts recommend skiers and snowboarders take advantage of the falling prices and falling snow. The best bets:

• Last-minute holiday stays. A $149 Christmas vacation. Stay for $149 per night through Dec. 25 in the heart of the Vail Village at the Austria Haus Hotel. www.VailAllTheLove.com
• A post-holiday getaway. Look for deals the first full week of January (anytime after Jan. 4) - like the January Ski and Stay Package at Heavenly for just $85 per person, per night. www.skiheavenly.com
• Mid-January rates like the $99 room rates at Breckenridge and Keystone are a sure bet. www.snow.com for more information and restrictions.

More than two feet of new snow has fallen at Mountain High SKi Resort in Wrightwood and that number is expected to rise as snow showers blanket the region. 

The West Resort is now 100% open with 31 trails and a good mixture of beginner to advanced terrain.  The East Resort will open later this week. Operators are currently evaluating the North Resort for a possible weekend-opening as well. 

Mountain High's late opening was seen as an omen by many but this major winter storm has put the Wrightwood Resort right where it wants to be pre-holiday. 

All three resorts will be open for skiing and snowboarding by Christmas, and the North Pole Tubing Park will open this Friday as well. 

For a complete listing of lifts and trails along live cams and custom weather forecasts log onto www.mthigh.com.

 

Says John McColly, Director of Marketing, "It's fantastic out there.  I just got off the mountain and it's as good as I've ever seen it."

 

Ticket rates return to regular price first thing tomorrow morning but skiers and snowboarders looking to save money can still get a season pass for just $349.  That's $250 off the regular rate but this sale ends Sunday, December 21^st, so guests are advised to act quickly.  For avid skiers and snowboarders, a season pass is the best way to save money and pays for itself in just six visits.

HEY, HEY, HEY! The big winter storm blew in bringing with it steady snowfall. The powder is beginning to accumulate and forecasts call for up to a foot by this evening.

The conditions are the best of the season with a powder to packed powder surface! Around the clock snowmaking is in full operation and with these favorable conditions; we expect to continue making snow through the week.

Chains are required on all 3 routes into Big Bear, but it's worth the drive. Snow Summit and Bear Mountain currently have 5 chair lifts operating with terrain for all levels and abilities.

Snow Summit's Miracle Mile and Bear Bottom beginner area are open. The Park Run is open today at Bear Mountain, and Central Park and Inspiration runs offer 16 jibs and 4 snow features.

More lifts and runs will open SOOON! See you on the slopes, dude!

To view the Bear Mountain map of open runs and runs to open next please click HERE.

 Bear Mountain's Central Park and Inspiration runs are building the feature count with 15 jibs and 5 snow features for skiers to enjoy.

Snow Summit is now open with Miracle Mile open top-to-bottom, and Bear Bottom open for beginners.

Snow Summit and Bear Mountain have 4 chairlifts and terrain available for beginner to advanced skiers and snowboarders.

A major winter storm is expected early next week which will set us up for the Holidays! Snowmaking looks favorable beginning Saturday night and into next week.

More runs and lifts will open as snowmaking continues. Think snow!

Winter snow storms blew through Colorado this week, dumping several feet of fresh powder on the Rockies and winter enthusiasts couldn't be happier.  With an average snowfall of 300 inches a year, Colorado offers a wonderful winter vacation. 

With 26 ski resorts offering more than 2,000 trails and nearly 40,000 acres of mountain terrain, Colorado also provides visitors with a variety of off-the-slopes winter activities including dog sledding, ice jeeping, snow shoeing and ice climbing.

Resorts across the state are offering great values on airfare, lodging, lift tickets and more.   For a complete list of travel packages, vacation deals and travel itineraries visit www.colorado.com/deals.  

Fly the Pocketbook-Friendly Skies:

• Kids Fly, Ski and Stay Free in Aspen/Snowmass this winter.  Aspen/Snowmass is partnering with Frontier Airlines to offer families the ultimate Colorado adventure with their Kids Fly/Ski/Stay Free package. Purchase a minimum 3-day/4-night package including airfare, lift tickets and lodging through Stay Aspen Snowmass before Dec. 23, 2008 and for each adult booking one child (12 and under) flies, skis and stays completely free of charge. Adults who include a minimum 3-day ski or snowboard rental through Four Mountain Sports as part of their package also receive one child equipment rental absolutely free. For more information, contact Stay Aspen Snowmass at www.stayaspensnowmass.com/frontier or call 800-214-7669.  Reservations for this special package must be booked via telephone and cannot be booked online.
  
• Kids Fly Free to Vail and Beaver Creek this winter on American Airlines. American Airlines is rewarding parents who book a vacation into the Vail/ Eagle Valley Regional Airport with their Kids Fly Free program. For each paid adult fare (age 18 and above), American is offering one free child's airline ticket for ages 2-12, now through Feb. 13, 2009. Families must travel to the resort between Sunday and Wednesday and from the resort between Tuesday and Friday. This offer is valid for travel Jan. 4 - Feb. 13, 2009, with no blackout dates. Additional restrictions may apply. For details visit www.snow.com or call 800-404-3535.
  

Mountain High Resort in Wrightwood plans to open top-to-bottom for skiing and snowboarding on Wednesday. Temperatures dipped into the 20s Monday  and Mountain High had an incredible night of snowmaking.

Four trails on Mountain High West, Upper Chisolm, Lower Chisolm, Cruiser, and Sunnyside, are planned to open with a base of 6-12" of man made snow with service from Blue Ridge Express and Coyote chairlifts. Lifts will run from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. and night skiing will be available from 5-10 p.m. 

"The amount of snow that we've been able to make in such a short amount of time is a great testament to the improvements we've made in our snowmaking system," said Karl Kapuscinski, President and CEO. "Our new snow guns and system upgrades are allowing us to take advantage of the cold, dry temperatures and open a considerable amount of terrain for our guests." 

The Faultline Terrain Park crew will have a full lineup of boxes and rails. There will also be terrain options for beginner and intermediate riders. Winter Sports School expects to offer private lessons beginning on Friday and group lessons are expected to begin once Snow Flake chair opens. 

Early season ticket pricing will be in effect at $40 for an Adult 8-Hour ticket and $35 for an Adult 4-Hour ticket. Lift tickets for children ages 7 to 12 will be just $24 and night tickets (valid from 5-10pm) will be $30.

Please note prices are subject to change without notice.  Visit mthigh.com for a complete list of prices and programs.

Fly right into Canadian Rockies International Airport in Kimberly with Delta Airlines for all the Top Resorts in the Canadian Rockies

Packages Starting at $1045 US dollars

Price Includes:

• Delta flights from Los Angeles
• 7 nights lodging (Kimberley Inn), 6 day lift ticket, transfers
• All taxes

$50 off per person if booked by Dec 15. Additional $50 off if paid by check.

Only Minutes from Fernie, Kimberley and Panorama.

Easily accessible to Red, Whitewater, Kicking Horse, Revelstoke & Banff/Lake Louise/Sunshine.

Skican Ltd. is licensed under the Ontario Travel Industry Act, Registration No. 1068997 and Quebec government permit No. 16156432-701.

(888) 4-SKICAN (475-4226)

Mountain High Resort in Wrightwood opened Saturday with the Easy Rider chairlift at the East Resort and a 6"-12" base. Because of an inversion, snowmaking conditions have been better at the bottom of the mountain than at the top so snowmaking crews took advantage of the cold temperatures and have been blowing snow. 

Look for Easy Rider chair to service beginner terrain with a complete rail garden and several lines of jibs fashioned by the Faultline Terrain Park. Early season lift tickets are just $25 and regular operating hours will be 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily until additional terrain opens. 

"We're happy to be open and to have something to offer our seasonpass holders and guests who have been anxiously waiting for the season to start," said John McColly, Director of Marketing. 

Snowmaking expanded to the West Resort Thursday night where the crew has been making snow top to bottom. Operations will continue as long as temperatures permit and Mountain High expects to open more terrain in the next several days.

Weather forecasts are calling for a favorable change with possible snow showers beginning Dec. 10. Please keep in touch with the resort's website at mthigh.com for the most up to date information. 

This season snowmaking efficiency at Mountain High has been increased by installing 25 new top-of-the-line Ratnik snowmaking nozzles. The nozzles utilize a new patent-pending design requiring half the amount of compressed air for snowmaking.

This results in increased efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and energy savings. Best of all, manmade snow is real snow. It is made using only two ingredients: compressed air and water. 

A limited number of Mountain High season passes are still available at a discounted price of $349 (save $250). Visit mthigh.com for details.

It's official, the 2008-09 winter season at Steamboat Ski & Resort is now open. The season kicked off on Wednesday with the resort's traditional opening day benefiting the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club's Scholarship Foundation. Lift tickets were $20 and more than 500 people came out to take advantage of the perfect early season day and support the local organization.

The resort is running 2 chairs with access to 10 trails and 40 acres of skiing and snowboarding terrain. As cold temperatures continue in the area, our hard working snowmaking crews will continue to add to the base and open more terrain. A natural boost from Mother Nature could possibly drop snow on the resort over the weekend, allowing even more terrain to open. Forecasters are calling for a La Nina weather pattern this year, which bodes well for Steamboat.

We're looking forward to the next season to remember, after last year's record breaking 489 inches of snow. The best way to keep up to date on snowfall, on-mountain conditions and weather reports is by visiting www.steamboat.com.

Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort, recently ranked among the top three resorts in the country by the readers of Transworld Snowboarding and in the top 25 by the readers of SKI Magazine, is  opening for the winter 2008-09 season on Saturday, Dec. 6.

 

Consistently cold temperatures this week allowed Northstar to fire up North Lake Tahoe's largest snowmaking system, creating some of the best early season ski conditions in North Lake Tahoe. The National Weather Service forecast calls for temperatures to remain low the next few nights, which will allow the resort to continue to make snow and open additional terrain as temperatures permit.

The resort will operate three chairlifts; Arrow Express and Vista Express will open at 8:30 a.m., providing access to five beginner and intermediate ski trails, and Bear Paw will experience a late opening that will provide access to beginner terrain in the resort's teaching area.

A variety of terrain park features including boxes and rails will also be offered. Early season lift tickets are available for $45 for adults and young adults, and $15 for children ages five through 12 (under five ski for free).

Additionally, ski and snowboard lessons will be offered for adults and children through the resort's Ski & Snowboard School, rental and demo equipment will be available, and food and beverage locations both in the Village at Northstar and at mid-mountain will be open.

Monday through Friday, from opening day through Dec.19, Northstar Resort invites first-timers ages 13+ to learn to ski or ride for just $25. This offer includes a two and a half hour lesson, lift ticket accessing beginner terrain and rental equipment, and can be purchased in advance online at www.NorthstarAtTahoe.com, or on the day of at the resort's rental equipment shop.

This past summer, Northstar Resort improved the snowmaking efficiency of its already extensive snowmaking system with the addition of 16 new high-efficiency fan guns, 100 new low-energy stick snowmaking guns, and the retrofitting of older snowmaking equipment, making it 24 percent more efficient and reducing the amount of resources needed to make snow. The resort's snowmaking system can cover more than 50 percent of the resort's trails, allowing Northstar Resort to offer some of the best early season conditions in North Lake Tahoe.

And, new this season, guests can track weather patterns in real time over precise locations at the resort with Northstar Resort's new Interactive Radar, available online at www.NorthstarAtTahoe.com.

The 35 shops and restaurants in the Village at Northstar and the Village Skating Rink are open daily. Access to the rink is complimentary; skate rentals are available for just $5. The rink is open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., conditions permitting.

For the latest snow conditions, upcoming event information and opening day updates for Northstar Resort, visit www.NorthstarAtTahoe.com or call 530.562.1330.

Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort is located on Highway 267, just six miles north of Lake Tahoe and six miles south of downtown Truckee. For more information, call 1.800.GO.NORTH (1.800.466.6784) or visit www.NorthstarAtTahoe.com.

Winter is here! Whistler Ski Resort prepares for the one year countdown to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. This season promises to be more epic than ever with the much-anticipated opening of Whistler Blackcomb's record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola on December 12.

The showcase event of the 2008/ 09 winter season - Whistler Blackcomb's PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola will officially open to the public December 12, 2008. The launch of this mountain marvel set to become a new Canadian tourism icon will forever revolutionize the way visitors experience this all-season resort.

Plenty of activities and celebrations are planned for opening day, beginning with an official ceremony and performances atop of both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Following a traditional ribbon cutting at 11 a.m., the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola will depart both terminals with its first guests on board.

Those guests will include 'Ride of Their Life' winners, 22 well-deserving Whistler citizens who were nominated by the community for their passion for life in Whistler. The Gondola will then run throughout the afternoon, open to all guests - skiers, snowboarders and sightseers. After a historic day on the mountain, the celebration continues into the evening, with a 'Grand Apres' in Skiers Plaza, live performances, film, DJs and family-friendly entertainment.

The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola is a phenomenal feat of engineering and will break three world records, including longest unsupported span for a lift of this kind (3.024km/1.88miles), highest lift of its kind (435m/ 1,427 feet) and longest continual lift system (guests can ride up Whistler Mountain Gondola, across the valley to Blackcomb Mountain on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, and down Solar Coaster and Wizard chairs, a unique all-season experience for sightseers.) www.PEAK2PEAKgondola.com

7-Eleven Fire and Ice Show
Every Sunday starting December 14, 2008 - April 5, 2009
Whistler Blackcomb will be kicking off the Fire and Ice season with a special show during the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola Grand Opening December 12 (weather and snow permitting). Following the kick off, Whistler Blackcomb will turn up the heat every Sunday night at 6:30 p.m. at the base of Whistler Mountain.

Ski and snowboard schools' hottest pros throw down big air and tricks to music with fire spinners, fireworks wrapping it all up with Johnny Cash's familiar voice and the famous ring of fire. This is a free, family friendly event not to be missed.

Kokanee Valley Race Series, starts December 18
The Kokanee Valley Race Series is held on Thursdays throughout the season and is open to skiers, telemarkers and snowboarders with different gender and age divisions. No racing experience is required, just come along and have some fun!

The Whistler Holiday Experience, December 19, 2008 - January 4, 2009
This FREE family fun zone is unparalleled for indoor entertainment and fun! Running daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. over the holiday season at the TELUS Whistler Conference Centre, enjoy mini-golf, bouncy castles, kid's movie screenings and video games for the whole family to experience; Santa arrives on December 20 at 11 a.m. for the official opening party. Please note: Due to alternate programming, the Whistler Holiday Experience will be closed December 24, 25, and 31.

Dress like Santa Day - and ski for free, December 20
Don ye now your Santa Claus apparel. To get in the Christmas spirit, Whistler Blackcomb welcomes all holiday enthusiasts to 'dress like Santa' on December 20 and ski or board Whistler or Blackcomb mountains for free!

Whistler First Night, December 31
Whistler's First Night is the legendary come one, come all New Year's Eve celebration that takes over Whistler's Village Stroll and the TELUS Whistler Conference Centre, to say goodbye to the old and to welcome the new. This year's program promises new, fun and fresh ideas, featuring an inspiring program of great live music, art workshops and street entertainment for people of all ages. www.whistlerfirstnight.com

Packages...

Whistler is the holiday winter wonderland everyone dreams about, and there's incredible packages to take advantage with great value offerings.

If you book before December 19 enjoy two nights' accommodation and two days skiing from less than CAD $200 per person! Visit www.whistler.com or call 1.800.WHISTLER for more information and additional ski and stay vacation packages. Skiing Magazine readers recently voted Whistler Blackcomb as North America's #1 ski resort for the 12th consecutive year - so what are you waiting for?

Crested Butte Mountain Resort opened Nov. 26 for the 2009 ski season.

"We are in better shape this year than last without a doubt," says Ken Stone, Chief Operating Officer. "The team is really getting the resort set for a successful season on and off the mountain. Skiing and riding is only a part of the experience here."

 Passholders of other resorts will enjoy half price skiing! Simply bring your pass to the CBMR ticket office through Dec. 17, 2008 to receive a half-price ticket. The discount applies to full and multi-day tickets only, and includes adult, teen, and kid's pricing. Adult tickets are as low as $29.50.

"With the new Thin Air Sports retail shop, updated ski and snowboard rental and retail areas, the new Camp CB Ski and Snowboard Center, a completely new culinary program at each restaurant, and so many other improvements here, guests are going to be inspired for the season," Stone said.  

 Skiers and riders can check out snow conditions, get the latest snow report, and more information at www.skicb.com.

 Crested Butte has been named as Skiing Magazine's #1 Best Steeps, #8 Best Trees, #10 Best Powder, and Outside Magazine's Top Places To Live Now, Sunset Magazine's # 3 Top Dream Towns, SKI Magazine's #20 Readers Survey Top Resort, and SkiNet's # 3 Top Ski Town. Crested Butte was also named one of America's Best Small Ski Towns by Travel + Leisure Magazine.

The 2009 Alpine NorAm Cup, a steppingstone tour for aspiring World Cup racers, began today at Loveland Ski Area in Colorado with men's slalom races on Dec. 2 & 3 and women's slalom races Dec. 4 & 5.

 

Originally scheduled to start on Monday, the races had to be pushed back one day because a holiday storm covered Loveland Ski Area with 58 inches of snow in 72 hours.

 

"The NorAm races are a right of passage for young racers and enable us to track the progress of those coming up the pipeline," said U.S. Ski Team Alpine Director Jesse Hunt.  "This tour is important in both getting athletes experience and gaining World Cup starts.  Last year we had good success and won nine out of 12 NorAm titles."

 

Athletes winning discipline titles, as well as the runner-up, receive World Cup starts for the following season.

 

"Every athlete that's been to the Olympics or who races on the World Cup competed at the NorAm level at one time including Olympic champions Ted Ligety and Julia Mancuso who started their careers racing the circuit and both actually also won NorAm titles when they were younger."

 

"Loveland is proud to be hosting the kickoff of the 2009 Alpine NorAm Cup," said Rob Goodell, Director of Business Operations at Loveland Ski Area. "We were forced to postpone the races because of the huge storm over the weekend, but we will get things started on Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Loveland Valley and invite everyone to come out to see some of the best young ski racers in the world."

 

The first run is at 10 each day with the second run starting at 1 p.m.  Spectators are invited to watch the race and will be able to access the race course via Chair 3 at Loveland Valley.  Walking spectators will also be able to access the course via a walkway from the base area.

Loveland Ski Area is located 53 miles west of Denver, or 12 miles east of Silverthorne at Exit 216 on Interstate 70.   Call (303) 571-5580 or visit www.skiloveland.com for the latest snow conditions, live web cams and additional information.