Posts Tagged ‘Learn to Ski’

Vail Resorts’ Beaver Creek Opens Red Buffalo Park Learn-to-Ski Area

November 9, 2017
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Tubing at the Adventure Center atop Beaver Creek Resort © Dave E. Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Beaver Creek Resort, Colorado, renowned as a world-class luxury family mountain resort, is opening a new 200-acre Red Buffalo Park for the 2017-2018 season – an incomparable family learning area at the top of the mountain with 13 trails dedicated to beginner and learning terrain, serviced by a new Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5), a new Cookie Cabin, Kids’ Adventure Zones, snow sculptures, and a Ski School Skills Zone.

The new family and adventure learning area is designed to improve the experience for beginner and intermediate skiers and further establish Beaver Creek, part of Vail Resorts, as one of the world’s best luxury family resorts. Located at the mountain’s highest elevation, 11,440 feet, Red Buffalo Park provides 13 trails designated as a family learning area. At the heart of Red Buffalo Park, the new Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5), a high-speed quad, will improve the beginner experience by decreasing lift lines and providing a shorter, 4.3 minute ride to the top of the mountain.

Red Buffalo Park amenities include Kids’ Adventure Zones, snow sculptures, Park 101 and Zoom Room terrain parks, and a dedicated Ski School Skills Zone on Upper Sheephorn trail. Beaver Creek Ski & Snowboard School students will have access to the new Cookie Cabin, a mountaintop refuge serving Beaver Creek’s famed, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies daily.

“Red Buffalo Park is all about more time skiing with your family in an area that focuses on beginners and intermediate skiers and riders. Upgrading Red Buffalo Express Lift will provide high-speed lift access to the amazing beginner terrain at the top of Beaver Creek, resulting in less time riding the lift and more time skiing,” said Beth Howard, chief operating officer of Beaver Creek Resort. “We expect this improvement to take significant volume off Cinch Express, Beaver Creek’s second most-popular lift, and it really is an improvement befitting of Beaver Creek’s luxury, family experience, as it enhances a key beginner and family area of our mountain.”

 

Red Buffalo Park

Unlike most beginner learning areas, Beaver Creek’s Red Buffalo Park is located at 11,440 feet, the highest point of the mountain. The gentle slope of the designated learning trails provides terrain fitting for beginner and intermediate skiers and riders, plus breathtaking panoramic views of the Gore Range. Guests can ride the new Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5), located at the heart of Red Buffalo Park, for quick access to all 13 trails.

The new Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5) is named after the signature, beginner Red Buffalo trail, which provides incredible views of the Gore Range and is named after two signature peaks of the Gore Range, the Red peak and Buffalo peak. The new lift will reduce ride time by 50 percent, from 8.6 minutes to 4.3 minutes, and will increase uphill capacity by 75 percent. With the upgrade, all primary lifts on Beaver Creek will be high-speed.

 

New Ski School Experiences at Red Buffalo Park

Cookie Cabin: Guests enrolled in Beaver Creek Ski & Snowboard School will have access to the Cookie Cabin, located at the top of Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5). Serving up Beaver Creek’s famed, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies all-day long, the Cookie Cabin provides the perfect rejuvenation during a day on the slopes.

Sheephorn Ski School Skills Zone: Upper Sheephorn, a signature trail in Red Buffalo Park, is designated as a Ski School Skills Zone. The wide trail with sweeping views of the Gore Range is the perfect place for guests to refine their skills. After mastering the Sheephorn Skills Zone, guests can move on to explore the rest of the mountaintop terrain offered at Red Buffalo Park. 

Activities & Events in Red Buffalo Park

Snow Sculptures: Explore Red Buffalo Park to discover various snow sculptures located alongside the trails. Watch as the sculptures grow in size throughout the season – guests might even see Beaver Creek’s master snow sculptor at work.

Kids’ Adventure Zones: With banked turns, covered wagons, teepees and more, these fun areas are perfect to build confidence and challenge children’s skiing and riding abilities. Discover a sense of adventure on these runs designed just for kids within Red Buffalo Park.

  • Jack Rabbit Alley: This is a perennial favorite for kids of all ages. This trail starts at the very top of the mountain and winds its way through the trees of Red Buffalo Park challenging advanced and intermediate skiers.
  • Wild West Trail: A little bit of the Wild West built into Jack Rabbit Alley. Ski through a covered Calistoga wagon or explore the inside of a Native American teepee.
  • Mystic Maze: A fun interpretive trail winding through the lower trees just off the Ski School Skills Zone. This is a great piece of terrain for intermediate skiers to explore and learn about the animals on Beaver Creek Mountain.

Terrain Parks

  • Park 101: This beginner terrain park is great for people who are just learning the basics of freestyle snowboarding or freeskiing. The entry-level park contains small jumps, boxes, rails, and stall features designed for beginner riders and skiers to learn the basics of a terrain park.
  • Zoom Room: An intermediate-level park designed to flow through a variety of different and unique features including boxes, rails, log-slides, stall features, and jumps. Zoom Room is the natural progression once skiers and riders get comfortable with the basics.

Ski With A Ranger
Join partners from Walking Mountains Science Center and the United States Forest Service on a fun, engaging and complimentary tour of the beautiful natural surroundings here at Beaver Creek. Come learn more about the forest around you including wildlife, plants, history and the mountain ecosystem in winter. The tour will meet every Monday, starting December 11, at 1:30 p.m. at the top of Red Buffalo Park for an hour long educational adventure. Ability Levels 3 and up, open to all ages.

Vail Resorts’ Beaver Creek Resort  is renowned as a luxury family resort and for legendary attention to detail, World-Cup mountain pedigree, intimate alpine village, and reputation for world-class service. Just 30 minutes east of Eagle Airport (EGE) and 2.5 hours west of Denver International Airport (DIA), Beaver Creek offers luxury accommodations throughout three villages and ski-in, ski-out luxury lodges and hotels. More than 40 in-resort and slope-side restaurants, elegant village boutiques, cherished daily traditions and activities such as world-class downhill skiing and snowboarding spanning 1,832 acres with 3,340 vertical feet of descent, snow shoeing, Nordic skiing, and ice skating in the Beaver Creek village. Visit BeaverCreek.com for additional information and vacation planning.  

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Learn to Ski or Ride at Liftopia’s Top-Rated Beginner-Friendly Ski Areas

January 6, 2017
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Smugglers Notch, Vermont, came in #7 for Best Family resorts and #10 for Top Beginner Friendly in the Northeast on Liftopia’s Best in Snow Awards list © 2017 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, and Liftopia, which claims to be the largest online and mobile marketplace for lift tickets and other mountain activities, has compiled a list of the top beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas across North America that are ideal for those looking to learn one of winter’s signature sports.

This list is part of Liftopia’s Best in Snow Awards, honoring North America’s most beloved ski areas. The awards, unveiled last week, feature winners across five regions and seven categories (including Beginner-Friendly and Family-Friendly) that Liftopia customers said would be most useful in helping them make the most informed decisions when choosing where to ski or snowboard, regardless of ski area size. You can find the complete list of winners along with methodology here: https://bestinsnow.liftopia.com/#/.

Some highlights:

West Coast:  California has the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas in the West, including Tahoe Donner (first place in the family-friendly category), June, Boreal, Bear Valley, Snow Valley, Homewood, Donner Ski Ranch, Mammoth, Squaw Valley-Alpine Meadows and Sierra-At-Tahoe. Anthony Lakes (OR) is the #1 beginner-friendly ski area in the region.

Northeast: Bretton Woods is the #1 beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski area in the region. In addition to Bretton Woods, New Hampshire has the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas in the Northeast, including King Pine, Cranmore, Black Mountain, Pats Peak, Ragged and Attitash.

High West: Utah is home to the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas in the High West, including Eagle Point (#1 Beginner-Friendly Ski Area), Sundance, Brighton, Powder, Alta, Solitude and Brian Head. In the Family Friendly category, Sipapu, NM came in #1 in the region.

Midwest: Michigan ski areas reign supreme in the Midwest, with the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas including Crystal Mountain (first place in both categories), Shanty Creek, Boyne Highlands, Caberfae, Nubs Nob and Boyne Mountain.

Southeast: West Virginia has the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly ski areas in the Southeast, with Canaan Valley the number one Beginner Friendly and Family Friendly Ski Area in the region. Other winners include Snowshoe, Timberline Four Seasons and Winterplace.

Liftopia operates the largest online and mobile marketplace and resort technology platform serving the ski and mountain activity industry. Skiers and riders can purchase lift tickets, equipment rentals, meal vouchers and more from more than 250 ski areas in North America on Liftopia.com and via the Liftopia mobile app, with savings of up to 85% off walk-up window rates when purchased in advance. Founded in 2005, Liftopia is headquartered in San Francisco and backed by leading institutional and angel investors. Visit the Liftopia blog or follow the company on Facebook and Twitter.

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Ski Vermont Welcomes 2017 with New Ways to Hit the Slopes, Save and Win Big

December 31, 2016
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Skiing at Pico Mountain Resort, Vermont. Vermont ski resorts are welcoming 2017 with a host of special programs and events © 2016 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Montpelier, VT – Ski Vermont pairs with partners in Vermont and across the country to provide great programs and incentives to get on the slopes this season. Long time skiers and riders, as well as those looking to learn a snowsport for the first time can win great prizes like lift tickets to Vermont resorts, skis from Rossignol and snowboards from Burton, among many other prizes this season.

Longtime participants in the national Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month initiative, Vermont resorts offer $49 beginner packages during the month of January. Ski Vermont also offers the Take 3 Pass this season, which includes 3 beginner lessons for just $129. Ten participants in this program are eligible to receive a pair of Rossignol skis or a Burton snowboard at the end of the season.

Ski Vermont aims to reward already established Vermont-loving skiers and snowboarders this season with the new Bring-a-Friend program and the 2016-17 Season Scavenger Hunt. For those that want to introduce a friend or family member to skiing or snowboarding, they simply need to refer them (or gift them) a Ski Vermont Take 3 Pass and help get them to the slopes and into their first lesson. The first 100 participants will receive 2 lift tickets to a resort in Vermont.

Social-savvy skiers and riders can participate in the inaugural Ski Vermont Scavenger Hunt this season. Each week, starting on Thursday, December 29th, Ski Vermont will announce the resort, product and prize of the week on Instagram and Facebook. Participants post photos of the resorts and/or product that week to be entered to win prizes from Ski Vermont partners like Darn Tough socks, Skida headwear, Vermont maple syrup and more. Two lucky participants will walk away with a Burton Process Flying V snowboard or a pair of Rossignol Soul 7 HD skis at the close of the season.

“We are extremely excited to launch new initiatives for both beginners and established skiers and riders this season,” said Ski Vermont’s Director of Marketing and Communications Sarah Wojcik. “With great incentives provided by our partners and Vermont resorts, Ski Vermont aims to reward those visiting our Green Mountains and reveling in the state’s official winter sports – whether for the first time or hundredth.”

For the 17th year in a row, Ski Vermont is offering the Fifth Grade Passport, allowing fifth graders to ski virtually for free up to 88 days at Vermont alpine and Nordic resorts. For more information on Ski Vermont’s programs and incentives to slide, visit skivermont.com.

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January is Learn to Ski, Snowboard Month in Colorado Ski Country USA

December 6, 2015
Learn to Ski in Winter Park, Colorado © 2015 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Learn to Ski in Winter Park, Colorado © 2015 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

DenverColo. – January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month across America and Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) member ski areas and resorts are offering special promotions and programs to make it easy for people to learn Colorado’s signature winter sports. Guests visiting CSCUSA member resorts in January will find package deals on rentals, lift tickets, and professional instruction, and in many cases resorts will reward successful first-time learners with a complimentary season pass after completion of a multi-day lesson program.

In addition, several resorts are participating in the World’s Largest Lesson on Friday, January 8. This group lesson will occur at ski resorts across America in an attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest multi-venue skiing and snowboarding lesson. Participating CSCUSA member resorts include Arapahoe Basin, Buttermilk, Copper Mountain, Powderhorn, Snowmass, Steamboat, and Sunlight.

With plentiful, soft snow and a small army of dedicated skiing and snowboarding instructors ready to create lifelong skiers or snowboarders, January is the perfect time to introduce a friend or family member to Colorado Ski Country. Here is a summary of the Learn to Ski and Snowboard activities and offerings at CSCUSA member ski areas. 

Arapahoe Basin

Super Sunday Lessons

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area’s Super Sunday lessons are morning, half-day only (2.5 hours) and include a lift ticket. Adults (ages 15+) are $80 and children (ages 3-14) are $100. Equipment rentals are not included but guests can find alpine ski and snowboard rentals on-site at the Arapahoe Basin rental shop.

Super Sunday lessons are available January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 as well as Friday, January 8 as Arapahoe Basin participates in the World’s Largest Lesson. For more information, visit www.arapahoebasin.com 

Aspen Snowmass

Buttermilk Deluxe Package

Join Aspen Snowmass for a special private lesson package on Buttermilk while they prepare for and host the Aspen Winter X Games. For $390, participating guests will receive a full-day private lesson and can bring up to four of their friends/family. Added benefits include flexible meeting times and locations, priority lift access, and overnight ski/snowboard storage and mountain transfers.

Valid January 18 through February 5, 2016. Reservations and pre-payment are required. For more information, visithttp://www.aspensnowmass.com.

Beginner Incentive Package at the Limelight Hotel

New this year at the Limelight Hotel, the property introduces the Beginner Incentive Package that will make any newbie to the sport a skier for life. Offered in conjunction with the Aspen Snowmass Ski & Snowboard Schools, the package includes three full days of adult beginner lessons and four nights at the Limelight Hotel. Daily lunch is included in the experience, and the property’s local guides will escort skiers and riders to the slopes each day. Ski or Snowboard boot rentals, skis, snowboards and helmets are included. Guests also have the option to rent goggles, gloves, jackets and outerwear upon arrival from local retail partners.

The package is valid during Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month from Jan. 2-17, 2016. Pricing for this all-inclusive package starts at $1,778 per person. Book now by visiting www.limelighthotel.com or calling (844) 854-3387.

Cooper

3 Lesson Package

Cooper’s First Timer 3 Lesson Package is available as a first time snow experience for those who have never skied nor snowboarded before. This program is intended for a first time snow sport experience only and is geared toward adults 13 years old and older. The package includes three two-hour group ski, telemark, or snowboard lessons, rental equipment, and access to Cooper’s Magic Carpet lift for $210, or $189 with advance online reservations. Lessons can be taken any time Group Lessons are offered during the season. For more information, visit http://skicooper.com/product/first-timer-3-lesson-package/. 

Copper Mountain

Ski and Ride School University: No More Excuses for Winter Sport Never-Evers

Inspired by National Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, Ski and Ride School U offers newbies aged 18 and older a hassle-free and affordable option to catch the winter bug. For $199 the package includes:

  • Three ski or snowboard lessons
  • Lift tickets
  • Equipment rentals
  • Close-in parking
  • Lunch on the 2nd and 3rd day

Upon graduation and completion of the third lesson, Copper will award participants a free season pass so guests can progress further on the slopes for the remainder of the winter. Quantities are limited and the package must be purchased in person at Copper Mountain. For more information, please visit www.CopperColorado.com.

Crested Butte

Adult First Time Beginner Adventure Lesson

During the month of January, first time skiers and riders, ages 15 and older can sign up for a First Time Beginner Adventure lesson with the Crested Butte Ski + Ride School for $79. This package includes a full-day ski or snowboard lesson, full day adult lift ticket (valid for limited lift access on the day of the lesson) and half off a single-day equipment rental package. This offer is available to first time skiers and riders only. Limit one lesson package per person. Advance reservation required. For more information, visit http://www.skicb.com/learn. 

Eldora

Lesson, Lift and Equipment Rental Package for Children and Adults

Eldora Mountain Resort (EMR) is offering the Mountain Explorer Children’s Learn to Ski and Snowboard Package for $129. The day package includes an all mountain lift ticket, all day rental, and all day lesson, with snacks and lunch. Reservations are recommended; visit http://www.eldora.com/lessons.children.html for more information.

For adults, EMR is offering the EASY 1-2-3 for $129. The day package includes one day of lower mountain lift access, all day equipment rental and 3.5 hour lesson (2 hours AM and 1.5 hours PM). Visit http://www.eldora.com/lessons.daily.html for more information.

Loveland Ski Area

3-Class Pass For Kids

All children (ages 4-14) regardless of ability who pre-purchase or complete 3 full day lesson packages receive a free, unrestricted season pass to keep practicing their skiing or snowboarding skills for the rest of the season. Children’s full day lesson packages include lesson, lift access, rentals (ski or snowboard) and lunch.  Full day lessons are from 10am through 3:30pm daily. Phone reservations are available or guests can register at the Loveland Valley between 8am and 9am. Participants who pre-purchase can enjoy the season pass all winter long. Pre-purchase price is $336 for ages 6-14 skiers & snowboarders (Includes Season Pass); $360 for ages 4-5 skiers (Includes Season Pass & early drop off)

3-Class Pass for Newcomer Adults

The 3-Class Pass for adult first-time skiers or snowboarders is now available for pre-purchase. The pre-purchased package includes one All Day Newcomer and two half day Master the Mountain lesson packages. Upon completion of their third lesson, guests will receive a full, unrestricted Loveland Season Pass. Lesson packages include lesson, all-day lift access and equipment rental. Phone reservations are available or register at the Loveland Valley between 8am and 9am. Pre-purchase price is $331 (includes season pass).

Adult Novice/Intermediate 3-Class Pass

The Pre-Purchase program includes three 1/2-day Master the Mountain, full lesson packages, and an unrestricted Season Pass valid all season upon pre-purchase. Lesson packages include lift access and rental equipment, (ski or snowboard). Phone reservations are available at 800-736-3SKI or register at the Loveland Valley between 8am and 9am. Pre-purchase price is $471 (includes season pass). For more information, visit www.skiloveland.com. 

Monarch

Monarch Mountain celebrates Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month with affordable learn to ski and ride packages at the Monarch Mountain Ski and Ride School. Pricing begins at $55 for a half day youth group lesson. Visit www.skimonarch.com for details. 

Powderhorn

Learn to Ski or Snowboard Series

Powderhorn’s Learn to Ski or Snowboard program is for first timers only, skiers aged 5 and older and Snowboarders aged 7 and older. The program includes three full-days of lessons and EZ rider lift tickets and rentals for $169 (helmet not included). Upon completion, participants will receive a Graduate Card that entitles them to 50 percent off any additional lessons, rentals or lift tickets for the remainder of the winter season. Lessons are available Thursday-Sunday throughout the season and holidays. Lesson times are 10:30 am – 12:30 pm; 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit www.powderhorn.com. 

Purgatory

“One, Two, Free” Learn to Ski Package  

Purgatory Snowsports School offers a special learn to ski and snowboard package starting at $74 that includes 2 days of lift tickets, rental gear, full day beginner lessons. On the third day, receive a free lift ticket, 50% off rental gear and 50% off half-day lesson.  Participants also receive a 50% off discount card on lift tickets, rentals and lessons for the remainder of the season. Skiers & snowboarders can bring a friend to participate in Purgatory’s Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month program and receive a $25 Purgatory mountain card just for their referral, plus save 25% on a group lesson. For more information, visit www.SkiPurg.com/LSSM.    

Ski Granby Ranch

Get on the Snow

Ski Granby Ranch is offering a special program from January 4-31, 2016 called Get on the Snow for $249. Designed for first-time skiers and snowboarders aged 13 and older, Get on the Snow participants will receive two days of lessons and will ski and ride free at Granby Ranch for the rest of the season with a complimentary season pass upon completing their lessons.

Reservations are required. For more information, visit http://www.granbyranch.com/ski-ride-granby-ranch/get-on-the-snow.html. 

Steamboat

January Learn to Ski/Ride Package

Guests at Steamboat can build confidence while they learn in a safe, controlled, terrain-based environment with instructors that guide them every step of the way. Steamboat’s Learn to Ski/Ride Package opens the slopes with two days of lessons, rentals and lift tickets for just $199 from Jan. 4-31. Learn to Ski/Ride is available for adults and children ages 1st Grade and older. For more information, visit www.steamboat.com or call 800.299.5017. 

Sunlight

Skier Appreciation Day and Student/Teacher Appreciation Day

Skier Appreciation Day at Sunlight (January 8) offers $20 lift tickets to all skiers and snowboarders with 100 percent of the proceeds being donated to the United Way of Garfield County. In addition, on January 10 Sunlight will host Student/Teacher Appreciation Day, with $20 lift tickets for students and free lift tickets for teachers.

United States Ski and Snowboard Association U-10/U-12 Festival

On Jan. 30-31, Sunlight fans have an opportunity to watch the nation’s top up and coming ski and snowboard racers as part of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association’s U-10/12 Festival. Come watch some of the ski and snowboard talent that just might be standing on top of the podium in future Olympic and World Cup races. For more information, visit www.sunlightmtn.com.

Winter Park

Kid’s Multi-Week Lessons

Winter Park Ski + Ride School’s multi-week Fish Programs can accommodate children from age 3 to 14. With the 7 week Piranhas Program, 5 week Barracudas Program, or the 3 week Minnows Program, kids will have a blast while making new friends, and developing new skills on the slopes. Groups are broken down by age and ability level, from beginner to expert. Programs include instruction from the same coach each week, GPS tracking, and lunch. Programs for the month of January begin at $259 and may be reserved here: http://www.winterparkresort.com/plan-your-trip/lessons/kids-multiweek-lessons.aspx 

Wolf Creek

Camp Robbers Clinic for Kids

Wolf Creek Ski Area offers a variety of ski and snowboard packages to help introduce never-evers to the sport. During the month of January, Wolf Creek is offering a four-week Camp Robbers clinic for kids. For $231 ($264 for non-Season Pass holders) lift ticket, ski rental, four hours of instruction, lunch, and snacks are all included each week. Children will be grouped with the same children and instructor each week for the clinic. Not only will the kids improve on their skills, but also this class design will encourage socialization and friendship over the four-week span. Mountain safety, fun races, and a terrain garden are all featured in this program. For more information, visit http://www.wolfcreekski.com.

Information about CSCUSA and its members can be found at www.ColoradoSki.com, on Twitter @ColoradoSkiUSA and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ColoradoSkiCountryUSA. This release and other press information can be found in the online press room at http://www.ColoradoSki.com/Media.

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Bromley Introduces ‘SuperDuper’ Package for Kids; Start Fun, Start Free events; Massive Snowmaking Upgrades

September 5, 2014
Bromley is has a variety of terrain that will satisfy everyone from first-timers to those looking for an adrenaline rush © 2014 Dave Leiberman/news-photos-features.com

Bromley has a variety of terrain that will satisfy everyone from first-timers to those looking for an adrenaline rush © 2014 Dave Leiberman/news-photos-features.com

Bromley Mountain, Vermont, is removing the cost factor from that tricky trial period of learning to ski & snowboard. This season’s Start Fun, Start Free events have been set for December 21, 2014, January 19, 2015 and March 15, 2015, when up to 75 guests, ages 6 and up can enjoy a day on snow, free of charge. Registrants will receive an all-day Learning Zone lift ticket, an all-day Rental of ski or snowboard equipment, and instruction in the Learning Zone from 10:30am until noon. Call 802/824/5522 to pre-register.

Following the “free” theme, Bromley is introducing the Super Duper Ski Package, partnering its Kidsrule Mountain Camps program with Elan skis. This $599 package includes 6 Kidsrule lessons, a free pair of Elan Starr skis with Quick Trick bindings, a coupon for great deals on boots, poles and accessories, plus a Bromley Season Pass! (The Season Pass isn’t new… since Kidsrule’s inception in 2011/12, every child that completes 6 Kidsrule lessons receives a full Season Pass.) The package saves $223 on lessons alone, the free skis retail for about $220, plus the value of a season pass (check bromley.com for the current rates). Limited packages available; click here for full details.

Snowmaking Efficiency Upgrades – More SNOW! This winter season, Bromley is adding 74 brand new high efficiency HKD tower guns, complete with hoses, and scrapping our 59 remaining energy-hog ground guns. The 100% efficient equipment eliminates the need to rent diesel powered air compressors (a first in Bromley snowmaking history!) and adds permanent tower gun coverage to four trails. One of the reasons Bromley was able to scrap the ground guns was Efficiency Vermont, which offered a new incentive for Vermont Ski Resorts (more on the statewide initiative here) last spring. “Get rid of all your inefficient guns, and receive really, really, REALLY good incentives to purchase new, state of the art high efficiency equipment.”

Other new and exciting happenings in the Bromley snowmaking world include: Collaborating with HKD to develop a new design for a portable tower gun. One side-effect to surrendering the ground guns is a loss of flexibility in gun placement for tricky spots, steep spots, spots the tower guns just don’t go. In order to maintain portable options, 6 of the new tower guns will be just 6’ tall, mounted on a stable tri-pod (instead of a sled, like other portable tower guns) with specially developed nozzles to allow moisture coming out of these shorter guns the appropriate “hang-time” necessary for making good quality snow with tower guns.

Is it possible to further maximize efficiency? In partnership with Efficiency Vermont, Vermont’s Sun Mountain plans to find out by installing the first Snowmaking Energy Index (SEI) in the United States this winter. This system will allow Bromley’s snowmakers to measure the effectiveness and efficiency of its snowmaking system in real time, giving its team the ability to adjust variables allowing for maximum output, best quality snow and lowest energy consumption possible at all times.

Bromley is also the first resort in Vermont to install an Intelli-Flow Controller, giving the option to increase snow output by maximizing available air from the compressors based on real time environmental factors. For greater detail on snowmaking improvements, check Bromley’s snowmaking blog.

Bromley Mountain is located at 3984 Vermont Route 11, Peru, Vermont, six miles east of Manchester. For information, visit bromley.com, 802-824-5522.

 

See:

BROMLEY MOUNTAIN, CELEBRATING 75th ANNIVERSARY, STILL PINNACLE OF ‘CLASSIC VERMONT’ SKIING FOR FAMILIES

 

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Bromley, Cranmore, and Jiminy Peak Offer Free Lessons, Lifts, Rentals to First Timers on Sunday, Mar. 9, 2014

February 14, 2014

If ever there was a time to learn to ski or snowboard in the Northeast, that time is Sunday, March 9, 2014, when three New England resorts showcase for free their new Terrain Based Learning (TBL) programs to first time skiers and snowboarders. No small print. No hidden fees. Just register in advance, show up, get professionally fitted in free rental gear, and have access to instructors for 90 minutes at Jiminy Peak in Hancock, Mass., Bromley Resort in Peru, Vt., and Cranmore Resort in North Conway, N.H.

It’s a first for the TBL Program at these resorts, and a first in at least a decade that beginners are being invited to enjoy winter as guests of the resorts’ ski schools. All three host resorts are part of the Fairbank Group based at Jiminy Peak which has made a major commitment to learning by rethinking the process of transforming beginners into skiers or snowboarders on fun, specially designed fear-free slopes.

Terrain features such as rollers, half-pipes, and banks are carved into the surface to serve almost like training wheels to build confidence in sliding on snow, said Ben Wilcox, president and general manager of Cranmore Resort. “Once beginners learn the fundamentals, they progress to the rest of the mountain much faster.”

Adds Tyler Fairbank, president of Fairbank Group, “Through this unprecedented offer, we hope to capitalize on the buzz created by the Winter Games. What’s more, it will be a little warmer, a little sunnier than those days earlier this season when we were all under the spell of the polar vortex. “We believe TBL is a better way to become skiers and snowboarders and hope to expose more beginners to this most intuitive and enjoyable way to learn,” Fairbank says.

First time skiers and snowboarders, ages six and up, must register in advance at their preferred resort, then upon arrival will receive complimentary equipment rental, a rental helmet, and a beginners’ lift ticket valid all day after the 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon instruction ($89 value). They will also receive a discount on additional lessons, lift tickets, and rentals through the end of the 2013-14 winter season.

The offer is limited to the first 150 beginners at each resort. Some other restrictions apply. Terrain Based Learning instruction, now a permanent part of each resort’s learning programs, will continue to be available through the end of the 2013-14 ski season.

For more information online, visit: bromley.com, jiminypeak.com or Cranmore.com. Or call: Bromley (802 824 5522 x 301), Cranmore (603 356 5544 x 333), or Jiminy Peak (413 738 5500 x 3680).

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January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month in Colorado Ski Country USA

December 31, 2013
Winter Park is one of the Colorado Ski Country USA member resorts offering special learn-to-ski-or ride packages during January © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Winter Park is one of the Colorado Ski Country USA member resorts offering special learn-to-ski-or ride packages during January © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month and Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts are offering deals to entice kids and adults to come to the mountains and give skiing and snowboarding a try, sharpen their skills or pick up a new discipline. In addition to CSCUSA’s First Class program, which provides a free beginner lesson and equipment rental to qualifying fifth graders in January, resorts are offering significantly discounted lessons and Learn to Ski and Snowboard packages that include lift tickets, equipment rentals, and lessons taught by highly trained professional instructors.

Taking a lesson is a wise step in progressing as a skier or snowboarder. Safety and knowing your limits also add to a great day on the slopes according to CSCUSA Ski Instructor of the Year Ashley Sifers with Ski Granby Ranch. “This is really important. Recognize when you’re tired. Be aware of your surroundings and listen to your body,” explains Sifers. “You don’t have to eke out every minute of the day to have a successful, awesome day on the hill.”

Here are some of the Learn to Ski and Snowboard offers from CSCUSA resorts:

Arapahoe Basin

Learn to Ski/Ride Month Super Sunday Special

Good for kid or adult first timers only, the Super Sunday Special package includes a lift ticket, equipment rental, and a beginner lesson. Guests who purchase a Super Sunday lesson will be entitled to discounts on future lessons. Prices for adults are $99 for skiing and $107 for snowboarding, while prices for kids are $79 for skiing and $84 for snowboarding. The items in these packages can be purchased individually; Super Sunday lessons will be $59. Adult ski rental: $20; adult snowboard rental: $28; kid ski rental: $10; kid snowboard rental: $15; Beginner-area lift tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for kids. 2014 Super Sunday Dates are January 5, 12, 19, 26; February 2, 9, 16, 23. Valid for morning, half-day lessons only (10am-12:30pm).

Free One Run Lessons

Guests are matched up with instructors who learn the guest’s ability level and goals during a Black Mountain Express chairlift ride. During one run down the mountain on terrain accessible from the Black Mountain Express lift, instructors coach relatively minor movements that make major improvements to guests’ skiing. Sign-up is day-of, first-come, first-served from 10:00 am – noon. 2013-14 Dates: December 7, December 15, January 4, January 26, February 9, March 9. For more information, visit www.arapahoebasin.com.

Aspen/Snowmass

Beginner’s Magic For Adult Skiers And Snowboarders

Learn the basics of skiing or snowboarding from professional instructors who practice a teaching method that promotes peak performance and confidence and educates about the right equipment and mountain awareness. Available at Snowmass and Buttermilk every day, this program is best for adults who are first time beginners or who are only comfortable on beginner terrain. Lessons start at $199 inclusive of lift ticket, equipment rental, and full-day lesson when booked at least seven days in advance.

For Kids & Teens – Experienced professional instructors share their wealth of knowledge and instill an appreciation for the mountain environment. Their passion is contagious and kids enjoy perfecting their skills while they develop a love for the sport. Beginners learn in a supportive and fun environment while developing confidence and life skills. They will explore the mountain, try new skills, terrain and snow conditions based on appropriate skill development and experience the thrill of the pipe and park and/or race course with expert coaches. Available at Snowmass and Buttermilk every day, kids will be in groups with other kids or teens of similar ages. Lessons start at $111 for a full-day lesson when booked at least seven days in advance. For more information, visit www.aspensnowmass.com/schools.

Copper Mountain

Free Skiing and Riding for Beginners During Ski and Ride Month and All Winter Long

All season long beginners can access and learn for free on the Easy Rider carpet located in Center Village. Once basic skills are learned, a ticket for the Pitchfork chairlift is $15, allowing beginners to master getting on and off the lift while perfecting turning and stopping.

Woodward at Copper Barn – Great for Newbies and Beginners
This past summer the Woodward at Copper Barn underwent a half-million renovation project which opened the door far beyond snowboards and skis to now include skateboards, BMX and slopestyle mountain bike . All synthetic snow surfaces were replaced with a surface designed for wheels. Families and amateurs alike are invited to experience the renovations expanded offerings for never-evers with additions including a new beginner foam pit with two-foot and four-foot jumps, a pump track designed for the development of park skills, and new programming to bridge the gap and see results on snow. For more information, visit www.coppercolorado.com.

Crested Butte

$59 Beginner Ski or Ride Package.

For Learn to Ski Month this January 2014, Crested Butte Mountain Resort is offering a $59 beginner ski or ride package. The package is available for adults to learn how to ski or snowboard at a 63 percent discount. This package is for first-time skiers and snowboarders, age 15 and up only.  It includes an Adult First Time Beginner Adventure Ski or Snowboard lesson and a 1-day adult lift ticket valid for limited lift access on the day of the lesson.  Participants can also receive a 50% on rentals when they redeem their Liftopia voucher at the Adventure Center. Visit www.skicb.com/learn for more information and to book this package through Liftopia.com.

Loveland

Free Unrestricted Season Pass for Qualifying Kids

All children (ages 4-14) regardless of ability, who pre-purchase or complete 3 full day lesson packages, receive a free unrestricted season pass to keep practicing their skiing or snowboarding skills for the rest of the season. Children’s full day lesson packages include lesson, lift access, rentals (ski or snowboard) and lunch.  Full day lessons are from 10am through 3:30pm daily. Phone reservations are available or register at the Loveland Valley between 8am and 9am. Pre-purchase price:  $315 for ages 6-14 skiers & snowboarders (Includes Season Pass) $345 for ages 4-5 skiers (Includes Season Pass) (4-5 yr old program includes early drop off beginning at 8:15am). For more information, visit http://www.skiloveland.com.

Monarch

First Timer Lessons

First-timer lessons at Monarch are conducted in a group setting and provide first time, basic, beginner instruction to get new skiers and snowboarders comfortable, moving and having fun on their equipment. Packages include all-day lift ticket, equipment and helmet rental, 2.5 hrs. of group instruction, and a snack.  Lesson begins promptly at 9:30 or 11:30 and are $89 for new snowriders aged 7-12 and $99 for ages 13 and older. For more information, visit www.skimonarch.com.

Powderhorn

Learn to Ski and Ride Season Pass Program

Powderhorn Mountain Resort and the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel join forces to bring back the Learn to Ski and Ride Season Pass Program for the 2013 – 2014 winter season. Designed for first time skiers or snowboarders ages eight and up, the Daily Sentinel’s Learn to Ski and Ride Season Pass program features three consecutive ski or snowboard lessons at Powderhorn Mountain Resort with the Intensive Series, which includes a full day group lesson with an hour break for lunch.

Lessons run from 10am – 12pm and 1pm – 3pm and focus on weather precautions, changing snow conditions, etiquette on the mountain and the Skier/Rider Responsibility Code. Participants emerge from the series with a great foundation in their chosen snow sport, and are able to put new skills to the test on-mountain. Upon completion of the three-lesson program, participants receive a free season pass for the remainder of the 2013 – 2014 season.

Cost for the program is $269 for youth and pre-teen participants (ages 8-17), $320 for adults (18+) and $299 for full time college students. Visit www.powderhorn.com for a list of regular season rates and details on the Learn to Ski and Ride Pass pass program.

Purgatory

Discounted Basic Beginner Packages

Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort is pleased to announce two new low cost packages during January 2014 for children and adults who want to learn how to ski or snowboard. The program includes two new packages plus a discount card for future skiing or snowboarding.

The Basic Beginner Packages include full-day ski or snowboard lessons for adults/children, basic rental equipment, and lift tickets. Offered Jan. 6 – 31, 2014, the two-day package is $158, $100 off the regular price while the one-day package is $79, a savings of 39 percent.

Upon completion of the 1-Day or 2-Day beginner packages, participants will receive a card good for discounts on lessons, lift tickets and rentals for the remainder of the season through March 30, 2014.  These discounts are valid for use of the LSSM participant only and include lift tickets at $50 for adults, $40 for young adults, and for $30 kids; lessons are $39 for a half-day group lesson, $59 for full-day group lessons; ski or snowboard rentals are $20 for adult basic, $17 kids.  Blackout dates apply:  2/15/14 – 2/16/14 and 3/8/14 – 3/15/14. For more information, visit www.durangomountainresort.com.

Ski Granby Ranch

Get On The Snow Season Pass for Qualified Beginner Skiers and Snowboarders

For $199, complete two ski or snowboarding lesson days and graduate with a “Get On The Snow” season pass to Ski Granby Ranch, as well as a 20 percent discount coupon valid for a retail merchandise purchase. Get on the Snow is for level one, never-ever beginners ages 10 and up. This program is available from January 6 through March 6, 2014. Lessons do not have to be on consecutive days. Not valid with any other offers or promotions. No discounts offered for having equipment or passes. Black-out dates apply:  January 17 – 20, 2014 and February 14-17, 2014. Reservations required. For more information, visit http://www.granbyranch.com/.

Sunlight

Learn to Shine Program For First Time Skiers And Snowboarders

The Learn to Shine package includes three days of lessons, equipment rental and lift tickets. Plus, participants receive a free 5-Day ski pass once they’ve completed the lessons – all for $365. The three lessons can be taken on the dates chosen by the student, whether those dates are consecutive or not.

Skiers and snowboarders that participate in the Learn to Shine program are matched with top-notch instructors that will have them navigating beginner terrain by the end of their first day. For more information, visit http://www.sunlightmtn.com/.

Winter Park

Winter Park’s Family Easy Start
Learning to ski or snowboard is more fun as a family, and the Winter Park Ski + Ride School offers a great program that allows families to learn together, creating shared memories for one all-inclusive price. For $679 for a half-day or $859 for a full day a family of four gets four lift tickets, four equipment rentals, a private instructor, and access to all the amenities of the Private Lesson Center, including lockers, equipment storage, and a cozy lounge. For more information, visit www.winterparkresort.com.

Wolf Creek

First and Second Day Beginner Packages
These package is ideal for those who have never skied/snowboarded before. The First Day package ($60 for skiers, $66 for snowboarders) includes an all-day lift ticket to the Nova Lift and four hours of professional instruction (from 10am to noon, and from 1pm to 3pm) for new skiers and snowboarders ages 9 and up. The Second Day package ($70 for skiers and snowboarders) includes an all-day lift ticket to the Nova and Raven Lifts plus two hours of professional instruction. This package is designed as a follow-up to the 1st Day Beginner Package, although the 1st Day package is not a prerequisite. For skiers and snowboarders ages 13 and up. Prices quoted for the First and Second Day packages do not include equipment rental.

Children’s Camp Robber Clinic – January 11, 25; February 1, 8

This four-week program (Saturdays only) is designed to introduce 5 to 8 year olds to skiing or improve on the skills they already have, all in a fun environment. Children are grouped according to ability and ski with the same children and instructor each week to foster socialization and friendship. Activities include terrain garden, fun races, and mountain safety. Lift ticket, ski rental, four hours of instruction, lunch and snacks are all included each week. $210 for season pass holders; $240 for non-season pass holders. For more information, visit www.wolfcreekski.com/.

Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) is the not-for-profit trade association representing Colorado’s 21 ski & snowboard resorts. Information about CSCUSA and its members can be found at www.ColoradoSki.com, on Twitter @ColoradoSkiUSA and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ColoradoSkiCountryUSA.

For more travel features, visit:

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January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month in Colorado Ski Country USA

December 24, 2013
A children's ski lesson at Winter Park, Colorado. January is Learn to Ski & Ride month at Colorado Ski Country resorts which are offering special deals to get newbies to the slopes © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

A children’s ski lesson at Winter Park, Colorado. January is Learn to Ski & Ride month at Colorado Ski Country resorts which are offering special deals to get newbies to the slopes © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month and Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts are offering deals to entice kids and adults to come to the mountains and give skiing and snowboarding a try, sharpen their skills or pick up a new discipline. In addition to CSCUSA’s First Class program, which provides a free beginner lesson and equipment rental to qualifying fifth graders in January, resorts are offering significantly discounted lessons and Learn to Ski and Snowboard packages that include lift tickets, equipment rentals, and lessons taught by highly trained professional instructors.

Taking a lesson is a wise step in progressing as a skier or snowboarder. Safety and knowing your limits also add to a great day on the slopes according to CSCUSA Ski Instructor of the Year Ashley Sifers with Ski Granby Ranch. “This is really important. Recognize when you’re tired. Be aware of your surroundings and listen to your body,” explains Sifers. “You don’t have to eke out every minute of the day to have a successful, awesome day on the hill.”

Here are some of the Learn to Ski and Snowboard offers from CSCUSA resorts:

Arapahoe Basin

Learn to Ski/Ride Month Super Sunday Special

Good for kid or adult first timers only, the Super Sunday Special package includes a lift ticket, equipment rental, and a beginner lesson. Guests who purchase a Super Sunday lesson will be entitled to discounts on future lessons. Prices for adults are $99 for skiing and $107 for snowboarding, while prices for kids are $79 for skiing and $84 for snowboarding. The items in these packages can be purchased individually; Super Sunday lessons will be $59. Adult ski rental: $20; adult snowboard rental: $28; kid ski rental: $10; kid snowboard rental: $15; Beginner-area lift tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for kids. 2014 Super Sunday Dates are January 5, 12, 19, 26; February 2, 9, 16, 23. Valid for morning, half-day lessons only (10am-12:30pm).

Free One Run Lessons

Guests are matched up with instructors who learn the guest’s ability level and goals during a Black Mountain Express chairlift ride. During one run down the mountain on terrain accessible from the Black Mountain Express lift, instructors coach relatively minor movements that make major improvements to guests’ skiing. Sign-up is day-of, first-come, first-served from 10:00 am – noon. 2013-14 Dates: December 7, December 15, January 4, January 26, February 9, March 9. For more information, visit www.arapahoebasin.com.

Aspen/Snowmass

Beginner’s Magic For Adult Skiers And Snowboarders

Learn the basics of skiing or snowboarding from professional instructors who practice a teaching method that promotes peak performance and confidence and educates about the right equipment and mountain awareness. Available at Snowmass and Buttermilk every day, this program is best for adults who are first time beginners or who are only comfortable on beginner terrain. Lessons start at $199 inclusive of lift ticket, equipment rental, and full-day lesson when booked at least seven days in advance.

For Kids & Teens – Experienced professional instructors share their wealth of knowledge and instill an appreciation for the mountain environment. Their passion is contagious and kids enjoy perfecting their skills while they develop a love for the sport. Beginners learn in a supportive and fun environment while developing confidence and life skills. They will explore the mountain, try new skills, terrain and snow conditions based on appropriate skill development and experience the thrill of the pipe and park and/or race course with expert coaches. Available at Snowmass and Buttermilk every day, kids will be in groups with other kids or teens of similar ages. Lessons start at $111 for a full-day lesson when booked at least seven days in advance. For more information, visit www.aspensnowmass.com/schools.

Copper Mountain

Free Skiing and Riding for Beginners During Ski and Ride Month and All Winter Long
All season long beginners can access and learn for free on the Easy Rider carpet located in Center Village. Once basic skills are learned, a ticket for the Pitchfork chairlift is $15, allowing beginners to master getting on and off the lift while perfecting turning and stopping.

Woodward at Copper Barn – Great for Newbies and Beginners
This past summer the Woodward at Copper Barn underwent a half-million renovation project which opened the door far beyond snowboards and skis to now include skateboards, BMX and slopestyle mountain bike . All synthetic snow surfaces were replaced with a surface designed for wheels. Families and amateurs alike are invited to experience the renovations expanded offerings for never-evers with additions including a new beginner foam pit with two-foot and four-foot jumps, a pump track designed for the development of park skills, and new programming to bridge the gap and see results on snow. For more information, visit www.coppercolorado.com.

Crested Butte

$59 Beginner Ski or Ride Package.

For Learn to Ski Month this January 2014, Crested Butte Mountain Resort is offering a $59 beginner ski or ride package. The package is available for adults to learn how to ski or snowboard at a 63 percent discount. This package is for first-time skiers and snowboarders, age 15 and up only.  It includes an Adult First Time Beginner Adventure Ski or Snowboard lesson and a 1-day adult lift ticket valid for limited lift access on the day of the lesson.  Participants can also receive a 50% on rentals when they redeem their Liftopia voucher at the Adventure Center. Visit www.skicb.com/learn for more information and to book this package through Liftopia.com.

Loveland

Free Unrestricted Season Pass for Qualifying Kids

All children (ages 4-14) regardless of ability, who pre-purchase or complete 3 full day lesson packages, receive a free unrestricted season pass to keep practicing their skiing or snowboarding skills for the rest of the season. Children’s full day lesson packages include lesson, lift access, rentals (ski or snowboard) and lunch.  Full day lessons are from 10am through 3:30pm daily. Phone reservations are available or register at the Loveland Valley between 8am and 9am. Pre-purchase price:  $315 for ages 6-14 skiers & snowboarders (Includes Season Pass) $345 for ages 4-5 skiers (Includes Season Pass) (4-5 yr old program includes early drop off beginning at 8:15am). For more information, visit http://www.skiloveland.com.

Monarch

First Timer Lessons

First-timer lessons at Monarch are conducted in a group setting and provide first time, basic, beginner instruction to get new skiers and snowboarders comfortable, moving and having fun on their equipment. Packages include all-day lift ticket, equipment and helmet rental, 2.5 hrs. of group instruction, and a snack.  Lesson begins promptly at 9:30 or 11:30 and are $89 for new snowriders aged 7-12 and $99 for ages 13 and older. For more information, visit www.skimonarch.com.

Powderhorn

Learn to Ski and Ride Season Pass Program

Powderhorn Mountain Resort and the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel join forces to bring back the Learn to Ski and Ride Season Pass Program for the 2013 – 2014 winter season. Designed for first time skiers or snowboarders ages eight and up, the Daily Sentinel’s Learn to Ski and Ride Season Pass program features three consecutive ski or snowboard lessons at Powderhorn Mountain Resort with the Intensive Series, which includes a full day group lesson with an hour break for lunch.

Lessons run from 10am – 12pm and 1pm – 3pm and focus on weather precautions, changing snow conditions, etiquette on the mountain and the Skier/Rider Responsibility Code. Participants emerge from the series with a great foundation in their chosen snow sport, and are able to put new skills to the test on-mountain. Upon completion of the three-lesson program, participants receive a free season pass for the remainder of the 2013 – 2014 season.

Cost for the program is $269 for youth and pre-teen participants (ages 8-17), $320 for adults (18+) and $299 for full time college students. Visit www.powderhorn.com for a list of regular season rates and details on the Learn to Ski and Ride Pass pass program.

Purgatory

Discounted Basic Beginner Packages

Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort is pleased to announce two new low cost packages during January 2014 for children and adults who want to learn how to ski or snowboard. The program includes two new packages plus a discount card for future skiing or snowboarding.

The Basic Beginner Packages include full-day ski or snowboard lessons for adults/children, basic rental equipment, and lift tickets. Offered Jan. 6 – 31, 2014, the two-day package is $158, $100 off the regular price while the one-day package is $79, a savings of 39 percent.

Upon completion of the 1-Day or 2-Day beginner packages, participants will receive a card good for discounts on lessons, lift tickets and rentals for the remainder of the season through March 30, 2014.  These discounts are valid for use of the LSSM participant only and include lift tickets at $50 for adults, $40 for young adults, and for $30 kids; lessons are $39 for a half-day group lesson, $59 for full-day group lessons; ski or snowboard rentals are $20 for adult basic, $17 kids.  Blackout dates apply:  2/15/14 – 2/16/14 and 3/8/14 – 3/15/14. For more information, visit www.durangomountainresort.com.

Ski Granby Ranch

Get On The Snow Season Pass for Qualified Beginner Skiers and Snowboarders

For $199, complete two ski or snowboarding lesson days and graduate with a “Get On The Snow” season pass to Ski Granby Ranch, as well as a 20 percent discount coupon valid for a retail merchandise purchase. Get on the Snow is for level one, never-ever beginners ages 10 and up. This program is available from January 6 through March 6, 2014. Lessons do not have to be on consecutive days. Not valid with any other offers or promotions. No discounts offered for having equipment or passes. Black-out dates apply:  January 17 – 20, 2014 and February 14-17, 2014. Reservations required. For more information, visit www.granbyranch.com.

Sunlight

Learn to Shine Program For First Time Skiers And Snowboarders

The Learn to Shine package includes three days of lessons, equipment rental and lift tickets. Plus, participants receive a free 5-Day ski pass once they’ve completed the lessons – all for $365. The three lessons can be taken on the dates chosen by the student, whether those dates are consecutive or not.

Skiers and snowboarders that participate in the Learn to Shine program are matched with top-notch instructors that will have them navigating beginner terrain by the end of their first day. For more information, visit www.sunlightmtn.com.

Winter Park

Winter Park’s Family Easy Start
Learning to ski or snowboard is more fun as a family, and the Winter Park Ski + Ride School offers a great program that allows families to learn together, creating shared memories for one all-inclusive price. For $679 for a half-day or $859 for a full day a family of four gets four lift tickets, four equipment rentals, a private instructor, and access to all the amenities of the Private Lesson Center, including lockers, equipment storage, and a cozy lounge. For more information, visit www.winterparkresort.com.

Wolf Creek

First and Second Day Beginner Packages
These package is ideal for those who have never skied/snowboarded before. The First Day package ($60 for skiers, $66 for snowboarders) includes an all-day lift ticket to the Nova Lift and four hours of professional instruction (from 10am to noon, and from 1pm to 3pm) for new skiers and snowboarders ages 9 and up. The Second Day package ($70 for skiers and snowboarders) includes an all-day lift ticket to the Nova and Raven Lifts plus two hours of professional instruction. This package is designed as a follow-up to the 1st Day Beginner Package, although the 1st Day package is not a prerequisite. For skiers and snowboarders ages 13 and up. Prices quoted for the First and Second Day packages do not include equipment rental.

Children’s Camp Robber Clinic – January 11, 25; February 1, 8

This four-week program (Saturdays only) is designed to introduce 5 to 8 year olds to skiing or improve on the skills they already have, all in a fun environment. Children are grouped according to ability and ski with the same children and instructor each week to foster socialization and friendship. Activities include terrain garden, fun races, and mountain safety. Lift ticket, ski rental, four hours of instruction, lunch and snacks are all included each week. $210 for season pass holders; $240 for non-season pass holders. For more information, visit www.wolfcreekski.com.

Information about CSCUSA and its members can be found at www.ColoradoSki.com, on Twitter @ColoradoSkiUSA and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ColoradoSkiCountryUSA.

For more travel features, visit:

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www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

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Colorado Resorts Entice Offer Ski School Specials During Learn To Ski And Snowboard Month

January 2, 2013
Kids make learn-to-ski look easy at Winter Park Resort, Colorado and what a view! Colorado Ski Resorts are making it easy and affordable for guests of any age to take up skiing and snowboarding, especially during January, Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, nationally © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Kids make learn-to-ski look easy at Winter Park Resort, Colorado and what a view! Colorado Ski Resorts are making it easy and affordable for guests of any age to take up skiing and snowboarding, especially during January, Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, nationally © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts are treating beginner guests to a number of ski school deals and packages this season that are especially attractive during the month of January, which is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month.

The snow from recent storms that spread across the state has left ideal conditions for beginners to learn, and presents the opportunity for seasoned sliders to expand their winter sport repertoire. With the industry’s top instructors, legendary ski schools, and packages teeming with value, guests are sure to find the resort, program, and experience that caters to their needs.

Below are lesson packages available at resorts throughout Colorado Ski Country, and ski school specials pertinent to Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month.

Arapahoe Basin:

Super Sunday Special

Every Sunday in January, Arapahoe Basin will have special lesson and rental packages for newbie skiers and riders. These specials are specifically geared toward first-time skiers and riders – those who have never stepped foot in a binding or on a mountain. All packages include lift ticket, rental and lesson. Lessons are half-day, morning only.

Dates: January 6, 13, 20, 27

Adult ski package: $99

Adult snowboard package: $107

Kids’ ski package: $79

Kids snowboard package: $84

*lesson can be purchased a la carte for $59

One Run Lessons

With Arapahoe Basin’s One Run Lessons, Guests of any age and ability are matched with an instructor for one run from the Black Mountain Express lift to the base area. The purpose of this lesson is to suggest minor changes or improvements to the guest’s technique, and to introduce the guest to the resort’s snowsports instructors.

Dates: January 13, February 10, March 10

Times: 10am-noon

Sign-up is first come, first served, DAY OF only.

4 Lessons 4 U ($290):

Regardless of ability or discipline, guests can take advantage of four fully-transferable half-day, morning lessons for less than $75 per lesson. They can be used for kids, friends, or in combination with family members. They are available for all ability levels ages 3 and up, for child or adult skiing, snowboarding and telemark lessons (telemark lessons available Saturday and Sunday only). Lessons are good until April 28, 2013. Lift Tickets are not included and are available for $15 for kids and $25 for adults. More information can be found at http://www.arapahoebasin.com/.

Aspen/Snowmass

Adult Beginner’s Magic™
Learning to ski and ride isn’t just for kids. Aspen/Snowmass welcomes adults to Elk Camp Meadows in Snowmass, where students will learn to ski and ride mid-mountain in a private area specific to beginner skiers and snowboarders with their very own lift and magic carpet.

Aspen/Snowmass pros will get beginners out and about on the “easy” runs that will challenge them just enough. The accelerated learning method and equipment helps students succeed, and the resort’s top pros teach the lesson. Students will learn the basics of skiing or snowboarding from pros who practice a teaching method that promotes peak performance and confidence, and educates about the right equipment and mountain awareness. Aspen/Snowmass is so confident in this lesson that they created a unique package around it.

Available at Snowmass and Buttermilk every day, this program is best for adults who are first time beginners or who are only comfortable on beginner terrain. Beginner Levels (green terrain only levels 1 – 3) Lesson is a full day: 10:00am – 3:00pm and includes: lesson, beginner magic rental equipment, and a beginner area-lift ticket.

Costs run as follows: Full day: $203, full day with 7-day advance purchase: $193, one day extension: $143 per day. Three full days: $429, three full days with 7-day advance purchase: $408. More details can be found at http://www.aspensnowmass.com/.

Copper Mountain

Save 50% on 2nd Day Ski and Ride School Adult Lessons

Learn how to ski and ride right the first time. Copper Mountain Ski and Ride School offers 50 percent off on second day lessons when a two day adult lesson is purchased. For more information please visit http://www.coppercolorado.com/winter/ski_and_ride_school/adult.

Free Lift Access For Beginners At Copper Mountain

Learn to ski and snowboard at Copper Mountain without breaking the bank this January. Easy Rider carpet in Center Village is free for those just learning how to slide down the mountain. Once guests get the hang of skiing and riding and are ready to test their skills on more beginner terrain, a lift ticket for Pitchfork beginner chairlift is available for $15 and is the perfect terrain to hone in on new skills. Both tickets are available at a Copper Mountain ticket window and available all season long.

Learn To Ski And Snowboard Month Is Not Just For Never Evers

Learn how to spin in the park or conquer a box or rail with Copper Mountain Ski and Ride School and Woodward at Copper. Start the day at the Schoolhouse for skiing and riding then head to the Woodward Barn for a unique and fun experience on trampolines and in foam pits. Lesson packages include a lift ticket, lunch, and real-time GPS tracking provided by Flaik for superior safety and peace of mind for parents. Walk-ups are accepted until 9 a.m. on the day of lessons. Advanced Reservations are highly encouraged, for more information please visit www.woodwardatcopper.com.

Crested Butte

North Face Guide

For guests interested in an extreme skiing or riding experience, but looking for some tips and tricks for success, CBMR’s Ski and Ride School created the North Face Guide. This in-bounds group tour allows participants to experience the resort’s famed extreme terrain, concentrating on skiing and riding off the High Lift and in the North Face area of the mountain. The tour includes an evaluation and light education, helping adventure-minded guests make the jump to extreme skiing and riding in a safe and controlled environment. Call Crested Butte Ski & Ride School for reservations 970-349-2211. More information can be found at http://www.skicb.com/cbmr/index.aspx

Eldora

First Timer Lesson Package

Eldora’s First Timer Lesson Packages provides new skiers and riders with a four hour group lesson, rental equipment and a lift ticket for just $119. Eldora’s lower mountain terrain is perfect for first-timers looking to develop their basic skills. For more information please visit www.Eldora.com/lessons.first

Loveland

3 Class Pass

Loveland Ski Area’s 3 Class Pass encourages a lifelong love of snow sports by rewarding first time skiers and snowboarders ages sis and up that complete three lesson packages with a free season pass. Newcomers can also pre-purchase the three lesson packages and use the pass all winter long.

Loveland Explorers

Explorers is a six week program where intermediate skiers and snowboarders ages 7-14 train with top level coaches from The Loveland Ski and Ride School and The Loveland Ski Club to develop their skills. Children learn and explore with the same coach all six weeks and the groups are limited to six students to one coach. Package is $469 and includes six full day lessons with lunch and a season pass.

The Loveland Ski and Ride School offers a unique private lesson for families looking to learn to ski or snowboard together. Up to four family members age seven and older learn together with the same instructor in a two hour newcomer lesson for first time skiers or riders. The $395 includes two hour lesson, beginner lift tickets and equipment rentals for four people. More information can be found at http://www.skiloveland.com.

Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort

Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort is offering three new low cost packages during January 2013 for children and adults who want to learn how to ski and snowboard. These new packages are only valid at Purgatory January 7-31, 2013 as part of national “Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month” and are geared toward people who have never skied or snowboarded and want to learn.

2-Day Basic Beginner Package only $149, a savings of up to 43%

Includes a full-day ski or snowboard lesson for adults/children, basic rental equipment for two days, and two days of lift tickets.

Lodging Plus 2-Day Beginner Package starts at $189 pp, a savings of up to 39%

Includes the 2-Day Basic Beginner Lesson Package ( lift tickets, rentals & lesson), plus two-nights lodging, based on quad-occupancy in Lodge at Tamarron. Some restrictions apply.

1-Day Basic Beginner Package only $79, a savings of up to 47%

Includes a full-day ski or snowboard beginner lesson for adults/children, basic rental equipment for the day, and a beginner lift ticket.

Be Back Beginner Discount Card

Upon completion of the 1-Day, 2-Day or 2-Day plus lodging programs, participants will receive a card good for discounts on lessons, lift tickets and rentals for the remainder of the season through March 31, 2013. These discounts are valid for use of the beginner only.

Lift tickets: $50 adults; $40 students; $30 kids

Lessons: $39 half-day group lesson; $59 full-day group lessons

Ski or snowboard rentals: $20 adult basic; $17 kids

Blackout dates apply: 2/16-2/17 and 3/10-3/16

Basic rental packages include skis/snowboards, boots, poles and helmet. Pre-registration is required for participation. Visit www.skipurg.com/lssm for details and to register.

Powderhorn

Learn to Ski or Ride Season Pass Series

The Season Pass Series is designed for first timers ages eight and up who are new to either the sport of skiing or snowboarding and ready to commit to three lessons. At the end of the lessons, students have a great foundation and will be able to take their new skills all over the mountain. Additionally, when they complete all three sessions, they will get a free season pass for the rest of the season.

Lessons are a full day Group Lesson with an hour break for lunch and run from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Cost is $299 for adults including lesson, lift and rental and $249 for ages 8 – 17 including lesson, lift and rental and is available in three different tracks:

Intensive Series:

December 21-23, 2012 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) OR

January 2-4, 2013 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday)

Saturdays Series:

January 5, 12, 19, 2013

Sunday Series:

January 6, 13, 20, 2013

Young At Heart

One of the most popular programs at Powderhorn, Young at Heart is for skiers or riders over age 50 and this January special sessions will be held specifically for January Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month. Join the resort every Thursday to ski with friends and a guide from the Ski and Ride School. Groups are divided by ability, with an emphasis on fun, camaraderie and ski time. Stay after the lifts close for the weekly apres ski party in the Sunset Grille. Learn to Ski and Snowboard sessions will be held Jan 10, 17 and 24.

Young at Heart begins on December 20th and continues every Thursday until the mountain closes in spring. Sign in by 8:40 a.m. Groups go out promptly at 9:00 a.m. More information can be found at http://www.powderhorn.com/special-programs

Ski Cooper

The 3 Lesson Season Pass Program is available for first time skiers and riders at Ski Cooper. Participants can pay as they go and upon completion of the third lesson, they are eligible to receive a Ski Cooper 2012-13 season pass. Details and more information can be found at http://www.skicooper.com/ or by calling (800) 707-6114.

Ski Granby Ranch

Get on the Snow

Ski Granby Ranch has long emphasized beginner-friendly ski environments and instruction, and to turn first-timers into lifelong skiers, they’re offering a Get on the Snow (GOTS) program, where newbies complete two days of comprehensive instruction (including lift tickets and rentals) for $199 – and walk away with a season pass to boot.

The GOTS program emphasizes watching and learning with others in a group setting which creates a comfort level for the beginner. GOTS is offered January through mid-March, some date restrictions apply and reservations are required. Details can be found at http://www.granbyranch.com/.

Steamboat

Learn to Ski & Ride Package

The Steamboat Ski & Snowboard School’s Learn to Ski & Learn to Ride clinics pair first time winter enthusiasts with some of the best instructors in the industry, including former Olympians, collegiate athletes and more. The resort is so confident that “Never Ever” students will be skiing or riding comfortably on green runs after their three-day programs that they guarantee it. Learn to Ski & Learn to Ride Packages offer three days of instruction, gear rental, lift tickets and the same instructor for all three days of instruction for 16 year olds and up. The Learn To Ride Program is part of the signature Burton clinic and features specialized equipment and proven teaching methods designed to help first-time snowboarders. Booking Learn To Ski or Learn to Ride Packages seven or more days in advance can result in a discount. For reservations call 800-922-2722, and for more information visit www.steamboat.com.

Sunlight

Learn to Shine

The Learn to Shine program at Sunlight encourages beginners to take on three days of lessons with a free 5-day ski pass awarded upon completion. The package includes three days of lesson, equipment rental and lift tickets for $325. Guests can choose what days to take their lessons, whether they are consecutive or not. More details can be found at http://www.sunlightmtn.com/ski-school/learn-shine.

Telluride
3-Day Beginner Skiing Adventure
Enjoy miles of beginner terrain with instructors teaching skills that will have guests successfully skiing on their first day. With the 3 Day Beginner Package, guests can buy two days and get the third day free – includes lift, lesson, and rental. First time skiers only. 11:15 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Learn to Ride Beginner Snowboarding
Telluride partners with Burton Snowboards to offer the best experience in snowboard instruction. Included in the lesson are specifically designed beginner snowboards, boots, and bindings – which quickens the learning curve. Smaller class sizes and gentle terrain complete this unique experience. Package includes lift, lesson and rental. With the Learn to Ride Beginner Snowboarding Package, buy two days and get the third day free – includes lift, lesson, and rental. First time snowboarders only. Learn to Ride Beginner Snowboarding is offered 11:15 a.m. – 3:45 p.m. More information can be found at www.TellurideSkiResort.com.

Winter Park

Bob’s Mogul Camp

Winter Park is home to North America’s infamous natural bump terrain, Mary Jane. With six hours of daily coaching from Winter Park Pros, guests will be navigating the bumps best in no time. Students finish out the day with a special après party and video analysis. Winter Park Ski + Ride School Director, Bob Barnes, and his top mogul coaches perfect bump skiing for novices and experts. Groups are based on ability level and range from blue bump runs to double diamond bump runs.

January 25-27, 2013
February 13-15, 2013
March 1-3, 2013
Meeting location: Mary Jane Moffat Room; 8:30am
6 hours a day / $519

Wolf Creek

Beginner Ski and Board Package

The Beginner Package at Wolf Creek Ski Area keeps things easy for first timers by offering never-ever skiers and snowboarders a combination lift and group lesson ticket. The $56 includes four hours in a group ski lesson plus the beginner Nova double chairlift. Lessons are from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., with a one hour break for lunch. For $66 the lesson includes the same deal for snowboarders. This package is offered to adult skiers/boarders as well as to children, ages nine and older. More information can be found by visiting www.WolfCreekSki.com.

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New Hampshire Ski Areas Celebrate January Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month

November 29, 2011

Snowboarding at Waterville Valley, one of New Hampshire's mountain resorts. January is Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month © 2011 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

During the month of January, Ski NH and its 38 member resorts will participate in a national program to introduce guests to the sports of skiing and snowboarding. Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month is a program taking place across the United States that features special offers making it easy and affordable for people to learn to ski, snowboard, cross country ski or snowshoe, and for current skiers & snowboarders to enhance their skills by taking lessons from professional instructors.

Among the special offers being featured in New Hampshire is Learn to Ski & Snowboard Free Week from January 7-13. 2012. During this week, 19 NH ski areas will be offering a limited number of free learn to ski or snowboard packages. These packages include a free beginner lesson, free equipment rentals, and a free beginner lift ticket or trail pass to those who register in advance. Participants must visit http://www.SkiNH.com to register and download a Learn to Ski or Ride Free Coupon; they then contact one of the 19 participating areas to make a reservation for a specific day that week. Registration opens in mid-December. Participating alpine areas include Loon Mountain, Bretton Woods, Cannon Mountain, Waterville Valley, Attitash Mountain Resort, Wildcat Mountain, Cranmore, Gunstock Mountain Resort, Pats Peak, Ragged Mountain, King Pine at Purity Spring Resort, Black Mountain and Granite Gorge; participating cross country areas include Jackson XC, Great Glen Trails, Bretton Woods XC, Waterville Valley XC, Purity Spring Resort XC & Snowshoe Reserve, and Granite Gorge XC.

Every day of the ski season, New Hampshire’s ski areas already offer specially-designed learn to ski and ride programs to introduce new people to the sport. In addition to these learn to ski and ride packages, there will be many other special programs offered during January that normally are not available.

Among these offerings, guests will find free & discounted lift tickets for those who bring a friend to try the sport, special pricing on learn to ski or ride packages, and follow-up rewards for first timers who choose to hit the slopes or trails again. Guests can visit the January Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month section on SkiNH.com for full details & offers.

Nationally the program is being promoted by a consortium of ski industry organizations & media outlets, as well as three well-known national ambassadors: ski icon Glen Plake, New Hampshire’s own Olympic & World Cup champion Bode Miller, and World Cup champion Darren Rahlves.

“Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing & snowshoeing offer a fun & healthy way to get outside and enjoy winter with family and friends,” said Alice Pearce, president of Ski NH. “As our slogan says, ‘Humans Were Never Meant to Hibernate.'”

To learn more about Ski NH’s January Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month events and New Hampshire’s 38 downhill and cross country resorts, visit www.SkiNH.com.

Ski NH is the statewide association representing 38 alpine and cross country resorts and more than 200 lodging and guest service properties in New Hampshire. For more information on ski areas, lodging packages, and updated winter events at Ski NH resorts, call Ski NH at (800) 88-SKI-NH (800-887-5464) or visit the Ski NH website at www.SkiNH.com.

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