Skiing in Spain this Winter

DONT MISS OUT ON THIS YEARS SKI SEASON

Spain is ranked second as the worlds hottest tourist destination and for most visitors its the sun and sand that brings them to the land of passion and not the skiing...until now !!.

The first snow falls on the mountanous regions of Spain are just around the corner and that meansone thing ... the ski resorts will be busy preparing to open their doors in the coming weeks to the hundreds of thousands of winter sports enthusiasts preparing to decend on some of best skii resorts in Europe.

For the winter sports and skiing enthusiasts Spain currently offers some 1.000 Kilometres of quality marked trails and slopes situated in over 36 superb ski resorts half of which are proud owners of the Q awards for their quality tourism facilities and services offered. And all this set in a country that is second only to Switzerland with the greatest amount of mountains.

The main skiing regions of Spain are located in Aragon and Catalonian Pyrenees , the Cantabrian, Iberian and Central mountains and the Penibetico mountain range in the south.

The Aragonese and Catalonian Pyrenees in Northern Spain is the home of most of this countries leading ski resorts although the Sierra Nevada located in the heart of Andalucia in Southern Spain ranks amongst one the most popular. Sierra Nevada although the southern most ski resort in Europe has the longest winter season with skiers enjoying snow for almost 5 months a year. There is also a good selection of Ski resorts near Madrid, Galicia, Leon and Cantabria in the north west and La Rioja and Teruel in the mid north.

Please check out our complete guide to sking in Spain where you will find usefull information on all the major ski resorts around Spain including resort facilities , updated weather and snow reports , where to stay, ski hotels , chalet rentals ,other nearby accommodation and much more.

Sunny Rentals offer quality Ski Cabins and Apartments for rent in Catalonia, Aragon, Villanua and Valdes.

Powderhorn Ski Area, Colorado

Powderhorn Ski Area is one of the best places to go skiing in Colorado if you are a beginner or an intermediate skier. Powderhorn Mountain, as the area is also known, is also a great family destination. The resort puts a focus on families, as well as skiers who are not of the advanced level. That being said, advanced skiers are also likely to enjoy a visit, as some 30 percent of the terrain falls into the advanced or expert category. There are boulder fields to explore, glades to glide through, bumps to tackle, and plenty of groomers for when you just want to enjoy a cruise down the mountain. Adding to the allure for skiers and snowboarders alike are the terrain park areas, which are full of boxes, rails, jumps, and pipes.

The Powder Horn Ski Resort enjoys a relatively unique location when compared to most of the other Colorado ski resorts. You can find the resort on the side of a large, flat top mountain, or mesa. Lying below is a desert expanse, and you can enjoy the views for miles while at the resort. As a result of the desert setting, the snow tends to be very dry, hence the Powderhorn Mountain appellation. In not unlike the snow that you can expect to encounter when skiing in Utah. The Utah border, it is worth mentioning, is only about 50 miles away to the west. Even closer to the Powder Horn Ski Resort is the city of Grand Junction. This is the largest city in western Colorado and can provide all of the distractions that you might need when you're not spending time on the Powderhorn slopes.

The base elevation of Powderhorn Mountain is 8,200 feet, while the summit elevation tops out at 9,850 feet. While the vertical drop is 1,650 feet, there is a relative lack of actual vertical. As such, the resort added three terrain parks to keep skiers and snowboarders coming back for more. Enough steep tree runs exist to cater to the more adventurous visitors, and the cliffs and jumps in the boulder fields are reason enough to visit. Approximately 600 of the 1,600 total skiable acres at the Powderhorn Ski area are groomed, and these groomed slopes figure among the easiest to navigate due to their smoother nature.

On average, 250 inches of snow fall on the Powderhorn Ski Area every year. While this isn't as much as you can expect at the resorts further east, such as Vail and Loveland, it is still a relatively impressive amount. When needed, the park can cover 21 acres of terrain with manmade snow, which is usually needed every now and again. Four lifts are in place to get skiers and snowboarders around the mountain, and these lifts include two doubles, one surface lift, and a quad.

While hanging out at the Powder Horn Ski Resort, visitors will have some enticing dining options to choose from. The restaurant at the Inn at Wildewood can be found right next to the main lift, and it offers some enticing sirloin burgers, philly cheesesteaks that feature prime rib, and a bunch of other savory delights. Complementing this restaurant is a bar and grille that is open for breakfast and lunch and a café that serves up quick treats, such as ice cream, sandwiches, and a variety of snacks.

The Powderhorn Resort features a store that is full of outdoor gear. You can always rent ski pants and a coat at the store if you're not interested in buying new gear. Should you need a rental snowboard or ski rentals, they are available at the rental shop that can be found in the main lodge's lower level.

Something that might also be of interest when planning your Powderhorn visit is the lodging scene. The Inn at Wildewood might just be the most attractive Powderhorn lodging establishment, as it can be found right near the main lift. It also offers affordable rates and ski packages that include half-price lift tickets. There are some attractive mini suites to choose from at the Inn at Wildewood, and should you need more space, you might try to secure the upscale condo rental, which can sleep up to ten. Standard in-room amenities include cable TV, a mini refrigerator, a microwave, and a private bathroom.

Should you be interested in vacation rentals, Goldenwoods Condos offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom condo units that are equipped with fireplaces, satellite TV, VCRs, and spacious tubs. While not overly luxurious, the well-priced condos are tasteful enough and provide proximity to the slopes. If you don't mind being farther away, the Hilltop House in nearby Mesa is a Powderhorn lodging that deserves consideration. This lovely home can sleep up to eight people and features three bathrooms, a full kitchen, a dining room, a hot tub, satellite TV, an ample deck, and two conference rooms that can accommodate up to 40 people. The Hilltop House is only eight miles from the base of Powderhorn Mountain, and while the rates are relatively high, they are still more than reasonable.

Ski resorts in Virginia

Ski resorts in Virginia are great vacation destinations during the winter in Virginia. Nestled along the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia is a popular destination throughout the year. Four distinct seasons provide great weather for exciting activities all year long. The winter months are the most favorable time of year for ski enthusiasts who enjoy a large variety of ski resorts in Virginia to put their skills to the test. The Mid-Atlantic is home to four challenging and fun Virginia ski areas open from November through March depending on the weather. Events and holidays require advanced plans as resorts fill up quickly. Canaan Valley is home to both the Timberline Ski Resort and the Canaan Valley Ski Resort. Canaan Valley State Park is located southwest of Baltimore and northwest of Richmond making a transportation to the area accessible and convenient. Towering slopes covered in powdery white snow offer a backdrop to favored winter sports during cold weather vacations. With a base elevation of 3,430 feet, a 5,100 lift capacity and 85% percent snow-making, enjoying mountain air while skiing Virginia hills here is a skier's dream. Six thousand acres of beautiful park land are flanked by the majestic Allegheny Mountains. Thirty-four downhill ski slopes offer a wide variety of Virginia ski areas to tackle at Canaan Valley. This Virginia ski areas also home to a five-lane tubing park, ice-skating areas and snowboarding areas. Accommodations are readily available at the Canaan Valley Resort. Richmond hotels act as a great base if you're only planning on skiing Virginia slopes for the day. The center of Canaan Valley is dominated by the Timberline Resort slopes. Surrounded by park and national forest, the valley seems extremely secluded yet provides many modern amenities. If you don't plan to ski Virginia shopping, restaurants and nightlife offer other opportunities for enjoying ski resorts in Virginia from a different angle. Enjoy clear blue skies as you assess the base elevation of 3,268 feet and 1,000 vertical feet of skiing Virginia offers at Timberline. Experienced skiers can ski Virginia back country here and enjoy both heli-skiing and snow-cat skiing for added excitement and challenges. All skill levels can ski Virginia here as long, and winding trails give way to trails through exceptional natural landscapes. At 4,268 the highest peak at Timberline affords breathtaking views of the valley blanketed in the abundant snowfall. Snow-making makes up for any lack of a major snowfall so all 35 trails always have optimal conditions in winter. With more than ninety acres to ski Virginia boasts a winter wonderland in the valley. Both resorts offer both night and daytime skiing as well as rentals. Virginia ski areas include Snowshoe Mountain in the west. Sixty trails and fourteen lifts have made Snowshoe one of the most popular Virginia ski areas. Fifteen hundred feet of vertical drop beats out the competition while more than 23,000 skiers are lifted every hour. Glide down 1.5 miles on the longest run while swerving by trees heavily blanketed by the almost 200 inches of annual snow fall. Snowshoe Mountain is split into four areas that include Silver Creek, the Northern Tract, Snowshoe Basin and the Western Territory. The Western territory attracts hardcore adrenaline junkies while the Silver Creek is perfect for families. Wintergreen is one of the more family-oriented ski resorts in Virginia found amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains near Charlottesville. The three thousand foot gap between the valley and the mountain creates varying temperatures and stunning views. Rent skis or bring your own at this well-equipped resort where accommodation, dining and many other activities are all rolled into one. One thousand feet of vertical drop and varying terrain ranging from beginner to expert offers a challenge for all levels. With a lift capacity of 9,000 the resort is comfortably full but not overcrowded like the bigger Virginia ski areas. Other Virginia ski areas include Bryce Resort, The Homestead and Massanutten Resort. All Virginia ski resorts and areas offer many amenities and rentals for convenience. Many resorts are all-season with lots of things to do all through the year. When planning a ski vacation in Virginia, there are plenty of areas catering to all levels. The variety of choices in terrain is unsurpassed by many other areas in the nation drawing thousands to the picturesque region each year.

The Homestead Ski Resort Virginia

The Homestead Ski Resort Virginia, nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, is one of the best places in the state to enjoy winter sports. When the weather turns cold, people flock to this historic resort that opened before the first shots of the American Revolution were fired. More than 200 years later, the Homestead continues to offer hospitality and a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The Homestead ski area in the community of Hot Springs is easy to access from many of the major cities of Virginia. Roanoke is 70 miles to the south, while its airport could be reached within an hour. Richmond is 170 miles east, and Charlottesville, the home of the University of Virginia and Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, is two hours away. You'll notice remarkably different weather when you head west to the mountains and the Homestead Ski Resort Virginia, and there are four distinctive seasons and plenty of snow during the coldest months of the year.

Encompassing 45 acres, the Homestead ski area has plenty of room for enjoying outdoor adventure. This option for Virginia skiing has been a favorite for generations. Today, the Homestead offers nine trails that will challenge beginning and expert skiers alike. The snowmaking equipment and expert grooming will ensure you'll have the best experience possible, even if the natural snow isn't falling. Beginning skiers can sign up for lessons and will have the chance to work on their skills. At the next level, you'll find the main lift and the lower main trail. More intermediate skiers will want to head to the Upper Main, the Glades, and the Escape trails. Two trails are designed for experts—the Chute and the Nose Drive. At the Learning Center, which has been open since 1959, you can meet with one of the local experts to learn more, whether this is your first time winter skiing or you're a seasoned skier.

The list of things to do during the winter goes beyond skiing in Virginia. The mountain at the Homestead Ski Resort Virginia is especially suited for snowboarding, something that can be enjoyed by beginners and brave souls alike. The Learning Center also offers boarding lessons. After the slopes close for the evening, this scenic setting transforms into an excellent place for a guided snowmobile tour. As long as you have a driver's license, you can sign up for one of the tours for a chance to zoom around the base of one on the Allegheny Mountains. Special snowmobiles are available for youngsters not quite old enough to drive a car yet. Sessions for both adults and children include safety instruction. The Homestead ski area also includes a three-lane park for snowtubing and ice-skating rink at the base of the mountain.

No matter what you decide to pack into your winter sports adventure, you'll find everything else you need for your Virginia vacation at one of the hotels near Homestead ski area. The resort's hotel, which has provided hospitality to many American presidents, retains its historic flair while providing modern amenities. In total, the resort is home to 483 guestrooms and suites, as well as a mineral springs and a European spa. You'll also find gourmet dining and specialty shops at one of the grandest choices for hotels near Homestead ski area.

While the resort is one option, many other properties are located within a short drive of the slopes. The Roanoke hotels are not far away, and here you'll find properties to suit all kind of budgets. No matter your vacation plans, you can find one of the hotels near Homestead ski area that are right for you.

Ski in New Mexico

To ski New Mexico may be the perfect vacation for you to a state known for its southwestern appeal. In New Mexico winter is a state of mind and the sun shines brilliantly in between fast and furious snowstorms. Mountain shadows float over towering pines and firs. Snow covered adobes defined by festive garlands look like colorful Southwestern gingerbread houses. At this time of year the rhythm of life slows down a pace or two as people stoke flames in kiva fireplaces and the smell of baked goods resonates in the air. The dichotomy of winter and summer moods is as severe as the split in the Rio Grande canyon. Skiers start pouring in to ski New Mexico, skis strapped tightly on car roofs so as not to lose prized possessions. Affordable flights to New Mexico are coveted by skiers as this time of year sees some of the cheaper flights to New Mexico arise.

Those who regularly ski New Mexico know exactly what they're looking for and where. They know the ins and outs of valleys and hills like the backs of their hands. When they ski New Mexico the thrill of it all comes flying back like a furiously thrown boomerang. When skiers ski New Mexico the smell and chill of the air, the snow-covered peaks and hills and the steep chutes and glades are a welcome respite from smoldering summer days. Summer seems to go on endlessly without a stitch of snow in sight and only dreams allowing skiiers to ski New Mexico.

New Mexico ski resorts and hotels start filling up as soon as there's enough snow on the ground. Some hotels are booked far ahead of opening season. Most skiers stay near the ski hills and catch shuttles while others prefer their own vehicles for the holidays and prefer rental cars for transportation to and from the ski hill and to check out other nearby attractions when not rushing down snow covered slopes.

Winter temperatures are generally fairly moderate averaging roughly mid 30's during the day to mid-teens earlier in the morning. New Mexico ski resorts enjoy an average yearly snow fall of approximately 180" in the valley and over 200" in the ski areas although this does vary throughout the different New Mexico ski resorts.

When looking for New Mexico ski resorts and hotels there are 8 major hills, 7 of which are located in the Northeast part of the state where the highest annual snowfall is enjoyed. Many taking new Mexico ski trips will test out several ski resorts because a handful are so close together. Enchanted Forest is the state's biggest cross country ski area with 33 km's of trails groomed for freestyle and classic XC skiing and 15 kms of trail for snowshoeing.

Taos Ski Valley is one of the most popular resorts for skiers on New Mexico ski trips averaging 305 inches of snow every year. Over 1200 acres of prime skiing area are filled with 110 trails, 12 lifts running from 9am-4pm with a capacity of 15,000 people per hour, base elevation of 9,207 feet with the highest lift serving 11,819 feet. The highest vertical drop is 3,274 with a hike up Kachina Peak.

An alternative for New Mexico ski trips is Ski Santa Fe averaging 225 inches of snow a year. The ski resort has 660 acres of breathtaking terrain, 67 trails, 12,075 foot summit, 1,725 vertical feet of skiing, 7 lifts. The longest run goes on for 3 miles. New Mexico ski vacations to Angelfire are a good bet in the winter months as well. The resort gets 210 inches of snow annually and 52% of the mountain receives snowmaking services. With 70 trails, 7 lifts, and a base elevation of 8,600 feet.

There are some other ski resorts that are great for New Mexico ski vacations but they just don't share in as much of the glory as some of the bigger ones. Smaller hills have their own advantages such as less crowded hills and ski amenities. Some of the other New Mexico ski hills include Pajarito Mountain, Red River, Sipapu, Sandia Peak and Valles Caldera National Preserve. Ski Apache is the lone one of the bunch located in south eastern New Mexico

Colorado Ski Resorts

Colorado ski resorts are some of the most popular ski areas in the country. In fact, just the words "ski vacation" is associated with Aspen, Telluride, Breckenridge and other glamorous ski locations. The fantastic reputation of the Colorado ski resorts is well deserved. Where else can you find great conditions, big mountains and some of the best ski instruction in America?

While there are many fantastic places to ski in the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado ski resorts have some unique features that cannot be found in other areas in North America. For example, if you visit the Colorado ski resorts in Summit County, you will find four ski areas located within thirty minutes from each other. In fact, they are even accessible by the free public bus system. The Summit County Colorado ski resorts are also famous for their season pass price wars. When planning Colorado ski vacations, many people discover that the season's passes are actually a better value than any of the lift and lodging packages available.

Affordability and pricing and variety are not the only reasons that people enjoy Colorado ski vacations. The huge mountains, deep powder and bright sunshine contribute to the fun. If you are planning on taking lessons, some of the most talented and dedicated ski instructors in North America teach at the Colorado ski areas. Now that we have you convinced, you are probably wondering where to go. Here are just a few great places for Colorado ski vacations.

Ski Colorado: Copper Mountain

There are many reasons why some people think that Copper Mountain is one of the best Colorado ski areas. Copper has a superb ski school, as well as breathtakingly beautiful scenery. The mountain layout is the best in Summit County. There is a beginner area that is isolated from the rest of the mountain, so novice skiers and riders need not worry about anyone rushing past them at mach 10. Intermediates will love the blue cruisers off of the Timberline lift and the American Flyer. Expert skiers will have a field day in Copper Bowl, and snowboarders will love the Parks and Pipes.

Copper Mountain Colorado ski vacations can also be pretty affordable. The resort offers 4-pack lift tickets at great prices. Although lunches may seem expensive, head over to Grand Hall in the East Village for the pasta lunch special. It's an excellent value, and it is quite delicious. Here's an "insider's secret" about Copper Mountain: It is the only Summit County Colorado ski resort that offers free overnight ski storage. Like the other Summit County ski areas, Copper is on the free Summit Stage bus route. However, unlike Breckenridge and Keystone, the bus stops close to the base area, so there is no need to take another shuttle bus.

Unlike other Intrawest Resorts, the Village of Copper Mountain is not known for its spectacular nightlife. However, the nearby town of Frisco has an abundance of shops, restaurants, bars and unique fitness sand yoga studios. Frisco is a year-round vacation destination. It has the distinction of providing a variety of inexpensive Colorado lodging venues, as well as being the hub of the free Summit Stage bus route.

Other Summit County Colorado Ski Areas

Like Copper Mountain, Keystone, Breckenridge and Arapahoe Basin are also located in Summit County Colorado. These Colorado ski areas are part of the resorts in Vail. You can usually purchase a lift ticket that will allow you to ski at all three areas. If you enjoy spring skiing, Arapahoe Basin is usually one of the last Colorado ski areas to close. A-Basin, as the locals call it, is best for advanced and expert skiers.

Loveland

If you want to get away from the resort atmosphere and discover the true soul of skiing, you will fall in live with Loveland ski area. Short lift lines and the ability to drive up near the lifts make Loveland a popular ski area for locals. The staff is phenomenally friendly, and the ticket prices are low. If you take a 3-session beginner package, you can get a free season's pass. Although it is not a major destination for Colorado ski vacations, most people who happen to visit fall in love with Loveland. Speaking of love, on February 14th, Loveland offers Mountain Matrimony. Get married or renew your vows in a ceremony that takes place on top of the mountain. Afterwards, ski down and enjoy a huge party in one of the lodges.

Colorado Ski Rentals

Although the Denver International Airport is extremely ski-friendly, you might still be considering a Colorado ski rental. Many people book their Colorado ski rentals in conjunction with their lodging packages at the Colorado ski areas. There are also Colorado ski rental packages available with certain ski and snowboard lesson plans. While these may be economical for novice skiers, there are less expensive ways for intermediate and advanced skiers to find a Colorado ski rental. For example, if you are visiting Summit County, Virgin Islands Ski rental in Silverthorne Colorado is a long-standing Colorado ski rental shop. It is known for having the best prices on Colorado ski rentals.

We have listed just a few of the popular Colorado ski areas. Be sure to take a look at the detailed information about Breckenridge, Aspen and Vail.

Loveland Ski Area

Loveland Ski Area is one of the most popular Colorado ski destinations for Denver area residents and visitors. Much of the resort's appeal lies in its relatively affordable rates, not to mention the fact that it is just 56 miles from Downtown Denver. Also helping to make the Loveland Ski Resort so popular is the fact that it is often the first ski resort in the state to open. You can start making turns in the snow at Loveland about a month before most of the other resorts in the state start opening their lifts to the public.

The Loveland Ski Area is split among two different areas and is known for its old-fashioned style. Much like Arapahoe Basin, which also tends to open earlier than most Colorado ski resorts, the Loveland Ski Resort is one of the highest ski areas in the state. Its summit is 13,010 feet, with the highest lift-served areas sitting at around 12,700 feet. All that separates the Loveland Ski Area from the nearby Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is the Loveland Pass, so it's easy to include a visit to both destinations when staying in the area. You can also entertain the option of visiting a few other area resorts if you secure Loveland Ski Area lodging and are thinking of spending more than just a couple of days in the area. These other area resorts include the Winter Park Ski Resort, Breckenridge, and Copper Mountain.

The base elevation of the Loveland Ski Resort is 10,800 feet, so it might take you a day or so to get used to the altitude. As long as you stay hydrated and take things relatively easy on the first day, you should be alright. Of course, you might be tempted to tackle as many of the 93 different trails as possible on the first day. The 93 trails wind their way through 1,570 total skiable acres and offer something for all levels. Thirteen percent of the trails cater to beginners, while the rest are better suited for intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders. The total vertical drop is 2,210 feet, and as far as the white stuff is concerned, some 400 inches fall on the resort on an annual basis. This usually means plenty of powder days. When you're not hitting the more traditional slopes at the Loveland Ski Resort, you might visit the terrain parks and work on your tricks.

Loveland ski packages are available in good supply. As such, saving some money can likely be part of the deal when visiting this fun resort. Some of the Loveland ski packages include accommodations and lift tickets, though you can pass on the ones that include accommodations if you already have your lodging sorted out. The Day Tripper package that the resort itself offers is among the most attractive packages if you need equipment more than lodging. This package includes a lift ticket, a rental snowboard or rental skis, a hat, gloves, a jacket, and some snowpants. You'll even get some goggles to use when you book this package.

Ski and stay packages are also among the most popular Loveland Ski Packages. A number of area lodging establishments offer special packages that include discounted lodging and discounted lift tickets. Among the lodging establishments that is closest to the Loveland Ski Area is the Arapahoe Inn, which offers 60 affordable rooms. You can actually find the Arapahoe Inn within steps of the ski lifts at Keystone, and it's worth noting that the motel is also the closest lodging establishment to A-Basin.

There is no lodging at the Loveland Ski Area itself, so the motels, hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals that are found in the general area are your best bet. You could also stay at one of the Denver hotels and make the drive out if you prefer. Parking near the lifts is free, and if you want to leave the driving up to someone else, there are Denver shuttles that offer transportation to and from a number of ski resorts, including Loveland. Once you get to the Loveland Ski Resort, you can use a horizontal lift or take a shuttle bus to get between the resort's two ski areas.

Skiing in New Zealand

New Zealand skiing can match the best skiing found anywhere, so you'll certainly not be foregoing a top notch experience. One of the great things about skiing in New Zealand is that the country is found in the Southern Hemisphere, which means that the seasons are opposite what they are in the Northern Hemisphere. After the ski season ends in the northern countries, the New Zealand skiing is just getting started, offering die-hards the chance to extend their winters, so to speak. Yep, June through October is the ski season here, so fret not once the powder begins to melt back home.

Skiers and snow boarders of all skill levels can have a blast skiing in New Zealand, and if hitting the slopes is the main aim of your vacation, you might look into the many different New Zealand ski packages that are out there. Chances are there is one that fits your preference. Of course, you can always just show up, book a resort or hotel room near a major New Zealand ski area, and head to the slopes on your own. There are approximately 14 main commercial ski areas in New Zealand, and you'll find plenty of chances to enjoy back country skiing as well. If you are an advanced skier, there might be no greater thrill than trying New Zealand heli skiing, which involves being taken to the summit of a snowy peak by helicopter. Cat skiing operations are pretty abundant in New Zealand as well, so you might board one of these snow and ice-defying vehicles to get to an otherwise unattainable choice run.

Both the North Island and the South Island of New Zealand have ski fields that you can enjoy, and if you book one of the extended New Zealand ski packages, you might get to hit the slopes at different fields all over the country. The best New Zealand skiing is arguably found on the South Island near Queenstown and Wanaka, though some might argue that the slopes found on the North Island at Mount Ruapehu are the best. The biggest and busiest New Zealand ski area is found at Mount Ruapehu, and it's named Whakapapa. Mount Ruapehu is the highest peak on the North Island, rising just over 9,000 feet, and it's also an active volcano. The crater lake found here helps to make for an ideal setting. It sure gives Lake Tahoe a run for its money. Turoa is another popular ski field found here, and it boasts Australasia's biggest vertical drop.

On the South Island, you'll find some five great ski fields that are just within a couple hour's drive from Queenstown. Among the best found here are Treble Cone and the Remarkables. The South Island city of Christchurch also has some excellent ski fields that are within a 2-hour drive. Among the best is Mt Hutt, which tends to be the area's first ski area to open, as well as its last. The smaller ski areas of Craigeburn, Temple Basin, and Porter Heights have among them a myriad of adventurous runs that are surely worth experiencing. South of Christchurch, you'll find Mount Cook, which is the country's highest peak, topping out at around 12,800 feet. Skiing the glaciers here is quite a different experience that what you will find at the New Zealand ski resorts. Speaking of the New Zealand ski resorts, you'll find all the facilities and services you should need, including a nice array of restaurants and hotels. Perhaps a luxurious lodge at Wanaka is right for you, or maybe you're looking to save money for lift tickets and just want to stay in a more affordable motel. The motels in New Zealand tend to be pretty nice, so you shouldn't have to completely sacrifice comfort to save a few bucks.

Beginners who are feeling uneasy about skiing in New Zealand can always book some lessons to help them hone their skills. Most of the main commercial ski centers here have great ski schools with quality instructors that can have you feeling like veteran in no time. Some of the top New Zealand ski resorts offer beginners' packages that are worth checking out if you are not comfortable on skis. Snow boarders can find plenty of New Zealand snow board packages and tours that are tailored just for them, so they need not feel left out by any means. You can rent ski or snow board equipment if you are not bringing your own, so as you can see, there's no excuse to not your New Zealand ski vacation today. You will be glad you did.

New Zealand Heli Ski Vacation

New Zealand heli ski vacations are all that you want them to be, and then some. There aren't many ski destinations in the world where you can enjoy every kind of skiing and snow boarding possible. A New Zealand heli ski vacation is a good way to enjoy some of the best skiing not only in New Zealand, but in the world. If you're not familiar with heli skiing, it's a pretty straightforward concept. A helicopter takes you and a few other skiers to the otherwise unattainable slopes of a snow-capped mountain, where you can enjoy fresh powder runs and pretty much have the mountain all to yourself. There are so many possible things to do in New Zealand, and heli skiing is certainly an ideal choice for those who love winter sports. If you live in the Northern Hemisphere and are mourning the end of your ski season, it's time to look into New Zealand ski vacations. The ski season here runs from June to October, so after fine tuning your skills up north, you can put them to the test in New Zealand.

The best time to enjoy a New Zealand heli ski vacation is from July 1 - September 30. Though the regular ski season starts a month earlier, this is most heli ski tour operators open for business. If you can't make it here by September, some of the private heli ski charters in New Zealand operate until late October, so you have a bit of extra time you can work with. The snow in spring tends to be pretty good, so you won't have to worry about missing all the good stuff. You don't have to be an expert skier or snow boarder to enjoy a New Zealand heli ski vacation, though you should be competent enough to handle the powder and such. Beginners certainly aren't encouraged to try New Zealand heli skiing, but who knows, should they book some lessons on initial New Zealand ski vacations, they can return again to go big. Bringing a few layers of clothing is a good idea if you are planning skiing holidays New Zealand style. A nice waterproof outer layer is always smart. New Zealand heli skiing is done at relatively low altitudes, so you should find that the temperatures should be mostly friendly. Your New Zealand heli ski vacation will depend on weather. Although you do want it to snow, you might not pray for too many storms, or you could find yourself out in the cold.

There are a few different spots where you can enjoy heli skiing holidays New Zealand style, the best of which are found on the South Island. Here, the Southern Alps rise the tallest of any mountains in the country, with Mount Cook being the tallest at 12,800 feet. A New Zealand Queenstown heliski vacation is the most popular of all, and nearby Wanaka does just as well. In fact, the bulk of New Zealand heli skiing is done in the Queenstown area, and you'll find the region to easily have some of the country's best ski fields. Surely you can enjoy New Zealand ski vacations in Queenstown or Wanaka that don't involve heli skiing, but why not at least consider it? Chances are, you'll have the time of your life. And, should you convince a couple of friends to join you, they will likely be thanking you for years to come, if not forever. The Harris Mountains are perhaps the top heli skiing location found in the Queenstown area, and there are runs here for different levels of skiers. You can opt for the easier terrain if you are feeling tentative, then think about hitting a few choice chutes and valleys.

While you can hike a glacier in New Zealand, have you ever though of skiing one? The Clarke Glacier found near Queenstown is a place where you can do just that. The runs here go on for what seems like an eternity, and it's not uncommon when heli skiing in New Zealand to find a run that stretches over 8 miles. Skiing or snow boarding the Clarke Glacier is probably best for the more advanced skier, and it definitely behooves you to be in good shape. Near Mount Cook, the Maite Brun and Liebig ranges offer some of the best glacier heli skiing in the country. Closer to the South Island city of Christchurch, Methven offers what many consider to be the best in terms of the variety of terrain. There are an ample amount of heli ski tour operators in New Zealand, so it's not hard to arrange heli skiing holidays New Zealand. It's not going to be cheap, however, but it will be worth it, if not for the views alone. Besides helping you find the best slopes for heli skiing, most, if not all New Zealand heli ski tour operators can also help you find lodging near your destination, as well as arrange all your transportation once you arrive. Bring your sense of adventure if you are planning a New Zealand heli ski vacation, and don't forget your goggles and sunscreen. You can get sunburned quicker on the New Zealand slopes than you can at the New Zealand beaches.

Australia Ski Resorts

Australia ski resorts can be found around the vast continent, especially in the southeastern states of New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria. There is also ski terrain in the Australian Capital Territory during the winter season in the Southern Hemisphere. Thredbo, Perisher Blue, and Mt. Buller are among the most notable places where people enjoy the Australia ski season. The seasons are flipped around in this part of the world so your average ski season generally lasts from June to October. There are exceptions, however, and certain parts of the country receive snowfall anywhere between April and December. The best resorts for Australia ski holidays receive a good amount of snow every year (although the weather is very unpredictable from season to season in Australia) and can also produce artificial snow to enhance the conditions and experience.

Thredbo is one of the largest and most impressive of all the Australia ski resorts. It is situated in the Snowy Mountains, which includes the tallest peak in Australia, Mt. Kosciuszko. When the Australia ski season is in full gear and the mountain is covered in snow, Thredbo has the longest runs in the entire country. Skiing in Australia simply does not get any better than Thredbo when the conditions are right. There are over 50 ski runs spread out over 480 acres of breathtaking skiable terrain. With a top elevation of nearly 7,000 feet and a vertical drop of 2,200 feet, even the most seasoned skiers and snowboarders will feel the excitement on these runs.

Perisher Blue is another of the best places for Australia ski holidays. This resort is New South Wales is five and a half hours from Sydney and seven hours from Melbourne. You may have to drive or travel quite some distance any time you ski in Australia unless you live by one of the resorts, but once you get to them, it is well worth the trip. The Australia ski season lasts from June 12 to October 4 at this resort. There are seven mountain peaks altogether at Perisher: Mt. Perisher, Mt. Black Perisher, Mt. Piper, Mt. Blue Cow, Rocky Knob, Guthega Peak, and Mt. Blue Calf. The top elevation of each of these peaks is over 6,000 feet. There is broad selection of runs spread out over a stunning 3,000 acres. Of the total number of runs, 22 percent are for beginners, 60 percent for intermediates, and 18 percent for advanced. There is also one superpipe and four terrain parks. One of the great things about Australia ski resorts is that they tend to have all kinds of amenities since they are most often located quite a distance from any major cities. In the case of Perisher Blue, the Village features bars and nightlife, a wonderful selection of restaurants, shopping and ski equipment rentals, and much more. There are lessons available for people of all skill levels at Perisher Blue as well.

As you are making your plans for potential Australia ski holidays, you should also consider Mt. Buller and Falls Creek, two of the other most notable resorts in the country. The Australia ski season brings some of the most beautiful scenery to the country, and it is a wonderful time to be there to enjoy the awesome downhill sports.

Ski Argentina

To ski Argentina is a winter treat in this South American country. Worldwide travel has made the endless winter a distinct possibility. Go skiing at Vail, Lake Tahoe, Big Ski and Whistler all winter long, and then from June to September ski Argentina. There are many ski resorts in South America and some of the best are located in Argentina.

Andes skiing is one of the most notable parts of the world. There are two big mountains you should know if you are planning to ski Argentina. These mountains are Cerro Catedral in Bariloche and Las Lenas in Mendoza. Cerro Catedral is 6,800 feet high, and it has 29 lifts. It offers 25% beginner trails, 45% intermediate and 30% advanced. It also has a snowboard park and half pipe. At Las Lenas you will discover a mountain that is 11,328 feet high that has 12 chairs. The trails are 10% beginner, 23% intermediate and 67% advanced. You will also find a snowboard park and a half pipe.

Las Lenas offers a new Argentina ski resort named New Virgo Hotel. It is very new and adds a little mountain style and comfort. It has 105 rooms, a panoramic restaurant, sushi and wine bar, health club, spa, swimming pool and a cinema. Since Las Lenas offers night skiing, you might enjoy dinner and then head back out for some more turns. Other hotels are Escropio a four-star hotel with a ski in/ski out feature and rooms include breakfast and dinner. It is located at the base of the mountain. Piscis is a five-star Argentina ski resort with suites that have jetted bathtub, fireplace, mini-bar and climate control. Breakfast and dinner are included, and there is also a casino and nightclub to hang out at. Don't forget about the health club with a Jacuzzi to soak your tired muscles.

At Cerro Catedral you can enjoy some of the best ski resorts in South America from three to five-star resorts. The Aconcagua Hotel, Bahia Manzano, and Bariloche Ski Hotel will be sure to provide you with all of your skiing needs. You may want to splurge for a more sophisticated hotel like Hotel Edelweiss San Carlos de Bariloche. This hotel offers a health club, beauty center and massage parlor. The rooms have baths with hydromassage, mini bar and digital security boxes. After you are done skiing go to massage parlor to get rejuvenated for your next afternoon of skiing Argentina. Or try Llao Llao Hotel and Resort. It is not as close to mountains but is offers the best in luxuries. It offers a health club with full gym, heated pool and aerobic center. It also has a massage parlor. You will be constantly in awe of their customer service. It is one of those places you don't want to leave.

Let the endless winter become a reality for you as you venture down to the untouched tracks of Andes skiing. The first chair and the first tracks are waiting. It is sure to be an adventure with those illustrious bluebird sky days. Not only does it have some of the best mountains in the world to ski or snowboard on, but offers world-class Argentina ski resorts that will reenergize you for another epic day.

California Ski Resorts

California ski resorts are numerous and range from amazing Lake Tahoe destinations to Mt Shasta and more. If you were to pose the question 'what is the best ski resort in California?' a lively debate would surely develop. How do you choose between Heavenly, Lake Tahoe and Mammoth? In truth, there is a ski resort in California suitable for every type of skier and for every California ski vacation preference. So how do you decide where to go? A number of factors should be considered.

What parts of California are you interested in visiting? Are you looking for a family oriented ski resort in California, or an area suitable for singles? What types of terrain do you enjoy skiing or riding, and what do you want out of your California ski vacation?

With its 360 inches of snow and 300 days of sunshine, snow-sliders will be in heaven at the Heavenly Ski Resort Lake Tahoe. This splendidly versatile California ski resort is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range at Monument Peak. Straddling the state line between California and Nevada, a vacation at the Heavenly Ski Resort Lake Tahoe gives you the exciting experience of skiing from one state to the other. Heavenly has 17 lifts in California and 12 lifts in Nevada.

Even with an average of 360 inches of snow, the Heavenly Ski Resort Lake Tahoe still has one of the most extensive snowmaking systems in the United States. With 4,800 acres of terrain, Heavenly is one of North America's largest ski areas. Your entire family will love the Heavenly Ski Resort Lake Tahoe. Their day care and kids programs will keep everybody happy!

While Heavenly is, well heavenly, as long as you are in the Lake Tahoe area, you may as well visit another ski resort in Lake Tahoe. Beginner and intermediate skiers and riders who are looking for a ski resort in Lake Tahoe should consider Squaw Valley. Seventy percent of the Squaw Valley terrain consists of wide open groomed runs that are suitable for cruising. However, there is also a good deal of ungroomed advanced terrain. If you hate lift lines, Squaw Valley might be the best ski resort in Lake Tahoe to visit, since Squaw has the most extensive network of lifts in the world!

If you have a good tolerance for altitude, at 7,800 feet, Kirkwood has a higher base elevation than any ski resort in Lake Tahoe. The 2,000 foot vertical drop will be a thrill for all skiers and riders, and the 529 inches of snow is sure to please all of its visitors. Kirkwood has 12 lifts and 2,300 acres of skiable terrain.

If you have already skied or rode the Lake Tahoe ski resorts, and are looking for a different experience, plan a trip to the Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort in the Sierra Nevada. Not only does this mountain have California's highest elevation, Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort also has the longest ski season. This is a mountain where you will never get bored. Mammoth has 3500 skiable acres, 3100 vertical feet and 150 trails. The Mammoth Mountain Ski resort has 31 lifts, which include four high speed quads, four quads, seven triples, 12 doubles, two gondolas, one T-Bar and one Poma. Snowboarders will love the Olympic-size Super Pipe. If you are looking for a mammoth skiing or riding experience, visit the Mammoth Mountain Ski resort.

Ski in New Mexico

To ski New Mexico may be the perfect vacation for you to a state known for its southwestern appeal. In New Mexico winter is a state of mind and the sun shines brilliantly in between fast and furious snowstorms. Mountain shadows float over towering pines and firs. Snow covered adobes defined by festive garlands look like colorful Southwestern gingerbread houses. At this time of year the rhythm of life slows down a pace or two as people stoke flames in kiva fireplaces and the smell of baked goods resonates in the air. The dichotomy of winter and summer moods is as severe as the split in the Rio Grande canyon. Skiers start pouring in to ski New Mexico, skis strapped tightly on car roofs so as not to lose prized possessions. Affordable flights to New Mexico are coveted by skiers as this time of year sees some of the cheaper flights to New Mexico arise.

Those who regularly ski New Mexico know exactly what they're looking for and where. They know the ins and outs of valleys and hills like the backs of their hands. When they ski New Mexico the thrill of it all comes flying back like a furiously thrown boomerang. When skiers ski New Mexico the smell and chill of the air, the snow-covered peaks and hills and the steep chutes and glades are a welcome respite from smoldering summer days. Summer seems to go on endlessly without a stitch of snow in sight and only dreams allowing skiiers to ski New Mexico.

New Mexico ski resorts and hotels start filling up as soon as there's enough snow on the ground. Some hotels are booked far ahead of opening season. Most skiers stay near the ski hills and catch shuttles while others prefer their own vehicles for the holidays and prefer rental cars for transportation to and from the ski hill and to check out other nearby attractions when not rushing down snow covered slopes.

Winter temperatures are generally fairly moderate averaging roughly mid 30's during the day to mid-teens earlier in the morning. New Mexico ski resorts enjoy an average yearly snow fall of approximately 180" in the valley and over 200" in the ski areas although this does vary throughout the different New Mexico ski resorts.

When looking for New Mexico ski resorts and hotels there are 8 major hills, 7 of which are located in the Northeast part of the state where the highest annual snowfall is enjoyed. Many taking new Mexico ski trips will test out several ski resorts because a handful are so close together. Enchanted Forest is the state's biggest cross country ski area with 33 km's of trails groomed for freestyle and classic XC skiing and 15 kms of trail for snowshoeing.

Taos Ski Valley is one of the most popular resorts for skiers on New Mexico ski trips averaging 305 inches of snow every year. Over 1200 acres of prime skiing area are filled with 110 trails, 12 lifts running from 9am-4pm with a capacity of 15,000 people per hour, base elevation of 9,207 feet with the highest lift serving 11,819 feet. The highest vertical drop is 3,274 with a hike up Kachina Peak.

An alternative for New Mexico ski trips is Ski Santa Fe averaging 225 inches of snow a year. The ski resort has 660 acres of breathtaking terrain, 67 trails, 12,075 foot summit, 1,725 vertical feet of skiing, 7 lifts. The longest run goes on for 3 miles. New Mexico ski vacations to Angelfire are a good bet in the winter months as well. The resort gets 210 inches of snow annually and 52% of the mountain receives snowmaking services. With 70 trails, 7 lifts, and a base elevation of 8,600 feet.

There are some other ski resorts that are great for New Mexico ski vacations but they just don't share in as much of the glory as some of the bigger ones. Smaller hills have their own advantages such as less crowded hills and ski amenities. Some of the other New Mexico ski hills include Pajarito Mountain, Red River, Sipapu, Sandia Peak and Valles Caldera National Preserve. Ski Apache is the lone one of the bunch located in south eastern New Mexico

Ski Alaska

To ski Alaska, enjoy some heli-skiing, or snowboard Alaska appeals to the types who enjoy a less-commercialized skiing experience. After all, with all the ski resorts in North America, why travel so far away to ski Alaska? Their loss is your gain. When you ski Alaska or snowboard Alaska you are treated to short lift lines and open slopes. Here are some of the great places to take an Alaska ski vacation.

Alyeska Resort: The Ultimate Alaska Ski Vacation

The Alyeska, located in Girdwood resort was voted as one of the top 25 ski resorts by Ski Magazine. It has a well-earned reputation for being an excellent family resort. Alyeska also has a reputation for having one of the best Alaska snowboard parks.

Stats

* Vertical drop: 2,500 feet
* Summit:3,939 feet
* Lifts: 9
* Trails:68
* Longest run:10,560 feet
* Annual snowfall:720 inches
* snowmaking:37%
* skiable area:1,000 acres

Alaska Ski Vacation at Moose Mountain

Moose Mountain has over 1,250 feet of vertical, and terrain that varies from beginner slopes at Moose Meadow to the steep and deep black trails North Slope. Due to Moose Mountain’s southern exposure, the area is shielded from the prevailing Northeasterly winds, and thus receives hours of sun each day. In general, Moose Mountain temperatures average 20 to 30 degrees warmer than in town the town of Fairbanks.

* Base Elevation: 680 ft
* Summit Elevation: 1,987 ft
* Vertical Drop: 1,307 ft
* Skiable Area: 200 acres
* Annual Snowfall: 70 in
* Longest Run: 7,920 ft
* Snowmaking: 0 %
* Number of Lifts: 14

Eaglecrest Ski Area

Eaglecrest is a community-owned ski area which is located 12 miles from downtown Juneau on Douglas Island. The ski and snowboard season at Eaglecrest runs from early December through mid-April. Eaglecrest is often called the “best little ski area in the world.”

Eaglecrest is home to downhill skier Hilary Lindh, who was the silver medalist in the Winter Olympic Games in Albertville, France. Eaglecrest is also the home mountain of Joe Tompkins, a mono-skier on the U.S. Disabled Ski Team. Most of the terrain is suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders.

Stats

* Base Elevation: 1,200 ft
* Summit Elevation: 2,600 ft
* Vertical Drop: 1,400 ft
* Skiable Area: 640 acres
* Annual Snowfall: 300 in
* Longest Run: 10,560 ft
* Snowmaking: 6 %
* Number of Lifts: 4
* Uphill Lift Capacity: 2,600 per hour
* Types of Lifts: 1 Tubing Lift, 1 Surface Lift, 2 Double Chairs
* Number of Trails: 31

Alaska Snowboard Parks at Alpenglow at Artic Valley

Alpenglow is famous for its Alaska snowboard parks. Snowboarders love the half pipe.

Stats

* Base Elevation: 2,500 ft
* Summit Elevation: 3,900 ft
* Vertical Drop: 1,400 ft
* Skiable Area: 320 acres
* Annual Snowfall: 250 in
* Longest Run: 4,545 ft
* Number of Lifts: 4
* Uphill Lift Capacity: 3,200 per hour
* Types of Lifts: 1 Tow Rope, 1 T-Bar 2 Double Chairs

Whether you are looking for excellent Alaska snowboard parks or you just want to cruise the blues, Alaska is a great place for a winter vacation.