If a ski trip has always been a dream, make it a reality. Skiing can be an intimidating sport. Little kids zooming by beginner adults, clumsy falls, bruises and all that. But once you get the hang of it, and can travel down the mountain with a little hint of right technique it is most exhilarating. The locations are usually beautiful and have tons of charm on and off the mountain. We can help you plan a great ski (or boarding) vacation and give this winter sport a try!
Planning a ski / boarding vacation involves several steps:
- Choose a destination: Research ski resorts and choose one that suits your skill level, budget, and preferences.
- Book accommodations: Look for lodging options near the ski resort, such as ski-in/ski-out hotels, vacation rentals, or bed and breakfasts. Book early to ensure availability and get the best deals.
- Rent equipment: Research rental shops near the ski resort and reserve your equipment in advance.
- Purchase lift tickets: Look for deals and discounts on lift tickets and purchase them in advance.
- Make transportation arrangements: If you’re driving, research the best route and check road conditions. If you’re flying, book your flights and transportation to and from the airport.
- Purchase travel insurance: Make sure you have travel insurance that covers skiing and any medical expenses.
- Pack for the trip: Pack warm clothing, skiing equipment, and any personal items you’ll need for the trip.
- Familiarize yourself with the area: Research the ski resort, local restaurants, and other activities in the area.
- Make any additional reservations: If you plan on eating at fancy restaurants or doing activities like spa services or dog sledding, make reservations in advance.
- Finally, stay informed: Keep an eye on the weather forecast, snow conditions, and any important updates or alerts from the ski resort.
Some popular skiing destinations for solo female travelers include:
- Aspen, Colorado, USA, known for its luxurious amenities and world-class skiing
- Chamonix, France, known for its challenging terrain and stunning views of Mont Blanc
- Whistler, British Columbia, Canada, known for its diverse terrain and vibrant après-ski scene
- St. Moritz, Switzerland, known for its upscale atmosphere and impeccable grooming of the slopes
- Revelstoke, British Columbia, Canada, known for its abundant powder and backcountry terrain. It’s also important to research the ski resort’s safety and security measures, as well as the availability of ski lessons and other activities for solo travelers.
There are many ski resorts in the USA that are great for all skill levels and preferences, here are some of the most popular ones:
- Vail, Colorado: Known for its vast terrain, luxurious amenities, and charming European-inspired village.
- Aspen, Colorado: Known for its world-class skiing and luxurious atmosphere, with four ski areas to choose from: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass.
- Park City, Utah: Known for its excellent ski terrain and après-ski scene, Park City has three ski areas: Park City Mountain, Canyons, and Deer Valley (which is known for its excellent grooming and service)
- Squaw Valley-Alpine Meadows, California: Known for its diverse terrain and sunny weather, Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows offer skiers and snowboarders combined 6,000 acres of skiable terrain.
- Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Known for its challenging terrain, including the famous Corbet’s Couloir, and stunning views of the Teton Mountains.
- Breckenridge, Colorado: Known for its charming Victorian-era town and abundant terrain, with five peaks to choose from.
- Steamboat Springs, Colorado: Known for its light, fluffy snow and western charm, Steamboat Springs has 2,965 acres of skiable terrain.
- Telluride, Colorado: Known for its spectacular scenery and challenging terrain, Telluride offers skiers and snowboarders 2,000+ skiable acres.
- Killington, Vermont: Known as “The Beast of the East” for its diverse terrain and long ski season, Killington offers skiers and snowboarders over 3,000 skiable acres.
- Snowmass, Colorado: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and variety of terrain, Snowmass offers skiers and snowboarders 3,332 skiable acres.
Here are some tips for beginner skiers or reminders for those who haven’t attempted to slide down the mountain in a while:
- Take a lesson: Skiing can be challenging for beginners, so it’s important to take a lesson from a qualified instructor to learn the basics and proper technique.
- Start on easy terrain: As a beginner, it’s best to start on easy terrain, such as a green or blue run, and work your way up to more difficult terrain as you gain confidence and experience.
- Take it slow: Skiing can be intimidating, so take your time and don’t try to do too much too soon.
- Keep your weight forward: When skiing, it’s important to keep your weight forward over the balls of your feet to maintain control and balance.
- Keep your hands forward: Keep your hands forward, in front of your body, to help maintain balance and control.
- Keep your poles in front of you: Keep your poles in front of you, pointing straight ahead, to help with balance and control.
- Use your edges: Use the edges of your skis to control your speed and direction.
- Look where you want to go: Keep your eyes focused on where you want to go, not on your feet or the ground.
- Dress in layers: Dress in warm layers, including a waterproof and breathable outer layer, to stay warm and dry.
- Have fun: Skiing can be a lot of fun, so don’t get too caught up in trying to be perfect and enjoy the experience.
There you have it, tons of destinations to think about and travel plans to make to go skiing (or boarding) this winter. Stay warm!