The Spring of 2010 will be remembered in Mammoth as one of the best in years. There have been several large pacific storms that have DUMPED mountains of snow on Mammoth. At the end of April, the base is 9 to 13 feet. We will be skiing well into May! Enjoy a weekend trip to Mammoth. It's easy to get to the Mammoth Lakes area. With recent improvements on highway 395 it is only a four to five hour drive from the greater Los Angeles area. If you drive from LA, a good tip is to stop in Mojave and again in Lone Pine. This will break up the trip into thirds. Mojave has numerous gas stations and fast food joints. There are some good dining options in Lone Pine. My personal favorite is the Alabama Hills Cafe & Bakery. They offer great tasting food, good service, large portions in a down-home setting. It's a great place to take a break on the drive from Los Angeles to Mammoth Lakes.

Photo Credit: jrm353

What recession? Ski resorts continue to prosper amidst the rocky economic climate of recent years, according to IbisWorld research. It seems that the only climate concern of avid ski lovers is how many inches of snowfall have recently graced their Rocky Mountains! IbisWorld data reported by the New York Times states:

"Even in 2009, as most industries were in a recessionary trough, ski resort revenue rose 2.3 percent from the year before, IbisWorld says. Revenue for 2010 is forecast to rise almost 6 percent, to $2.72 billion."

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Those who traveled to the Vancouver Winter Olympics this week were horrified to hear that Georgian Luger Nodar Kumaritsashvili died today in a horrific crash during time trials. TotalProSports.com reported that Norar came around one of the bends when his luge flung him off the track, sending him somersaulting through the air and ultimately, into a steel pillar on the other side. After repeated CPR attempts, Nodar was airlifted by helicopter off the course, and later pronounced dead. He was 21-years old and competing in his first Olympics.

The last time an athlete died during the course of the games was in 1964 when both an Australian skier and a British luger were involved in fatal accidents. We wish the rest of the athletes a safe competition and our hearts and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Kumaritsashvili with this tragic death at the Vancouver Winter Olympics.

Oh no, according to Punxsutawney Phil we'll have 6 more weeks of winter. Guess we wont be putting our skiis away just yet as it's time to extend your winter vacation plan.

According to CNN: Phil emerged from his ceremonial tree stump at Gobbler’s Knob, Pennsylvania, to a cheering crowd that had waited in the cold for his annual prediction. It is the 99th time that Phil — in his various incarnations — has seen his shadow, according to groundhog.org, the official Web site of the groundhog club in Punxsutawney, about 75 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, in western Pennsylvania.

Well grab your skiis, poles and boots and head up to the mountins.  For logding ideas visit these pages: Mammoth Rentals, Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals, Park City Vacation Rentals or Aspen Condos to name a few.

Photo Credit: kevindooley

California winter vacation options are as varied as the state itself.  Most people think of California as a great destination for the summer, but the state has plenty to offer winter guests.  There is so much to do during the winter months that everyone from locals to groups that only come during the warm months will feel like they are experiencing a brand new state.  The two main attractions during the California winter months are the ski scene and the relaxing landscapes of the deserts.

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Photo Credit: DennyMont

Your next trip to Big Bear Mountain just got a little sweeter with the upcoming events surrounding the Snowshoe the Bear race in the valley. Starting on February 6th, 2010 right at the foot of the snowy peaks will be a plethora of exciting and challenging races and events for all ages and abilities with the 3rd annual Snowshoe the Bear. Whether you are a snowshoe marathon runner or just a curious beginner looking to try your luck , there is an activity for your skill level.

Reserve your snowshoes before hand to get in on events such as: the 5k and 10k snowshoe race, the kid's race, plenty of live entertainment, and exhibit booths featuring local artists and cuisine. 5 and 10k may sound like a long way, but beginners are highly encouraged to sign up for this easy-to-do sport. Post race activities don't end without plenty of free sponsor giveaways from your favorite local and national sponsors.

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Photo Credit: beautifulcataya

Since the recent arrest of Charlie Sheen at this infamous "rich and famous" hot spot, good clean family fun has been present with recent Aspen celebrity sightings. Victoria's Secret model Heidi Klum and singer Seal husband spend a day of skating and relaxing at a local Aspen area ice rink. All three kids that were present, Helene, Henry, and Johan all seemed to be taking a lesson from mommy as they tested the ice and had a few trial runs before getting the hang of it.

Daddy Seal seemed to be less interested (or maybe not comfortable?) with the ice as he stood aside and watched his wife and kids enjoy the winter sport while jamming out to some tunes on his media phone. Other families can be seen in the background skating and stumbling as if they have no idea who is there. With the full body snow suits and snow hats that the kids were wearing and anything but revealing large white sweater that adorned Heidi, it was easy to assume they were just another family having some holiday fun.

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If you are a serious athlete, this yearly Olympic spin-off activity may just make you laugh. This fun and carefree tradition of the Breckenridge area is all part of the week long celebration of the Norse god of snow, Ullr.

Co-ed teams will be selected to compete for the grand prizes which will be awarded to the three top teams of the day. The events consist of the retro ski relay, the group ski race, and the frying pan toss. Teams of four will be chosen for the evening events. An after party will be assembled at the end of the games to celebrate the snow, fun, and of course the winners! A to be decided Breckenridge pub will be selected as the gathering spot for the Ullympics after party.

Join other resort and local men and women for this event and break the ice (literally) with a great way to meet new friends, and spend quality time with old ones. This event starts on January 13th, 2010, and will last from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Come out to Carter Park, Lincoln Street, Breckenridge, CO, 80424 for a day of wintery fun! Participation is free for all who enter into the Ullympics.

Photo Credit: Nathan Y

Idaho ski vacationing has always been popular but there has never been a better time to hit the slopes than now.  There are a ton of great places to stay and really something available for every need and budget.  The state also boasts two of the most popular ski mountains in the country.

Brundage Mountain, is by far one of the most popular mountains in the state.  Recently expanded in 2007, Brundage has some of the most talked about slopes in the country.  From challenging expert runs, to beginner slopes there is something for everyone here.  You can also take a tour on their huge all terrain Snow Cats.  The mountain is also fully outfitted with different kinds of restaurants like the Bear’s Den and the Bird’s nest.

Bald Mountain, in the Sawtooth range is also another favorite.  Boasting over 2,000 acres of fresh power ski runs, this is a skiers’ paradise. Guests can also test their athleticism in one of the multiple bowls featured on the mountain.  Broadwayface Bowl is great for beginners and riders looking for a challenge can try Little Easter Bowl.  There is also an expertly designed half pipe, custom built for hardcore snowboarders.  And new for the 2009-2010 ski season, the Round House Gondola will now whisk skiers up faster than before and allow them access to areas of the mountain that were nearly unreachable before.  Bald Mountain is truly the gem of the Sawtooth range.

In order to enjoy all this amazing mountain action, you’re going to need a place to stay.  There are a number of great lodging options to choose from.  For large groups, rentals or lodges are the way to go.  For smaller groups, couples and singles you’ll want to investigate hotels and motels.  Here are some of the best in each group.

Idaho Vacation Rentals

Grand Targhee Resort Vacation Rentals
Driggs, ID

A beautifully rustic resort, Grand Targhee is clearly one of the top vacation rentals in Idaho.  Positioned only eight miles away from the legendary Grand Teton Mountains, this rental property offers all the comforts of home.  Guests have the option of choosing units in size up to three bedrooms.  Vacationers will be in the heart of the action as ski lifts and great slopes are just a quick walk or speedy shuttle ride away. For large groups who need a lot of space or couples who want to relax with plenty of space, Grand Targhee is perfect for anyone.

The Ridge by ResortQuest
Sun Valley, ID

Charming and cozy, these split level rentals have all the perks of home.  Guests will be enchanted with by the beautiful stone floors and polished wood beams that adorn the entryways of every unit here.  Units come stocked with full kitchens as well private decks and barbeque grills.  The head of the house will also get to enjoy a full master bedroom complete with a massive hot tub.  You’ll also be near by the historic Sun Valley downtown, a city that’s been attracting visitors since the 1800’s!  Enjoy a laid back atmosphere in plush accommodations at The Ridge.

Christophe by ResortQuest
Ketchum, ID

Perfect anytime of year, Christophe caters to every need its guests my have.  Oversized tubs with heated jets are in every single room.  Full kitchens are available in every room as well, making it possible for full, home-style meals to be cooked every night.  The complex itself also features a Laundromat, hot tub and plenty of parking.  And if its not too cold outside, guests can enjoy the sparkling blue swimming pool.  If guests are able to pull themselves away from this fantastic rental, they’ll only be moments away from great ski slopes or scenic bike trails.

Idaho Hotels and Motels

Best Western Kentwood Lodge
180 South Main Street, Ketchum ID

This beautifully designed mountain hotel will surely charm visitors.  With some of the best views in Idaho, Best Western Kentwood Lodge puts you right in the middle of your own outdoor adventure.  The staff is always extremely accommodating and exceedingly professional.  The hotel itself features everything from a business center, to a sparkling blue swimming pool, to a fitness center and even an onsite restaurant.

Lift Tower Lodge
703 Main Street, Ketchum ID

One of the last original ski lodges in Idaho, Lift Tower is simply the best.  For over fifty years Lift Tower has been attracting guests and providing the ultimate in ski lodge vacationing.  Newly remodeled in 2006, guests will love the fusion of modern chic design and classic 50’s architecture.  Located only a quarter mile from Bald Mountain, Lift Tower Lodge is a skier’s paradise.

Clarion Inn of Sun Valley
600 N. Main St., Ketchum ID

Right in the middle of downtown Ketchum, the Clarion Inn of Sun Valley is one of the most modern hotels in Idaho.  Recently updated to include an all new bistro and bar, this hotel caters to every need its guests may have.  Vacationers can enjoy the hotel’s fitness center as well as a refreshing swimming pool and business center.  When it comes to big city accommodations in the middle of the Wild West, Clarion Inn is the way to go.

Sun Valley Inn
Sun Valley Rd., Sun Valley, ID 83353

This cozy little inn keeps visitors coming back year after year.  Not only are the rooms up to date and full of charm, the inn itself is centrally located and offers free shuttle rides to the slopes.  The beautiful town of Ketchum is just a short walk away and will delight visitors with its quaint shops and inviting restaurants.  The staff at the Sun Valley Inn is always helpful and always warm and friendly.  Guests can also enjoy the inn’s swimming pool, business center, and fitness center.

Cottonwood
333 South Main St, Ketchum, ID 83340

Located conveniently by Ketchum’s fantastic art galleries, Cottonwood is the perfect way to relax on your vacation.  The cozy rooms are incredibly inviting and guests will love the personal touches found in the unique décor.  Start your day with some treadmill time in the fitness center or a quick dip in the sparkling pool.  Catch a shuttle bus to the slopes or go explore the quaint town of Ketchum, there you’ll find art galleries, shops, and fine dining.

Idaho has so much to offer that the hardest thing you’ll have to do is decide what you want to do.  From world class ski runs to fine dining and all kinds of outdoor adventures you can’t go wrong with an Idaho ski vacation.

Photo Credit: Djof

Photo Credit: Keith Barlow

New York Winter Vacations are a holiday tradition for many families and individuals. Whether its the charm of the Rockafeller christmas tree, the city alight with millions of multicolored festive leds, or the endless activities offered through the day or night, New York is the prime place for a snowy adventure. The problem that most people get hung up on, and one thing that prevents certain people from taking these big city winter vacations are the crowds.

If you can get over the NYC holiday crowds, you can survive just about anything. Here are a couple of pointers that may make your life a little bit easier, or even your agoraphobic (that's fear of crowds) brother to tag along this year:

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