Ski Whitefish :: Small Town Charm in Whitefish

Whitefish, Montana is a quaint community of just over 6,000 residents in the northwestern part of the state. The town has a friendly, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for those looking to take a ski vacation.

1. Ski Vacations to Whitefish Mountain Resort are fantastic. The mountain resort has 98 trails and 4 terrain parks: 10% expert, 40% advanced, 35% intermediate, and 15% beginner. There are a number of bowl and tree skiing areas. The longest run is just over 3 miles long. Whitefish mountain gets about 300 inches of snow a year, that’s plenty of fresh powder to ski!

2. Whitefish offers visitors the Moonlight Dine & Ski on February 7th and March 10th. You will take a nighttime ride on the chair lift to the summit of Big Mountain. Then you will enjoy a buffet style meal with full bar accessibility. After, you have the option of riding back down in the chair lift; or if you bring your ski/snowboard equipment, you can glide your way down the mountain. Advanced reservations are required, and it costs only $49. 95 per adult.

3. If you like to ski under the stars, then visit The Fishbowl Terrain Park (chairlifts 2, 3, and 6) for night skiing. Tickets are only $17 per person and the park is open from 4 pm- 8:30 pm.

4. Whitefish will host their own Winter Carnival from February 3-5th. There is a grand parade with floats, dancers, marching bands, and more along the picturesque Central Avenue. They will also have a fireworks display, ski joring, and children’s characters.

5. Of course, February wouldn’t be complete without a Mardi Gras celebration! This will take place on Sunday, February 19th starting at 11 am. There will be art and craft vendors, face painting, mask decorating, live music, bead tosses, and costume contests. The Base Lodge will be serving southern style food such as crab cakes and jambalaya.

6. Snowmobile tours allow you to explore a lot of area in either half or full day tours. You’ll be able to view Glacier National Park, the Flathead Valley, the Swan Range, and the Canadian Rockies. Before your tour, you will be given a safety training session so you can have the best experience possible.

7. Ice skating is a pastime loved by many. Here, you have the option of outdoor skating on one of the many frozen lakes. Or you have the indoor rink option as well, such as Stumptown Ice Den. Stumptown Ice Den offers public skating, adult drop in hockey, figure skating, broomball, and refreshment stands.

8. Winter Woods Dog Sled Tours specializes in small group dog sledding tours. First, you will get to learn briefly about dog sledding, and then off you go on the trails. The tour will last about 50 minutes. You’ll have the opportunity to stand on the runners of the sled behind a seasoned musher too. After the tour, some tasty treats will be available, plus the opportunity to pet the dogs.

9. If you love sleigh rides, then visit the Bar W Guest Ranch on Spencer Lake. They present group rides in the morning, early afternoon, and evening/dinner hours. The dinner tour gives you the choice of a chili or steak meal. Tours last about 45 minutes, plenty of time to relax and enjoy the countryside.

10. Glacier National Park is just a short distance from Whitefish Resort. Glacier Adventure Guides offer snowshoeing and backcountry skiing tours. Your $180 fee will include your equipment for the day, park and guide fee, and lunch. This is available for all ages too.

So, if you’re looking for a resort area that has all the winter activities you love, plus the comforting feel of a small town, then Whitefish is definitely the place for you to visit.

Beaver Creek Ski Packages : 10 Best Things to Do while Visiting

It’s Better in Beaver Creek, Ski Packages for your family!

Beaver Creek, Colorado is not only a first-rate winter destination; it’s also very family friendly. There’s a lot to do for tourists of all ages. From skiing, to races, to tubing, and more!

1. Beaver Creek has just fewer than 150 trails with 25 lifts. It has 3 terrain parks, 1 half pipe, glades, bump runs, and gentle slopes. Lift tickets can be purchased per day starting at $102 for adults and $59 for children (5-12 yrs. old). Gentle runs include the “Piece O’Cake”, intermediates like “Gold Dust” or expert runs such as the “For Get

2. If you’re a “foodie”, then visit from January 26-28th to enjoy the Beaver Creek Food and Wine Weekend. Participate in the Winter Wonderland Wine Seminar, Snowshoe & Gourmet Lunch, or Dinner at Mirabelle with Guest Chef Stephanie Izard, among other events. There are 3 packages available: Standard (2 nights and 2 days lift tickets), Magnum (3 nights and 3 days lift tickets) and Imperial (3 nights in upscale lodging, 3 days lift tickets and tickets to most of the

3. Every Monday, from mid-January to early March is the Beaver Creek Race Series. There is the option for individual and team competitions; for snowboarders, telemarkers, and alpine. There are also raffle prizes and an awards party. So if you’re looking to see what you’re made of, this is the way to find out.

4. Be sure to stop by the Black Family Ice Rink, for some skating, on your visit. This outdoor rink is in the center of Beaver Creek Village. It’s open from noon until 9 p.m.; skates and helmets are available to

5. The Haymaker Tubing Hill in a great option for the whole family. Participants must be at least 36 inches tall. The tube park has 4 lanes and lift services. Be sure to make your reservations!

6. Have you ever wanted to try a scavenger hunt? On January 7, 2012 is the EpicMix Scavenger Hunt. It’s for any age group and only $10 per person or $30 for groups up to 5 people. There are riddles with virtual pins located on different parts of the mountain. Each pin has a point value: solve the riddles and earn the points. The three people with the most points will win prizes. Then there is an Après party for everyone from 3pm-5pm.

7. There is something magical about the mountain landscapes. What better way to view it then with a hot air balloon tour. Camelot Balloons, Inc. offers balloon rides all year. The early morning flights average between 60 and 75 minutes and are for ages 6 on up.

8. Beaver Creek has a night time skiing event called Thursday Night Lights. This event is held every Thursday night during the season and is for anyone with at least Level 5 intermediate abilities. Skiers will glide down the slopes listening to bumping music and using glow sticks. At the end of the evening is a spectacular fireworks event.

9. A free night to stay? Yes, please! The “Three For Free” package is what you need to book for this deal. Make a reservation for Beaver Creek by January 31, 2012, and you receive one night free, a $50 gift card and a free hydration backpack.

10. While Beaver Creek has many family friendly activities, there is still plenty for the grown-ups to do at night. If you would like to see a comedy, dance, or musical show, then visit the Vilar Performing Arts Center. Looking for some great food, drinks, and dancing? Then hop on over to the Coyote Café.

So, if you love to ski/snowboard, but are also looking for a vacation for the whole family, then Beaver Creek is the place to be.

Top 10 Things About Breckenridge ski Resort :: Ski Vacations

Come visit one of the more popular and notably historic resort areas in Colorado. Breckenridge ski resort is an old mining town with gold first being discovered in the area around 1859. Breckenridge has certainly come a long way since the mining days of the 19th century. There is plenty to see and do in Breckenridge Mountain Resort, especially during the winter months for your ski vacations.

1. Breckenridge Resort is proud to announce that they are celebrating their 50th Anniversary in business! In honor of their anniversary, they are hosting a “50 Wishes” campaign. Each guest can submit a wish they would like to see at the resort. 50 wishes will be picked to come true.

2. Breckenridge has no shortage of mountain terrain, with 5 parks available and over 150 trails. There are selections for all ability levels with the longest trail being 3 ½ miles long. That’s a lot of options for your daily dashes down the mountain.

3. Everyone loves a deal and during the month of January through February 16, 2012, you can receive 25% off of your lodging. There is a three night minimum requirement. Another offer includes buying three nights and getting a fourth free (“Four Scores Package”). Hurry and make a reservation today!

4. If you love roller coasters, then be sure to ride along the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster. It’s a 2,500 foot coaster that is open to daily runs starting at noon. A cool feature is that riders control their own speed! It’s an activity fun for all ages.

5. While you’re in town, don’t forget to stop by the Breckenridge and Frisco Nordic Center. The Center provides both cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails. The trails twine through the forests and picturesque scenes.

6. Nordic Sleigh Rides provides a great way to take in the natural sights. Riders will relax in a “Santa” style sleigh while passing through the forests. Then, you will be brought to an 1860’s mining camp. While there, you will enjoy a warm meal and an entertaining comedy show (for adults and kids) in the dining hall.

7. A great educational experience at Breckenridge is the “Ski with a Ranger” tour. While skiing along an intermediate trail with a guide, you’ll learn about tree identification, local history and wildlife, and environmental programs.

8. Breckenridge also has a number of museums and guided walking tours. Stroll through the Barney Ford House Museum to learn about an escaped slave. Or take the Haunted Tour of Breckenridge which has tales of the haunted historic district. Other options include the Saloon Tour & Distillery Tasting, Valley Brook Cemetery Tour, and the Iowa Hill Guided Snowshoe Tour.

9. Breckenridge is also a great place to rejuvenate with a massage

10. and body treatments. Visit any number of spas in the area, including: A Mountain Sanctuary Day Spa, The Rejuvenation Center in One Ski Hill Place, Alpine Spa and Salon, Blue Sage Spa, or Breckenridge Acupuncture. There are dozens of little shops to visit along Main Street in Breckenridge. There’s pretty much a shop for everything, such as clothing, accessories, art, gifts, and more. Stop by the Magical Scraps Boutique & Studio, Hand and Glove, Portiera Designs Artware for the Home, or Ridge Street Wine, among many others.

If you’re looking for a ski resort area that has a lot of history, then Breckenridge is the destination for you. It’s a great vacation to combine both a love of winter sports and activities with an appreciation of American history.

Don’t Miss Deer Valley Resort : Top 10 Things to Do When Visitting!

Deer Valley Ski Resort, Utah is one of the most renowned ski resorts areas in the country. They offer a wide variety of activities, plus many high-end things to do!

1. Deer Valley ski resort and vacations has 6 exceptional mountains for your skiing and snowboarding pleasure! There’s Bald Eagle Mountain which is perfect for beginners; Bald Mountain which has terrain for intermediates and advanced; Lady Morgan is for advanced and experts; Empire is mostly for advanced; and Flagstaff Mountain and Little Baldy Peak have trails for all abilities.

2. Snowkiting is the extreme sport that marries skiing/snowboarding with kitesurfing. The wind will take you up and downhill at crazy, fun speeds. You’ll be thrilled so much that you’ll want to spend several days snowkiting! Definitely book your experience with Fun Seekers.

3. Come to Deer Valley between February 1st and 4th 2012 for the Deer Valley Resort 2012 FIS Freestyle Ski World Cup. These aren’t just any competitions either; competitors will use the 2002 Olympic runs. There are mogul and aerial competitions, awards, and fireworks. The events are all in the evening and are free for anyone who wishes to

4. Are you visiting with a group of people? Then how about a little friendly competition? Group races are available on Bald Mountain. There are several packages to choose from in areas of NASTAR, giant slalom and dual slalom.

5. Call up Summit Meadow Adventures for a day of snowmobiling. This is a frosty adventure for adults and kids alike. You will have the option of a 1 hour, 2 hour, 3 hour (with lunch), or private ride. Equipment, boots, gloves, and even snowsuits are available for

6. If you’re an early bird who wants access to fresh, unmarked snow trails, then reserve a spot for First Tracks. This service is private and allows for lift access from 8 a.m.- 9 a.m. A popular activity such as should have about a 10 day-advance reservation.

7. Utah Scenic Flights offers some of the best opportunities to view the majestic landscapes in the area. They are located in the Heber City Airport (about 20 miles from Deer Valley) and offer tours for half hour to custom flying. Flights will take place in either a 172 Skyhawk (3 passengers) or the Cessna Turbo 206 Stationair, which holds 5 passengers.

8. While there are tons of great restaurants to choose from, some of them are just too fantastic to ignore. The Glitretind is just one example; they serve American cuisine with a gourmet appeal. From mouth-watering short ribs, to quail, duck, and fresh fish. Other great restaurants choices include The Mariposa and Fireside Dining.

9. Utah has a number of fine art galleries and museums in nearby Park City. Be sure to stop by the David Whitten Gallery, Meyer Art Gallery, or the Queen of Art Gallery.

10. Most of the lodging in Deer Valley is located in Empire Canyon, Snow Park or the Silver Lake Village areas. They all will provide you with first class customer service and accommodations. Stag Lodge, Shooting Star, and Larkspur are just a few of the places that visitors

Don’t miss out on this gem of a ski destination at Deer Valley!

10 Best Things About Sun Valley Idaho :: Sun Valley Ski Vacation

Sun Valley Resort, Idaho is an ideal ski vacation location for your relaxing winter ski getaway. While there, you can enjoy skiing during the day and unwinding at night. Take a look at the 10 best things to do while visiting the ski resort!

Here are some things to do at Sun Valley Resort:

1. Most visitors come to Sun Valley for Bald Mountain, a.k.a. “Baldy.” It’s the perfect location for enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders. There are approximately 65 runs and 12 lifts. There are a variety of runs for beginner, intermediate, and experts, with the longest run being 3 miles. A benefit of this area is that the snow is light and not icy.

2. Dollar Mountain is the best bet for beginners. This mountain is treeless so it’s ideal for those learning their way on skis and snowboards. Still, with 13 runs, it’s enough to keep you busy for the

3. Christina Potter’s Ice Rink is located in Atkinson Park. This is an outdoor rink that is open from late December to mid-February, depending on the weather. Skating and hockey equipment is available to rent.

4. Sun Valley has over a dozen hot springs in the area, including Dagger Creek, Frenchman’s Bend, and Sitting Bull. It’s a great way to soothe the body and spirit while outdoors, surrounded by nature. Most of the springs are located in secluded, quiet areas.

5. While you’re in Sun Valley, you should take a day trip to the nearby, picturesque town of Ketchum. Visit the Ketchum Sun Valley Heritage and Ski Museum, the Sun Valley Center for the Arts, art galleries, shops, and local eateries.

6. Sun Valley is home to several pubs and saloons for your nighttime enjoyment. You have your choice of the Whiskey Jacques for live music and dancing; Lefty’s Bar and Grill for ice cold draft beers; and the Sun Valley Wine Company, which has a wine cellar and tasty

7. If you are with a large group or a family, then I suggest trying the Sleigh Ride and Dinner at Trail Creek Cabin. The sleighs can hold up to 20 people, so it’s ideal for large groups. The sleigh rides lasts for about a half hour. Then, dinner at the cabin is a family style treat. You’ll finish your night with a mug of hot chocolate or cider on your

8. Sun Valley is wonderful at providing winter sport lessons for both children and adults. There are also adaptive lessons for those with disabilities. Beginners will take lessons on Dollar Mountain with certified instructors.

9. The Sun Valley Inn is one of the most notable places to stay for your visit. The hotel features newly remodeled rooms with a European flair. The inn has an outdoor heated pool, exercise room, restaurants and the Lobby Lounge.

10. If you prefer something a little more down-home style, then stay at the Sun Valley Resort Dollar Cottages. The Dollar Cottage has 6 bedrooms including a master suite, grand living room, and a Jacuzzi. The Guest Cottage has four bedrooms, dining room, fireplace, and a breakfast porch. There are four other cottages too, such as the Harriman Cottage, Lake Cottage, President’s Cottage, and the Symphony Cottage.

So if you’re looking for an “old-world feeling” vacation, then Sun Valley is where you need to stay.

Vail Resort Ski Vacations - Top 10 about Vail Mountain Resort

Vacation in Vail :: Ski Vacations to Vail Resort

Whats a great way to satisfy you hunger for a winter vacation? Visiting Vail, Colorado of course! With over 190 trails, 3 terrain parks, 1 super-pipe, 1 halfpipe, and loads of other activities, its no wonder that thousands flock to Vail Resort every ski season!

1. From February 10th-12th, Vail will host the Winter Teva Mountain Games presented by Eddie Bauer. This is a chance for both professional and amateur athletes to test their skills on the slopes. There are different events, such as Nordic and telemark skiing, snowshoeing, and others, all competing for cash prizes.

2. If you prefer to vacation late in the season, then come visit Vail during the Spring Back to Vail-End of the Season Bash. This year it will be held from April 9th- 15th and will feature lots of free concerts, championships for skimming, and various sweepstakes. Sounds like one giant party to me!

3. Vail also offers great deals, such as the “Ski Free and Stay Free!” package. You can book your trip and get one day to ski and one night to stay for free. So that means you can make reservations for 4 nights and only pay for 3! Thats a great deal of savings. You can stay at such locations as the Westwood, Vail Spa Condominiums, and Vail Resorts Legendary Lodging Collection at The Ritz-Carlton Residences.

4. How would you like to take in the fresh air and scenery while learning about the surrounding backwoods? Snowshoeing is great because its open to people of all ability levels. When you sign up for one of the group tours, you will be provided with snowshoes, boots, and poles.

5. Cross country skiing is another great way to spend your day in Vail. This sport is available for anyone from beginner to expert. You'll be able to take a tour of the surrounding areas, not to mention get a great workout during the process.

6. If you are looking for something a little more family friendly, then head on over to Adventure Ridge. Here there are activities such as ski biking, kids snowmobile, bungee trampoline, snow tubing, and snowshoeing. Then after you have experienced all of the amusing happenings, grab a bite to eat at Bistro Fourteen.

7. After spending the day hitting the slopes, one of the best ways to unwind is with Après Ski. Refuel with some juicy burgers and ice cold beers at Vendetta’s, The Red Lion, and Garfinkel’s. This is also a great way to mingle and make new friends with other travelers and locals alike.

8. If you love shopping (or are vacationing with someone who does) then visit either Lionshead or Vail Village. There are dozens of boutiques for souvenirs, jewelry, clothes, ski gear, art, and more.

9. If you're looking for a different dining experience, then make a reservation for the Game Creek Restaurant. This is a European styled chalet located at the top of a mountain. You'll take a snow-cat ride to reach your destination. Then you'll dine on a 3, 4 or 5 course meal. Selections include Maui Onion and Endive Soup, lamb loin, and a chocolate trio dessert.

10. Vail has no shortage of settings for nightlife. Enjoy some live music, dj’s, dancing, and drinks in lounges and bars. Popular places include The Club, The George, and the Sandbar Sports Grill. Dance, drink, and be merry!

If that hasn't convinced you to visit Vail, then I don't know what will. It truly is one of the best vacation spots. So what are you waiting for?! Book your trip now!

Ski Whistler : Top 10 Things About Whistler Ski Destination Resort

It’s always nice to visit our northern Canadian neighbors. In the province of British Columbia, Whistler has become one of the foremost winter vacation destinations. There are a number of reasons why travelers have made this a favorite spot over the years.

1. Snowboard and ski fans will have no shortage of trails to choose from in Whistler. There are more than 200 trails with over 8, 000 acres of land to explore. Thanks to the northern landscape, the slopes are open until at least mid-May. Both the Blackcomb Mountain and Whistler Mountain have a variety of slopes to discover. A number of lessons are available for kids, teens, and adults.

2. There is also the option of Heli Skiing and Snowboarding for the experts who want an electrifying experience. You’ll take a helicopter ride to the top of a mountain where the only way down if through a series of challenging bumps and trails. There are several packages to choose from to suit your needs.

3. Speaking of helicopters, if Heli Skiing is too intimidating for you, then you can take part in a helicopter tour. This is your chance to view the beauty of Whistler from a bird’s eye view. This will also be your chance to see the Cheakamus Glacier. How many people do you know can say they’ve seen a glacier?!

4. Cross country Nordic skiing is another favorite sport by many. One of the best places to go for Nordic skiing would be Lost Lake. The lake itself looks fantastically clear that it’s almost unbelievable. Callaghan Valley is also another amazing location for Nordic skiers. Considering Callaghan Valley was one of the venues for the 2010 Winter Olympics, it’s a definite must ski!

5. Time to put on your snowshoes! Whistler offers a range of guided tours from beginner to experienced snowshoers. Not only will you be able to view the landscape, but you will also learn about your surroundings. For instance, if you take The Medicine Trail, then your guide will educate you about tree medicine and you can even sample some fresh tea.

6. If you’re looking for a tour of what nature has to offer, but prefer to keep warm, then a Snowcat Fondue Tour would be ideal for you. Each snowcat is fully heated with large bucket seats for almost 20 people. The snowcat guide will take you up to the quaint Crystal Hut. There, you’ll enjoy a tasty fondue dinner and dessert in a cabin surrounded by flickering candlelight.

7. After a relaxing evening at the Crystal Hut, what a better way to jump start your next adventure with bungee jumping. Yes, Whistler has winter bungee jumping for those not faint of heights. Take a ride to the bridge at the Cheakamus River where there is a 160 foot drop.

8. Whistler has tons of restaurants to satisfy your appetite. Anything you can think of is here: fondue, pasta, salads, steaks, and more. Hop on over to the Dubh Linn Gate, which is an authentic Irish pub or make your way over to Elements which features great tapas and wines. Are you hungry yet?

9. Whistler has several spots for après. Locations such as Merlins, Dusty’s Bar & BBQ, Mallard Lounge, and The Brewhouse offer great munchies, beer, and live music for all to enjoy. It’s a great chance to let loose after a day of skiing or snowboarding.

10. Okay, so you’ve toured the area, ate delicious food, and danced the night away. What else is there to do? Before you leave, I suggest treating yourself to a relaxing massage at the Scandinave Spa Whistler. Not only do they have different massage packages to choose from, like the Sports Package (great for the athlete) and the Swedish Duo Package (ideal for couples or friends), but they also offer Scandinavian Baths which way help melt away any tension in your system. Ahhhh!

Whistler truly is a fantastic place for a Canadian vacation. It gives you the opportunity to visit another country without going too far away from home. There is something for everyone, whether you just want to enjoy skiing all day, try out new adventures, or get a sense of local culture. Whistler should definitely to on your list of place to visit.

Get your Ski Vacations with Snow Tour, and let the experts plan your vacation today!

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