Tag Archive for: Mont-Tremblant

Jon Weisberg

Short Swings!

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I was in a place I shouldn’t have been. When I entered the gate, I thought I had been on this part of the mountain years earlier. But as I descended, nothing about it seemed familiar.

 

It was steep beyond my comfort. There were bumps and trees, and the surface was getting icy. Signs on the trees warned this was a cliff area.

At my age, this was no place to be skiing alone.

I heard scraping skis below me and saw someone near a rope line skiing to the left. 

Then I was alone. My skis were long past their useful life. My goggles kept fogging. I had a phone, but not a whistle. It was at home in a pack. No use to me now.

Before passing through the gate, someone had warned me not to go. I said not to worry, I knew what I was getting in to.

That was a mistake. Steep, Icy surface. Tight trees. 

I wasn’t scared, but I had lost confidence. Side-slipping and kick turns were all I could muster. Even when I found a stretch of softer snow, I couldn’t bring myself to make a few turns. 

It was beautiful in there. Cliffs above and below; twisted trunks rising to blue sky. Quiet.

How would someone find me? Maybe they’ll start looking when my car is the only one left in the lot?

Eventually, I saw a trail.

I must have been in there 30 or 40 minutes. It’s unlikely I’ll try it again, but if I do, it will be on better skis, I’ll have a whistle, and I won’t be in there alone.

Vail Announces Northeast Passes and Rewards Program

Vail just announced two regional passes for the Northeast (US). The Northeast Value Pass (adults, $599; college students, $419) provides unlimited, restricted access to Okemo, Mount Snow and Hunter, 10 restricted days at Stowe, plus unlimited, unrestricted access to Wildcat, Attitash, Mount Sunapee, Crotched, Liberty, Whitetail, Roundtop and more. The Northeast Midweek Pass ($449) has similar access, but restricted to Monday through Friday, and five restricted midweek days at Stowe. 

Vail also announced ‘Epic Mountain Rewards,’ which gives pass holders a discount of 20 percent off food and beverage, lodging, group ski and ride school lessons, equipment rentals and more at the Company’s North American owned and operated resorts.

For details, click here. 

2020-21 IKON Pass Discount

Renew your Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass before Wednesday, April 22, and (depending on the pass) get up to $100 on next season’s IKON Pass.

When Skiing Utah, Visit The Lift House

My first visit to a ski shop was when I was 10. It was a narrow and deep store in Albany, NY, and what I remember most is the rich smell of leather boots. Over the years I’ve been in many ski shops: some okay, some quite good, and some terrific. Spending much of the winter in Utah, I’ve been reminded that The Lift House, the venerable store near the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon, is an absolutely terrific place. Its location is ideal for people skiing Alta, Snowbird, Solitude or Brighton. It is consistently well-stocked with the top equipment and clothing brands. And the personnel are knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. Years ago, when we visited with kids in tow, The Lift House is where we rented. Over the years, it’s one of the places I’ve relied on for quality tunes. It’s the kind of place with a deep inventory of useful accessories And when they have a sale, they really mean it. Many people stop on the way to the mountain to purchase discount lift tickets. For example, a weekday at Snowbird costs $130. At The Lift House, it’s $97. An Alta day pass is $125. At The Lift House it’s $105, a better deal than the $119 if purchased directly from Alta online. There are other excellent shops in the area, most with similar brands, some specializing in only the most expensive ski and casual clothing. When headed in the direction of Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons, The Lift House is highly recommended.

International Skiing History Association

The International Skiing History Association (ISHA) is the non-profit with the mission of preserving and advancing knowledge of ski history and increasing awareness of skiing’s heritage. ISHA publishes Skiing History magazine the bimonthly filled with interesting articles and great illustrations. A six-month digital subscription is free. Click here or on the adjacent ad to subscribe.

Two more things from ISHA:

  • As a member ($49 annually; $59 international members) you’ll receive hard copies of Skiing History and have access to the organization’s digital archives. Among other things, you’ll find a guide to more than 160 ski museums and collections in 22 countries.
  • If you’re attending Skiing History Week in Sun Valley, March 25-28, sign up for ISHA’s annual Awards Banquet. Click here for details.

How Snowbird Trails Got Their Names

It’s not that often that we get to know the stories behind the trail names. The Snowbird website has a wonderful short article about how many of its trails were named. Written by frequent SeniorsSkiing.com contributor, Harriet Wallis, it’s informative and amusing. Who wouldda thunk that the West Second South trail refers to Salt Lake City’s long gone red light district? It’s an easy trail named for a the street of easy women.

This Self-Massage Device is Essential for Older Skiers

Last year, a skier friend recommended the Tiger Tail, a highly effective self-massage tool that doesn’t require getting on the floor, like you do with a foam roller. OMG!!! What a fantastic device! I get off the mountain and roll out my quads. At home, when my calves start to cramp, Tiger Tail comes to my immediate rescue. The company’s website is rich with useful text, picture and video instructions. Last month at the big industry trade show in Denver, I met Spring Faussette, who invented Tiger Tail and owns the company. She’s offering SeniorsSkiing.com readers a discount code for 30% off Tiger Tail and the company’s other products. Visit the Tiger Tail website and enter snowski50 during checkout to receive the discount.

Mont-Tremblant, Extends Season

The Quebec area will be open through April 19, and kids under accompanied by an adult will ski free.

Jon Weisberg

Short Swings!

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Many thanks to each of you who has generously responded to SeniorsSkiing.com’s fund raising campaign. We soon will be sending out decals, patches and hats. The campaign will run through February.

The Things We Carry

What do we really need for a week or two on the hill? Answers will vary depending on whether we’re flying, driving, or returning to a  mountain home. Other factors are weather and whether or not skiing will be just one part of the journey.

Some of you may be familiar with Marie Kondo, whose organizing principles are presented in the new Netflix reality TV series, “Tidying Up With Marie Kondo.”  Her process involves piling everthing in one spot, sorting though, and keeping only those things that “spark joy.”

Let me admit something my wife has been telling me for years: Some things I find hard to toss. Recently, I cleaned out my boot bag. You may ask, why even bother with a boot bag? It’s an important way to keep boots and accessories organized. I found a lot of old, expired, unnecessary stuff in there. One balaclava is enough. I got rid of two. Disposable hand warmers are always handy, but several were years past their due dates. Then the miscellaneous lip coatings, expired sunscreens, etc. I have a separate bag for powder cords, and over the years have assembled quite the collection of those colorful ribbons, not because I needed more, but because they were at home when I needed them at the mountain. The boot bag now has a single set. It no longer has dried-up contact lenses; ancient pain killers, old area maps, expired passes, multiple goggle defogging products, etc. etc. My boot bag now sparks joy.

 

I also have a large, rolling duffle with many zippered compartments, including a full-length “basement.” The monster is large enough to hold multiple parkas, ski pants, more layers than a Bermuda onion, socks, shirts…wardrobes for most skiing scenarios, après ski scenarios, receptions with royals, and a quick trip to the beach. The operative word here is “rolling,” and that’s helped by both a soft handle and a hard one that extends from the frame. 

As I prepare for an upcoming, extended journey in the Alps and in big and small cities, that bag, intelligently packed and organized, will be a godsend. 

Another confession: Since I don’t have the mental discipline to anticipate every possible travel scenario, I limit travel and ski garb to combinations of black and gray. Truth be told, that pretty much defines my wardrobe, in general.

Everything else – laptop, chargers, spare glasses, things to read, meds, and toiletries – go into a backpack that stays with me on plane, train and automobile. Everything, except for credit cards and cash; I’ll need those to purchase the things I forgot to pack.

West Coast Snow Report: DEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!!

Squaw Valley has received 492″+  so far. That’s 41′; eight of them in the last week. Other California areas getting similar amounts. Boreal 432″; Kirkwood, 425″; Sierra at Tahoe, 400″.  Super snow storms are creating travel and avalanche issues.

Well Worth Reading

Jackson Hogen, publisher of Realskiers.com (SeniorsSkiing.com subscribers can subscribe to Realskiers.com for $9.99) sends out weekly short essays about different aspects of the sport. His current piece, titled, “To Ski Better in All Terrain, Tweak Your Tactics,” offers sound advice on making small adjustments that render big results. Click here to read.

The One-Off Tesla Ski 

Renoun is an award-winning maker of high-end skis. Among other innovations, it uses HDT, a putty-like material that causes skis to feel stiffer as they go faster. The Burlington (VT) company says the HDT makes them ski smoothly and with greater control. Renoun recently sent Elon Musk a custom pair sporting the Tesla logo.  “The guy is a badass. He deserves badass skis,” said Renoun CEO, Cyrus Schenck.

March 2 Mont Tremblant Fund Raiser

Skiers young and old are invited to join the 6th Legends Classic, a giant slalom fundraiser where participants rub shoulders with Tremblant’s mountain legends while supporting the Canadian Hall of Fame and the Canadian Ski Museum. Racers are eligible to win prizes, and spectators and racers are welcome to compete in the Vintage Skiwear Contest held during the Awards ceremony.

Fun Vintage Cartoon

Walt Disney’s “The Art of Skiing,” features Goofy learning to ski. Produced in 1941, and seen by millions, this 90 second excerpt will bring a smile. Click here to view.

Jon Weisberg

Short Swings!

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Before I get into this week’s topic, I’d like to thank each of you who donated to SeniorsSkiing.com. This is the second week of our second annual fund raiser. The response has been enthusiastic. Your gifts will help us get closer to covering expenses. As important, they are telling us that this effort to form a community of older snowsports enthusiasts is appreciated. If you have not already done so, please consider making a gift. If you already have, you’ll be receiving a personalized thank you. In the meanwhile, THANK YOU!

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This season, I’m visiting areas I haven’t been to before (or haven’t been to in a very long time). Last week, Pam and I completed a tour of five Colorado ski areas and resorts. The difference between a resort and an area is that resorts have onsite lodging. Ski areas don’t.

Like most road trips from my youth, this one required a lot of moving around, a lot of taking suitcases to and from rooms, a lot of unpacking and repacking…you get the picture. We’re both of an age where the schlepp began to wear us down.

Pam would have preferred staying in one place. I don’t disagee.

Even at this age, road trips can be fun. You get to see and ski more places and, if conditions aren’t good in one place, you might be able to find pow someplace else. (As it turns out, conditions were good throughout our 10 day Tour d’ Colorado).

But there’s something delicious about parking yourself at one place, exploring the area’s terrain, restaurants, etc. Before moving to the West, some of my best ski holidays were without cars at Alta and Snowbird. You landed at the airport, collected your gear, took a shuttle to the resort, and every day, got up early, clicked on your skis, and enjoyed the terrain. End of day, you hung out with others who had done the same thing. I’ve had similar experiences elsewhere. You’re there. The car, if you brought one, is in the garage (if there is a garage). You’re not dragging luggage. It’s probably what it’s like when checking into a luxe hotel at a luxe resort. It’s what Pam would prefer. And now that I think about it, me too.

What do you think is the best way to take a ski vacation?  One place? Road trip? Something else? Full disclosure: We leave for another skiing road trip in a few weeks. This time by plane, train, and automobile in the Alps.

SeniorsSkiing in the Dolomites

InspiredItaly conducts Ski Safaris in Italy’s Dolomites. I’ve written about the weeklong experience in the past, and, next month, will experience the adventure for the first time. Two SeniorsSkiing.com subscribers recently completed the tour. This video tells their story. 

Loveland’s Valentine’s Day Mass Wedding

Loveland Ski Area — Valentine’s Day Mountain Matrimonial.

With a name like LOVELAND, getting hitched is a natural. Yesterday, Valentine’s Day, the Colorado area celebrated its 28thAnnual Marry Me and Ski For Free Mountaintop Matrimony event. Couples got married or renew their vows outside Ptarmigan Roost Cabin (elevation12,050’). Participants are encouraged to wear wedding clothes, and the best-dressed get rewarded for their effort. The 30-minute ceremony is followed by run down the hill and a party with wedding cake, music, and prizes.

Winter Hiking Featured in New York Times

The growing cold weather pastime is explored in this short, interesting article.  Let us know where you go winter hiking and if you’d like SeniorsSkiing.com to run some articles on the subject.

Lookout Pass

Deep. Deep. Deep. Lookout Mountain, Idaho

One side of Lookout Pass is in Idaho, the other side in Montana. The area is about a 90-minute drive from Missoula, MT or Spokane, WA. It’s not big, 540 acres; 1,150’ vertical. But does it get snow! Average annual snowfall is 400”. Keep an eye on this place. It’s about to double in acreage and increase its vert. Check photo taken this week!

100″ in Utah Since Feb 1

Yes, you read that correctly.

CMH Virtual Reality Tour

Canadian Mountain Holidays is presenting a 5-minute virtual reality film at ski resorts around the country. Filmed in Canada’s Cariboo range “Lines of Sight” is said to the the first film of its kind in the tech and ski industries. In resort pop-up lounges, viewers don VR goggles to watch the action. As they turn their heads, they are able to explore the full field of vision. You can watch the same film by clicking here. As you watch, place your cursor over any of the four arrows in the upper left corner to extend your vision left, right, up, and down. CMH says it created the film to immerse viewer into the experience and to dispel the myth that Heli-Skiing has to be extreme. Remaining screenings are scheduled for Mont Tremblant, March 7-12, Mammoth Mountain, March 22-24, and Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows, March 29-31 and April 5-7.

BRR! Skincare Winter Balm

BRR! is an all natural face-protecting balm for skiers and boarders. Winter Balm was crafted with a unique blend of botanicals to protect skin against the effects of cold and wind. No nasty, toxic ingredients.  Can be applied to the face (cheeks, nose, and lips) prior to outdoor activity to protect or after exposure to soothe. First rate. Click here.

 
Jon Weisberg

Short Swings!

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“Snow is the cosmetic of the Earth.” That’s one of many memorable lines from Moby Dick, Herman Melville’s masterpiece about one man’s obsession with the destruction of a gigantic white whale.

Riding early morning lifts, especially on a powder day, brings Melville’s observation to life. The smooth, undulating surface conceals what’s below. My skiing dreams and day-dreams invariably show untouched surfaces. There’s a reason we call it virgin snow.

With rare exception, conditions like that don’t last long. Dropping into an untracked slope and leaving your own lines is a joy. By definition, joy is ephemeral — a fleeting moment of intense happiness. Powder snow is ephemeral. Anything that is temporary is ephemeral. We’re about to enter another season, and we’re not getting younger. Relish the anticipation. Experience the joy. Embrace it all.

Bootster Is THE ESSENTIAL Older Skier’s Accessory

Our newest advertiser is Bootster, a compact ski boot shoehorn that makes boot entry effortless — even when they’re cold and stiff. It utilizes a super slick material that eases foot into boot. It is compact and fits into a pocket. Many of you will have your own techniques: talcum powder; various sprays; etc., etc. but Bootster does the job with perfection. No need for contortions. It’s one of those simple solutions for a persistent problem. Having used an earlier version of the design, I fully endorse its effectiveness. And at $25, it’s an ideal gift for any older skier on your list.

 

Documentary Explores Abandoned Colorado Ski Areas

Abandoned is the title of a soon to be released documentary about independent Colorado ski areas that no longer exist. The film explores skiing before the influence of corporate resorts and current effects of climate change. I’ve only seen the trailer. It’s well worth watching.

Tremblant Video Shows Latest Improvements

Last week’s Short Swings! column described Mont-Tremblant’s new high speed quad and the expanded glade areas it serves. This very cool short video shows it with unusual creativity.

Jiminy Peak, Bromley, and Cranmore offer savings through their respective value cards (check websites for details):

  • Jiminy Peak‘s costs $62 and includes two days of skiing followed by savings of lift tickets purchased throughout the season.
  • Bromley‘s costs $81 before December 14 and includes one day ticket and $30 off additional tickets throughout the season.
  • Cranmore‘s is $89 and includes one day ticket and $20 off additional tickets throughout the season. Every seventh ticket is free. Cranmore also allows those purchasing a ticket after 2:00PM to use the same ticket the following day.

Ikon Pass Price Increases Oct. 10

The full adult pass (unlimited access to 14 destinations and 7-days or 7-days combined at 21 destinations; no blackouts) is currently available for $999. Starting Oct. 10, it increases to $1,049. The IKON Base Pass (unlimited access to 12 destinations and 5-days or 5-days combined at 23 destinations; 10 blackouts) is currently available for $699. Starting Oct.10, it increases to $749. More at www.ikonpass.com.

Maine Ski Hall of Fame To Induct 19th Century Adventurer, Others

Norman Libby, the winter adventurer who was the first to ski Pleasant Mountain (Shawnee Peak) in the 1890’s will be inducted (posthumously) to the Maine Ski Hall of Fame, Oct 27 at the Grand Summit Hotel at Sunday River. Also being added to the Hall of Fame are Karen Colburn and Anne Dowling, US Freestyle Champions; Leon Akers, cross country coach and ski shop owner; David Stonebraker, prep school ski coach; Warren Cook, Sugarloaf ski executive, and Kristina Sabasteanski, biathlete. The Maine Ski Hall of Fame is a program of the Ski Museum of Maine.

Skiing the Great Indoors

The world’s largest indoor ski resort will open in Shanghai, China in 2022. It will feature three slopes, numerous other attractions, and four hotels with a total of 1,000 rooms.

 

Short Swings
Jon Weisberg

Short Swings!

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In my never-ending  battle with weight, I found myself wondering if we weigh more at sea level than we do in the mountains.  We do.

It’s not a lot, but it is physically factual.

The science of it has to do with gravitational pull, which is what weight is, and the size difference between the entire planet and you. Pretty weird, huh?

Another factor is that gravity decreases as it leaves the part of the planet with the greatest mass; in other words, the higher you are in altitude, the less you weigh.

One estimate I found stated that a 150 lb person standing at 10,000′ above sea level (e.g. 500′ or so below the top of Vail Pass) would weigh 149.92 lbs.

Not enough to tighten the belt, but another good reason to be in the mountains.

You’re Invited to Help Celebrate Our Fifth!

 

We’re hosting a party to celebrate SeniorsSkiing.com’s fifth publication year. It will be on Tuesday, November 14 on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Lots of neat raffle prozes (e.g. ski trip to Stratton from 70+ Ski Club; APEX boots; Orsden ski parkas, DeBooters, Bootsters, etc.) plus food and SWAG. Click here for the full invitation and RSVP link.

New This Season

This is the time of year when Northern Hemishphere ski resorts tout improvements for the coming season. In addition to many snowmaking and lodge upgrades, look for the following:

California

Squaw Valley | Alpine Meadows reports that electricity will be sourced from 100% renewable resources, thus reducing its carbon footprint by 49%. In a related green initiative, the resort is increasing convenient parking facilities for carpooling customers.

Tahoe Donner: New triple chair replacing the original double from 1971.

Mammoth Mountain New daily, year-round non-stop service from LA on United, starting Dec. 1; new daily, seasonal non-stop service from Denver on United, starting Dec. 19; and new seasonal non-stop service from Orange County on JetSuiteX.  

Colorado

Arapaho Basin: New four-person Beavers chairlift will access 468-acre  expansion into Beavers and Steep Gullies.

Copper Mountain: Two new chairs at Center Village. American Flyer will now be a high speed six-person chair with bubble enclosures, the only active bubble chair in Colorado. American Eagle will be a high-speed combination lift featuring six-person chairs and eight-person gondola cabins.

Loveland: Inaugurating Chet’s Dream, the first high-speed quad in Loveland’s history.

Silverton:Introducing new heli-skiing terrain, featuring diverse high-alpine terrain and early-season snow. Area also is expanding its Unguided Season Pass to include a 150 percent increase in available ski days to the unguided season.

Winter Park: Features a new 10-person gondola, the resort’s first new lift since 2007.

Wolf Creek: New high-speed, detachable quad, the 10th lift in its system. 

Quebec

Mont-Tremblant: A new high-speed quadon the North Side will boost capacity to 600 per hour.

Vermont 

Killington: New 6-person high speed bubble chairlift and new lift service at South Ridge.

Magic Mountain: New base-to- mid mountain double chair.

Stratton: New high-speed quad will reduce ride time from 14 to five minutes. 

Ski Insurance

Safe Descents is an affordable ski insurance plan providing coverage for transportation costs associated with accidental injuries sustained while skiing, snowboarding, riding a lift, and participating in a lesson within a resort. It cost $4.75 per day or $56.99 per season.

 

 

 

Jon Weisberg

Short Swings!

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We need to adjust our skiing to our age.

Some readers will probably react with a “Mind your own business,” and that’s fine.

But I keep running into too many people beating themselves up on skis: either forcing old bodies to ski like they did when they were young, or not knowing how to adjust to a more age-appropriate technique.

Several years back I was skiing with a contemporary in her sixties. She skied like she did as a college racer. Impressive, but way to fast for my taste. I waited a long time at the bottom of a bumpy Snowbird trail where her husband met me after patrol had put her into the sled. Broken leg.

I tell everyone I ski with that I ski slowly. I turn a lot, aspiring to graceful form. There are two downsides: it can be tiring, and it makes me vulnerable to being struck by a speed demon. I frequently glance uphill. A few weeks ago while linking tight turns at trail’s edge, I glanced back and saw a youngish boarder on my tail. “Thanks,” she called out. “I enjoyed following your turns.”

Epic Pass Additions

The Vail-owned bundled pass has added Crested Butte, Okemo, and Mount Sunapee for next season.

Boyne Aquiring 6 Areas

They are: Brighton (UT), Cypress Mountain (BC), Loon (NH), Sugarloaf (ME), Sunday River (ME), and The Summit at Snoqualmie (WA).

Harlem Globetrotter on Skis

Globetrotter, Bucket Blakes took a lesson at Arapahoe Basin to promote the team’s March 16 – March 18 Colorado tour. The resulting short video is a refreshing treat.

Colorado

Copper Mountain will upgrade two of its Center Village lifts. American Eagle will become a combination gondola/chairlift. American Flyer will become 6-passenger high-speed bubble chair.

Winter Park will replace its Zephyr Express quad with a gondola.

Montana

Big Sky will replace its Ramcharger quad with North America’s first eight-passenger chair. The new lift, to be ready for next season, will have heated seats and blue bubbles. The older, high-speed Ramcharger will replace the much slower Shedhord double chair.

Quebec

Mont Tremblant will replace its Lowell Thomas chair with a detachable quad. Its main summit lodge, Le Grand Manitou, will be expanded.

 Vermont

Snow gods seem to be favoring the Green Mountain State. Six to seven feet have fallen since beginning of the month. Great time to plan a Spring Skiing trip. This weekend will be filled with green snow and green beer as Vermont areas celebrate St Patrick’s Day.

Killington, part of the IKON pass, will continue to offer discounts on its season pass for seniors, 65-79. The pass for 80+ is essentially free (nominal processing fee required).

Stratton will replace its Snowbowl chair with a high-speed detachable.

High Fives Foundation

Jan and Judy Brunvand with their special edition Parlor Skis

Frequent contributor Jan Brunvand sent in this photo with his wife, Judy, holding her special edition High Fives Foundation Parlor Skis. Parlor gives 15% of its High Fives design sales to the non-profit which helps injured athletes reach their recovery goals. Jan is holding the trout skis Parlor made for the American Museum of Fly Fishing.

Jon Weisberg

Short Swings!

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The first rule for skiing powder is to get to it before anyone else does.

NO FRIENDS ON A POWDER DAY???

It skis best when untracked, and it doesn’t stay untracked for long. The other day at Grand Targhee in Wyoming, I bought a ticket that gave access to the lifts an hour before opening to the public. The other option would have been pricier cat skiing. As it turned out, eight runs in untracked were more than adequate. Once the others arrived — especially the boarders — the snow got cut up quickly and the skiing, while still nice, was no longer the same. It’s a joy to look down a slope devoid of tracks, to drop in, and have that bottomless experience so difficult to convey to those who haven’t. In your wake is a series of cursive turns that are yours. Warren Miller referred to them as your skiing signature.

Speaking of Warren Miller, someone in Montana mentioned he had seen a bumper sticker with this: Thank You, Warren.

Skiing History magazine Honors NASTAR’s 50th

International Skiing History Association (ISHA) will honor NASTAR’s 50th anniversary Friday evening, March 23, in Squaw Valley. The occasion will be featured during ISHA’s 26th Annual Awards Banquet, which also will honor the year’s best creative works of ski history, including books, films, websites and other media projects. Click here to purchase tickets.

 Melting Western Snowpack
A just-published snowpack study by Oregon State University and UCLA shows reduced snowpack since 1955. It’s not snowing less; snow in higher elevations is melting earlier in the season.

Canada

EPIC Pass has added these Canadian resorts for next season: Fernie, Kicking Horse, Kimberley, Nakiska, Mont Sainte Anne and Stoneham. EPIC now provides access to 61 resorts worldwide.

Mont Tremblant is introducing its new Tonik Pass which gives 118-day access to the mountain, including 28 weekend days. It’s on sale until April 9 for $449, plus provincial taxes. A $75 add-on gives first track access, gear tune-up, $200 gift certificate at Boutiques Tremblant, other benefits.

New Hampshire

Cranmore Mountain will host its 22nd annual Hannes Schneider Meister Cup Race, March 9 – 11, honoring the founding father of ski instruction who joined the resort in 1939. Event includes Friday night uphill race, welcome reception and Dual GS Race; vintage skiwear contest and silent auction, Saturday afternoon. Proceeds to benefit New England Ski Museum. Free spectator admission.                                     

Utah

Winter had a late start across the West, but March came in like the proverbial lion. Some Utah resorts received 120″ in the last 30 days!!!

Deer Valley 2018-19 season passes are available. Purchased before Oct 15, the adult price is $2365. Senior (65-71) is $1205, and Super Senior (71+) is $1,100.

Vermont

Killington will install a new 6-person high speed bubble chairlift at South Ridge.

Visit skivermont.com for up-to-date conditions for the state’s 20 alpine ski areas and 30 cross country ski centers.

Grants to Enable Injured Athletes

David Weiner is being helped by High Fives Foundation

In January, the High Fives Foundation granted $30,678.00 to ten US athletes seeking to reach their recovery goals. One of the grants went to David Weiner, an experienced skier who lost control on black ice and hit a tree. Started in 2009, High Fives has helped 188 athletes with living expenses, insurance, travel, health, healing network, adaptive equipment, winter equipment, etc.

Jon Weisberg

Short Swings!

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Living up to its reputation, at least across the West and Northeast, March is entering like a wild snow lion.

SeniorsSkiing.com is heralding the arrival of March with a new discount service. It provides significant discounts on products Mike and I think will interest you. Some are specifically ski-oriented, others fit with the older, active, outdoors lifestyle.

Each offering is presented at Discounts for Seniors. Once there, simply click on any ad, and it will take you the company’s website. If you decide to make a purchase, enter the code on the ad, and you’ll receive the specified discount.

A few examples:

  • Apex Boot Systems is waiving the $25 demo fee at its 11 demo centers.
  • Stabil slip-prevention shoe attachments are 20% off. Every senior should carry a pair in the car.
  • CP Visor Helmets (I’ve skied with it. Comfortable, stylish, VERY nice!!), also 20% off.
  • Brilliant Reflective stick on/iron on reflective tapes (essential for nighttime safety) 25% off.

We’ll be adding to the discounted product list over time. If you have suggestions for products or services that you’d like to see on the list, send them to jon@seniorsskiing.com and/or mike@seniorsskiing.com.

100 Year Old Skier Explains His Passion

George Jedenoff is 100+ and still skiing!

Many of you commented a few weeks ago on Harriet Wallis’ excellent articles about George Jedenoff, the 100+ year old who still skis. Ski Utah just issued this video of George discussing skiing. It is uplifting!!!

 

 

 

Paralympics and the Rest of Us

With the PyeongChang Paralympics (March 9-18) about to get under way, Mike and I have been thinking about skiers we’ve met who ski despite serious health issues. Many have used their love of the sport as motivation to return to the hill. We’re learning of programs utilizing winter sport as a form of rehabilitation. If you or someone you know has recovered or improved though skiing, boarding, X-C. snowshoe, etc. and want to share that story with our readers, please let us know.

2018-19 Season Passes

Mountain Collective just added Big Sky to its offerings. The early price is $409 which gives two days at each of 16 resorts plus 50% off all additional days. For each adult pass purchased, a pass for children 12 or under cost $1. That includes grandchildren!

 

Ikon Pass goes on sale March 6. It comes in two flavors, both giving access to 25 destination resorts. 

  • The $899 version gives unlimited to 12 resorts and up to seven days at each of the others.
  • The $599 version gives unlimited access to 10 destinations and up to five days at each of the others.

Vail Resorts introduced the $99 Military Epic Pass in recognition of the Vail founders who served in the 10th Mountain Division. All active and retired US, Canadian and Australian military personnel and their dependents are eligible for the pass which provides unlimited 2018-19 access to Vail’s 14 owned and operated resorts. A separate Military Epic Pass will be available for all other US, Canadian and Australian veterans and their dependents ($499 for adults; $269 for children). Vail also will donate $1 the Wounded Warrior Project for each 2018-19 Epic pass sold. Based on this season’s sales that should total $750,000.

Massachusetts

Jiminy Peak will host a Cardboard Box Derby and pond skimming contest March 17-18. The mountain’s STRIDE Great Race is the same weekend. It recognizes accomplishments of skiers/riders with physical or developmental disabilities (stride.org).

Montana

Fifty-year-old, Rob Leipheimer recently seta new record for laps on Big Sky’s Lone Peak Tram. He completed 35, breaking the previous record of 31 set in 1998.

New Hampshire

Cranmore Mountain will introduce its Flannel Festival March 24. Show up in your best flannel, enter your beard in a contest, music, etc. Details at Cranmore.com.

Quebec

Quebec Spring Break is March 3 – 11. Many of the province’s resorts will be celebrating with festivals, races, live music, etc.

Saturday, March 3 is Super Demo Day at Mont Tremblant. Next season’s gear will be available to try.

Vermont

Bromley will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a Scavenger Hunt and other festivities. Find the pot of gold at the top of the mountain and trade it for a 2018-19 season pass. Follow the resort on Instagram for location hints.

            
Ski for MS, Sunday March 11, is a one-day Pico fundraiser benefiting people with multiple sclerosis. People from around the country — including Olympian Donna Weinbrecht — will gather to benefit people with MS and their families.

The private Hermitage Club at Haystack Mountain is on the brink of foreclosure. Three notes for $17.1 million went into default. Club members may take over ownership.

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My Ski/Family Balance

It dumped in Utah a few days ago, and I decided not to go skiing.

It was a choice between playing in the snow with pre-school/pre-ski grandkids and deep powder. Being with grandkids won out. Granted, the weekend’s revelry left me a bit under the weather, and the wind and flat light were convenient excuses. In the past, fresh powder trumped (almost) every other draw for my attention. It was gravitational, pulling me to its seductive pleasures. But grandchildren are a more powerful force, and sledding with them on a small hill in a city park was a special joy. I’ve had many great powder days in my skiing career and hope to have many more. Being in the snow with grandchildren I only see from time to time is more precious than powder. Both experiences are ephemeral. Despite climate trends, the snow should continue to come. Small children, on the other hand, grow. Maybe, one day, if health continues and all is well, we’ll be able to ski powder together.

The Bleak Future of Winter Sports

Watching the Olympic Games is a peek into the future of winter sports. According to an article in the January 27 issue of The Economist, the popularity of skiing — declining in Western countries — is shifting to Asia. In China, the number of skiers and boarders is increasing 20% a year and 500 new resorts are expected to be built ahead of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. Accompanying the article is an excellent video explaining the history of modern skiing and projecting the future of the sport. Climate change is having a big effect. 

Odd But (Apparently) True

The disappearance February 7 of a skier at Whiteface Mountain at Lake Placid in New York’s Adirondack Mountains resulted in a massive but unproductive search involving multiple government agencies and ski patrols. Constantinos “Danny” Filippidis surfaced in Sacramento almost a week later wearing his ski outfit, helmet and goggles. It was reported that he was returning to Lake Placid to meet with the police.

New Hampshire

Cranmore Mountain will host its annual Hannes Schneider Meister Cup Weekend, March 9-11. Races on

Hannes Schneider

intermediate terrain will be held for several age categories. Past racers have ranged in age from 4 to 95. Hannes Schneider was an Austrian mountain soldier in WWI; his son, Herbert, was a member of the 10th Mountain Division in World War II. The Meister Cup pays tribute to American mountain soldiers with a special military race, in which active duty soldiers of the 10th and the Army Mountain Warfare School participate. The weekend features a welcome reception and buffet, opening ceremony, ice carving contest, silent auction, a wear-your-own vintage skiwear show, awards ceremony, and ski history presentation. A Torchlight Parade is scheduled that Friday.

Quebec

Mont Tremblant‘s Super Demo Days, Saturday March 3 is its final of the season. Next season’s skis, boards and accessories will be available. The resort’s SnowSchool hosts a variety of family-friendly programs March 3- 11. Click on SnowSchool (above) for details.

Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham Mountain Resort will offer numerous on-mountain activities during Quebec Spring Break. Notably, Mont-Sainte-Anne’s Fulllmoon Descent, March 2, when participants of all ages don headlamps and ski. Stoneham’s activities include a playground, make-up  stand, arts and crafts, campfires, BBQs, winter survival workshops, and, March 6–9, pony rides for the kiddies.

Visit Happy Parents Package for special lodging deals with free tickets for kids as old as 17.

Utah

Presidents’ Day Weekend delivered the goods in Utah. 48 hour totals range from 23″ at Snowbird to 22″ at Brian Head, the state’s most southern resort.

Vermont 

Bromley will hold its Vertical Challenge, March 11. Skiers and boarders compete for medals. The Vertical Challenge is a northeast ski area favorite with participating resorts creating a festival atmosphere.

 

Alfs Crew
Jon Weisberg

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Wednesday, I skied Alta. It was my second day out. Snow was blowing. Light was flat. I felt the chill.

After a few runs, it was time for something warm. I headed for Alf’s and looked around for a familiar face. No one even remotely familiar.

Tje crew at Alf’s makes terrific soups and other goodies.

So I took my bowl of mushroom bisque (consistently good at Alf’s), walked up to a table where another older skier was seated and asked if he wanted company. He did. I sat down, and we had a pleasant conversation. Turns out he’s a Vermont ski industry veteran and, to my pleasant surprise, a SeniorsSkiing.com subscriber. We talked shop for a while and skied together the rest of the afternoon.

We know from reader surveys that most older skiers prefer to ski with others. In the past I was happy to ski alone, but with age, I enjoy teaming up. I don’t have many friends who ski so I pick up ski companions on lift or in the lodge.

If you find yourself in a similar circumstance — on vacation, not knowing other skiers, simply wanting company — don’t be reluctant to approach an age-appropriate (or younger) stranger and start to chat. If he or she seems compatible, suggest taking a run together. The camaraderie is enjoyable. There’s the opportunity to learn more about the mountain. And, if either of you run into trouble, there’s someone there to help.

ALTERRA MOUNTAN COMPANY: New Name for Recently Formed Ski Area Coalition

Announced last year, the group comprises Big Bear, June Mountain, Mammoth and Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows in California; Steamboat and Winter Park in Colorado, Blue Mountain in Ontario, Mont Tremblant in Quebec; Deer Valley in Utah; Stratton in Vermont; Snowshoe in West Virginia, and CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures in British Columbia. It will be interesting to see how Alterra’s to-be-announced season pass will compete with Vail’s Epic Pass.

CALIFORNIA

Achieve Tahoe provides winter and summer adaptive sports instruction for adults and children with disabilities. January 16-19 in North Lake Tahoe, it will host its annual “Ability Celebration & Winter Ski Festival.” The program is sponsored by Anthem Blue Cross, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, and Warfighter Sports. Thirty-four injured veterans will receive complimentary ski and board lessons (including individualized adaptive instruction and adaptive sports equipment), accommodations in the Village at Squaw Valley, meals, and transportation.

MASSACHUSETTS

Expect to see more about Massachusetts ski resorts on the Internet. The Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism and the Massachusetts Ski Areas Association are advertising on TripAdvisor. The campaign runs through March. The state’s 12 alpine areas produce 1.5 million skier visits each year. 

PENNSYLVANIA

The state has a great program for grandkids who ski or board there. It offers free lift tickets to all 4th and 5th graders, regardless of whether or not they’re state residents. As part of the program, first timers receive a complimentary beginner lift pass, lesson and equipment rentals. First time adults with them receive a 50% discount. Visit http://www.skipa.com for details.

QUEBEC

February 2-4 is the 4th edition of the Festival Rando Alpine Tremblant presented by Smartwool. Activities include alpine touring, trail fatbiking, dinner, and a nighttime climb on skis to Mont Tremblant‘s summit.

VERMONT

Ski Vermont continues its series of humorous videos with the hopes of educating people about skiing safety. Their release is timed to coincide with National Safety Awareness Month (January). Individual areas throughout the state will be hosting their own safety education initiatives.

Bromley will host its 15th consecutive Mom’s Day Out fundraiser, Saturday, January 20. Mothers receive a day pass in exchange for a $25 donation to the Southwestern Vermont Regional Cancer Center (SVRCC) based in Bennington. To qualify, mothers need to show a picture of their offspring at the ticket window. Last season, 400 mothers participated.

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Bull Wheels At More Areas Have Started To Turn.

 Purgatory opened last weekend. People were lined up at 5:00AM, Saturday, Nov. 18. One report had hungry skiers cooking bacon and eggs as they waited in the dark. In what may have been a first, pass holders used Day 1 to ski and bike.

  • Lookout Pass, about 90 minute drive from Spokane or Missoula, reports 34″ on top and 20″ at the base. The area straddles Idaho and Montana and has plans to double acreage and increase vertical. It will open Thanksgiving Day.
  • Brighton Resort opened Tuesday, Nov 21 with “top to bottom” skiing serviced by two lifts. The open runs have a 10″- 20″ base.
  • Park City scheduled Thanksgiving Day to open.
  • Mont Tremblant also was scheduled to open Nov 23 with 10 trails. The Quebec resort has 12″ of fresh, natural snow.

If you have the early season itch, check web sites before going.

Thoughts on the Vanishing Ski Bum Ecosystem

Leave it to Jackson Hogen of realskiers.com for an intelligent take on all things skiing. A few weeks ago he lamented the slow but steady passing of the classic ski bum. These old timers are repositories of all kinds of useful knowledge. As resorts corporatize and workers are forced to commute longer distances, even ski shops are struggling for knowledgeable personnel. That’s especially important when shopping for new boots. His advice is to shop early when qualified fitters are available. Another option is to visit AmericasBestBootFitters.com which lists shops where personnel has been trained specifically to fit boots.

Subscriptions to real skiers.com are available to SeniorsSkiing.com subscribers at a discounted annual rate of $9.95. To sign up, visit realskiers.com. Scroll down to/click on “Subscribe Today!” Then click “Sign Up” in the “Annual Membership” box. Complete the form and enter SS17 in the field under “Coupon Code.”

Free Skiing List Update

Reader input is making the list of US resorts with free skiing privileges more complete. The list currently has 114 resorts. Those added: Bear Valley, CA; Sugar Mtn (NC), Gunstock, NH, and Okemo, VT. Those removed: Hunter Mtn (NY) and and Mad River Glen, VT. Thank you for your continued input! To access the complete list, go to the homepage, click COMMUNITY on the Menu Bar, and click SUBSCRIBER ONLY CONTENT.

Ski Insiders is Rossingol’s New Online Community

Rossingol launched the Ski Insiders website for all ski enthusiasts to express their winter sports passions. According to the company, members of the Ski Insiders community will be invited to express opinions and share ideas about brands and new products through questionnaires and discussion forums. Click here to register.

Colorado Ski Country Resorts to Host Olympic Qualifiers

Colorado resorts will host numerous qualifying events leading up to the February games in Pyeong Chang, South Korea. For details click here.

A Fine Liquid Idea

Teton Gravity Research and Melvin Brewing have teamed up to create TGR Pils-Gnar.

The birth child of two longstanding Jackson Hole entities, the new brew is described as being a German-style pilsner that is simultaneously spicy and fruity. If you collect beer cans/bottles with a ski theme, this looks like a good one. Looking forward to sipping this new brew.

A Few Ifs

If you happen to be in the vicinity of Snowbird, Sunday, Dec 3; if there are clear skies, and if you want to experience what sounds like a sensational dining experience under a full moon, get a ticket for Snowbird’s Full Moon Dinner. It will be held in the Summit Lodge at 11,000′ on Hidden Peak. Wonderful menu, musical accompaniment, SPECTACULAR VIEWS. Adults: $75; kids: $25-$45 (depending on age). Price includes aerial tram ride. Reservations: 801.933.2222.

World Ski Awards Announced

Val Thorens, in France, was named World’s Best Ski Resort. Ski Dubai (UAE) received Best Indoor Ski resort. Bella Coola Heli Sports (Canada) got World’s Best Heli-Ski Operator. In the US, Deer Valley received the top resort prize. The World Ski Awards are selected by professionals working within the ski industry and by the public. Votes are submitted online at World Ski Awards website.

Learn to Ski/Board Month Awards People Introducing Newbies

The promotion rewards those who help introduce newcomers to beginner lessons from trained instructors. Click here to learn about the program (starts Jan 5) and the generous rewards.

 

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End of Season House Cleaning

We’re moving out of Salt Lake City. Anyone who has gone through the exercise knows about getting rid of stuff. You categorize three ways: stuff you need; stuff you think you need; stuff you know you don’t. Which brings me to skis, boots, and clothes. I have seven pairs of skis and enjoy all of them. BUT, a few pairs haven’t seen snow in several years. At least one goes to the thrift store. There are two pairs of custom boots in the closet. The DaleBoots are the newest and fit best. I harvested the custom insoles from the old SureFits and hope a thrift store customer with my feet gets them for a lot less than I paid. The biggest dilemma? Parkas and pants. My wife shamed me into getting rid of Old Yella, it was dirty and way out of fashion. I have a few recent vintage parkas that cover most of my needs. They stay. The black one I picked up at a yard sale around 15 years ago still looks good and is great in powder. It’s only issue? Far too many zippered pockets. Finally, I’m giving up the pants that were waiting for my waist to change. A few still had tickets from 2003. And that black and silver Colmar one-piece? It’s a beaut, but it hasn’t been outside for more than a decade. Time for it to find a new home.

CALIFORNIA
Squaw Valley is a pretty hot real estate market. 2016 showed an 8% increase in home sales and a 17% increase in dollar volume. Greg Rankin is a ski friend specializing in Squaw Valley real estate. His newsletter is GOSQUAW.com.

MONTANA

Big Sky set a record for skier visitation. Its last biggest season was ’15-’16.

QUEBEC

Most ski resort summer activity is in the form of music, rides, mountain biking, etc. Mont Tremblant offers those and more. Its Tonga Lumina is a sound and light show showcasing the mountain’s natural elements and inspired by the its history and legends.

OTHER

Epic Pass doesn’t offer senior discounts, but season passes for some of its affiliated ski areas do. For example, the Tahoe Value Pass gives those 65+ access to Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood for $389. Holidays, peak periods and Saturdays are excluded. For $439, seniors can ski Kirkwood only, with no restrictions. The threshold age for Minnesota’s Afton Alps is 62 and unrestricted skiing is $309 for the season. At Michigan’s Mt. Brighton, skiers 62+ ski unrestricted for the season for $369. Purchase before May 29, and you get two Buddy Tickets, each providing a fixed ticket price for a day at one of the Vail Resorts. A ticket at Vail/Beaver Creek would cost $116 with a Buddy Ticket; one at Park City would be $85. Stowe, Vail’s most recent acquisition, currently is not shown as part of the Epic Pass program. According to a Vail spokesperson, once the deal closes Stowe will be included.

Shred Optics, Sync Performance and Slytech are partnering on a discount program that delivers up to 50% off their brands. Shred makes helmets and goggles. Sync makes down items and other wearables. Slytech makes a variety of protection devices for the back, knees, arms, elbows, shins, etc. When visiting the sites, use discount code: NEWPARTNER.

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Tuesday I was sledding with grandkids in Manhattan’s Central Park.

I arrived a few days earlier in New York unprepared for winter; felt it from head to toe. Wednesday, I stepped out of Salt Lake International Airport into 75F. The resorts are reporting temps in the 40s and 50s. It’s expected to cool off later next week. My experience in this part of the world is that the first two weeks of April generally deliver large snowfalls. Will it happen this year? In New York my fingers were frozen. Now they’re crossed.

CALIFORNIA

Next season’s Tahoe Super Pass is available for purchase now. Buy before April 18 to get extra savings. Multiple plans are available. The most luxe offers unlimited skiing at Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows plus 50% at all Mountain Collective resorts, plus free skiing from April 1 to end of season, plus other benefits. 65+ costs $719; 76+ costs $389.

COLORADO

Aspen Highlands will host an old school bumps challenge at its Freestyle Friday, noon March 31. Should be a blast with neon one-pieces and other retro garb.

OREGON

Registration now open for the Ligety Weibrecht Ski Camp at Mt Hood. From the website, it looks like a terrific experience for teen-aged grandkids.

QUEBEC

The Canadian Alpine Ski Championships will be held March 24-28 at Mont-Tremblant.

Stoneham Mountain Resort issued a short artsy video of skiers and boarders on its Olympic half pipe. It appears that the riders are jumping in front of a massive screen filled with colorful images.

UTAH

Park City’s Grand Summit Hotel in Canyons Village will undergo $15 million in renovation this spring, after which it will become a RockResorts property. The project is expected to be completed by mid-summer.

Snowbird‘s free Plaza Deck Concerts are scheduled for every weekend starting March 17 through May 14. Always good for a nice afternoon vibe.

VERMONT

Okemo Mountain Resort’s on-the-snow beer festival is slated for April 1. This will be the third year for the one-day Hops in the Hills event. Admission is free and open to the 21+ crowd, but there’s a fee to sample the 10 seasonal brews. Food also on tap.

 

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historic5aNATIONAL

SeniorsSkiing.com salutes The Ski Diva for winning the prestigious Harold S. Hirsch Award for Best Ski Blog from the North American Snowsports Journalists Association. Wendy Clinch, a refugee from the advertising business, started the Ski Diva, a women’s ski blog, in 2006. Since then, she has written on a wide-range for topics for women snowsport enthusiasts and has attracted about 5000 readers to her very active online forum. ‘Way to go, Ski Diva!

COLORADO

Apex Ski Boots announced its XP Big Mountain Ski Boot. The Apex is infinitely adjustable and features a soft walkable inner boot and a hard shell exoboot. They’re sold online and through select retailers.

NEW YORK

The Northeast Ski & Craft Beer Showcase, presented by Alpin Haus, will take place at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany, NY, Friday, November 4 through Sunday, November 6.

QUEBEC

Mont-Tremblant received its first dusting on October 23.

UTAH

Ski Utah reports the following resort opening dates:

  • Alta – Nov. 18
  • Beaver – TBD
  • Brian Head – Nov. 18
  • Cherry Peak – TBD
  • Brighton – As early as possible
  • Deer Valley  – Dec. 3
  • Eagle Point – Dec. 17
  • Nordic Valley -Dec. 10
  • Park City – Nov. 18
  • Powder – TBD
  • Snowbasin – Nov. 23
  • Snowbird – Nov. 18
  • Solitude – Nov. 18
  • Sundance – Dec. 9

Park City may hold the world record for simultaneous shot ski drinkers. Confused? Wasatch Brew Pub bolted hundreds of skis together and mounted shot glasses for the momentous occasion. 2000 people showed up for the Big Gulp — double the number expected. They’re waiting for Guinness to confirm the record, previously held by Breckenridge, which attracted 881 participants. he event was a fundraiser for a local Rotary Club.

Black Diamond has issued Live, Ski Repeat, a one-minute video preview to the season.

WYOMING

Teton Gravity Research issued its latest film, Tight Loose, with exceptional powder beauty shots. Tour Dates: http://www.tetongravity.com/films/tight-loose/tour

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Killington is now open for season pass holders.  First in the East (again).

Wildcat Mountain is kicking off its 59th season with snowmaking operations, thanks to cold temps and natural snowfall above 3,000 feet.

Mountain Collective, the consortium of 14 iconic ski resorts is offering two day passes at each resort for a total of $419. Under 12 kids pass is $99. Season pass holders at Alta and other Mountain Collective resorts get half-price skiing at participating reports.OTHER