Ski Temperature
On your first ski lesson, you may have to spend a considerable amount of time standing still in the cold while you watch your instructor demonstrate a move. This can be a problem in many New England resorts, especially in Vermont. Many people find the temperatures at Northeastern resorts to be less tolerable than the same temperatures at Western resorts, because of the dampness. December, January and February tend to be particularly cold in New England. Conditions may be quite icy, which may make your first ski lesson a formidable challenge. If you can plan your first New England ski trip for early March, you may be more comfortable. If you are bringing young children on their first ski trip, these weather factors are even more important.
The resorts in Western Canada, such as Whistler/Blackcomb may get warmer temperatures, but frequent rain is a factor to be considered. However, here is some “inside information.” Usually, if it’s raining in the village, it may be snowing on the mountain. Many people will not ski when the rain falls, so the slopes may be less crowded.
In most cases, US Rocky Mountain resorts will have slightly warmer temperatures, softer snow, bluer skies, and less chance of rain. On the other hand, if you are susceptible to altitude sickness, resorts that are situated at 10,000 feet may pose a serious problem. Fortunately, there are precautions that can be taken. Most experts agree that staying well hydrated can ease the symptoms of mild altitude sickness. Avoiding beef and alcoholic for the first few days is also advised. If possible, spend a day or so at a lower altitude. For example, if you are going to Colorado, spend a day or so in Boulder or Denver. In Utah, you can spend some time exploring Salt Lake City. Keep in mind that there is less of a chance of altitude-induced insomnia if you sleep at a slightly lower altitude. For this reason, you might reconsider the idea of booking a hotel room that is located at the mountain.
While weather conditions, costs and altitude are definitely important, there is one factor whose importance trumps all others: Is the resort suitable for beginner skiers? Let’s take a look at the resorts that have earned a respectable reputation for being “beginner friendly.”
The Best Resorts for New Skiers
Being a former New England and current Colorado skier, I have experienced many of the various ski schools in North America. Since I have many “cyber ski friends” throughout the US, Europe and Canada, I was curious about their opinion on the best places to take a new skier. The next section is a result of that informal survey. The opinions are those of real live skiers, not of advertising agencies.
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