Everything you need to know to plan a trip to the wintery slopes
From Hallmark looking towns to the snowy mountain ranges they are wrapped in, there are fewer destinations more picturesque (and popular) than ski resorts in the winter. If you are just wanting to enjoy the snow and do some sledding that is completely fine, but if it will be your first time hitting the slopes, here are a few things you need to prepare for, mentally and physically.
When does Ski season Start? Nov - through Early April
When should I plan my ski trip - As early as May of the year before
Getting There/Transportation:
Some ski towns have direct flights into them, and these resorts are generally more pricey. If there are no direct flights, be prepared to take a 2-4 hour drive through the mountains. This means windy roads with increases in elevation - aka, don’t forget the motion sickness pills.
If you are comfortable driving in the snow, feel free to rent a 4wd car, preferably with all terrain tires. If not, there are shuttles available to the ski towns from most airports.
Once there, if your lodging is not ski in/out, shuttle routes will be your best bet on how to get to the ski areas.
If you are wanting to go out around town, again, I would suggest the shuttles or Uber’s. Parking will be limited.
Lodging:
There are 2 types of lodging when it comes to these trips- ski in/out and not.
Ski in/out means you have direct access to the lifts and slopes from your doorstep. No need for the shuttles - just put on your boots, walk out the door, throw on the skis and slide down to the lifts. Easy peasy.
That being said, some ski in/out lodging is only accessible by intermediate or advanced terrain. Be sure to check this in advance.
Not ski in/out. This means the lodging could be a short drive to the ski area and not even on a shuttle route, or be closer to town and have access to the free shuttle.
Passes/Tickets:
You will need lift tickets. These can run you anywhere from $100-$300 per DAY per PERSON. If you are an avid skier, look into getting the Epic and Icon pass.
You will need to rent your equipment (if you do not own, obviously.) What experience level you have will determine which package you get. Also, you will decide if you are wanting to ski or snowboard. Pro tip - Don’t skip the helmet.
If this is your first time, PLEASE take lessons. And no, these are not combined with lift tickets. ***I cannot stress this one enough. Once it clicks in your brain that you will be sliding down ice on blades at 20-30mph plus, you will have wished you listened to someone on how to do it “properly.”
Packing:
You will need the right clothing and accessories, and this doesn’t mean cute scarves. For a full list on what to pack read our next blog, but waterproof and insulated pants, jackets and gloves to name a few.
Pack strategically. Winter clothes are bulky. Roll them.
Sunscreen, unless red is your color. Sun reflects off the snow making the UV stronger, and you are not stronger than the sun.
For the slopes, pack snacks to stay energized. Granola bars, cheese sticks, Fireball.
If you want to wear a camelbak or pack water for the runs, boil water to fill it up. The cold can, and will, freeze the water.
Pre-trip:
If you haven’t already, get in shape! Skiing/snowboarding takes a lot of energy and there are many challenges throughout the day so preparation is key. While the whole body is used there is an emphasis on the lower body muscles including the hip muscles, hamstrings, quads, calves and even muscles in the feet. And carrying your heavy equipment before/after will work your upper body. This makes that apres hot tub session earned (and needed!)
Especially for large groups, do your research on restaurants around the town and make reservations in advance. I have been known to make them 2-3 months prior.
Considering all of these elements, and contacting your ski travel expert (yours truly) should help make your winter wonderland escape run seamlessly. We can’t wait to create an unforgettable experience for you. See you on the slopes!
Hi there! I'm Mandy White, and I'm an expert at planning ski trips.
I know what it's like to be a ski trip newbie—you're overwhelmed with all the details and don't know where to start. But that's why I'm here: to help you through the whole process of getting ready for your ski trip in one easy step.
I'll take care of everything: booking your flights and hotels, making sure you have all the right gear, even recommending some great places to eat after a long day on the slopes. It's all about experience—you deserve it!
Mandy@travelnta.com