Ski USA. Tips and advice need

[smckay]

Anyone give quality advice on US skiing? Have been looking at Colorado (Mork & Mindy fan) but with so many resorts packed in I don't have time to research the ins and outs.

We are a couple, he ski's good and doesn't mind double blue, she is a bit more timid and prefers quiet runs with no speed demons about. Probably blue is max.

Thredbo Alpine Hotel is our reference point so if we could find something like that (albeit newer and not so worn out) would be great both in location and facilities and hopefully under their costs for a week or two.

Think Feb/March '14 - is that the go?

Otherwise a European trip would be fine as well. I've seen Austria get some good raps so open to that side of things

 

[tsjbaker]

As an alternative to Colorado, check out Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada border. There are seven resorts to choose from headlined by Heavenly, which is absolutely exceptional, and one of the best suited American fields for the terrain you're talking about. Plenty of easy / intermediate stuff, and of course the harder bits if you're feeling adventurous.

Their 'ski school' programme is the most professional I have ever worked, with adult half- and full-day classes that I recommend highly — they improve your skiing or boarding so quickly and without the patronising 'too cool' attitude you see too often on Australian fields.

Travel is LAX - RNO with a 90 minute drive or bus to Tahoe, both methods have worked for me. Inexpensive rentals, a couple of Marriotts (good value in Feb / March when the US holidaymakers aren't everywhere), or casino accommodation over the Nevada border, which Heavenly is spread over.

Their passes also let you into Northstar and Kirkwood which are nearby-ish resorts but for our family Heavenly has satisfied us all. Check it out.

 

[TiredOldFlyer]

There are many resorts in Colorado as you have mentioned but our preference after ski-ing USA for many years at most Colorado resorts is Aspen.
1. 4 Ski areas all well serviced by free shuttle bus all of varying standards and all offering a range of runs from green to black.
2. Huge range of accommodation from 1 to 6 stars.
3. Well serviced by airlines from LAX or SFO - or by bus, hire car from Denver - about 4-5 hours - an interesting drive, passing Breckenridge, Copper, Vail etc.
5. Very popular is Aspen Square apartments - self contained with kitchens - good standard and well located.
6. A charming old mining town with plenty shopping and attractions.
7. Aspen is located further from Denver than than the others so it has less people and generally no waiting in queues for lifts.
8. The Aspen Airport is occasionally closed but they are used to it and generally handle it well.
9. The highway from Denver closes occasionally ( particularly Vail Pass )but only normally for a few hours. March should be fine.
10. Because of the competition between resorts service is excellent - something like 50 cafes and restaurants.

There is plenty of info on the web about all resorts - you may consider Utah - Park City (Our second favourite )- several adjoining resorts only 30 -40 mins from Salt Lake City

 

[travelislife]

Another plus one for Aspen/Snowmass. Great village feel, great restaurants, so much varied skiing, aspen and highlands for the steeps and Snowmass for epic long runs through the trees. I can't wait to get back but unfortunately will probably be a couple of years yet.

 

[smckay]

Thanks guys. Now I have a base starting point I can spend some hours researching. Lake Tahoe sounds good, especially the ski school. You never stop learning I have found.

 

[Daver6]

Also consider the ski resorts in Utah. Eg, Park City. One huge benefit is ease of access. Less than an hours travel by bus from Salt Lake City which is a big/busy enough airport (ie plenty of cheap flight options). Skiing/snowboarding at The Canyons and Park City was excellent when I was there a few years ago in late Jan.

 

[tsjbaker]

Thanks guys. Now I have a base starting point I can spend some hours researching. Lake Tahoe sounds good, especially the ski school. You never stop learning I have found.

Very true. Best of luck!