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WATCH IN HQ! Chris Meyer late in the 2009 season grooming some wet snow in the Hoot Brown Terrain Park with the Mercedes Park Bully. Grooming conditions were far from ideal. The snow is really wet and it was hard to get a good pass because of the warm weather. This is the only footage like this on Youtube and this is a rare glimpse at how terrain parks are created. This Snow Cat cost over 250K and is powered by a Mercedes Twin Turbo 7.2 Liter Inline 6 Cylinder engine which is custom designed to run hydraulic pumps. This Cat has 6 pumps total which power the driving track, tiller and blade. This is one of the most complex pieces of machinery in the Telluride Valley. The computer system which runs it is state of the art. The Mercedes Park Bully is amazing.

Technorati Tags: Bully, Chris, Grooming, Meyer, Park, Resort, Snow, Telluride, Terrain

There’s something rather special about Beaver Creek. The creation of the resort was influenced by St.Moritz in Switzerland and Cortina in Italy and the result is an exciting mountain to ski and a village wrapped in luxurious treats.

Perhaps it’s the ski valets who unload your skis from the buses and place them on the snow for you. Or maybe it’s the escalators that take you from the village to the bottom of the lifts, so you don’t have to walk in clumpy ski boots or carry your ski gear. The moving walkway to take you between ski lifts at the bottom of the hill is a great idea and the hot chocolate chip cookies at three o’clock every afternoon really are the icing on the cake.

Beaver Creek is one of those ski resorts that is tucked away, just past Vail on the I 70 corridor in Colorado. As many Denver “weekend warriors” stop at Copper, Breckenridge or the world famous Vail ski resorts before they get to Beaver Creek, this resort stays quiet and untouched. Beaver Creek likes it that way. On busier weekends they even limit the number of skiers allowed on the mountain to keep the slopes empty.

Beaver Creek resort is made up of 3 separate and distinct villages: Beaver Creek village is the first stop for many and really the main centre of the resort. As you enter the village all the walkways are heated and clear of snow. The focal point is an ice rink, where you’ll see children and adults alike practising their skills and picking themselves off the ice. Around the periphery are boutiques, art galleries, the Vilar Center for the Arts, bars and restaurants ranging from reasonably prices to very top end offerings. The fur coat selection is not to be missed.

Bachelor Gulch sports the world renowned Ritz Carlton Hotel and many other homes and condominiums. Fully linked to the other areas, Bachelor Gulch offers mostly intermediate skiing and skiers can make turns all the way down to the Ritz Hotel and often spot swimmers in the indoor-outdoor pool with steam rising from the pool.

Arrowhead Village is the westernmost entrance to the resort and offers the Broken Arrow restaurant and bar with outdoor patio to enjoy some of the 300 days of sunshine whilst watching the skiers & snowboarders come whizzing down the slopes.

The 148 trails and 17 lifts make this a resort of reasonable size and gives plenty of skiing. Designed for all abilities, Beaver Creek can challenge you on its Grouse Mountain bumps or let you relax on Strawberry Park’s gentle groomers. Beaver Creek is big on grooming and you can see those piste bashers on the slopes at any time of day.

And don’t forget the famous World Cup Course for ski racing. The Birds of Prey downhill course attracts hundreds of skiers early in the season to compete on the world cup circuit. The Golden Eagle and other double black diamond runs are part of the course and although not for the faint hearted are definitely skiable for visitors who care to try their skills.

Just outside the resort area are the two towns of Avon and Edwards, which offer accommodation for those of us who haven’t quite made the A star celebrity list. Wildfire Lodge in Avon is a one to be recommended – a European style chalet fits rather well into this setting of elegance and charm. For more info on Vail, Beaver Creek, Wildfire Lodge or other Colorado ski resorts, visit www.chalets-usa.co.uk

Technorati Tags: Beaver, Colorado, Creek, Famous, Resort, Rich

Technorati Tags: Blue, Downhill, Fairfield, Mountains, Resort, Ridge, Skiing, Vacataion, Wyndham

Snowboarding has become extremely popular in the past years. In the beginning it used to be a sport practiced only by youngsters and now people of all age groups have adopted it or at least those who are in search of fun and thrill at the same time.

Winter – The Snowboarding Season

As soon as autumn arrives with its slight cold waves, snowboarding enthusiast start making plans for a snowboarding getaway. It is important that you think ahead if you want to get reservations in a snowboarding resort of choice.

It is not hard to find a great snowboarding resort, what is hard to do is get bargain prices for the same; therefore, if you are on a budget it is wise to plan ahead and also book in time. The best time to book a winter holiday in the summer and vice versa. Booking ahead of time does not necessarily mean you will get great rates but it will assure you a reservation in a place of choice.

How Do You Find A Great Snowboarding Resort At A Great Price

Famous snowboarding resorts will be expensive so, I would not suggest those if you are looking for a great package; however, I suggest picking the resort closest to you, which may not be world famous but will still provide decent snowboarding as well.

Choosing a snowboarding resort close to your hometown saves you money twice, once on the trip and the second on the hotel package. Do not underestimate a snowboarding resort just because it is close to you so, it may not need prior reservations; during winter time snowboarding enthusiasts will go snowboarding wherever they can afford to, be rest assured that all resorts will be more or less packed for the season. Therefore booking in advance is still my strong recommendation irrelevant of which snowboarding resort you choose.

Helpful Tip

Most snowboarding resorts will be listed under skiing resorts as skiing is still widely practiced. Therefore when searching to make reservation be sure to enter skiing resort and check for snowboarding facilities. Most skiing resorts offer snowboarding today due to the wide popularity of the same. Besides your snowboard ensure the right equipment for practicing snowboarding safely for it might be an exciting, fun sport but it is dangerous nevertheless. All snowboarding resorts carry equipment and snowboards for rent should you choose not to invest in purchasing any of your own.

Technorati Tags: Best, Find, Resort, Snowboarding

Congratulations to Julia Mancuso on her two silver medals in the Olympic Games!!!
Julia Mancuso came home to a fantastic “Welcome Home” shindig at Northstar Ski Resort in Lake Tahoe. The festivities honoring Julia Mancuso, the Two Time Silver Medalist in the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games, kicked off on Sunday February 27, 2010 and never slowed down throughout the day. Northstar was the funkiest trip we’ve taken this season and definitely the best time we’ve enjoyed this year and the after-hours festivities kept going into the evening hours for non-stop enjoyment. Northstar supplied all the merriment with live music, outstanding food, spirits, entertainment for the whole family and a wonderful awards show, there was never a dull moment at Northstar’s Olympic toast to Julia Mancuso.

I’ve got to give credit where credit is due and Northstar put on one heck of a great time for Julia Mancuso and her fans of all ages. Live bands (Jo Mama & Colorshow) played all day in the Village Stage at Northstar for anxious Mancuso fans waiting for their opportunity to congratulate the Ladies’ Downhill and Super Combined Silver medalist. Just watching Julia rock out with “Colorshow” was pretty dang cool (in a sexy sort of way) and feeling the energy of her numerous fans sway to the music was epic. The live music wasn’t all that Northstar supplied, the Apex Bungy Trampoline and Ice Skating Rink in the center of the Village at Northstar was additional fun for the whole family. Simply put, there was more than enough fun and entertainment throughout the day at Northstar Ski Resort during the Julia Mancuso Welcome Home Festival.

Northstar really did a wonderful job of opening up their hearts to Julia and her many fans and from the moment we arrived at the Julia Mancuso Festival up to the moment we left we had the time of our lives, being able to see Olympic Medalist Mancuso and having the good fortune of Northstar’s plush entertainment was more than we could have ever hoped for. They really rolled out the red carpet for everyone, even for canine companions. Yes, Northstar is definitely a “Dog-Friendly” world class resort. And it was pretty dang sweet having my 11 year old Border Collie “Cody” getting to meet Lake Tahoe Hero Julia Mancuso (Cody is currently trading in his Frisbee for some new K2s).

The awards ceremony was highlighted by watching Lake Tahoe local hero and two time silver medalist Julia Mancuso proudly hoist her Olympic medals into the warm Tahoe air, it was enough to take your breath away, and an experience I will not soon forget. So, the festival has come and gone, but come on out and explore awesome slopes right now at Northstar. The snow pack is terrific and we’re currently expecting more snowfall this weekend. Enjoy Northstar’s Terrain Parks and Cross Country, Telemark skiing as well as Boarding the Pipes and Downhill skiing. Oh, and the Kid’s Adventure Parks will keep ‘em busy having fun all day long. Thank you again Northstar and thank you Julia Mancuso for your hard work and world class athleticism in bringing home Two Silver Medals!!!
View the gallery and recap the festivities at http://www.laketahoequest.com/northstar.htm

Technorati Tags: 2010., Julia, Lake, Mancuso, Medalist, NorthStar, Olympic, Resort, Silver, Tahoe, Time, Vancouver

In the Okanagan Valley the winter season is not to long so it is very important to get as much skiing in as possible. The Thompson Okanagan have mountains that are blessed with lots of sunshine and dry, consistent snowfall. The world class ski resorts that are in the valley add a Hugh appeal that bring many skiers from all over the world which makes the Okanagan Valley a downhill paradise. The ski resort villages offer visitors the ability for ski-in and ski-out accommodations, very fast lifts and ski lessons at great prices, and all families welcome.

Home to some of the Canada’s greatest skiing is the world famous Big White ski resort. Big White is known for its breathtaking scenery and high quality snow. This mountain is the perfect ski resort for all skiers of any age or skiing ability. This resort lies in the shadow of the Monashee Mountains, and is a world class ski resort with a incredible reputation to back it up. Big White’s snowfall every year is over 20 feet of the fresh white powder, and their climate is moderate. This ski resort is a lot of fun for everyone especially when the sun is shining and the snow is fresh with lots of powder.

Big White ski resort guarantees quality snow and skiing for everyone. Royalty on their pristine ski slopes is what you will feel like, because they are dedicated towards high standards, and their innovative ski lifts. Big White’s fine powdery snow is incredible to ski on for any skier to try out, and can be an experience for any skier who has not tried powder before. The simple attraction of the Big White is one thing you will remember about your trip to this resort. The winter scene at this mountain could easily be the product of fiction in a movie, but the reality is this resort has a stunning location for any ski vacation, and Big White ski resort earns a place within the top 100 ski resorts in the world.

When you are finished skiing at Big White and are in Kelowna, visit The Pandosy Inn a family oriented Kelowna motel. The Pandosy Inn is located right in the heart of Okanagan Mission Area, and is one of those hard to find gems that not everyone has a chance to experience. A family owned business that caters to your personal needs on a daily basis. They have quality Kelowna accommodations and have become a family favourite for many reasons. Their suites make a perfect home away from home for guests who appreciate the convenience of a full kitchen and private bedroom. The suites at the Pandosy Inn give you the freedom to relax, and save your money for the slopes with a full kitchen, and for a good night’s sleep there is a separate bedroom. Choosing a Kelowna motel like the Pandosy Inn give you the option to travel BC and take a short trip through the Okanagan Valley to great skiing.

The Big White Ski Resort in the Okanagan Valley and the Pandosy Inn will make your skiing vacation an enjoyable and memorable skiing experience.

Technorati Tags: Kelowna, Pandosy, Resort, Skiing, Vacation, White

Big Sky Ski Resort Destination

Well the name pretty much says it all. Trademarked as the â??biggest Skiing in Americaâ? it passes through the biggest skiing pass in America, and guess what skiers and riders have access to more than 5,000 acres! Whether your looking for a meeting place for corporate conferences, weddings, or summer events such as golfing, Frisbee, scenic gondola lift rides, hiking, biking, horseback riding, rafter or whatever suites your fancy Big Sky has what you nee to enjoy yourself.

Big Sky Resort is located in the Southwest Montana Madison County about an hour from Bozeman if you take the U.S. Route 191.

For some basic information on what the resort has to offer: the base elevation is 6,800 feet and has a top elevation of nearly 11,150 feet offering an impressive vertical change for you alpine skiers. The resort offers 150 ski runs that cover 3,600 acres of skiable terrain. The longest ski run is a remarkable 6 miles, nice ! With 22 state of the art lifts youâ??ll be able to access ever acre Big Sky has to offer. Donâ??t forget Big Sky gets an average of 400 inches of annual snowfall a year offering plenty of fresh powder for all!

One interesting thing to mention is the Lone Peak Tram. Itâ??s a lift the starts at the top of the Lone Peak Triple Chair and unloads at the summit of Lone Mountain, at 11,166 feet. Its a four minute 15 passenger ride that climb 1450 vertical feet and provides access to the most difficult terrain Big Sky Has to offer!

Big Sky is al excellent destination for you next ski vacation Destination. It has so much to offer and itâ??s a perfect way to spend you hard earned time off!

Technorati Tags: Destination, Resort

NorthStar Ski Resort Package and Information

When deciding where you want to take your next ski vacation in California Lake Tahoe is an excellent choice. Not only in is close to major airports for easy access it has a wide variety of breath taking scenery and of course great terrain for all you skiing and riding needs.

First off, some info on Northstar. It’s a year round resort located near the North Side of Lake Tahoe in Placer County, California about 200 miles from San Francisco, which can save you some money if you flying in.  The resort itself is undergoing some renovations to keep it state of the art and stay on par with facilitates and services including a new variety of shops, restaurants, art galleries, boutiques, luxury lodgings and a amazing skating rink. The owners are sparing no expensive to liven up Northstar to rival world-class resorts such as Aspen and Vail.  Northstar is well known for its backcountry runs and stellar alpine skiing making it a great destination for expert skiers.

As for some basic information on the Skiing available at Northstar the resort has a base elevation of 6,330 feet and a top elevation of 8,6610 feet. There are 92 ski runs that cover a respectable 2,904 acres of skiable terrain. The ski runs break down as follows: 27% advanced, 60% intermediate, and 13% beginners. So there is something for all level of experience riders and skiers.  The longest run on the resort, Loggers Run is 1.4 miles. The area gets an annual snowfall of 350 inches a year so expect plenty of powder. The mountain has 19 ski lifts capable of transporting skiers to and from any part of the mountain they could wish to go. On a final note Northstar has the most largest snowmaking system of any resort in the area.

So take some time when deciding you next ski vacation and consider Northstar its got everything you could want in a world tier ski resort at reasonable prices.

Technorati Tags: Information, NorthStar, Package, Resort

Heavenly : A Travel Guide

Heavenly â?¦ that one word can imply and in this case describe very accurately what a ski vacation means to so many of us especially in these trying times. Whether you are considering Heavenly for a group vacation or perhaps a corporate ski trip, a family get together, college excursion, or a wedding this resort has what your looking for.  A resort is exactly what Heavenly is and not a ski area, the difference being service and facility. Ski areas typically consists of exactly that, an area to ski. Resorts on the other hand can provide the whole luxury experience complete with great food, five star lodging, maintained ski runs and very accessible medical service.  So whether youâ??re an expert skier looking to challenge yourself on the un-groomed back country runs, want to try your luck on the world class terrain park, or simple learn to ski with expert teachers you will find what your looking for.

Heavenly Ski resort is located near the beautiful Lake Tahoe in California â??s Sierra Nevada mountains. When your deciding which resort is right for your ski vacation snowfall is always at the top of the list. Although Heavenly gets nearly 274 days of sunshine the average snowfall usually reaches 300-500 inches annually at Alpine altitude! And gets 125 inches at Lake Tahoe level.  So expect great snow on all 182 ski trails which encompasses 8,800 ski-able acres for everyoneâ??s experience and comfort level from beginners to the seasoned veterans.  There is a world class terrain park for the snowboarders in your group not to mention nearly 3,600 feet of vertical change on the terrain.

If you take a look on your map you would see the Heavenly is conveniently located approximately 200 miles from the coastal city of San Francisco California and only 58 miles from Reno Nevada! This means if you fly into San Francisco or Reno you will have only a short drive before arriving at you winter wonderland vacation.  This close proximity to these great American cities also means a lively nightlife. Expect exciting activities, music events, and entertainment.  There are 6 world class casinos, gourmet dining and shopping located in the ski village.

The last consideration is of course cost.  Due to the resent economy great deals are out there for package trips to Heavenly that include airfare, lift tickets, ski equipment and lodging. If your traveling with a group even more reasonable deals become available. Take a look, your guaranteed to find something for you. Above all remember to have fun and relax!

Technorati Tags: Guide., Heavenly, Resort, Travel

Squaw Valley Ski Resort : A Travel Guide

Squaw Valley ski resort is perhaps the largest and conceptually sound ski destinations in the United States. A resort is exactly what Squaw Valley is and not a ski area, the difference being service and facility. Ski areas typically consists of exactly that, an area to ski. Resorts on the other hand  provide the whole luxury experience complete with great food, five star lodging, maintained ski runs and very accessible medical service. So whether you are considering Squaw Valley for a group vacation or perhaps a corporate ski trip, a family get together, college excursion, or a wedding this resort has what your looking for. So whether you’re an expert skier looking to challenge yourself on the un-groomed back country runs, want to try your luck on the world class terrain park, or simple learn to ski with expert teachers you will find what your looking for at Squaw Valley

Squaw Valley Ski resort is located in the beautiful Olympic Valley region of California ‘s Sierra Nevada mountains. When your deciding which resort is right for you considering average snowfall is one of the most important things to do. After all traveling all the way to a ski resort would be pretty pointless in the end if there’s no snow to greet you. Lucky for you, your thinking of going to Squaw Valley which receives an annual snowpack depth of around 450 inches at alpine altitude! So expect great snow on all 177 ski trails which encompasses 4,000 ski-able acres for everyone’s experience and comfort level from beginners to the seasoned veterans.  There is a world class terrain park for the snowboarders in your group and long runs like the Mountain Run(3.2 miles) for the skiers!

If you take a look on your map you would see the Squaw Valley is conveniently located approximately 200 miles from the coastal city of San Francisco California and only 60 miles from Reno Nevada! This means if you fly into San Francisco or Reno you will have only a short drive before arriving at your winter wonderland vacation.  This close proximity to these American cities also means a lively nightlife and active ski trails with nearly 600,000 skiers a year hitting these slopes and walking these streets.  Expect exciting activities, music events, and entertainment. Prime season to schedule your trip is from mid-November to late may when the snow is best and more events are occurring in town.

The last consideration is of course cost.  Due to the resent economy great deals are out there for package trips to Squaw Valley that include airfare, lift tickets, ski equipment and lodging. If your traveling with a group even more reasonable deals become available. Take a look, your guaranteed to find something for you. Above all remember to have fun and relax!

“To book your Ski Packages & Vacation Deals you can contact http://www.GetSkiTickets.com. You will find discount lift tickets and ski rental deals to your favorite ski resorts. Call 970.372.6551 for more information.”

Technorati Tags: Guide., Resort, Squaw, Travel, Valley