By M.B. Lachlei
Looking for a ski
resort with more than slopes? Many ski areas have increased their offerings to include ice skating, sleigh rides, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. Many
resorts have even increased their indoor fun for those not willing to brave the chilly temperatures.
Sun Valley, Idaho
The daddy of them all, Sun Valley is the quintessential winter resort with more than just skiing. World-class dining and shopping is one of the reasons why many winter enthusiasts find Sun Valley so alluring. You can ski more than 2,054 acres thanks to the resort's 8 lifts, learn to ice skate on its outdoor and indoor rinks, catch an ice show, swim in one of two glass-enclosed heated pools, relax in a Jacuzzi, take a ride on a horse-drawn sleigh or visit the day spa and salon.
Sun Valley Company
PO Box 10
1 Sun Valley Road
Sun Valley, Idaho 83353
(208) 622-4111
sunvalley.com
Big Sky Resort, Montana
Life is bigger and bolder in Montana at Big Sky Resort, which is accessible from Bozeman and West Yellowstone. Big Sky has 3,812 acres for skiers. You can also try snowshoeing in Gallatin National Forest or if Nordic skiing is your thing, there are nearly 40 miles of groomed trails. Not sure you're into the winter thing? The fitness center, indoor pools, wellness classes and spa might get you in the mood. But you can always hang out in some saloons and try Montana local brews.
Big Sky Resort
PO Box 160001
1 Lone Mountain Trail
Big Sky, MT 59716
(800) 548-4486
bigskyresort.com
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Colorado is home to some of the best skiing on the planet. You hear a lot about Aspen, Vail and Telluride, but have you tried Steamboat yet? A little off the beaten path and about a four-hour drive from Denver, it's the best kept secret in Colorado. Flights from nine major airports, including Denver, come into Hayden near Steamboat, so there's really no good reason to not try this jewel. Steamboat offers skiers 2,965 acres over Mount Werner, Sunshine Peak, Storm Peak, Thunderhead Peak, Pioneer Ridge and Christie Peak. Steamboat also boasts a terrain park called Maverick's superpipe that gives 450 feet of pipe and has a 22-foot transition with 18-foot walls. It has a variety of rails and even a smaller version for novice riders. Other activities include snowmobile rides, sleigh ride dinners, soaking in the hot springs and spa services.
Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation
2305 Mt. Werner Circle
Steamboat, CO 80487
(970) 879-6111
steamboat.com
Sugarloaf, Maine
Sugarloaf in Maine has always been a family favorite with 675 acres of terrain. Sugarloaf offers skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing, tubing, ice skating on its outdoor rink, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and other outdoor activities. When your family is tired of outdoor recreation, try its Antigravity Complex, which features indoor rock climbing, Maine's largest indoor skate bowl, aggressive street style skate park, trampolines, basketball court and weight room.
Sugarloaf
5092 Access Road
Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947
(207) 237-2000
sugarloaf.com
Sugar Bowl, Lake Tahoe, California
With 1,500 acres along four mountains, Sugar Bowl in Lake Tahoe offers premier skiing in an incredible setting. But the resort offers more than just skiing, they have freestyle terrain parks, snowshoe tours, a summit spa and dogsledding tours during day and sunset hours. Sugar Bowl also boasts a backcountry adventure center with educational seminars and guided backcountry trips.
Sugar Bowl
PO Box 5
629 Sugar Bowl Road
Norden, CA 95724
(530) 426-9000
sugarbowl.com
Resources
About the Author:
M.B. Lachlei is an author, editor and pet expert with numerous published books and articles. Her work has appeared in national publications including "Catnip" and "Dog Fancy," and her books include "Howling Dead," "Prophecy of Swords," "Lachlei" and "Why Do Dogs Like Balls." She holds a Master of Arts in liberal studies and creative writing.
