Beat Winter Blues With Snowshoes

As temperatures start to cool, turn thoughts on the upcoming winter and winter sports. A winter sports comes to mind is snow shoes. Snowshoeing has become a popular pastime in Colorado and other states to embrace winter sports. The wonderful thing about snowshoeing is that it does not require special skills or training to do. Each person can walk with snowshoes.

Snowshoes, and has been around for many years until recently, it has been since 1970, has become arecreational activity for outdoor enthusiasts. Snowshoeing was a necessity for many living in rugged, snowy terrain and the only way to travel through deep snow during the winter months. Along with the recent popularity of snowshoeing, technology has stepped up and designed and manufactured more durable and lightweight snowshoes. Snowshoes have come a long way since the wooden framed, rawhide-laced versions worn by Inuits and Native Americans.

If you want to try snowshoeing, check with ski rental place where snowshoes. Most have snowshoe rentals. This is a good way to see if this is a sport, see. The experts at rental shops should be able to recommend the type and size of snowshoes offer for rent. Along with the snowshoes, poles, they offer an appropriate size, which can be useful in your way. You should also be a good pair of insulated winter boots and gaiters (gaiters fit over the boot pants and top) for yourfeet warm and dry. Start off by practicing walking with your snowshoes on near the trailhead until you feel comfortable and ready to venture out. Take it slow and conserve energy by keeping your feet close to the snow so you're almost shuffling along.

Snowshoeing Tips

1. Determine snowshoe size based on your weight which will determine the length you need

2. Choose snowshoes based on your activity and experience

a. Recreational (hiking snowshoe)-Best for most beginners and gentle terrain

b. Backcountry-Best for hut trips, winter camping trips and more advanced snowshoers

c. Racing-Designed for those who want to move fast through the snow and compete in snowshoe races

d. Womens-Designed with women in mind to accommodate stride and body shape unique to women

3. Snowshoe poles are invaluable for balance and help to get you up hills.

4. Purchase good quality insulated waterproof boots.

5. Wear appropriate winter clothing

a. Base layer

b. Wicking layer

c. Insulating layer

d. Warm hat

e. Warm gloves

f. Warm socks

6. Bring along the Ten Essentials-the very same essentials you should take on a hike.

7. Practice good etiquette while snowshoeing-avoid cross-country ski tracks if at all possible. Big snowshoes can really mess up cross-country ski trails.

8. Bring along a nice hot thermos of soup or chocolate to enjoy on the trail.

9. Be aware of avalanche potential-see avalanche safety tips. Even though you may be careful and know avalanche safety rules, others may not be. So be vigilante and aware of others around you that may trigger avalanches and avoid those areas.

Finding a good trail to snowshoe is as easy as finding a good hiking trail. In most cases trails that can be hiked in the summer will make good choices for snowshoeing as long as they are not too steep. The most important factor is navigating. While many trails are well marked in the summer, winter brings a blanket of white that covers the obvious path you may be used to. The other common navigating obstacle is fresh snow. Some snowshoe trails may be very popular and well marked from previous snowshoers or cross-country skiers, but after a fresh dump of snow, it is more challenging to stay on the trail. Other hidden dangers may include ponds, rivers, hidden drop-offs that are not discernable while snow covered. Keep in mind that you generally cannot cover as many miles snowshoeing as you can hiking so pace yourself and give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the surrounding beauty and solitude that winter brings. Popular snowshoe trails in Colorado can be found in most areas of the state. Many Colorado mountain towns have ski areas or Nordic centers that offer groomed trails for both snowshoers and cross-country skiers.

Snowshoeing is a perfect way to get some outdoor time during the winter months and keep those blues at bay. It brings a whole new perspective and beauty to our natural surroundings. There is nothing better than venturing out after a fresh snowfall and breathing in snow scrubbed fresh air while savoring the quiet and solitude of the forest or mountains that a blanket of snow brings.

New Zealand's Top 5 Ski Destinations

New Zealand is one of the most popular destinations for skiing in the Southern Hemisphere; and for good reason. Visit between July and October and you will be met with mountains of snow, fantastic ski resorts and some of the best facilities around.

Mount Ruapehu - Turoa and Whakapapa

As New Zealand's largest ski area, Mt Ruaphehu is a must on any ski holiday.

This region is home to some of the most amazing natural skiing terrain in the country, offering huge snow filled basins, steep chutes, drop-offs and secret powder stashes.

Queenstown - Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Mt Hutt

The ski areas around Queenstown are home to some of the steepest slopes, most incredible scenery and world class ski resorts.

Offering programs and packages for beginners and experts, there is sure to be something here for everyone.

Wanaka

The Wanaka region is a popular hot spot for skiers, with the Lake Wanaka Winter Resort offering the perfect place to enjoy the atmosphere.

This premier winter holiday destination offers something for skiers, boarders, heli-skiers, x-country skiers and back country tours, making it the ideal destination for snow sport lovers.

Mount Potts/ HeliPark

For all those keen to heli-ski, this park is the place for you. Offering great rates on lifts, Heli Park New Zealand is the premier destination for this exhilarating form of skiing.

The incredible backcountry terrain makes for an awesome day out, offering steeps and tight chutes, to wide open powder bowls, gullies and drop offs.

Temple Basin Ski Area

Offering extreme conditions courses to visitors, the Temple Basin Ski Area is a must for those after an exhilarating and unforgettable skiing experience.

Although a relatively undiscovered ski area, Temple Basis is fast becoming a popular hot spot for international ski holidays. So get in before the hoards of crowds begin to discover this winter wonderland. You won't be disappointed!

Ski Holidays - A Family Snow Filled Christmas Vacation in a Ski Chalet, Apartment Or Lodge

Ski holidays are a fantastic way to spend quality time with your family, especially during the Yuletide season. Adults aren't the only ones who find excitement when spending time in a ski lodge, apartment or chalet. And on top of skiing, there are various winter activities available in many ski resorts, so kids and teenagers can also look forward to spending their Christmas vacations in some amazing places. No kid or teenager would be able to resist the call of tubing, snowboarding, sleigh rides, ice climbing, ice skating or hockey during their Yuletide breaks.

Let's face it, those of us who are lucky enough to have time off work at Christmas are often bored after Boxing Day and end up at the local DIY store, ready and prepared to ruin the house with our lack of handyman skills! But what about taking everybody off for a family ski holiday - have you given that any thought?

There are loads of family friendly places all over the world where you can spend your ski Holidays. If you happen to Europe, visiting beautiful slopes in France, Norway, Italy, Austria and even the United Kingdom.

For those who choose to spend their Australian continent in the North American ski vacation or Australia and will not disappoint you with the beautiful slopes and deep snow in a number of places in the U.S., Canada, New Zealand.

Most ski resorts offer family oriented activities to enjoy the snow are ideal for the whole family. Tokids that are not familiar with skiing, there should be ski schools in most of these places. Some even provide Christmas-related entertainment for the locals as well as the tourists to enjoy. Book it right and the big man himself often makes a visit, being towed along by his reindeer. What could be better for the kids than seeing Santa in the snow?

You really don't have to spend a lot of money just to ensure that your ski holidays with your family are fun-filled and enjoyable. It's just practical for you to find ways to save as much money as possible during your Christmas vacation because you still have to think about food, transportation, entertainment and gifts to fit within your budget. Since package ski vacations can be quite expensive, regardless of the country or city you go to, it's a really idea to try ski holiday rentals. You're guaranteed to find a ski lodge, apartment, or chalet that's near the ski resort of your choice. And your search will be even easier if you particularly decide to visit countries or places that are well-known winter destinations. Besides, most ski holiday rentals are also fully furnished, which means they are often equipped with important amenities like log burning fireplaces, hot tubs, entertainment rooms, and well-equipped kitchens.

So take a look and find your perfect ski holiday today!

Top Ten Ski Resorts

Planning a Ski vacation with your friends and family? Let's take a look at the guide below and learn more about the top Ski destinations of United States:

Aspen - Snowmass: Aspen - Snowmass is a popular winter resort complex and it is located in the Pitkin County in the western Colorado. The winter sports take place in the four adjacent mountains within the vicinity of Aspen and Snowmass Village. These four mountains collectively form one of the most popular ski/snowboard destinations. The four Ski areas are:
• Aspen Mountain
• Aspen Highlands
• Buttermilk
• Snowmass

Big Sky: Big Sky resort is located in Montana in Madison County which is an hour's drive from the south of Bozeman. It is considered as the biggest skiing resort in the United States of America. The mountains peak is at a soaring 11,100 feet with two additional mountains that covers up to 85 miles. During the off season, Big Sky Resort offers plenty of outdoor activities like golf, Frisbee golf, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting and more.

Breckenridge: Breckenridge is located in the heart of Rocky Mountains and it is just 86 miles west of Denver. This mountain has 146 trails to ski upon and 27 lifts and over 2,200 acres of ski terrain, with the longest run over 3 miles in length. During summers, Breckenridge attracts plenty of outdoor activities like the hiking trails, fly-fishing in the Blue River, mountain biking, white water rafting and many more. With so many activities all round the year; Breckenridge is certainly an exciting destination to experience.

Brian Head: Whether you are looking for a laid-back or extreme adventure, you can tailor your own experience at Brain Head Resort. Located in southwestern Utah, Brain Head resort is popular amongst the people who are looking to escape the fast pace environment and crowds. You can have unlimited fun exploring the mountain with snow bikes, snowboarding, skiing, snow tubing, night skiing and more from 11,300 feet up the mountain.

Killington: Killington Mountain ski resort is located near Killington, Vermont. It is considered to be the largest ski area in the eastern North America. It stays open for a longer than other eastern ski resorts as it snows for an average of 8 months in a year. During the peak season Killington serves nearly 17,000 skiers or more in a day.

Taos: Taos, located in New Mexico has two major ski areas i.e. the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Carson National Forest. The mountains peak is at a soaring 11,800 feet. Apart from skiing/snowboarding, the valley also includes other activities like skating, sleigh rides, mountain biking and more.

Apart from the above mentioned destinations, you can also check Copper Mountain, Crested Butte, Keystone, Lake Placid, Lake Tahoe, Mammoth Lakes, Mount Shasta, Park City, Alta, Snowbird, Steamboat Springs, Stratton Mountain, Sun Valley, Telluride, Timberline, Winter Park and more.

Alta Ski Area Discount Tickets

When your planning you ski vacation one of the primary concerns is always price. Finding the good deals key and when it come to putting together a whole ski vacation package it becomes even more important. This article will attempt to cover some methods for getting some good deals on you ski vacation package plus basic information on the town of Park City and the Alta Ski Area.

First, Park City Information, Park City and Alta are located southeast on Interstate 80 from around downtown Salt Lake City. The short distance makes it an excellent resort for your trip because the relatively short distance from the Salt Lake City International Airport, especially if you're flying in from around the country or Internationally.

If you're planning on a group trip for a company getaway or perhaps a ski retreat with a few friends, it's nice to know that a short drive is all it will take after a potentially long flight. This also can save you some money too, which never hurts. Park City was the host of the 2002 Winter Olympics and because of the influx of tourist travel and foreign money the city drastically increased its outlets stores and now boasts the greatest collection of factory outlet stores in northern Utah.

Alta happens to be one of the oldest ski areas in the Unite States of America. The snow in the area is famous because the salinity of the Great Salt Lake. When storms blow through they pick up moisture and salt from the Lake and carry it to the mountain resorts and deposit it in the form of some of the lightest powder in the world.

The Resort itself has a base elevation of 8,530 Feet and a top elevation of 10,550 Feet. Thirteen ski lifts give access to 116 ski runs throughout the territory, which covers 2,220 acres of skiable terrain. The runs break down by experience as follows: 6% for beginners, 25% for intermediate, and 69% for advanced to experts, allowing for play areas for everyone from first timers to seasoned veterans. Don't forget the Alta get an annual snowfall of 514 inches so expect tons of that amazing powder for everyone. As for the good deals check into buying a all encompassing package. If you purchase airfare, lodging, lift tickets, and ski rentals all together you more likely to get the best deal possible.

Travel Tips For Visiting Vail, Colorado

You may have visited Vail before or you could be planning your first trip to this world-class ski resort. Your trip will likely have you staying at one of the fine hotels nearby, enjoying meals prepared by some of the top chefs in the world and taking in a theater production from one of the shows passing through the area. Life is good in Vail, but there are some surprises under the surface worth looking for too, real treats which can enhance your stay there.

Stay in a condominium -- Taking nothing away from local hotels, a stay at a condominium offers advantages for you. First, you stay in an environment similar to home, with a fully furnished apartment at your disposal. Second, your stay could answer an important question for you: "Can I see myself living in Vail, even if for only part of the year?" A condo gives you the chance to "try before you buy," a first-hand experience at what Vail life is all about.

Try home meal delivery -- Coinciding with staying at a condo, you may want to consider having your restaurant meal delivered to you at least once thanks to A La Car, the local restaurant delivery service. This business can pick up your meal from top local restaurants and deliver it to you. After a long day on the slopes, you may prefer a relaxing and romantic meal in the comfort of your own room.

Plan a late season visit -- In early April, just before the slopes shut down for the Season is a taste of Vail held a three-day event, where one sample serves some of the finest foods and wines of famous chefs Vail. Enjoy the spring skiing, in a variety of foods and enjoy the fun.

Head to Beaver Creek - Vail ski pass is also valid for Beaver Creek near. Ski on over to see the shuttle or what the 'other' near ski resorts like Vail. You may find that the lines are a bit 'shorter in Beaver Creek, whenVail is at its busiest.

Book early to save money -- Everyone wants to save money on their Vail vacation, right? Well, in the height of the ski season that can be difficult to do unless you book your trip early. If you're flying in from afar to Denver and are needing a transfer to Eagle County Airport, you'll pay a mint for your airfare if you wait until the last few weeks to make your reservation. The same can be said for your hotel stay and car rental.

Try something new -- Go snowboarding, try fly fishing or put on a pair of in-line skates and go, go, go! There are classes held on the slopes and local guides willing to teach you something new or to show you around. Yes, you are visiting Vail with certain ideas in mind -- when you get there explore what options are available to you and seize them.

Make the most of your Vail stay by making restaurant reservations in advance, checking out the best time to hit the slopes and finding out which entertainment venue is offering front and center tickets at a special price.

France - The Top Ski Resorts

Thinking of heading on a skiing holiday to France? Well look no further, because France has plenty of snow covered slopes that are very appealing to ski enthusiasts. Such slopes cater for ski lovers of different levels of ability, from the learner to the expert skier! So, if you are interested in booking a dream ski holiday in one of the scenically beautiful regions of France, read on for more...

The following are what we reckon to be the best ski resorts in France!

1. The Three Valleys (Les Trois Vallées)

Composed mainly of the Méribel, Courchevel, Les Ménuires and Val Thorens resorts, the Three Valleys area encompasses about 600km of pistes and over 200km of ski lifts. There are brilliant facilities to be found throughout these resorts, and the mountain restaurant cuisine comes highly recommended! The Three Valleys are easily reached from airports such as Geneva, Chambéry and Lyon Airports.

Méribel Located right in the centre of the three valleys, Méribel is probably the most popular ski resort in the world - just go there to find out why! There are nearly 400km of wonderful piste links to explore which link Méribel to other resorts such as Val Thorens. With a modern ski lift system, endless queues for the slopes are unheard of! There are different areas of the resort which will afford the visitor diverse skiing experiences! The main town of the resort is Méribel Les Allues, and about 3km away is Méribel Village. Méribel le Raffort is another village outside the town which has good connections to the main ski resort. You could also check out Méribel-Mottaret which is resort high up in the French Alps area. This is more for the serious skier with excellent accommodation, bars and restaurants. For the beginner, the Méribel Altiport area is the place to go. Mont Vallon is the perfect place for the advanced skier. There are great opportunities for snowboarding in this resort as well.

Courchevel To the west of Lyon, Courchevel is a purpose built ski resort, there are plenty of ski slopes and accommodation in the resort. It is not just one resort but five of them - Courchevel 1850, 1650, 1550, Le Prazz 1300 and La Tania. All of the resorts have a different look and feel, Courchevel 1850 is very chic whereas Le Praz is a traditional French village. There are slopes for skiers of all abilities. The slopes here are north facing and as such the snow is more guaranteed.

La Tania Nestled in the pine forests of Les Trois Vallées, La Tania was built for the 1992 Winter Olympics. Here, you are never more than two lifts away from Méribel and Courchevel. The nursery slopes here are good for beginners. The higher slopes towards Courchevel are better for the experts.

Val Thorens This is a purpose built resort that is compact and regarded as the highest village on the European continent. There is varied skiing available with great facilities and nightlife. There is also a sports centre with a swimming pool and squash courts. Val Thorens has a range of slopes that are widely acclaimed - for the expert La Masse and Cime de Caron are widely recommended. Check out the wonderful glaciers of Chaviére for added adventures! The Maurienne Valleys is another spot to check out.

Brides Les Bains An alpine resort located in the valley below the Méribel resort. If you want to relax, Brides Les Bains is the place to go, with spa therapies available for the days you do not ski. Less than a half hour journey will bring you into the Méribel resort. The tourist facilities here include disco bars, restaurants and a casino.

St Martin de Belleville Located in the Belleville valley, and has a great lift system so getting to the rest of Les Trois Vallées is quite easy. However you can stay here to enjoy some great skiing! There is skiing up to 3200km on offer here. St Martin de Belleville is a traditional French village of great charm. Featuring wooden ski chalets and a charming church, if you want a getaway from the major ski resorts this is the place to go.

2. L'Espace Killy Area

Located in the Savoy Region of France, and well known for its ski challenges and wide areas, L'Espace Killy covers an area of 300km of downhill skiing. This alpine area links the glitzy resorts of Val d'Isere and Tignes. This resort is easily accessible from the main international airports. The resort has something to offer the skier and snowboarder of differing abilities.

If you are looking for peace and tranquillity, or partying the night away, you will find it at L'Espace Killy. Both Tignes and Val D'Isere offer different destination types for the visitor. The ski area covers 300km of ski piste and has nearly 100 ski lifts. Val D'Isere is one of the most famous ski resorts in the world, and the charming village dates from the 13th century. Tignes is more purpose built but is guaranteed snow, as it is located at 2,100m.

There are great facilities for the skier - and there is great nightlife guaranteed! It is estimated that there are nearly 70 bars, clubs and restaurants to select from! Use the free bus service to get around. The resort has all of the activities available for non-skiers such as sleigh rides, ice-skating, market stalls, and snowboarding parks.

3. Porters du Soleil Area

Widely regarded as one of the largest linked ski areas in the world, there are 14 resorts in this region and it covers the area from Switzerland's Lake Geneva to Mont Blanc in France. There is over 600km of high altitude skiing slope areas, so the serious skier is well accommodated for the sport. All levels of ski ability are catered for at this resort. There are generous opportunities here for snowboarders.

The Porters du Soleil Resorts are easy to access - it is situated less than two hours from Geneva Airport and is an excellent spot for a weekend ski break or for longer.

Some of the best ski resorts in this region include the French resorts of Avoriaz, Chatel, Les Gets and Morzine and Champéry in Switzerland. There is such character in these resorts - you get a combination of modern buildings and the aesthetic Savoy style villages and towns that have scenic chalet style houses and great charm.

For a family skiing holiday Avoriaz is a popular spot - families return year after year to this family oriented resort. The children will be enthralled with the winter wonderland atmosphere here. There is a fine sports centre with a bowling alley to keep the non-skiers entertained. The resort is north facing so snow is always guaranteed. The horse drawn sledge for transport in the local area is always a thrill. Great ski opportunities for beginners and experts alike are here.

Chatel and its neighbouring resort called La Chapelle are fine locations for skiing. The Super Chatel area is best for beginners and is linked across to Torgon and Champoussin over the Swiss border. Linga offers slopes for the more experienced skier.

Les Gets is popular if you are looking for a family skiing holiday. It has excellent facilities for children.

For an added thrill take a trip over the Franco-Swiss border to Champéry. The wonderful back drop of mountains and wood chalets make this village a picture postcard. The narrow streets add to the charm of the village. Perhaps not suited for beginners, Champéry has some wonderful ski slopes and runs, including the 'Swiss Wall'.

Hope you liked our guide to the most prominent ski resorts of France. If you are debating as to take a French ski holiday, remember that the very best way to travel with freedom and at your own pace is by hiring a value for money car rental. For the very best quality deals available check out our Car Hire France page.