Mountain Sports Club Blog

We had a glorious springtime visit to the amazing resorts of Snowmass and Aspen, Colorado. It did not always feel like spring – in fact, some hours it felt like January. But, most of the time the sun was out and the fresh fallen snow was light and powdery. The snow fell heavily for a few days before we arrived, and was intermittent during our week. Colorado weather can be like a politician’s moods – it changes rapidly.

It had been years since we last visited Aspen and Snowmass, and I am ashamed of myself for waiting so long. No wonder these resorts have long been considered the gems of the West. This time, we came for two reasons: the skiing of course, and the chance to spend still another clinic with the brave wounded warriors. This conference is the biggest one held in the nation. It is the 23^rd annual Clinic, sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Disabled Veterans of America, and a number of other government and private organizations. Most of the wounded are veterans, but some are still serving in the military. There were about 400 wounded in this Clinic, and about 600 volunteers. Some volunteers are about to enter the military service, and expect to deploy to Afghanistan.

It was impressive to meet the new Secretary of Veterans Affairs, General Eric Shinseki at the meeting. He walked around, tried to meet all the vets, and told them he is there to serve them.

Many in this group served, and were wounded in Vietnam; others were hurt in other areas where American soldiers deployed. Some are older than in past clinics we covered. I met a lovely veteran, William Franklin Davenport, who is 87 years old, and still skis! There were the same injuries we had seen so often – many who had lost limbs, were visually impaired, or suffered brain or spinal cord injuries, and PTSD. But, they were out there on the slopes, skiing, snowboarding, sit skiing, racing, and taking part in other activities. A few had their helper dogs with them, who joined in most activities.

There were even scuba diving classes in the heated, outdoor pool on one of the slopes. There are many more such activities to come for the warriors in the summer months. They are fun, but do not begin to make up for their suffering. The activities are an important form of rehabilitation. As one of the speakers said, “the mountain makes you face your fears again – you are once again a band of brothers.”

As for the trip itself – we will take it day by day. We left Bethesda at about 5 in the morning Sunday, after a nearly sleepless night. Charles did another of his heroic jobs driving through the dark mist and rain to BWI airport. We parked in one of the economy parking lots, made cheaper with a printed coupon. Our SW Airlines flight to Denver was direct, inexpensive (about $250 RT each) and reasonably smooth, considering the bad weather throughout the country.

By mid morning, Colorado time, we were in the Denver airport, had rented a car, and were on our way. I argued we should use one of the shuttle buses, but they were much more expensive, and the timing did not work for us. I lost that argument, but fortunately the weather was clear and the 5 hour drive was fine. The scenery was so dramatic, as always. We could see people skiing on the wonderful slopes of Loveland, Copper Mountain, Vail, and other resorts, as we made our way to Snowmass. All the areas looked in terrific shape, thanks to the recent heavy snowfalls. We saw evidence of rock slides en route, and were greeted by 4 long horn sheep on the side of the road. The dramatic rock formations, Glenwood Canyon on the Colorado River, and the Amtrak train, all made for a memorable (but long) drive. In Snowmass Village we were greeted by a huge American flag and sign hanging on a building under construction that read ”Hardhats welcome Veterans”. This was a theme we saw everywhere all week, the Aspen Elks Club, the ski areas, the local merchants, corporate and individual sponsors have gone to great effort to honor and care for the participants of this clinic.

We arrived at the Conference in time to check into the Snowmass Inn, where we got a special rate of $78 for a room with 2 double beds and breakfast. It is usually more at other times but, as I always advise, get a package rate or sign up for a ski club trip for all destinations. We were in time for a delicious “Taste of Snowmass” where restaurants in the Snowmass Village mall contributed entrees and desserts on the plaza for the veterans and volunteers. Then, time to mingle with friends, attend the welcoming ceremony, team meetings and parties.

Skiing at Snowmass – Monday, March 30.

We had some of our best runs of the season, thanks to our hosts Jennifer Rudolph, the Director of Communications, her husband Josh, and Jeff Hanle, the Director of Public Relations for the Aspen Skiing Company. They loaned us heavy golden medals for lift passes, symbolizing the golden glow of the area. They also helped us with rental equipment from “Four Mountain Sports.” Again, I usually advise renting most equipment, if you can, although many people prefer to carry their own boots. I was given slick Tecnica hi performance boots and K2 “Lotta Love” skis at my favorite length of 156. I had two excellent, long runs on them. But, by the afternoon, I developed leg cramps from the weight (heavier than my old stuff in the East). The final run down took place in intense cold, and blinding wind and blowing snow. I am glad I had reliable equipment to get me down. Thanks also to a gallant young soldier in training Ryan Tucker, who helped guide me down. I was somewhat comforted by the veterans and instructors around us – it was hard for everyone, and especially challenging for the guides to the blind skiers. As far as I know, we all made it down. I was relieved to see Charles come down a few moments later – I did not even know he was on the same trail.

At Snowmass, we took the Village Express Chair and the Elk Camp Gondola. We tried to stick to blue and green runs, because the weather was so cold and windy in the afternoon. But, we had some terrific cruising on the well groomed runs in the morning. Our friends were off to the sides, where they flowed down the virgin powder.

The general conditions in Snowmass could not have been better. All 91 trails were open and many were groomed. The base depth was over 93 inches at the top. This should last for several more weeks.

At night, we rejoined some of the Veterans for a variety of activities. Charles went to a class for Music Therapy for the wounded; we both watched a spirited game of goal ball. It is a bit like soccer, but the players are either blind or wear blindfolds. They roll around a ball which has bells inside it, and try to listen so they can find it and score goals. Unfortunately, we did not make it to the Purple Hearts Gathering, or the Marine Corps Reunion.

Perfect Day at Snowmass, Tuesday, March 31^st.

Nothing beats the sheer beauty of the mountains when they are covered in snow, groomed, uncrowded, and bathed in sunshine. Most of the warriors were out in force on many of the trails. Charles took a shuttle bus to Aspen, to participate in activities there. Too bad – he missed an amazing ski tour of Snowmass Mountain. Our Mountain Ambassador, or Guide, was Jerry Butler. All of us in the group were seniors, but we constantly took fast runs down the groomed trails. In 3 hours of intense skiing, I did not see anyone from our group fall. What amazing athletes – Mary Gochenour is 71 and Marilyn Gladish is 67. When they are not skiing, they are running races or participating in a variety of other sports.

We took so many blue and green runs I cannot remember then all. They included some in the wide, expansive Big Burn – Sneaky, Trestle, and Max Park. In Alpine Springs we took Log Deck, Lower Lunkerville, and Coffee Pot. In Elk Camp, we took Gunner’s View, Funnel, and Adams Avenue. We rode 4 lifts and the Gondola. At each stop, Jerry gave us a fascinating talk about the history of the area. He has to be the King of Mountain Ambassadors!

In the afternoon, I collapsed from exhaustion! I tried to get up to attend a Cajun Dance, but could not force myself to move. The Veterans and loved ones who attended the dance said it was great fun. The best events included the wheel chair dancing, and general dancing by those who are whole bodied, and those who have lost limbs. All inhibitions were cast aside, and a sense of live and community prevailed.

April First – Scuba diving in the snow, and it is no joke!

The morning dawned with another heavy snowfall, but skiers and riders still flocked to the mountains. Even without visibility, they lusted after that fresh, fluffy powder. There were many side activities for the 400 Vets, so I sought out the heated swimming pool. There, instructors Mike and Susan tried to teach me how to use the oxygen and breathe through the mouthpiece. It was an interesting experience, and I spent about a half an hour trying to learn. Maybe I will in another life. But, I kept looking up at the mountains, waiting for the snow to end, so Charles and I could take some runs in the fresh afternoon powder, which we later did for about two hours. The powder was ungroomed in most spots, and provided an interesting challenge.

The scuba diving is one of many important activities for the Veterans. It gives them confidence and mobility. One lady in the pool with me at the time was a former Wheel Chair Miss Virginia. She is beautiful, charming, and high spirited. The instructors were patient, professional and funny. I had a lot of fun splashing around with them!

April Second – another exquisite day at Snowmass! The sun was shinning, and there was fresh powder everywhere. The trials were groomed, and there was much perfect corduroy on many of them. Charles and I went to the top of the chair and the Gondola, and skied for miles. The best area was Elk Camp, with its wide, groomed expanses of snow. But, everything was perfect. I am pleased I was skiing and singing with great rhythm and control. It is always sad to end a ski season, but I am pleased I did so on an up note. My earlier lack of confidence disappeared. For us, the ski season is probably over. But, there are weeks left in the West for those who can make the trip, and there are plenty of bargains in flights, lift prices, and lodging. Enjoy the snow! For details on deals, discounts and savings at Colorado Resorts be sure to check out the Mountain Sports Club.

Article written and contributed, by Connie Lawn, field correspondent.

Photo includes - Charles Sneiderman, Jennifer Rudolph of Colorado Ski Country USA and Jeff Hanle of Aspen Skiing Company

Arapahoe Basin Announces New A+ Spring Season Pass

Arapahoe Basin, CO – January 26, 2009 - Arapahoe Basin Ski Area introduces the new A+ Spring Pass which includes skiing and riding at Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge and Keystone, among many other season pass benefits. The $279 adult A+ pass is a new spring pass product available now and valid through the remainder of the 2008-2009 season.

The pass includes unlimited skiing and riding at A-Basin plus five non-transferable ski days at Breckenridge or Keystone. One of those five days can be used at Vail or Beaver Creek (some date restrictions apply). Other A+ Spring Pass benefits include a free half day lesson for the pass holder, lift ticket discounts for family and friends, and 10% off cafeteria and retail shop purchases.

"Arapahoe Basin's high alpine environment lets skiers and riders enjoy the sport long after the other resorts have closed for the season. The A+ pass is the most affordable way to ski Summit County. By getting this discounted "Spring" pass months before spring starts, our guests will get over four months on the slopes at a great value," said Alan Henceroth, Arapahoe Basin's Vice President and COO.

A+ Spring Pass Pricing:

In addition to the new adult A+ Spring Pass for only $279, A-Basin has also introduced a new A+ Family Spring Pass. The Family A+ Pass includes A+ passes for two adults and up to two free child (age 6-14) passes for only $699. The entire family will be able to enjoy the same A+ benefits.

If A-Basin is the only mountain you'd like to ski or ride this spring, Arapahoe Basin also offers an A-Basin only Spring Pass. The Adult Spring Pass can be purchased for $209, the Youth (age 15-18) pass for $159 and the Child (age 6-14) Spring Pass for only $99.

Spring skiing is legendary at Arapahoe Basin; this is when A-Basin really shines. Discover the recently opened Montezuma Bowl with 400 additional skiable acres, excellent snow conditions, spring events, concerts and parties on "the beach."

Order the A+ or A-Basin only spring passes on-line at www.arapahoebasin.com, or call 1-888-ARAPAHOE or stop into the season pass office at A-Basin. Passes valid through the end of the 2008-2009 ski season. Limited number of passes are available. Passes and benefits are not transferable or for resale.

For Immediate Release

Media Contact: Leigh Hierholzer

(970) 513-5767

Loveland Ski Area in Colorado continues to get pounded with snow. I have had a new snow report everyday in my email from them for the last 7 days running. With over 50 inches of new snow in the last week they just keep opening new terrain daily. A friend called ranting on how great the soft winter snow was yesterday. I have to clear my desk and make some turns there real soon. At $30 for Mountain Sports Club members this is the best deal going. Join now and save all season.

The snow has not been huge but is continuing to happen in the mountains of Colorado and the western Rockies on a regular basis combined with great snow making conditions. Look for more and more resort openings and expanded terrain.

This just in from our friends at Loveland Ski Area"

Chair 2 Set to Open this Friday!

Not only is there snow in the forecast, but Chair 2 will be opening this Friday, November 13th, just in time for the weekend! The snow has been falling slowly but steadily all week, and when combined with our world class snowmaking, we are getting more terrain open very quickly. The weather forecast is looking good with the chance for several inches in time for the weekend. It's no wonder Loveland is the choice for great early season skiing and riding. Come check out what everyone is talking about!

Loveland Valley and Ski & Ride School Open November 21st

The Loveland Valley, our separate beginners area, and the Loveland Ski & Ride School open next Friday, November 21st. The Ski & Ride School offers a wide variety of programs for all skill levels and disciplines. We are still offering our popular 3 Class Pass program; take three lessons packages and receive a season pass upon completion, restrictions apply. Check out the details for the 3 Class Pass and all of The Ski & Ride School's great programs online.

Mountain Sports Club members are skiing and riding for $30 a day right now at Loveland. That is a $14 daily discount on your lift tickets. Join now and save all season long on lift tickets, gear, lodging travel and more. Half off early season special only $14.95, use promotion code pre08 to redeem offer through November 15.

It was the annual trek to the mountains as the boys, my son's, have off from school for the holiday and we use it as the perfect excuse to get out and enjoy a weekday skiing early in November to kick off the season. While it was the boys first day, I had gotten out a few weeks ago to make sure October was a ski month. Check out the photo gallery at MyMountainSportsClub.com.

Part of the obligation of living in Colorado and working in this industry. October skiing has become a ritual much like Veterans day and the days up till Thanksgiving.

It was a great day to be on the hill skiing and riding. Keystone Resort is always a good early season choice as they tend to have longer vertical and great long cruising runs. These are ideal to help get the legs back into ski shape. I know I need some days of long cruisers to get ready for the full days of skiing with fresh soft snow. As we left Boulder it was overcast but no precipitation. The weather reports had been of snow the last several days continuing today in the mountains.

We encountered snow as we passed Silverplume, just past Georgetown on I 70. It was light snow but enough to slow down the traffic. The ride up was easy with moderate traffic. Roads were snow packed as we approached Loveland and went over Loveland Pass, past Arapahoe Basin and down valley to Keystone.

The Gondola was the only lift open and is now accessed right at the base of the River Run area. This is a slight move form where it was previously and makes much better sense and is easier to access. New this year is also midway, er 3/4 way, station so one did not have to go all the way back down. The Gondola, now enables downloading at a location that enables you to ski more of the mountain before downloading in spring.

Skiing was very good for this time of year. Yes, it is all relative, in January I would grimace at snow this hard, but with a couple inches of fresh snow there was soft carving snow. The terrain park at the top was full, especially for a Tuesday. Based upon my observation of the crowd, the local economy was thriving. We'll see what happens during the holidays and peak season.

Looking for Keystone lift ticket discounts, make sure to register now for a Mountain Sports Club membership and save on pre purchased multi day lift tickets at the MSC Travel desk.

Other resort related news and tidbits. Wild Mountain in Minnesota reopened and reported snow. Ski Brule opened yesterday.

A couple of nice sweepstakes to consider entering:

Just saw an announcement for a really cool sweepstakes from the folks at Cloudveil, "Win a Spot on the first Tram at Jackson" to celebrate the new tram at Jackson Hole.

Sign up to win a spot on the FIRST TRAM in Jackson Hole on the Opening Day of the NEW Aerial Tram. Winner and a guest will receive a 4-day trip to Jackson Hole or a full season pass for winter 2008-09.

Prize package:
- 2 spots (winner plus a guest) on a FIRST TRAM in Jackson Hole on the Opening Day of the NEW Aerial Tram.
-Two airline tickets to Jackson Hole, WY on airline of JHMR’s choice.
- Four nights lodging in Teton Village condominium through Jackson Hole Resort Lodging (blackout dates do apply).
- Two 4-day adult lift tickets at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
- Two VIP passes to Aerial Tram launch festivities.

Sn Valley Chamber also is now promoting "Everything under the sun". Sun Valley is one of the great and more famous resorts many have not been visited. Now your chance to win a free trip to Sun Valley.


Look pretty sweet to me.

October comes to an end this evening and I believe there are more ski areas open in different areas for skiing and snowboarding than I can recall for Halloween. Given the economic issues and the mean spirited election dominating news it is truly a joy to see skiing and snowboarding starting.

I was able to enjoy some sweet turns yesterday at Loveland Ski Area, even though it is in the 70's in the front range. I have lived here in Colorado now for 30 years and this is the 25th October of the 30 that I have been able to get lift serviced skiing. They are doing a great job getting a good base and good conditions for skiing and riding. We'll be back up in another week.

Skiing at Loveland with a $30 Mountain Sports Club discount coupon for my lift ticket made it a bargain as well.

Resort openings: that we have gathered from around the country include the following.

Killington opens with up to 6 trails and top to bottom skiing tomorrow November1. If you are heading up to the Killington make sure to check out some of the lodging deals we have available.

Sunday River - Opened Halloween. Sweet lodging deal for MSC members at the Bethel Inn.

Arapahoe Basin - Discount available on a prepurchase ticket.

Loveland - That's right only $30 vs $44 for MSC members. Save $14 a day.

Fernie announces Girls Day Out for second year.

Newest Mountain Sports Club resort addition is Lost Valley in Maine. The resort is offering skiers and snowboarders a $5 daily savings on lift tickets for the 2008.09 winter season.

This email just arrived. We knew Wild Mountain in Minnesota was looking at getting the ski and snowboard season going and they sure did.

Email release from Wild Mountain's Amy Frischmon

"Today,Tuesday, October 28th, we are officially starting the Ski/Snowboard Season in the Midwest! Keeping with our 33 year tradition Wild Mountain is the first Area to open in the Midwest.

We will be opening with one run Expressway an intermediate run and 1 chairlift

We are excited to start the season and to see you all soon!"

Stayed tuned as we update additional resort openings in the blog.

Hours of Operation
Tuesday, October 28th, TBD - We are going to continue to blow as long as we can, and then we need to groom. Please call for more details as the sun comes up.

Wednesday, October 29th, 4pm - 9pm
Thursday, October 30th, 4pm - 9pm
Friday, October 31st, 4pm - 9pm
Saturday, November 1st, 9:30 am - 9pm
Sunday, November 2nd 9:30am - 5pm

Lift tickets for today, October 28th will be $16

Rates will change daily as we add more runs.
Hours of Operation may also change. Please check web site daily for updates.

Hope to see you on the slopes soon!"

2 for 1 discount lift ticket coupons at Windham Mountain in the Catskill Mountains of New York are now available for the 2008.09 ski and snowboard season for premium Mountain Sports Club members. This is the third winter for the Mountain Sports Club online service and Windham has been a participant each year.

Look for new lodging specials to be added as well for the coming winter. Windham Mountain is conveniently located a short 2 hours from New York City and has recently remodeled the base lodge in a major renovation. There has been a $5 million investment in the base lodge and improvements in snow making to ensure the best in skiing and snowboarding at Windham Mountain.

Mountain Sports Club announces $30 early season lift tickets for premium members now at Loveland ski area. With a mid October start to the ski and snowboard season premium members now can start the season off and save $14 daily on early season tickets.

Not a member, join now and take advantage of preseason membership pricing. Memberships are only $14.95. Use promotion code "pre08" to redeem offer.

Sunlight Mountain Resort in Glenwood Springs Colorado just updated their Mountain Sports Club lift tickets discounts for the 2008.09 season. They will extend 2 for 1 lift tickets Monday through Friday non holidays. On weekends non holiday buy one adult lift ticket and receive the second for half price. These new deals and discount coupons are a great value for skiers and snowboarders looking to stretch the ski budget.

The start of the 2008.09 ski and snowboard season is off and running tomorrow as both Loveland Ski Area and Arapahoe Basin open for skiing and riding. It is often a race and this year the end result will be a tie. For those of us looking for turns without hiking it is nice to have both open.

While this officially kicks off the season it is to be noted there is skiing and snowboarding elsewhere in North America and in Europe. Timberline, Ore., currently offers glacier skiing from Friday to Sunday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of that ski area’s “autumn” season.

Arapahoe and Loveland will both rely on machine-made snow on one intermediate run, served by one chairlift each.

The Basin and Loveland are joining a few other resorts around the world, particularly in Europe, that are currently open for skiing and riding. These include Tignes, France, which features skiing on the Grande Motte glacier; Swiss ski areas Saas Fee and Zermatt; Italian resort Val Senales, Italy (two lifts, seven runs), and the Austrian resorts of Hintertux and Soelden, the latter of which hosts an Alpine World Cup opener on Oct. 25.

Get your boards and skis ready for another winter of skiing and riding. Looking for lift ticket discounts join the Mountain Sports Club now.

Boulder December 28, 2006

Mountain Sports Club of North America is pleased to announce participation in the Shell Ski Free promotion. This promotional program builds on our effort to not only drive incremental skiers and snowboard visits to resorts and corresponding merchants, but to help them build a database of who these skiers and snowboarders.

By sending participants to the web to register for the valuable savings vouchers, resorts now have the name, email and mailing address of those who redeem the vouchers and visit their resort.

The marketing budget for this promotional program includes $500,000 of media, 550 Shell Stations and 1 million vouchers are being distributed throughout Idaho, Washington, Colorado and Oregon to encourage folks to go out skiing and if additional information is required go to the skifreedeals.com website. "We are pleased to collaborate with the Mountain Sports Club in providing more value for our clients in the Pacific Northwest - Estelle West, SkiFreeDeals.com".