Catching the ski fever
Toolbox
By JENNY NIXON CARTER Correspondent - Published: January 18, 2009
With snow conditions this perfect, it is hard not to catch ski fever.
Thankfully, nestled along the spine of the great Green Mountains, the Rutland region has plenty of what the doctor ordered. Whether you are into alpine, telemark or snowboarding, or wishing to get started with one of these activities, the Rutland region has plenty of options that can cure (or feed) your fever.
Killington Resort is a stone's throw east of Rutland's downtown. The mountain is home to 191 trails and provides skiers and riders of all ability levels a choice of wide cruisers, narrow runs, moguls and plenty of trees. The terrain parks at Bear Mountain offer snow enthusiasts multiple features and a nice super-pipe with 18-foot walls.
This season, Killington is offering a Vermonter special. Present a valid Vermont state identification on Tuesdays and Wednesdays this season (with some exceptions) and receive a discounted day ski pass.
Okemo Mountain, just to the southeast in Ludlow, also offers another opportunity to hit the slopes. With all of this great snow, most of Okemo's trails are open and there is a little something for everyone. Groomers, moguls, glades and terrain parks are all part of the package at Okemo.
My family has found that the magic carpet ski lift at Okemo is especially handy if you are skiing with little ones. The moving walkway provides a safe way for a child to get up the hill without a chairlift or doing the duck walk. It also allows your budding ski bums some independence as they learn to navigate the slopes.
Okemo has some clever specials and online deals that you should be sure to check out on their Web site. These include specials for members of the military, "Ladies" days and steep discounts on select days. Kids 6 and under ski or ride for free at Okemo.
Perhaps one of the best-kept secrets within close proximity to Rutland is the Middlebury Snow Bowl.
Just east of Ripton, the snow bowl is smaller but has plenty of terrain. One hundred and ten acres of open terrain are available, with trails and glades serving all abilities.
All the trails at the Snow Bowl feed into one lodge, making it easy to ski separately, then to meet up for hot chocolate. An added bonus is that the ticket prices are a bit easier on the pocketbook. And be sure to check out their mid-week and half-day rates.
If you don't already ski, don't let that stop you. Each of these mountains offers package deals that include the price of rental, lesson and lift ticket that may be right for you.
As always, local trail conditions vary with weather and use. You should always be aware of changing conditions and dress appropriately. Always ski safely and with courtesy and respect for others on the mountain to ensure that everyone has a good time.
I'm not suggesting that you call in sick this week. But you should be sure to carve out some time to enjoy these perfect winter conditions. If you do, I'll see you on the slopes.
(Jenny Nixon Carter is the executive director of the Rutland Physical Activity Coalition. For more information on the coalition, visit www.rapac.info)
49