Hitting the slopes
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Can’t afford Aspen? Join the club. You don’t have to head west for a great ski vacation. Take a look at a mountain near you for the best snow adventures this winter.
Snowboarding at Sugar
Wisp Resort, McHenry, MD
Just three hours from D.C., Wisp and its 132 acres of ski terrain is a family fun zone. If you’re not catching enough air on the slopes, grab a $10 pass for the Mountain Coaster, a hybrid between a roller coaster and a big slide.
When to go: Grab your girlfriends and sign up for a Ladies Snowboard Camp (Jan. 5-7, Feb. 2-4, Mar. 2-4). Beginners and experienced shredders will both have something to learn at the two-day camp that offers daily clinics, yoga, board tune-ups and lots of slope time ($299).
For more info: wispresort.com, 301.387.4911
Snowshoe Mountain, Snowshoe, WV
With some of the best snow conditions in the region, Snowshoe has something for everyone including guided snowmobile tours, plenty of shopping and The Tuscan Sun Spa (you’ll need a massage after a day of falling…er skiing). But whatever you do, don’t miss the Backcountry Hut for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. This restaurant only seats 18 hungry skiers, so make your reservations early. You’ll get snow transportation to and from the hut and a Hutmaster will wait on you hand and foot.
When to go: In March for the Burton Women’s Camp. This two-day event has a max capacity of 30 women, so get your spot now.
For more info: snowshoemtn.com
The Homestead, Hot Springs, VA
One of America’s most historic resorts, The Homestead has been entertaining guests since 1766. If the nine ski trails aren’t enough to keep you busy, you can take a few laps on the Olympic-size skating rink. If you want things to get steamy on your vacation, take your sweetie to the resort’s on-site natural hot springs. Remember—what happens in the hot springs, stays in the hot springs.
When to go: All winter season, the resort offers a recession-proof Ski Free package. Just book your rooms for $199 per night, per room and hit the slopes for nada.
For more info: thehomestead.com, 540.839.1766
Wintergreen Resort, Wintergreen, VA
Located on the Eastern slope of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Wintergreen is 11,000 acres of bustling activity. Want to get away from it all? Head to the top of the range to the resort’s Wintergarden spa and take a dip in their heated indoor pool, or detoxify in a steam room.
When to go: February 19-21 for the Women’s Head Ski/Ride clinic—a weekend workshop directed by world champion big mountain freeskier Alison Gannett.
For more info: wintergreenresort.com, 800.266.2444
Sugar Mountain Resort, Avery County, NC
North Carolina’s largest ski resort, Sugar boasts 115 skiable acres and a vertical drop of 1,200 ft. Consider yourself a ski professional? Don’t miss a run down Whoopdedoo, North Carolina’s only double black diamond slope.
When to go: During SugarFest (Dec. 12 & 13), replete with a snowball-eating contest, ice skating lessons and fireworks.
For more info: skisugar.com, 828.898.4521
Beech Mountain Resort, Beech Mountain, NC
Considered the highest ski area on the East Coast with a peak elevation of 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is a tiny picturesque resort town full of charm and, of course, snow-capped slopes. After a day of skiing, head to nearby Boone for a full southern-style meal at the Daniel Boone Inn and stop by the Mast General Store, an old-fashioned general store with barrels of nostalgic candy to boost your energy for day two on the slopes.
When to go: Thursdays are Ladies’ Days, where women can cop Day or Twilight ski passes for just $20.
For more info: skibeech.com, 800.438.2093
New to skiing? Yvonne Kidd, creator of skilikeawoman.com, offers up some solid advice.
1. Find a resort that matches your ABILITY.
Look for a resort with a beginner area that’s separate from intermediate and expert terrain. Also, wide beginner slopes are great for giving you confidence and the “feel” of skiing.
2. Get fit for skiing.
If you’re not exercising regularly, try to start six weeks before you ski. This will help you to improve your stamina and avoid suffering from aches and pains.
3. Dress for the weather.
It can be very cold but you need to be comfortable. Wear several thin layers instead of one thick layer. Only wear one pair of socks!
4. Wear sunscreen.
There’s lots to remember when you’re on the slopes so put sunscreen (factor 30+) on your face and lips before you go out in the morning. It’s possible to get sunburnt even on a cloudy day.
5. You may fall over.
Try to relax and accept that falling is part of learning a new skill.
6. Rent your equipment.
Borrow clothing if you can, but never borrow someone else’s boots! Try to visit the rental store the day before you start skiing—there’s more time to find the right equipment for you. Boots must fit properly and you may need to try on several pairs.
7. Take a lesson from a professional.
Ski school is the best way to start. You’ll learn good habits from someone who is professionally trained to teach skiing.
8. Drink plenty of water.
You’ll be using lots of energy so remember to keep hydrated. Take water with you and drink more at high altitude resorts.
9. Enjoy the experience.
It’s not all about being active—take time to breathe in the mountain air and enjoy the view!