Meadows Saturday Safety Fair Celebrates National Ski Area Safety Week

Mt. Hood, OR - Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort celebrates National Ski Area Safety Week this Saturday with a Safety Fair. The National Ski Areas Assocation has designated January 15 – 23, 2011 as National Ski Area Safety Awareness Week. The event promotes and encourages responsible practices and etiquette designed to make skiers and snowboarders more aware of safety on the slopes. Essential to courteous and safe sharing of the mountain is the Responsibility Code – seven simple rules which if followed can provide an extra margin of safety on the slopes.

Saturday’s Safety Fair will encourage guests to find the seven Safety “Codesters”, learn the rules and win prizes ranging from safety whistles to safety messenger bags. Those who collect all seven Codester stamps on their Code Card will be eligible to win a 10 Time Pass given away in drawings in the afternoon and evening.

Representatives from Meadows Pro Patrol will be on hand to discuss safety issues and introduce guests to the safety search and rescue dogs. A contest will also be presented to allow guests to find hidden targets with tracking beacons used by backcountry enthusiasts. The Safety Fair is presented by Fuel TV, Monster Energy Drink, Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital and the Anheuser-Busch Responsibility Matters Program.

International Snapshots Pour in as Snow Bum 2 Enters Final Month

Sun Peaks, BC - Just one month remains for Snow Bum hopefuls around the world to enter to win a trip to Sun Peaks Resort in the British Columbia Interior to star in their very own winter video.

Snow Bum 2: The Snapshot launched in mid-November and since then, more than 85 people from around the world have submitted their photo with a hope to win the grand prize. Canada, the United States, Australia, Belgium and Norway are just a few of the countries represented by contestants in the contest thus far.

In addition to the entries, online tracking shows that winter enthusiasts from nearly 70 countries have visited the www.SnowBumCanada.com website to see what the contest is all about. With all those Snow Bums off snapping their shots and preparing their entries, the Sun Peaks forecast is calling for a heavy submissions during the contest’s final weeks.

Sun Peaks will accept photo entries until Sunday, February 20, 2011. The lucky winner of the Best Photo wins a trip for them and three friends to for a six night trip to Sun Peaks. Plus, Kevin Hagell of Kaizen Visuals will spend a full day on the slopes with them to film their very own exclusive winter-themed video! Kevin has worked with the likes of Adidas, Scion and Von Zipper, just to name a few. There will also be secondary prize for most popular (most-voted for) photo as contestants will be rewarded based on how many votes they get on their photo, by promoting their entry through social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

Canadian Open Freeskiing Championships – Senior FINALS

Rossland, BC - RED Mountain hosted the 10th Annual Canadian Open Freeskiing Championships Senior event this past weekend. With a flurry of walk-in registrations the competition had a healthy group of competitors vying for top spot in the Senior Open.

With variable cloudiness, fresh snow and mild temperatures, the finals for the senior portion of the event concluded on Saturday, January 15th. With all of the athletes descending down the slopes of Mount Roberts, typically known as a backcountry enthusiast slope, the championship saw a tough pool of competitors showing top caliber skiing. Prize money was issued for the top 5 athletes in the men’s and women’s categories. Top athletes, CJ Wright and Kasie Stroshin took top spot for the Senior Men’s and Women’s categories respectively. Local RED athletes Colston Villanueva Beatson placed 4th in the men’s category and Leah Evans placed 5th in the women’s category. Rafters Bar, RED’s renovated bar, played host to the Kokanee Afterparty which rounded out the celebration.

Blake Jorgenson Named 'King of Storms' at Deep Winter Photo Challenge

Whistler, BC - Iconic Whistler photographer Blake Jorgenson took home the King of Storms title at the fifth annual Deep Winter Photo Challenge, presented by ARC’TERYX and Whistler Blackcomb. Second place went to the event’s first-ever female competitor, Robin O’Neill, and third went to up-and-coming photographer Andrew Strain. Ten-year photography veteran, Ilja Herb’s epic ski photo was voted Best in Show by the panel of judges.

“I don’t think winning is as exciting as executing an idea and bringing it to life in front of the audience. For me that’s the thrill.” says Jorgenson. “As a photographer, I never choose the photos that get printed. It’s always somebody else’s choice. To come up with a concept and bring it to life exactly the way I want, in front of a home crowd, is the best thing ever.”

Jorgenson took home the $3,000 grand prize and will have his name added to the King of Storms trophy, a new addition to the event that was designed by Keith Berens at Live Metal Promo. All previous Deep Winter winners will be added to the trophy to commemorate their achievements.

The six photographers had three days to shoot in bounds at Whistler Blackcomb with their athlete teams. In addition to the photographers named above and powerhouse of athletes, Snowboard Canada Photo Editor John Scarth and accomplished snowboard photographer, Tim Zimmerman joined the quest for ‘King/Queen of Storms’ title and a total prize purse of $6,000.

Beyond skiing at Mont SUTTON…

Sutton, PQ - In addition of having fun all winter long at Mont SUTTON on the trails and into the glades, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy several activities, beyond skiing.

Recommendations of restaurants to be discovered, spas of the area for a complete relaxation after a day of skiing, good places to go in Sutton for the après-ski, vacation packages… To find a range of information in one click, there is a new section “Après-SUTTON equals après-ski” available at MontSutton.com.

Camelback Mountain Resort Ski Patrol Awarded Outstanding Alpine Patrol

Tannersville, PA - Camelback Mountain Resort Ski Patrol Team won the Outstanding Alpine Patrol award in the Eastern Pennsylvania Region of the National Ski Patrol organization.

The Ski Patrol and Ranger Team at Camelback is a group that has a strong desire to help others, to learn emergency care techniques, to improve their skiing and snowboarding skills, and to enhance the safety and enjoyment of snow sports for all.

The Ski Patrol and Ranger Teams are hosting Safety Week in partnership with the National Ski Area Association and the Pennsylvania Ski Area Association January 15-23. For this program, we are hosting a poster contest, Chuck the Camel is handing out pamphlets and Ski Patrol and Ranger Patrol will be interacting with the guests in the lodges talking about safety and smart style safety within the CBK Terrain Park.

"Our entire organization is dedicated to a positive and helpful experience for every guest,' said William Snyder, Director of Risk Management, Camelback Mountain Resort. He continued, "You can be confident that in time of need, the Camelback Ski Patrol and Ranger Patrol will respond quickly with quality services provided by competent, caring and friendly professionals."

Do You Know the Code? National Safety Awareness Week 2011

Cortland, NY - Recite a Code and Win a Prize!

On Saturday, 1/15, look for "Winter Rules" spots, or ask any

Greek Peak associate, Resort-wide!

TGR Launches The North Face 2011 Ski & Snowboard Photo Contest

Teton Village, WY - Teton Gravity Research & The North Face are proud to announce The North Face 2011 Ski & Snowboard Photo Contest. Through February 2, 2010, all are welcome to submit their top photos from this winter into the Best Powder or Best Freeride categories for a chance to win a North Cascade Heli Trip for two or a $250 The North Face gift card and skis from Atomic.

The 10 photos with the most Facebook "Likes" from each category will make into the finals. From these finalists, The North Face athletes and representatives of the TGR production team will choose a First Place Winner for each category as well as the Grand Prize Winner for Best Overall photo. Prizes will be for two as photography requires both a rider and the documentarian.

Last year's contest amassed an astounding 641 entries with Erik Bro Hostetler's "Wasatch Pow" photo of Colter Hinchcliffe reigning supreme and taking the Grand Prize and Best Powder Category. Copa's "Squaw Valley Air" photo of skier Jamie Blair won last year's Best Air Category.

Start uploading us your best shots, share them with your friends and don't forget to “Like” your favorites to help them become finalists.

Click Here to Enter!

Bromley Dedicates Kare Andersen Telemark Center

Bromley Mountain, VT - On December 30, Bromley Mountain honored its long-time telemark instructor, Kare Andersen, by rededicating and renaming its Telemark Center after the 93-year old telemark phenom (telemark, aka “free heel skiing,” is a downhill skiing style in which boots are bound to the skis only to the toes, similar to cross-country skiing).

Among those who gathered to honor Kare Andersen were John Schweizer, past president and CEO of Garmont Boots, Bill Cairns, Director of Resort Operations at Bromley Mountain and Peter Robertson, Director of the Bromley Mountain Ski & Snowboard School, and John Tidd, Andersen’s longtime friend, colleague and fellow PSIA telemark instructor and Examiner.

Andersen, who learned the sport as a child in his native Norway and skies regularly still, has helmed Bromley’s Telemark Centerl for the past twenty-one years. He’ll be stepping down from his instructional role as of now, passing the torch to Greg DeCell.

Happenings at Belleayre Mountain

Highmount, NY - It has been snowing at Belleayre for nearly a week straight and the mountain is in excellent shape. Throw in the fact the Northeast is scheduled to get another major winter weather event Tuesday into Wednesday, and that equals one thing – awesome skiing and riding conditions at Belleayre Mountain. Winter is in full swing and the Belleayre event calendar is packed with fun family events.

The Pine Hill Arms Race Series begins Wednesday, January 12. Join us for a fun adults only 10-week long race series sponsored by the Pine Hill Arms Hotel & Restaurant (845-254-9811). This friendly competition is run on the Yahoo NASTAR/Giant Slalom course. Registration is pre-paid of $55 entry fee and includes the race series and awards dinner at the Pine Hill Arms at the end of the season. Lift ticket is not included, but required and the minimum age limit is 21 years. Trophies go to the top 3 finishers, male and female, skiers and snowboarders.

On Friday, January 14 don’t miss Emerson Resort and Spa Day by the fireplace in the Garden Room of Overlook Lodge from 10am to 2pm. The Emerson Resort and Spa will have a masseuse onsite giving complimentary 10 minute massages to Belleayre patrons.

The Belleayre Cup Race will be held on Saturday, January 15 beginning at 10:30am on Lower Yahoo. This is a fun all-ages race for skiers and snowboarders. Registration will be held in the Garden Room of the Overlook Lodge and is $5 for skiers and riders age 18 and under and $8 for ages 19 and over. Helmets are required for all racers. An awards ceremony honoring the top male and female snowboarders and skiers will be held at 3pm outside of the Overlook Lodge.

On Sunday, January 16, the Coalition to Save Belleayre will be holding their annual Coalition Cup Race open to all skiers and boarders. The $10 Race entry fee is to benefit to Coalition to Save Belleayre. Helmets are required. An awards ceremony honoring the top male and female snowboarders and skiers will be held at 3pm outside of the Overlook Lodge.

Whitefish Mountain Resort Officials Advise Tree Well Awareness

Whitefish, MT - After losing one skier and one snowboarder to off-piste tree well accidents, Whitefish Mountain Resort officials are urging those wishing to take advantage of the deep powder covering the mountain to familiarize themselves with risks and safety techniques related to Non-Avalanche Related Snow Immersion Deaths, or NARSIDs.

A 29-year-old snowboarder lost his life in a tree well in an off-piste area at Whitefish Mountain Resort on Saturday, Jan. 8, less than a week after a 16-year-old skier was removed from life support after becoming trapped in a tree well in the same area of the mountain on Dec. 29.

“This has been a very sad and tragic two weeks for all of us at Whitefish Mountain Resort,” said Winter Sports, Inc. President and CEO Daniel Graves. “Losing three lives in two weeks, two in tree wells and one due to natural causes, affects us all deeply, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and families of the victims.”

A tree well is an area of deep, unconsolidated snow that forms beneath the overhanging branches of evergreen trees as the surrounding snow pack deepens. When a skier or snowboarder falls into a tree well, the loose snow packs in around and on top of them, making it very difficult to move and/or free oneself. Further struggle can worsen the predicament.

According to the industry-created website TreeWellDeepSnowSafety.com, 90% of volunteers placed into tree wells in two experiments could not rescue themselves.

For this reason, the only way to effectively prevent tree well and other NARSID deaths is to ski within sight of a ski buddy at all times, close enough to reach them in the amount of time a person can reasonably hold their breath.

10 to 100% rebate at Owl’s Head, Mont SUTTON and Burke Mountain

Sutton, PQ - Again this year, Owl’s Head and Mont SUTTON have joined together to offer rebates on their lift tickets with the return of the Carte Blanche. For the 2010-2011 season, Burke Mountain, a Vermont based ski center, have joined the two resorts in the Eastern Townships.

The carte Blanche allows the customer to choose the participating center they want and save each visit on the regularly priced ticket for the complete day for an adult or student. The very first time you use the card, you save 10% followed by increasing rebates for each subsequent visit by using the card. You can save up to 40% and after each 4th visit, your 5th visit is FREE again at the center of your choice. In total the Carte Blanche offers up to 15 visits of rebated skiing and riding.

Join the Snow Day Team before January 13

Copper Mountain, CO - Copper reported 8 inches of snow this morning, Monday, January 10, so it is an Official Snow Day. If you don’t have your Snow Day Pass yet, you can still pick it up for upcoming powder days by January 13. Just in case you were wondering: this is the 15th Snow Day this season where Copper reported four or more inches, and we average 42 Snow Days a year. In addition, Copper has received 19 inches of snow this month and an amazing 176 inches this season, that’s almost 15 feet of snow!

Basically, the Snow Day Pass works like so: join the Snow Day team for just $99. Every time Copper gets four or more inches of snow, come on up and use your pass for free, because four inches has never been so satisfying.

The Snow Day pass will be on sale through January 13, so the sooner you buy it, the more chances you will have to use it. After January 13, this offer will self-destruct.

Top Disabled Skiers Compete at Winter Park Open

Winter Park, CO - Conditions as of 5:00pm on January 4, 2011

Packed Powder conditions with a 45 inch mid-mountain base and a 50 inch base at the summit. 20 lifts turning at 9am this morning, getting you to 133 trails, 8 terrain parks/pipes and 2560 acres are open.

Gore-Tex Deep Winter Experience Week Storms Into Whistler

ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge Returns as Marquee Event January 15

Whistler, BC - January in Whistler is storm season, which means plenty of snow and deep powder days on the mountains. The GORE-TEX Deep Winter Experience celebrates storm season with clinics, ski and snowboard camps and discounts on outerwear. For the fifth year in a row the ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge pays homage to this sacred occasion and the skiers, riders and photographers who cherish it.

“As Deep Winter enters its fifth year of competition, it continues to be an important event in Whistler. It is a celebration for the locals who are passionate about Whistler Blackcomb and skiing, regardless of the weather,” says photography veteran and former King of Storms, Paul Morrison. “From the beginning, the venue has been sold out and the competition impressive. This year's event will be another memorable celebration of the people and their passions who add to soul to Whistler.”

During the Deep Winter Photo Challenge, professional photographers shoot in-bounds at Whistler Blackcomb for three days capturing athletes in their natural mountain habitat of powder filled bowls, trees, and après bars. This year’s contenders are: 10-year veteran, Ilja Herb; accomplished snowboard photographer, Tim Zimmerman; Whistler local, Blake Jorgenson; outdoor lifestyle photographer, Robin O’Neill; Snowboard Canada Photo Editor, John Scarth; and up and comer, Andrew Strain. Their edited slideshows will be played in front of a live audience at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler and judged by a panel of industry professionals. A prize purse of $6,000 and the title of “King/Queen of Storms” are up for grabs.

“Deep Winter is all about showing images from the often untold side of winter,” says professional skier, Mike Douglas. “We get a lot of snow in Whistler and it's interesting to get out there and document the stormiest days. Shooting in stormy weather is way more work for both the photographers and athletes, but it's also really rewarding to see what you can produce in just three days”.

Tickets for the ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge are $17 and are available at any Whistler Blackcomb Guest Relations location or by calling 1-800-766-0449. Doors are at 7pm and the slideshows start at 8pm with an after-party at Merlin’s Bar in the Upper Village.

The North Face 1st Annual Park and Pipe Open Ski Series Drops In to Northstar Resort and Waterville Valley

Waterville Valley, NH - The North Face and Mountain Sports International have announced The North Face Park and Pipe Open Series, a two-stop tour featuring ski slopestyle and halfpipe competitions. The North Face Park and Pipe Open Series kicks off January 6-9, 2011 at Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort in California and February 17-20, 2011 at Waterville Valley in New Hampshire.
"The North Face is excited to bring its big mountain heritage to the park and pipe competition scene with a series that will inspire up and coming athletes and drive pro level competition," said Aaron Carpenter, Vice President of Marketing for The North Face.

The North Face Park and Pipe Open Series will dedicate one competition day to halfpipe and two days to slopestyle. Judging will be overall impression based on creativity, degree of difficulty, combinations, variations, style, and amplitude.

Snowmaking Begins at Ruby Hill Railyard, Denver's Free Urban Terrain Park!

Winter Park Resort, Denver Parks and Recreation and Christy Sports Again Team Up To Bring Winter Sports To The City Of Denver Free Of Charge

Denver, CO - Due to cold temperatures in the Denver area, snowmaking at Ruby Hill Rail Yard has begun with over an acre of snow in anticipation of the Rail Park opening mid- January through February 2011.

Approximately 1 million gallons of water will be used to cover the area with snow. When it melts, it will return to the surrounding vegetation. Denver Water has agreed to let the City use this water as long as they reduce water needs in the summer by an equal amount. As a result, no water is being wasted – just reallocated.

First established in 2007, Ruby Hill Rail Yard was the country's first free urban terrain park based in a city. The experimental program instantly became a nationwide model for numerous cities and ski resort collaborations.

2010 Photo Credit: Dave Watson Photography

Nachtspektakel Ski Tour presented by Dynafit

Wilmington, NY - Nighttime ski touring, an age old European tradition made popular in Germany, is coming to the Adirondacks. On its tour of America’s finest winter ski resorts, Nachtspektakel Ski Tour Event presented by Dynafit will be stopping over at Whiteface, in Wilmington, N.Y., to greet in the New Year, Saturday Jan. 1.

A truly unique event, participants will begin the evening at 4:30 p.m. by “skinning” up to mid-station lodge to enjoy a delicious catered three-course dinner and cocktails at Boule’s Bistro. Skiers will then gear up, put on their headlamps and ski back down to the Whiteface Base Lodge by 9 p.m. Nachtspektakel skiers will be professionally guided by certified American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Jesse Williams, Cloudsplitter Mountain Guides owner and Dynafit athlete.

Nachtspektakel or “night spectacle” is a fun night event where skiers can eat, tour and ski, but also have the opportunity to demo the latest in Dynafit ski touring equipment. Equipment is limited so it will be first come, first served, but rentals will be available at High Peaks Cyclery and The Mountaineer.

Guests are encouraged to make reservations by Friday, Dec. 31 in order to ensure a spot on this fun and exciting adventure. Individual rates will be $75 per person, which includes the three-course dinner, two free drinks, guides and free demos. A percentage of all ticket prices will be made to the New York Ski Educational Foundation (NYSEF).

ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge

Whistler, BC - January is a sacred month to Whistler locals and snow lovers alike as intense weather systems routinely drop a bounty of powder on the Coast Mountain Range. For the fifth year in a row, the ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge prepares to pay homage to the beloved storm season and the skiers, snowboarders and photographers who cherish it.

The Deep Winter Photo Challenge will take place Saturday, January 15 and is the marquee event of the GORE-TEX Deep Winter Experience which storms into Whistler January 8-16. The Challenge will feature slideshows from six of the industry’s best ski and snowboard photographers taken over three days at Whistler Blackcomb.

Tickets to the ARC’TERYX Deep Winter Photo Challenge are $17 and available at any Whistler Blackcomb Guest Relations location or by calling 1-800-766-0449.

Wildcat Mountain Supports National January Learn a Snow Sport Month

Learn to Ski or Snowboard Free January 3rd through January 9th

Pinkham Notch, NH - Wildcat Mountain has been introducing persons to winter recreation since it began offering lift-serviced skiing and riding over 50 years ago. Today, with a staff of instructors that collectively represents over 850 years of experience and more than 90% certified by the Professional Ski Instructors Association & American Association of Snowboard Instructors, that tradition continues with the Wildcat Mountain Learn-to-Ski and Learn-to-Ride programs intended for first-timers. Wildcat Mountain in New Hampshire joins several other resorts in states across the nation taking part in the snow sport industries campaign to introduce persons to winter sports.

As a special offer to support January’s Learn a Snow Sports Month, Wildcat Mountain has joined with Ski NH to invite “never-evers” to sign up for a free Learn-to-Ski/Ride lesson package, including rentals and novice lift ticket valid at Wildcat Mountain only, during the week of January 3rd -9th.

Winter Feels Good!

Banner Elk, NC - The 16th annual National Winter Trails Day will take place at Sugar Mountain Resort on Saturday, January 8, 2011. Discover the possibilities of fun and fitness in the snow. Winter Trails day is a one-day national event offering children and adults new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing for FREE.

Free one hour snowshoe guided tours include snowshoes. Tours are available at 9am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm on Saturday, January 8th. Adult tours are for 12 years or older. Children’s tours are for 8-11 year olds. Participants should meet at the ski/snowboard school building at least 15 minutes prior to the tour time. Participation is limited and is based on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Meadows Extends New Year’s Eve Lift Schedule to Midnight!

Mt. Hood, OR - Mt. Hood Meadows will operate lifts until midnight New Year’s Eve as part of the Brrring in the New Year celebration featuring fireworks, a feast and a party.

Lifts are scheduled to run until midnight. A fireworks celebration will launch at 10:15 PM, and party goers can dance to the soulful music of “The Essentials” – the West Coast’s most popular party band from 8:00 PM – 12:15 AM, enjoying party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. An elaborate dinner buffet will be served earlier in the evening. Reservations are required for the dinner buffet and the party, but not for night skiing or enjoying the fireworks.

New Year’s Eve busses will run from the Monarch Hotel in Clackamas, making shuttling to the mountain New Year’s Eve convenient. The buses head to the mountain around 3 PM and depart from the mountain at 12:30 AM. The Monarch Hotel is offering special room rates for those wanting to spend the night when the bus returns (and drive home the next day).

Whiteface is Vertical and Family Friendly

Wilmington, NY - Whiteface Mountain, in Wilmington, N.Y., may be best known for having the greatest vertical drop east of the Rockies and for hosting the 1980 winter Olympic Alpine events, but it’s also recognized as one of the nation’s top ski resorts for families.

According to About.Com, Whiteface is one of the country’s top family ski destinations, one of only three eastern resorts to make the list. The on-line article touts the mountain as “an ideal venue for a family ski vacation,” and also describes many of the off-hill activities found in Wilmington and in Lake Placid including a tour of the Olympic sites, ice skating and partaking in the full schedule of winter events for the family.

“This is another tremendous recognition not only for the mountain, but also for the two communities and the entire region,” noted New York State Olympic Regional Development president/CEO Ted Blazer. “Our vertical drop is an important message, but it’s also equally important that the mountain and the region be recognized as a great family destination. This, combined with being ranked the number-one ski resort in the eastern United States by both SKI Magazine and SnowEast Magazine, continues to show that we’re a destination for everyone.”

Whiteface recently completed a 10-year, $20-million capitalization project that also included renovation of Kids Kampus. With nearby parking and one-stop shopping for lift tickets, lessons and rentals, Kids Kampus offers a safe and fun environment for young skiers. The Bunny Hutch chair lift connects Kids Kampus to the rest of the mountain, and a shuttle service runs to and from the newly constructed, state-of-the-art Kids Kampus Lodge all day.

Sun Valley is 100% Open!

Sun Valley, ID - Thanks to an abundance of early snowfall, 100% of Sun Valley’s ski terrain will be open tomorrow, Wednesday, December 22.
“We’re very excited to report epic ski conditions for this time of year. Our 75th winter season could not be off to a better start,” Peter Stearns, Sun Valley Resort Mountain Manager, said.

Sun Peaks Ranked with the Best in the World in recent Condé Nast Magazine Poll

Sun Peaks, BC - Sun Peaks Resort continues to stand up with the best resorts in the world after a top 20 ranking in one of the world’s leading travel publications. Condé Nast Traveler’s 2010 Ski Poll ranks Sun Peaks as the 2nd best ski resort in Canada, and 13th best in North America.

Close to 26,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers voted in this 15th Annual Ski Poll.

Resorts were judged on terrain and conditions, lifts and lines, après-ski/activities, dining and local ambiance. Sun Peaks was one of three Canadian resorts to make the Top 20: Whistler Blackcomb (#1), Sun Peaks (#13), and Mont Tremblant (#14 tie).

“Sun Peaks is honored to be recognized with Whistler as the leading destinations in Canada,” says Christopher Nicolson, President of Tourism Sun Peaks. “The resort is known for it’s village design, reliable snow and expansive terrain spread over three mountains. But perhaps more importantly, visitors pick up on the genuine sense of welcome and hospitality of residents.”

New Tubing Park Lodge, Part of Opening Day Celebrations at Snow Trails!

Mansfield, OH - The Vertical Descent Snow Tubing Park at Snow Trails will open this Friday, December 17th 5:00pm- Midnight. The Park's brand new Tubing lodge will be part of the celebration, offering restrooms, snack bar, seating area, and panoramic views of snow tubers sliding by.

The Vertical Descent Tubing Park opened in 2006 and is home to the longest tubing runs in Ohio, at 1,100'. For the non-skier it's a great opportunity to enjoy the out-of-doors in winter with family and friends. The Park is open weekends and holidays all day and evenings and Monday through Friday from 5 p.m.

Arapahoe Basin's Montezuma Bowl to Open This Saturday

Montezuma Bowl Opens for its Fourth Season in Time for the Holidays
Arapahoe Basin, CO - Arapahoe Basin’s Montezuma Bowl will open to the public at 9:00 am, Saturday, December 18.

A-Basin has received over 100” of snow since opening day in October, helping to make this Montezuma Bowl opening the earliest one in its four year history. Open terrain will be growing quickly to include additional runs with the anticipated snowfall this week. Hike back terrain and other areas of the West Bowl will open as soon as possible.

The intermediate and advanced terrain to open on Saturday will include Columbine, Larkspur, Shining Light, Ned’s Cache, Miner’s Glade, Independence, Eureka, Torreys, Grays and Bierstadt all accessible from the Zuma chairlift.

Montezuma Bowl opened for its inaugural season in January of 2008. The expansion increased the ski area’s terrain by 80 percent. The 400-acre Montezuma Bowl, located on the backside of Arapahoe Basin, was the nation’s largest terrain expansion for the 2007-2008 ski season.

190+ Inches of Snow and Three Parks

Twin Bridges, CA - Three weeks into the season and Sierra Resort has already logged over 190 inches of snow, four blower powder days, top-to-bottom skiing and riding every-day-all-day-since-day-one, three terrain parks, and some amazing turns in Sierra's legendary trees. As the whirlwind opening gives way to the calm-before-the-holiday-storm , you can rest your weary legs, finally get that detailed tune on your skis or board, get your holiday shopping done, and get ready for La Niña to deliver the goods this winter.

Have a friend who doesn’t ski or ride? You know the ones – they hang out in the bar all day or cuddle up on the couch with a book while you shred your face off. Turn them on to the $35 Learn to Ski or Ride package and watch them turn from couch potato to shredding maniac in just a few visits. The $35 package is affordable and offers a 2.5 hour beginner lesson, a limited access lift ticket, and all day equipment rental. It’s just what you need to get started. (Beginner package is available online only, 24 hours in advance, for adults 13+ only, excluding restricted dates. Limited quantities available).

Greek Peak Ski Area Reopens!

Cortland, NY - Lake Effect Snow and good snomaking weather have allowed us to reopen the mountain.

Greek Peak Mountain Resort wants you and your family to celebrate your New Year with us! With two party locations, kids activities, Crossroads the Clown, Fireworks and a Torchlight Procession, you are almost guaranteed a night to remember.

Mt. Hood Meadows Holiday Schedule

Mt. Hood, OR - Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort holiday season kicks off this weekend. For the next two weeks Meadows has scheduled special Après Ski live performances and holiday entertainers, as well as ski school clinics and camps. Lifts are scheduled to operate daily beginning at 9 AM, including Christmas and New Year’s Days and there will be extended night operations during Christmas week. It culminates with a New Year’s Eve spectacular, exquisite dinner, fireworks and a party with “The Essentials” the top rated dance party band on the west coast!


Mt. Hood Meadows celebrates New Year's Eve with a fireworks display, spectacular buffet dinner and party featuring “The Essentials” – the top rated dance band on the west coast! We'll run the lifts until Midnight to allow revelers to ski or ride in the New Year. A fireworks display will be launched at around 10 PM. The dinner has two seatings (5 - 6:30 and 7 - 8:30) and “The Essentials” will perform from 8 PM - 12:15 AM!
Brrring in the New Year at Mt. Hood Meadows - presented by Widmer Brothers Brewing and Brrr Seasonal Ale. Adult party buses scheduled from the Monarch Hotel in Clackamas.

Mont SUTTON’s opening : Friday, December 10th

Sutton, PQ - Skiers and snowboarders will start the 2010-2011 season at Mont SUTTON this Friday, December 10th, and this, with great snowy conditions.

An early season rate will be available: $30 for adults (18-64 years old) and $20 for all other categories. This rate will be available until the anniversary day at $5 on December 17th, when Mont SUTTON will celebrate its 50th birthday.

Children aged five and under always ski for free at Mont SUTTON.

Activities during the first opened weekend
In addition to enjoy the first opened weekend of the season at Mont SUTTON, skiers and snowboarders will have the chance to take part to the first activities of the season on Saturday December 11th:

Rider’s Reunion with the Adrenaline team: a special module will be installed at the foot of the trails, close to the main chalet, entertainment, prizes and surprises.
First party of the season at the Bar Le Tucker : the bar will be opened from 2 p.m. and the party will start at 4 p.m. Among the prizes to win, there will be 2 VIP zone passes for 2 people for the show of Les Trois Accords, on December 18th in the occasion of the Mont SUTTON’s great 50-candle celebration.

Not to be missed : Mont SUTTON’s great 50-candle celebration
Mont SUTTON will celebrate its 50th birthday on December 17th, 18th and 19th. In addition to the multitude of activities organized all weekend long, as the anniversary day at $5 on December 17th, the tapas and show evening at the Bar Le Tucker, the torchlight descent, the commemorative dinner… there will be a free outdoor show of the group Les Trois Accords on Saturday evening, which will be followed by fireworks and a party with a DJ at the Bar Le Tucker.

Kimberley Alpine Resort with Great Snow, Ready for Preview Weekend

Kimberley, BC - Kimberley Alpine Resort is set to open for a special preview weekend this Saturday December 11th and Sunday December 12th. The resort has received over 70cm of snowfall already, and skiers and snowboarders will get to experience amazing snow conditions for the first turns of the season. With incredible snowfall already, more significant snowfall in the forecast for later this week could make it that much more epic.

Lifts operating this weekend include North Star Express Quad, Easter Triple Chair, and the Owlette Magic Carpet.

Super Sunday is ‘Stylin’ at Whiteface

20th Annual High Peaks Cyclery Demo Day
Wilmington, NY - The 53rd season of skiing and riding at Whiteface, in Wilmington, N.Y., is underway and the Olympic mountain is kicking off its winter events, Sunday, Dec. 12, with its first of five Super Sundays presented by Bud Light.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter as clues are revealed throughout the day for our on mountain scavenger hunt featuring gear from our favorite local ski shops Cunningham’s Ski Barn, Maui North and Viking Ski Shop.

Skiing and riding during 'Stylin’ Sunday’ is just $35 for adults, $30 for teens and $25 for juniors, and from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. skiers can demo the top ski and boot brands, get telemark lessons and discount coupons during the High Peaks Cyclery 20th annual Telemark/Alpine Touring Demo day at the mountain. At the end of day, the party moves to the Cloudspin Lounge for Bud Light specials, prizes, and DJ.

Celebrate the Holidays with Deer Valley Resort

Park City, UT - Deer Valley’s magical holiday events have become beloved annual traditions for the entire Park City community, locals and visitors alike. Deer Valley makes coming up with gift ideas a synch with products from their Resort stores, gift cards and more.

To celebrate Christmas, Santa Claus himself will visit Deer Valley on Friday, December 24, 2010. The jolly old elf will be found in the Snow Park Lodge area at the Resort base from 9 to 11 a.m., and from noon to 1:30 p.m., and will visit guests in the Silver Lake (mid-mountain) area. Guests are invited to bring a camera and have their picture taken with Santa.

Another highlight of Deer Valley’s holiday season is the annual torchlight parade. The parade takes place Thursday, December 30, 2010, at dusk (approximately 6 p.m.). The Resort’s renowned Ski School will dazzle with torches, synchronized skiing and all sorts of “illuminating” moves. The parade takes place on Big Stick ski run on Bald Eagle Mountain and is best viewed from the plaza area of Snow Park Lodge, where complimentary hot cider and cookies will be served.

Almost Two Feet of Fresh Snow Blankets Snowshoe, with Opening Day Planned for December 8th!

Snowshoe, WV - Snowshoe Mountain Resort is once again a winter wonderland, and that’s good news for skiers and riders anxiously waiting to kick of ski season in West Virginia with Snowshoe’s opening on Wednesday, Dec 8th. Since December 1st, Snowshoe has seen 20 inches of natural snowfall, and the resort’s 150 snow guns have been working around the clock across the mountain for 120 hours. The forecast contains more good news for snow enthusiasts, as another foot of snow is expected to fall on the resort before Wednesday. And for skiers and riders planning to be at the Pocahontas County resort for rope drop at 9am on the 8th, the weather should cooperate, with temperatures creeping back into the 20s after days of highs in the teens.

Federal District Court Rules in Snowbowl's Favor?

Flagstaff, AZ - Arizona Snowbowl, on behalf of its skiers and supporters is very pleased that its position and that of the U.S. Forest Service has been upheld, once again by the Courts. Snowbowl looks forward to starting construction of the snowmaking system, and plans to proceed in cooperation with the Forest Service once the weather and other conditions permit. The project will benefit Flagstaff as a whole with respect to the creation of construction jobs and an increase in winter visitors once the project is complete.

Eric Borowsky, general partner, had the following reaction to the District Court's most recent decision: "Snowbowl will proceed as it has in the past, in accordance with the legal process and Forest Service approval. We appreciate the time and effort that Judge Murguia put into deciding this case. We are disappointed that these plaintiffs plan yet another appeal, but we are confident that the outcome of the District Court will be upheld. The people who brought this suit, and others of like mind, appear determined to try and stop this snowmaking project despite the fact that the Courts, in two separate cases, the first of which went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, have determined that the snowmaking project meets all legal requirements".

Telluride Ski Resort Cancels Backcountry Guide Program

Telluride, CO - Telluride Ski Resort announced today that it is canceling its backcountry guide program in the Bear Creek drainage, which is located immediately east of the ski area. The resort cited a lack of alignment with private owners of mining claims in the drainage.

The Resort was originally encouraged by the U.S. Forest Service to provide a guide service to help manage the growing use of the backcountry area.

"Telluride Ski Resort believed it was providing a much needed public service which would help people learn to safely navigate the area," said Resort CEO Dave Riley. "However, certain owners of mining claims, Irene West, Tom Chapman, and Ron Curry, have not accepted our offer to provide insurance and indemnification agreements in return for access privileges across their property."

Despite numerous attempts to reach out to the private land owners, the Ski Resort was unable to get a response. "They literally would not return emails or agree to get together to discuss a solution", said Riley.

The Ski Resort contends that the Chapman mining claims don't cause a barrier to fall line skiing in Bear Creek, but the West mining claim does create a barrier as there is no way to travel down through the drainage from the upper basin to the lower terrain without crossing the West property.

Woodward at Copper Takes Next Step to Integrate Into Every Aspect of Copper Mountain

Copper Mountain, CO - Woodward at Copper is possibly the raddest place on the planet. Some even call it the premier trick-stomping playground in the world. It features The Barn, a 19,400 sq. ft. comprehensive ski and snowboard freestyle training facility complete with indoor artificial snow jumps, jib lines, foam pits, skate features and Olympic fly-bed trampolines, offering indoor and outdoor training programs where you can learn tricks in the Barn and take them on snow the same day.

NEW this season, the teams responsible for helping build/shape the parks and pipes at Copper now are working in conjunction with the folks at Woodward at Copper. This move will leverage the best builders from Copper with the innovation and programs commonly seen from the minds of Woodward at Copper. This will expand the Woodward at Copper experience and the terrain parks/pipes experience across the resort and better integrate our people.

“I believe that this integration will prove to be a defining moment at Copper Mountain,” says Ben Brown, Director of Woodward at Copper. “I see so much passion for our parks from both the Terrain Park Crew as well as Woodward at Copper that combining the two will be explosive. The plan is for the transition to happen over time, but you should see some immediate impacts this year. Copper opened the season with more than 10 features in the Eagle Jib Park and will continue to expand throughout the season to our other five parks.”

This new decision shows Copper’s commitment to terrain parks, Woodward at Copper, progression and the integration of two very parallel departments, to form a happy union that should benefit all.

Deer Valley Celebrates 30th Anniversary with $30 Tix!

WHAT:
Please join us in celebrating our 30th Anniversary with $30 lift tickets December 6 - 8, 2010!

COST:
Full-day lift tickets will be available at the special rate of $30* Monday, December 6, through Wednesday, December 8, 2010.

*Please note, $30 lift ticket is not valid opening weekend, December 4 - 5, 2010

LIFTS:
Due to amazing early season skiing conditions, 20 of 21 lifts are planned to be open!

WHERE:
Deer Valley Resort, Park City, Utah

Sugarfest – Nothing But Fun!

Banner Elk, NC - SugarFest kick starts the winter season with a weekend of pure winter fun! Sponsored by the Village of Sugar Mountain Tourism Development Authority (TDA) and hosted by Sugar Mountain Resort. SugarFest will be held Saturday, December 11th and Sunday, 12th, 2010.

The eight annual, two-day festival is packed with a long list of winter activities and coincides with Sugar's 17th Annual Adult Preseason Ski Clinic. Olympic Gold & Silver medalist Diann Roffe; two-time Olympian, Krista Schmidinger and US National Sugar G Champion, Keely Kelleher top the list of the ski clinic's coaching staff.

Both Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 am until 3:30 pm 2011 ski & snowboard equipment will be available for demo from Salomon, Volkl, Nordica, Burton, Head, Never Summer, K2, Atomic, Dynastar, Rossignol, Ride, Line, Fisher and Forum. You must have a valid lift/slope ticket as well as a valid driver's license or credit card in order to demo the equipment.