Colorado SkiingMy first experience with Colorado skiing was during my first year of relocating to the state. I’ve never been a super-athletic person; never played sports growing up or anything like that, but I do like to ski. For me, it’s an easy way to see the mountains without having to climb them! One thing I quickly realized was just how many Colorado Ski Areas there are out here.I remember feeling frustrated my first and second time skiing, but saw significant improvement with my third trip. It actually surprised me. I remember not knowing what to expect when getting there.  The whole setup of a ski resort is entertaining in itself with shops, places to eat, and beautiful scenery. This was especially comforting since I tired so fast in the beginning. It seemed like my stomach was growling every half hour, so having a nice place to take a break was good news to me.A lot of first-timers choose to take get-started lessons taught by an instructor at the ski resort. Luckily, I went with a friend who could give me some basic instruction. I got by okay with just that. I think a class would be good if the majority of your group has never been, and certainly in the case where everyone is "beginner skiing." I bought all my ski gear before my first trip, going on the assumption that I would love skiing. For those of you who don’t plan on making that plunge, don’t worry there will be rental shops all over the place. Renting outside of a resort is usually cheaper. At these shops you don’t need to know anything about what you need. Just tell them it’s your first time and they’ll get you ready. Other than my gear, I bring my iPod, cell phone, money, water, and some easy to pack snacks. That’s all I’ve ever needed. If traveling with seniors or anyone who doesn't want to try skiing, one thing to keep in mind is that anyone is free to stay the entire day at the base of the mountain and anywhere on the resort’s property. All the people I saw who weren't skiing appeared to be having a great time just watching their friend, family and even strangers make their way down the slopes. So, just because your grandparents don’t want to go and your brother broke his ankle does not mean that a ski day wouldn’t be fun for everyone. I like to ski in Winter Park because I got familiar with the town and even got to be friendly with employees at certain establishments. It was nice to rent a room at the same lodge every time. So far I’ve been to Arapahoe Basin (AKA “A Basin”), Copper Mountain, Winter Park, Breckenridge, Vail and Beaver Creek. They all have their merits and I have never been to a Colorado ski resort I didn't like. New! CommentsHave your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below. |
