Entries Tagged 'California' ↓
January 1st, 2009 — California, Resort Reviews, Skiing, Snowboarding
Heavenly Mountain Resort is located in: Stateline, CA
Phone: (775) 586-7000
Website: http://www.skiheavenly.com/
About the Resort:
This is one of the most popular resorts in Lake Tahoe and all of California. The resort just spent half a billion dollars in renovations and if you have never been here before, or you went a few years ago, this is definitely the time to come see it. The views are simply astounding and the runs are some of the best in the United States. There is a reason that so many people return here year after year, and chances are, after one trip, you'll feel the same way. We will definitely be going back to Heavenly soon.
What You Need to Know:
The sprawling resort stretches out over nearly 5000 acres, and there is more than enough room to have fun. They have the longest vertical drop in California, at more than 3500 feet, and the mountain is Lake Tahoe's highest. There are 95 trails, and 30 different lifts. If you're in a hurry, check out their high speed lifts that really get the job done. You won't have to wait long, even on busy days, and the management keeps everything moving very smoothly.
Heavenly Mountain opens up in Mid-November and you can ski through Mid-April. They definitely have some great trails here and the management does a stellar job of keeping everything well groomed. Even though there is usually plenty of snow, the resort does make their own to supplement it, particularly in bad seasons.
Tips for Beginners:
Definitely avoid Mott Canyons and Killebrew - these are two killer trails that are only suited for pros. Approximately 20% of the 95 trails are suitable for beginners and the lessons here are some of the best in the state. There is plenty of opportunity to learn how to snowboard or ski, and we found the lesson rates to be very reasonable.
The trainers are very patient and there are also special rates for beginners that should definitely be taken advantage of. Even though only a small part of their trails are devoted to beginners, they do go all out to make you feel at home.
Fees:
Lift Tickets
Weekend/Holiday Weekday
Full Day 1/2 Day Full Day 1/2 Day
Adult $81 $66 $65 N/A
Junior $41 $33 $32 N/A
Senior $67 $55 $45 N/A
*Note: 1/2 day starts at 12:30
Peak prices shown are for holiday periods, regular prices shown are for high season. Lower prices apply during other prices, and other discounts are available. Dates: Pre-Holiday: 11/19-12/17,Holiday: 12/18-1/1/2005, High Season: 1/2-4/2, Late Season: 4/3-Closing
Rental Gear
Adult Junior Senior
Ski Package $37 $22 $37
Snowboard Package $37 $22 $37
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
San Francisco - 3-1/2 hours
Follow Interstate 80 East to Sacramento. Continue on I-80 until the junction of U.S. Highway 50 East. Follow U.S. Highway 50 East to the junction of Highway 50 and U.S. Highway 89 N. Continue on Highway 50 making a right hand turn, following the bend in the road. Drive approximately 5 miles to Ski Run Boulevard. Turn right and follow the signs to Heavenly.
Originally posted 2008-09-05 05:12:37. Republished by Old Post Promoter
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- Mohawk Mountain Ski Area, West Cornwall, CT Mohawk Mountain Ski Area is located in - West Cornwall, CT Phone - (860) 672 6100 / (800) 895 5222 Website - http://www.mohawkmtn.com/CMX/index.php About the Resort - This year at the Mohawk mountain resort is going to mark the 60th anniversary of the slope, and as a result the Mohawk......
- Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Sandpoint, Idaho Schweitzer Mountain Resort is located in Sandpoint, Idaho, United States Phone: (208) 263-9555 / (877) ITS IN ID Website: http://www.schweitzer.com/ About the Resort - The Schweitzer Mountain Resort boasts having more than 2900 acres worth of gladed terrain and open bowls. The Schweitzer Mountain Resort received the #3 spot in......
- Bristol Mountain Resort, Canandaigua, NY Bristol Mountain Resort is located in Canandaigua, NY, US Phone - (585) 374 6000 View Larger Map Website: http://www.bristolmountain.com/ About the Resort - The Bristol Mountain Ski Resort offers one of the tallest vertical drops out of every ski area in the Adirondack and Catskill areas as well as the......
January 1st, 2009 — California, Resort Reviews, Skiing
Dodge Ridge Ski Resort is located in: Pinecrest, CA
Phone: (209) 965-3474
Website: http://www.dodgeridge.com/
About the Resort:
Dodge Ridge Ski Resort first opened its doors in 1951 and became an instant favorite with locals and with travelers. This nice resort goes all out to make you feel at home and there are plenty of activities there to keep the whole family busy. With numerous trails, five different terrain parks and plenty of snow, this is one resort that ranks very highly when it comes to quality skiing and snowboarding.
There are eight lifts that serve the trails, with three additional surface lifts. All told, there are currently 59 runs in operation and there is little danger of overcrowding, thanks to the sprawling trails and great set-up.
What You Need to Know:
Dodge Ridge is open from December through April, and their lift tickets are quite reasonable. The hours of operation are from 9am to 4pm throughout the season, and special discounts are frequently made available. The lodge is very well appointed and we found that the trails were all well maintained and closely patrolled. This is a very safe place to ski, and it offers enough variety to stay challenging, even for the best skiers.
Tips for Beginners:
Out of the 59 runs, only 20% are suitable for beginners. The terrain parks are a great place to start and there are plenty of lessons scheduled throughout the day with the on-staff pros. The resort is also very good with teaching children and there are special rental packages that include all the gear you need, as well as your lift tickets and instruction fees.
Since the trails are so well patrolled, this is a very beginner friendly resort, even though the majority of the runs are dedicated to intermediate and expert skiers. There are plenty of spots to learn cross country skiing as well as snowboarding, and this is a great place to get your feet wet so-to-speak, if you are completely new to skiing.
Fees:
Lift Tickets
Weekend/Holiday Weekday
Full Day 1/2 Day Full Day 1/2 Day
Adult $48 $38 $48 $38
Junior $15 $10 $15 $10
Senior $15 $10 $15 $10
*Note: 1/2 day starts at 12:30
Season Passes:
Off-Season:
Adult (20-61): $349
Teen (13-19): $349
Youth (6-12): $139
Senior (62-81): $139
Pre-Season (November)
Adult (20-61): $449
Teen (13-19): $449
Youth (6-12): $169
Senior (62-81): $169
Normal Rates:
Adult (20-61): $649
Teen (13-19): $549
Youth (6-12): $249
Senior (62-81): $249
Rental Gear:
Adult Junior Senior
Ski Package $35 $25 $35
Snowboard Package $35 $30 $35
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
From the greater Bay Area, follow I-580 East to the Tracy triangle, then take I-205 East through Tracy. Exit onto I-5 North, and then quickly take exit 461 onto CA-120 East to Manteca. Merge onto CA-99 North (also still CA-120 East), then quickly exit for Yosemite Avenue (CA-120 East). Turn right onto Yosemite Avenue (CA-120 East) and follow to Oakdale. In Oakdale, turn left onto CA-108/120 East. Follow CA-108 to Pinecrest, then follow the signs to Dodge Ridge.
Originally posted 2008-09-04 12:57:36. Republished by Old Post Promoter
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November 17th, 2008 — California, Cross Country Ski, Family, Resort Reviews, Skiing, Snoeshoe, Snow
Royal Gorge Ski Resort is located in: Soda Springs, CA
Phone: 1-800-500-3871
Website: http://www.royalgorge.com
About the Resort:
If you love cross country skiing, this is the destination for the winter. Royal Gorge Ski Resort is a huge favorite among cross country skiers and there are plenty of reasons to visit and to keep coming back. The atmosphere here is great and they are very family friendly. Although it is a popular resort, overcrowding really isn’t an issue, although it can get a bit crowded during peak seasons. However, they keep everything running smoothly and there are few calls of complaints.
What You Need to Know:
The trails here are absolutely immaculate, which is perfect for cross country skiing. The lodge is very well appointed and overall we found their rates to be reasonable, especially given the level of service that you receive. The resort is open every day of the week from 9am to 5pm.
This is a huge resort with around 90 trails, 8 warming huts and they even have little trail side cafes that are perfect for a snack while you’re having fun. There are four different surface lifts and we didn’t end up having to wait for very long at any time during our stay.
Tips for Beginners:
28 of the trails here are perfect for beginners and we highly recommend taking advantage of their low priced lessons. Cross country skiing is a lot of fun, but it’s important to know what you’re doing. Patrols are frequent and they keep an excellent watch on beginners.
This is a great place to get kids interested in cross country skiing and the schools here are very well suited to children of all ages. The ability to stop off and rest is great for beginners and the trail side cafes are ideal for doing just that.
Fees:
Trail Passes:
Purchase before October 31
Unrestricted Pass - $375
Midweek Non-Holiday - $150(for use Monday, Thursday & Friday)
Purchase before November 30
Unrestricted Pass - $475
Midweek Non-Holiday - $165(for use Monday, Thursday & Friday)
Normal In-Season Price
Unrestricted Pass - $575
Midweek Non-Holiday $210(for use Monday, Thursday & Friday)
HOLIDAY PERIODS/HIGH SEASON
Dec. 22- Jan. 1, 2008, Jan. 21, and Feb. 18, 2008.
WEEKEND/
HIGH SEASON MIDWEEK/
LOW SEASON
Adult All Day $29.00 $25.00
Afternoon Pass (after 1:00 pm) $25.00 $19.00
Child (11-16 years) $16.00 $15.00
Child 10 and under FREE FREE
Over 70 FREE FREE
Twilight Pass (after 3:00 pm) $16.00 $15.00
Two Day Pass $52.00 $45.00
Three Day Pass $77.00 $66.00
Season Pass $575 $350
RENTAL RATES 2008/09
Adults Child 16 & Under
1 Day $21.00 $12.00
2 Day $37.00 $19.00
Demo Package $30.00/Day
Snowshoes $21.00/Day
Pulk Sleds $18.00/Day
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
The resort notes: Royal Gorge is right off Interstate 80 in Soda Springs (near Lake Tahoe), just 3 hours East of San Francisco, one and a half hours from Sacramento or 45 minutes West of Reno. Just take the Soda Springs/Norden exit off I-80 and follow the signs to Summit Station. We're just 3/4's of a mile off the highway.
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- Soda Springs Winter Resort, Truckee, CA Soda Springs Winter Resort is located: Truckee, CA Phone: (530) 426-3901 Website: http://www.skisodasprings.com/index.html About the Resort: This may not be the biggest resort in the world, but it is one of the best places to take your family. Soda Springs Winter Resort has built up a great reputation as being......
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November 11th, 2008 — California, Resort Reviews, Skiing, Snow, Snowboarding
Mountain High Ski Resort is located in: Wrightwood, CA
Phone: (888) 754-7878
About the Resort:
This is actually three resorts all bundled into one, offering a massive amount of space and plenty of chances for fun. This is considered to be one of the premier ski resorts in Southern California. Some of the drops here are simply jaw dropping, but there are still plenty of spots for beginners to learn some new skills. The facilities here are definitely some of the best we’ve seen and we appreciated the fact that they offer flexible pricing, by the day, run or even hour.
What You Need to Know:
The season starts here in late November and goes through April. They do manufacture snow since the area only gets about 155 inches of snow a year. However, we found that the runs were all immaculately groomed and the management takes excellent care of the facilities.
There are eighteen lifts in operation, so even though this is a popular resort, you won’t have to worry too much about waiting in line. The three resorts are spread out over 500 acres and make up three distinct mountains.
Tips for Beginners:
This is the perfect place for beginners to learn how to ski, thanks in a large part to the excellent beginner runs, which account for 22% of the total trails, as well as the low fees. You’ll be able to spend exactly what you want on your lift ticket and further discounts are available for their training lessons.
This is one of the best places in the area to learn snowboarding as well as skiing and we found that the instructors were well versed in good skiing principles and were very skilled at teaching. If you have kids that need to learn how to ski, or you want to try your hand at it, this is a great place to start.
Fees:
Lift Tickets
Weekend/Holiday Weekday
Full Day 1/2 Day Full Day 1/2 Day
Adult $58 $53 $49 $44
Junior $20 $20 $20 $20
*Note: 1/2 day starts at 12:00
You can also purchase tickets by the hour or the run to save even more money. In addition, they also offer The Point Ticket, which is sold in blocks of 200, 500 or 1,000 points. You can use these points to pay for your runs each day.
Season Passes
Regularly $599, the Mountain High Season Pass Sale lasts from September 1st to October 31st, or until all passes are sold out. The first 5,000 are $299, with the second 5,000 are $349.
Rental Gear
Adult Junior Senior
Ski Package $30 $20 $30
Snowboard Package $35 $35 $35
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
From Los Angeles
Mountain High Resort is just 20 minutes off Interstate 15, making it quick and easy to find. Simply take Interstate 10, the 60 Freeway or the new 210 Freeway East to Interstate 15 North. Exit Highway 138 West and make a left on Highway 2. You will find Mountain High just three miles past the town of Wrightwood. Travel time from downtown Los Angeles is just 90 minutes.
From San Fernando and Antelope Valleys
Mountain High is so close to the Antelope Valley that its night lighting can be seen from Palmdale, Lancaster and the entire surrounding area. From the San Fernando Valley take Interstate 5 to Highway 14 North. Exit Pearblossom Highway 138 East and make a right on Largo Vista. Then follow the signs to Mountain High. Drive time from the junction of Highway 14 and Highway 138 is just 45 minutes.
Photo Credits: 1 is not an actual photo of Mountain High Ski Resort.
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- Alta Sierra Ski Resort, Wofford Heights, CA Alta Sierra Ski Resort is located in Wofford Heights, CA Phone: (760) 376-4186 Website: http://www.shirleymeadows.com/ About the Resort: This is a great family ski resort that has become very popular. The runs are lined with sequoias and this is definitely one of the most scenic ski runs in the area.......
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- Mohawk Mountain Ski Area, West Cornwall, CT Mohawk Mountain Ski Area is located in - West Cornwall, CT Phone - (860) 672 6100 / (800) 895 5222 Website - http://www.mohawkmtn.com/CMX/index.php About the Resort - This year at the Mohawk mountain resort is going to mark the 60th anniversary of the slope, and as a result the Mohawk......
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October 31st, 2008 — California, Family, Halfpipes, Lessons, Resort Reviews, Skiing, Snowboarding, Terrain Parks
Sugar Bowl Ski Resort is located in: Norden, CA
Phone: (530) 426-9000
Website: http://www.sugarbowl.com/home
About the Resort:
Sugar Bowl Ski Resort is easily one of the most popular resorts in this area of California. There are more than four peaks and plenty of opportunities for skiers of every level. There is a new village under construction at the base of the mountain and new facilities are also being planned. The original portion of the resort opened in 1939 and was recently renovated. The 20,000 square foot lodge was vastly improved and overall, more than $50 million has gone into making the resort and the trails even better.
What You Need to Know:
The entire resort takes up more than 1500 acres, and there a total of 84 trails, served by 12 lifts. It can get a little crowded here, especially during peak seasons, but you don't have to wait that long to get up to the trails. There is also a halfpipe and two terrain parks that are perfect for beginners and for snowboarders.
The season starts in late November and the resort remains open through mid-April. This area does get quite a lot of snow, but they do make some to ensure that the trails are all well covered. We found the grooming to be excellent and everything at this resort was very well maintained. A great experience and one we hope to repeat again soon.
Tips for Beginners:
While only 17% of the trails here are meant for beginners, the resort does offer classes throughout the day that are designed for skiers of many different levels and the instructors are very helpful. We found this was a great place for kids to learn how to ski as well as adults and the techniques for instruction are all very solid.
There are two hills, Nob Hill and White Pine that are absolutely ideal for beginning skiers that have no prior experience and they are very safe. Patrols are held throughout the day on all the trails and we found this to be a safe and enjoyable place to learn how to ski.
Fees:
Lift Tickets
Weekend/Holiday Weekday
Full Day 1/2 Day Full Day 1/2 Day
Adult $70 $55 $60 $50
Junior $15 $15 $15 $15
Senior $5 $5 $5 $5
*Note: 1/2 day starts at 12:30
Rental Gear
Adult Junior Senior
Ski Package $38 $25 $33
Snowboard Package $40 $30 $39
Management added:
First Turns Beginner's Package includes rental equipment, a limited lift ticket, and a two hour lesson from $85. This is designed to make for a great first time on the mountain. For the absolute beginner, First Turns is available for only $50 with the ticket restricted to the White Pine or Nob Hill beginner lift.
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
From San Francisco
Take the Bay Bridge to Interstate 80, head east toward Sacramento/Reno. Just before you reach Donner Summit look for the "Sugar Bowl Next Exit" sign then exit at the Norden/Soda Springs off ramp. Turn right on Highway 40 eastbound, and continue 3 miles to Sugar Bowl's Village Gondola parking lot. The covered parking lot is on your right.
Or for faster access to the slopes and terrain park, continue on Highway 40 another 1/2 mile to the Main Lot and convenient slopeside parking beside the new Main Lodge.
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October 30th, 2008 — California, Family, Lessons, Resort Reviews, Skiing, Snow, Snowboarding, Snowtubing
Soda Springs Winter Resort is located: Truckee, CA
Phone: (530) 426-3901
Website: http://www.skisodasprings.com/index.html
About the Resort:
This may not be the biggest resort in the world, but it is one of the best places to take your family. Soda Springs Winter Resort has built up a great reputation as being family friendly and they are very well suited to beginners and expert skiers alike. With plenty of accommodations, great trails and a helpful staff, this is a very nice place to take your kids. Known as Tahoe's Best Snow Park for Kids, it's easy to see why so many travelers return here year after year.
What You Need to Know:
The resort opens in early November and the season runs through late April, giving you more than enough time to get plenty of skiing in. There are two lifts that serve 16 trails, but they do manage to move people pretty quickly. There may be times when you end up waiting, but not for very long. In peak season it can get a little crowded, but overall, we found that they were able to keep up even when it was busy.
Thanks to the abundant snow this area receives, snow making isn't really necessary unless it's a dry year. The resort makes about 20% of the snow, and they keep the trails immaculately groomed. They recently added a special park for kids that are interested in snowboarding and it is a lot of fun. There is even a tube carousel for younger children that don't quite belong on regular trails yet.
Many people prefer to stay at the nearby Boreal Inn, but there are usually enough rooms at this resort to handle the demand. The Boreal Inn does offer night skiing however, so it's easy enough to hop over there for a few hours at night, or just stay there and take advantage of both resorts.
Tips for Beginners:
Even though the main focus of the resort is for kids, the adult lessons here are very good. They offer instruction throughout the day, and also provide special deals that will take care of your lift ticket and gear, in addition to your lesson fee. Snowboarding lessons are also being offered right now, and these have become very popular.
Fees:
Lift Tickets
Weekend/Holiday Weekday
Full Day 1/2 Day Full Day 1/2 Day
Adult $28 N/A $28 N/A
Junior $10 N/A $10 N/A
Senior $5 N/A N/A N/A
*Note: 1/2 day starts at 9:00
All tickets include ski/snowboard/tube lifts
Youths (ages 13-17)$20
Child 12 and under $15
Planet Kids $15
All Ages Tubing all day $18
Rental Gear
Adult Junior Senior
Ski Package $32 $18 N/A
Snowboard Package $38 $38 N/A
Beginner ski or snowboard package $55, includes limited lift ticket, lesson and rentals.
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
First Resort off I-80. Just one mile off Interstate 80 at Donner Summit.
Exit Soda Springs and follow the signs.
Sacramento - 80 miles
San Francisco - 170 miles
Reno - 48 miles
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- The Canyons Ski Resort, Park City, UT The Canyons Ski Resort is located in: Park City, UT Phone: (435) 649-5400 Website: http://www.thecanyons.com/ About the Resort: The Canyons is one of the nicest ski resorts in the Park City area, and although the fees are a bit high, especially during peak periods and on weekends, you do get......
- Telluride Ski Resort, Telluride, CO Telluride Ski Resort is located in: Telluride, CO Phone: (970) 728-6900 / (866) 287-5015 Website: http://tellurideskiresort.com/TellSki/index.winter.aspx About the Resort: Skiing the slopes of the Telluride Ski Resort is just about the same as skiing the naked, raw slopes of a natural mountain. There is a historic charm here that is......
- Royal Gorge Ski Resort, Soda Springs, CA Royal Gorge Ski Resort is located in: Soda Springs, CA Phone: 1-800-500-3871 Website: http://www.royalgorge.com About the Resort: If you love cross country skiing, this is the destination for the winter. Royal Gorge Ski Resort is a huge favorite among cross country skiers and there are plenty of reasons to visit......
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October 17th, 2008 — California, Resort Reviews, Skiing, Snow, Snowboarding
Snow Valley Ski Area is located in: Running Springs, CA
Phone: (909) 867-2751
Website: http://www.snow-valley.com/index_english.html
About the Resort:
Snow Valley Ski Area is a great place for beginning skiers and there are few resorts that really cater to this market as well as they have. If you are considering vacationing near Running Springs, this is definitely the resort to stop in. The management is terrific and the accommodations are truly top notch. Many people consider this resort to be the premier place to learn how to ski. There are also plenty of opportunities for more advanced skiers to have fun and 70% of the trails here are intended for intermediate or advanced skiers. The resort has done a great job of balancing everything out.
What You Need to Know:
The season here is pretty short, running from November through March. It is located in Southern California, so snow making is necessary. However, they do a great job of keeping the trails well maintained and we found everything to be well groomed. The entire resort takes up around 240 acres and there is a very long vertical for those that are a little more well versed in skiing.
There are eleven lifts that move well over 10,000 people every hour, and we didn't find that there was a long wait, even during the peaks season. The usual hours of operation are from 8:30am to 4pm, but they open a half hour earlier on Saturdays and Sundays.
Tips for Beginners:
As we mentioned previously, this is a beginner paradise. About 30% of the trails here are suitable for beginners and there is an entire learning center that was built to offer quality instruction. The terrain park is also a great place to get in some practice and lessons are held throughout the day. They are very good with teaching children to ski and the adult classes are also very beneficial.
The resort offers a special package for beginners that includes everything you'll need to learn, with your lift ticket, cost for the lessons and gear included. We found the lesson prices to be quite low, especially considering the quality of the instruction. All of the trails here are patrolled consistently and it's a very safe place to ski.
Fees:
Lift Tickets
Weekend/Holiday Weekday
Full Day 1/2 Day Full Day 1/2 Day
Adult $40 $35 $40 $35
Junior $13 $13 $13 $13
Senior $26 $21 $19 $17
*Note: 1/2 day starts at 12:00
Tuesdays 2 adult for price of one. Family Pack (2 adults, 2 kids) is $79. Under 5 and over 70 ski free.
Rental Gear
Adult Junior Senior
Ski Package $17 $13 $17
Snowboard Package $30 $30 $30
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
Snow Valley is 30 minutes from the base of the San Bernardino Mountains. Take the I-10 Fwy to Redlands and transition to Hwy 210 north to Hwy 330. Follow Hwy 330 up the mountain where it joins Hwy 18 in Running Springs. Snow Valley is just 5 miles east of Running Springs on Hwy 18.
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October 15th, 2008 — California, Cross Country Ski, Resort Reviews, Skiing, Snoeshoe, Snowboarding
Rim Nordic Ski Area is located in: Running Springs, CA
Phone: 909-867-2600
Website: http://www.rimnordic.com/
About the Resort:
This is actually a part of a group of resorts and they offer some great deals between them all. If you are serious about cross country skiing, this is a great place to go. It's a bit smaller than some resorts, but they have done a great job working with the space that they have. This is also one of the few places to snoeshoe and among those that enjoy this sport, this resort has become very popular. This is a family friendly area and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone busy during your stay. The restaurant has some great food and overall, we found this to be a very nice resort.
What You Need to Know:
Dogs are not allowed at this particular resort, even though a few others in the area do allow that. There are a total of 12 miles of trails and we found them to be impeccably groomed. Some of the trails are quite long and more suitable for advanced skiers, but there are plenty of shorter tracks that will serve beginners well.
It is important to bring a few supplies with you whenever you cross country ski. There are not going to be any places along the trails to fuel up, so you'll want to bring everything you need with you. Since it is a smaller resort, you'll never be that far away from the main base, but it is still a good idea to bring the things that you may need.
Tips for Beginners:
There are quite a few short trails here that are very well suited for beginners or for snowshoers. We recommend taking advantage of lessons, especially if you have never tried this type of skiing before. There are some great deals available on lessons for people of all ages, and overall, their rates are some of the lowest we have found.
There are some great kids lessons available here as well, and they do offer special deals on reduced fees for rentals if you do get lessons, so it is well worth the money to take advantage of them.
Fees:
Season Trail Pass
Good at Rim Nordic, Green Valley Nordic, Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area in Red River, New Mexico (www.enchantedforestxc.com) AND Flagstaff Nordic Center, Flagstaff, Arizona (www.flagstaffnordiccenter.com) $150
Trail Pass
Adult - Full Day - $17
1/2 day (Beginning at 12:30 pm): $14
Youth Full Day $12
Youth 1/2 Day $10
Child (10 and Under) Free
Rentals (Includes Skis, Boots, Poles)
Adult / Child (10 and Under)
$15.00 / $10.00
1/2 Day Rentals (After 12:30 PM)
Adult / Child (10 and Under)
$10.00 / $8.00
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
Rim Nordic Ski Area is located in the San Bernardino Mountains in Southern California, U.S.A., on Highway 18 - 5 miles east of Running Springs, across from Snow Valley Mountain Resort on the way to Big Bear Lake. Only 1 1/2 hours from L.A. and Orange County and 2 1/2 hours from San Diego.
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October 14th, 2008 — California, Family, Resort Reviews, Skiing, Snow, Snowboarding
Cedar Snowpass Park is located in: Cedarville, CA
Phone: (530) 233-3323
Website: http://www.cedarpasssnowpark.com/
About the Resort:
This is a well kept secret in the Cedarville area, and one of the nicest resorts we've been to in some time. The park is actually community owned and staffed entirely by volunteers. They strive to bring a small town atmosphere to the park and succeed nicely. You'll be among friends here and this is a great place to take the family. Although it may not be the glitziest resort in the world, or the most popular, it is one resort that should be visited at least once, particularly if you do plan to be in this area.
What You Need to Know:
This resort is snowboard friendly and there are many different activities available to keep the whole family entertained. The prices are incredibly low given the level of service and despite the fact that it is entirely staffed by volunteers, the trails are very well groomed and maintained.
It is however only open on weekends and holidays during the winter months and the hours of operation are 10am to 4pm. The lift is a t-bar style and although it doesn't move thousands of people an hour there is little chance of having to wait in line here.
Tips for Beginners:
This is one of the most beginner friendly places to ski. The trails are gentle, the safety patrols are diligent and lessons are offered throughout the day. There are a total of six runs here and most are suitable for beginning skiers. The lower portion of The Road trail is ideal for beginners, and can be accessed via a rope tow lift.
There is also a great powder bowl that is a lot of fun and should be visited at least once while you're here. There is an area for Nordic skiers and you may even be able to get a lesson on this form of skiing if you happen to get a day where a pro is volunteering.
Fees:
Prices Subject to Change
All Day T-Bar
10:00 am to 4:00 pm
$15 Adults
$12 Youth
$5 Child
Half Day T-Bar
1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
$13 Adults
$10 Youth
$3 Child
All Day Rope Tow
$5 Adults
$5 Youth
10-Day Multi-Season Punch Cards
(Transferable, non-refundable if lost)
$125 Adults
$100 Youth
Rentals:
Prices Subject to Change
Per Day
Ski Package
(Skis, boots and poles)
$10
Skis or Boots Only
$5
Snowboard Package
(Snowboard and boots)
$10
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
You can reach the CEDAR PASS SNOW PARK via a 20-minute scenic drive from the community of Alturas. Head north for 6 miles on Highway 299/395, turn right onto Highway 299, and continue east for approximately 12 miles. A sign on the right directs you into the snow park.
Alturas is situated 50 mile south of Lakeview, Oregon; 150 miles northeast of Redding, California; and 180 miles north of Reno, Nevada.
The SNOW PARK can also be accessed from the town of Cedarville by traveling 6 miles west on Highway 299.
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October 1st, 2008 — California, Family, Resort Reviews, Skiing, Snow, Snowboarding, Snowtubing
Badger Pass Ski Resort is located in: Yosemite National Park, CA
Phone: (801) 559-4884
Website: http://www.yosemitepark.com/BadgerPass.aspx
About the Resort:
If you are planning to stay in the Yosemite area or you are just looking for a great way to spend the weekend, Badger Pass Ski Resort is definitely a place to visit. This is one of the nicest ski resorts we've come across in a long time and there are plenty of activities that the entire family can enjoy. In addition to skiing and snowboarding opportunities, there is also an ice skating rink, backcountry ski tours, snow tubing and many other great activities. This the perfect place to take the family for winter fun.
What You Need to Know:
Badger Pass offers free skiing in March if you happen to have a year long pass, and it's definitely worth the money. Their rates are incredibly low considering the quality of the trails and this is one of the few resorts that is open for this many months. If you like to ski all year round, this is definitely the place to go.
This is an all inclusive resort with fine dining, shopping and plenty of different things to keep you busy when you're not on the slopes.
Tips For Beginners:
Beginners should start in the terrain park where they can learn from some great teachers and have a chance to get to see what skiing is all about. This is a very beginner friendly resort and the instructors are patient. There are a few trails to avoid, but 85% of their trails are considered to be beginner and child friendly.
Snowboarding and snowtubing are also very popular here and you'll find plenty of spots to enjoy yourself. The rentals are reasonable if you don't have your own gear, and overall, this is an ideal spot for beginners to learn the art of skiing, cross country skiing and snowboarding.
Fees:
Ski Free in March with a 08-09 Season Pass
Early Bird Rates
March 3 - November 30, 2008
Adults $199
Youth (age 13-17) & Seniors (age 65+) $169
Children (age 7-12) $100
Pre-Season Rates
December 1-21
Adults $249
Youth (age 13-17) & Seniors (age 65+) $219
Children (age 7-12) $115
Regular Rates
December 22 through the season
Adults $376
Youth (age 13-17) & Seniors (age 65+) $376
Children (age 7-12) $118
Lift Ticket Rates
All Day Half-Day
Weekend and Holiday
Adult $38 $28
Youth (13-17) $32 $22
Child (12 and under) $15 $11
Senior (65+) $32 $22
Child (6 & under) FREE (with paying adult) FREE (with paying adult)
One Ride Ticket $5
Midweek/Non-holiday
Adult $30 $28
Youth (13-17) $24 $22
Child (12 and under) $10 $10
Senior (65+) FREE FREE
Child (6 & under) FREE (with paying adult) FREE (with paying adult)
One Ride Ticket $5
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
Yosemite's Badger Pass® is a one-hour drive from Yosemite Valley on Hwy 41 to the Badger Pass Road. A free Shuttle leaves daily from Curry Village®, The Ahwahnee® and Yosemite Lodge at the Falls. Check hotel front desks for information.
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