Backcountry Solitude - Hut-to-Hut Skiing as Alternative to Traditional Ski Resorts

by Meagan Boltwood

Soften the Blow of Ski Resorts with a Network of Hidden Huts

Dedicated downhill racers around the country have moved their skis from the basement to the garage, ready to hit the slopes at the first sign of flurries. But--if you're one of them--before you load up that roof rack, you may want to consider which slopes you hit.

This year, why not forsake the usual runs and escape into the backcountry, where hut-to-hut skiing provides a welcome alternative to the slickly groomed environment of the downhill rat race. Trails range from beginning to advanced in both length and difficulty, so you can easily find the route that's right for you. And you can choose your own mode of transportation, too: Snowshoes, as well as alpine and cross-country skis, can transport you from the trail head to the rustic comfort of an isolated hut.

The hut-to-hut system was born in Scandinavia (also the birthplace of nordic skiing) in 1868 with the creation of the first Norwegian huts. Ranging from lavish (sauna and showers) to spartan (a bed), these huts were used mainly by mountaineers, skiers and trekkers. The first hut in the United States was built in the Appalachian Mountains of New Hampshire in 1888. Numerous other hut systems were later established and they continue to be used by both scientists and skiers. As stories of hut experiences began to travel, the concept spread to Utah, Alaska, Washington, British Columbia and Colorado.

Escaping the Crowd

On the trail of your choice, you'll meet (a very few) fellow refugees and deepen your understanding and appreciation for the quietude of a winterized landscape. As you adjust to life without the drone of modem connections or fax machines, the weight of your pack will become a welcome replacement for societal responsibilities.

And you can reap these benefits without experiencing the guilt that should dog any conscious alpine skier. Crowded downhill slopes contribute to parking shortages, overbooked lodges and endless lift lines that spur the hefty expansion and development of ski resorts--ultimately trading away forested land for a synthetic snow machine.

By contrast, hut-to-hut skiing has a relatively low impact on the natural world. The land and its surrounding vegetation are insulated and protected by a layer of snow. Most of the animals are safely tucked into their winter dens or have descended to a lower elevation until spring. Even the trails disappear with the first thaw, leaving little evidence of backcountry use.

There is some conflict surrounding the building of huts in the backcountry. Dottie Fox, chair of the Aspen Wilderness Workshop, worries that the existence of buildings might tempt snowmobilers to cross into the wilderness boundary. "I love the huts, but the backcountry is a fragile ecosystem. And when people have easy access to it, it leads to abuse of the backcountry," she says.

Elizabeth Boyles, founding member of the Tenth Mountain Division Hut Association (TMDHA), argues that huts actually help preserve the backcountry. "These simple dwellings can teach us to get by with less of the world's resources--and have fun in the process," she says. "People who love and travel the wilderness will help to protect it. The huts only help with this."

Although there are concerns about overuse, a strict monitoring system controls access to the increasingly popular huts. Reservations, including a fee that varies according to the state and hut system, are required for each hut, which remains locked until the skier arrives with the combination. Each has its own set of regulations, outlining minimum impact solutions to backcountry travel as well as the need to respect other skiers and the landscape. TMDHA huts even have sun-powered lights, water collection systems and wood heat.

Like all backcountry trips, hut-to-hut skiing requires a solid amount of knowledge and planning. The Hut Handbook by Leigh Girvin Yule and Scott Toepfer is an essential for your pack. And if you don't already bring with you avalanche awareness, map reading and wilderness medicine skills, there are plenty of guides who would love to show you the slopes.

This winter, as the faithful masses shuffle their way closer and closer to the circling lifts, you could be working your way across a nameless patch of snow. Each pole planted into untracked powder will draw nearer that distinct backcountry moment, which turns society into the unknown and the wild into the familiar. CONTACT: Adirondack Mountain Club, Lake Placid, NY, (518)899-2725; Colorado Mountain Club, Golden, CO, (303)279-3080; La Sal Huts, Moab, UT, (800)453-3292; Tenth Division Mountain Hut Association, Aspen, CO, (970)925-5775.

MEAGAN BOLTWOOD skis Montana's hidden slopes when she's between graduate classes at the University of Montana

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Introduction to Northwest Winter Sports

 Alaska , which is often considered as America's last frontier, is a place of adventure and excitement. Commonly thought of as a dark State, Alaska experiences 6-13 hours of daylight - giving you the opportunity to experience its wildlife and ski along its ski trails. Most ski resorts in this state suits all varieties of skiing, and has snowboarding areas. Ski and snowboard resorts are generally found in Alaska's interior and southwest regions. Mt. McKinley, the continent's highest peak, can also be found in the interior region of Alaska. Riding opportunities are available from October through April.

Idaho is the home of Sun Valley Ski Resort, America's first destination which was created in 1936. Idaho is endowed with some of the West's driest powder, 16,000 acres of downhill areas, perfectly groomed runs and scenic beauty. These characteristics will surely draw both snowboarders and skiers to visit the place, regardless of their skill level. The State has 46 Nordic ski areas that offer a lot of room to glide. Many of the state's ski resorts come with parks and pipes. If you are seeking some thrill, Idaho is definitely a place to go.

Montana is known for its huge mountains that are covered with snow, making it ideal for snowboarding and skiing. Montana ski resorts offer uncrowded slopes, 14,000+ acres that suits both skiing and snowboarding, 548 runs, and great scenery. It also has thousands of acres of land that suits cross-country skiing. Montana ski resorts have a total of 65 lifts that can move up to 72,000 people per hour. Ski season in this state can last from November to March.

 Oregon 's mountains and climate makes it suitable for skiing and snowboarding. The state is endowed with natural beauty which has been preserved for all to experience and enjoy. The high mountain passes of the Oregon Cascades, scenic landscape, and snowfall are great treats for beginner and expert snowboarders and skiers alike. Bordering the State of Washington and adjacent to Portland, Columbia-Gorge-Mountain offers many of the adventure activities, including downhill skiing.

Washington receives more than 500 inches of snowfall each year which is highly suitable for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Most downhill ski areas can be found in the Cascade mountain range. This mountain range also offers heli-skiing, impressive vertical drops, and generous snowfall. In the East of the Cascades, skiers carve through fluffier powder of the drier eastern region.

Alberta 's geographical areas are composed of prairies, parkland (mixed forest and plains), forests, and mountain regions. It offers a huge selection of groomed and ungroomed trails all over the provinces for cross-country skiing. You can also choose from urban river trails to out-of-the-way trails in the provincial parks. Alberta also takes pride of its light, dry powder snow which is perfect for snowboarding and skiing.

British Columbia 's Rockies are filled with alpine destinations for you to enjoy this winter. This Canadian Region has ski and snowboard areas that meet international standards. You can also find small resorts and back road ski areas that offer quality service as well. Community cross-country ski areas can also be found throughout the region, providing trails for every skill level. British Columbia also has heli-skiing terrains that offers challenging alternative for those who are looking for a different kind of adventure. Snowboarding is also popular, especially in the North Shore where each mountain has its own snowboard park.

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Moonlit Slopes – Montana’s Newest Resort Offers Fresh Terrain For A Friendly Price

This winter, follow the paved road up into the Gallatin Range of the Rocky Mountains, past the venerable Big Sky Resort's condo villages, and into the stands of Douglas fir. Just when you think you're lost, you'll come to the newest of Montana's 16 ski areas: Moonlight Basin.

Located on 11,166-foot Lone Mountain's north side, the ski area is small and friendly, and the views of southwestern Montana from the 8,000-foot elevation of Lone Tree lift are expansive: the Gallatin and Tobacco Root mountains, Madison Valley, and Gallatin Canyon. This winter, the year-old resort has added 25 more runs and a quad chairlift, bringing the mountain to a total of 76 runs and five chairlifts. With an annual snowfall of 400 inches, a vertical drop of 2,070 feet, and 2,000 acres of terrain ranging from open, beginner-level slopes to tree-lined expert runs, the cost of a lift ticket--$40 a day--is reasonable.

For a tasty lunch that's easy on the pocketbook, grab a Reuben or the Mighty Quinn sandwich of cheese and cold cuts at the resort's slopeside Timbers deli ($). After skiing, warm up with hot toddies in the log lodge, cozy with its Persian rugs, overstuffed chairs, slope-facing windows, and 175-ton stone fireplace.

For dinner, try the buffalo tenderloin or honey and mirin-lacquered duck at elegant Timbers Restaurant ($$$$; 406/995-7777). Accommodations (from $218) range from small log cabins complete with whirlpool baths to elegant, leather-floored penthouse suites.

Moonlight's variety of new ski terrain nicely complements the much bigger ski area at nearby Big Sky Resort (www.bigskyresort.com or 800/548-4486)--sunny, wide-open slopes with 18 lifts and a vertical drop of 4,350 feet.

INFO: Moonlight Basin (www.moonlightbasin.com, 866/212-0612, or 406/993-6000) is about 45 miles southwest of Bozeman via State 64. For travel information, contact the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce (www.bigskychamber.com or 800/943-4111).

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Sun Valley - This Classic Winter Resort, Snuggled Into Idaho's Rockies, Offers A Good Time All Year

SUN VALLEY IS A NAME TO CONJURE WITH. Who hasn't heard of this resort Valhalla opened in 1936 and nestled in the Northern Rockies region of south-central Idaho. The pet project of Union Pacific Railroad chairman Averell Harriman (a governor, ambassador, and diplomat in later years), Sun Valley Resort--built to resemble an Austrian mountain ski village--was to offer a "roughing it in luxury" experience to all its guests. It managed that with great aplomb and still does today.

Sun Valley also has the distinction of being America's first destination ski resort; it boasts the country's first ski school; and it invented the world's first chairlift. Quite a heady list of claims to fame, yet there is a sense of refined style here, and a timeless appeal that keeps it on top of so many resort "best" lists.

Still and always a winter sports mecca, Sun Valley has, in recent years, developed into a glorious summer resort destination as well.

Though there are a number of top-drawer cottages and condominiums dotting the resort grounds, as well as the charming Tyrolean-style Sun Valley Inn (the entire inn was expanded and remodeled recently), it's that grande dame of resort hostelries--the Sun Valley Lodge--that holds pride of place. All its just-renovated 148 guest rooms still feature their trademark French country-style furnishings and marble bathrooms. and there's a visible patina of history gracing the oak-paneled walls of the public rooms.

The lodge's lobby, with plush "handmade carpets displaying Idaho's wild-flowers and often warmed by a crackling fire, sports a fleet of black-and-white photos of the "glitterati on skis" who vacationed here in the past, including Mary Pickford, Gary Cooper, Lucille Ball, and Marilyn Monroe. Polished silver cups, trophies, and treasured mementos of the lodge's history decorate cozy nooks and alcoves.

Ernest Hemingway wrote For Whom the Bell Tolls in room 206. (He eventually moved to the Sun Valley area, built a home, and is buried in nearby Ketchum cemetery.) The lodge appeared in 19 movies, including the classic Sonja Henie ice-skating extravaganza Sun Valley Serenade, produced in 1941 and shown continuously on a TV channel in guest rooms. In the Lodge Dining Room, the elegance of an earlier era is evident in the white-glove service and romantic dancing to live music.

The adjacent outdoor ice rink hosts Shows--in summer--starring such Olympic talents as Sasha Cohen, Alexei Yagudin, Surya Bonaly, and Jamie Sale and David Pelletier. Open daily year-round, the rink is a prime place in winter for visitors to lace up skates and glide along while fat white flakes trickle down.

The area boasts 250 days of annual sunshine, so winter gets its share of golden light as 150 to 200 inches of snow fall on the resort's two prime downhill ski mountains. Bald Mountain, at 9,150 feet, is the big time, with 3,400 vertical feet and 64 runs. Dollar Mountain (6,638 feet) provides a leisurely set of slopes just right for beginners.

But there's so much more to a Sun Valley Resort winter experience. How about Nordic ski touring from hut to hut in the rugged reaches of the surrounding mountains. Other adventures include dog sledding through the pristine wilderness; winter fly-fishing (really) for hardy rainbow trout in the Big Wood River; paragliding off Bald Mountain (fondly known as "Baldy"); snowmobiling over groomed and ungroomed trails in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area; and--if you choose a slower and more peaceful mode of locomotion--snowshoeing over pre-packed trails with a Forest Service ranger.

Dinner Sleigh Rides to an old historic hunting lodge are popular as are Full Moon/Stargazing Dinners at Galena Lodge, a day lodge located some 25 miles north of Sun Valley, where four-course, family-style meals are accompanied--on nights with a full moon--by skiing before and after dinner. Guests can also stargaze, with the aid of a telescope, into an infinite black velvet and diamond-studded sky with a visiting astronomer at their elbow.

The attractive and swank little town of Ketchum, a mile from the resort, hosts once-a-month evening Gallery Walks exposing visitors to the many fine arts and crafts emporiums in town. Wine and hors d'oeuvres are usually served.

But summer in Sun Valley is fast catching up to the popularity of the winter months. Outdoor activities rank high on due list of things to do, as is the case during snow season. After all, the American Alps, as the Idaho Rockies are often called, are all around you, itching to be enjoyed.

Llama trekking offers a quirky adventure and takes the load off your back, as these sturdy, long-lashed South American critters carry your gear and a picnic lunch during a day hike in the glorious Idaho mountains.

A drive north along the Sawtooth Scenic Byway to the funky, tiny town of Stanley--once a thriving mining community--brings you to the fabled Salmon River, where a number of river-running companies are based. A gentle float trip or a more rock-and-roll whitewater ratting expedition gives you another opportunity to drink in the stunning scenery of the Sawtooth and White Cloud mountain ranges.

Streams and alpine lakes provide plenty of chances to catch wily, wild trout; fly-fishing guides and clinics abound. An endless number of backcountry trails proves popular with mountain bikers (you can rent bicycles at a shop near Sun Valley Lodge), and there are numerous facilities to accommodate skeet shooting, horseback riding, tennis, and golf.

Nature is at her most abundant in summer, and what could be more entrancing than a wildflower tour with the Environmental Resource Center folk. If you just want to kick back and savor the view, the Bald Mountain chairlift gently transports you to its cloud-kissed summit.

Those summer ice shows back at Sun Valley Lodge are always packed to the gills with visitors and locals alike who come early to tuck into the lavish buffet dinner on the terrace before the spectacular ice skating revue begins.

The warm summer months also lure guests to Ketchum to revel in a host of good restaurants, art galleries, and one-of-a-kind shops.

Be aware that music, theater, art, and nature happily coexist, indeed thrive, in Sun Valley. This past summer, in venues all over the valley, you could listen to the Robert Cray Band, the Allman Brothers Band, Harry Connick Jr., Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and the Sun Valley Opera's "From the Met to Broadway" series featuring mezzo soprano Paula Rasmussen, tenor Fabio Andreotti, and baritone Don Sherrill.

And Sun Valley is no slouch when it comes to annual festivals. The Sun Valley Center Wine Auction in late July features wine tastings, dinners, dancing, champagne receptions, a picnic, and of course, a wine auction.

In mid-August, the venerable Sun Valley Center Arts & Crafts Festival showcases more than 130 artists. The fest's juried art show is considered among the top 100 in America.

Everyone's favorite, Wagon Days, has been held Labor Day weekend lot 46 years. The highlight is the appearance of the "Big Hitch." As it creaks and rambles through the streets of Ketchum, some 15,000 visitors strain to view this amazing string of massive wagons--each 16 feet long, 15 feet high, and weighing 6,400 pounds. Used over 100 years ago to haul ore from mountain mines, the mighty behemoths are pulled by 16 mules.

Summer or winter, Sun Valley Resort only seems to get better and better.

FAST FACTS

NAME: Sun Valley Resort

LOCATION: Sun Valley, Idaho

OWNER/OPERATOR: Privately owned and operated by the R. Earl Holding family

ACCOMMODATIONS: The Sun Valley Resort sleeps 1,200 in 503 rooms--148 in Sun Valley Lodge: 106 in Sun Valley Inn: and 249 in apartments, cottages, and condominiums.

FACILITIES AND SERVICES: Three heated outdoor pools, Jacuzzi, children's pool, day spa and full-service spa, outdoor and indoor ice-skating rinks, 13 restaurants including those in six mountain lodges, five bars, 12 shops in the Sun Valley Village, first-run movies shown nightly at the village's Opera House, 18-hole Sun Valley Golf Course, 18 tennis courts, gun club, horseback riding, chairlift rides, fly fishing, rafting, bowling alley, paddle boating, horseshoes, volleyball.

RATES: There's a broad range of room rates because there are so many kinds of lodging at Sun Valley Resort. Rates can run from $125 to $1,500 a night.

CONTACT: Sun Valley Resort, 1 Sun Valley Road, P.O. Box 10, Sun Valley, ID 83353; (800) 786-8259; www.sunvalley.com

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Tips and Advice - Where to Ski - Unusual Ski Locales

Tip: 1) Ski British Columbia – on an Island!

British Columbia is full of great skiing. The unusual thing about BC’s Mount Washington is the fact it sits on Vancouver Island – more than two hours northwest of Victoria! Mount Washington is rare in the ski community in that getting there will most likely involve a ferry. Perhaps the resort’s out-of-the-way location is its own reason for pointing your skis in Mount Washington’s direction. Ski there so you can say you did it!

Tip: 2) Indiana? INDIANA?

You might call Perfect North Slopes Greater Cincinnati’s ski area. Nestled in Indiana’s southeast corner, Perfect North rests a half-hour drive from Cincinnati, Ohio. And like other ski areas located near large cities, Perfect North realizes offering night skiing is a winning proposition for both the company and gainfully employed local skiers. The area is open until 9:30 PM on weeknights, and until 3:00 AM on Friday and Saturday nights!

Tip: 3) Ski in Maine – on the Coast!

Camden is a special, romantic place on Maine’s shoreline – a small town with something to offer every type of person (resident or tourist), especially in summer. During ski season, what makes the local ski area, Camden Snow Bowl, special in its own right is simple. It is the only United States ski area with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. That fact by itself almost makes Camden a must-ski for skiers in the East.

Tip: 4) New England Skiing for the Purist

The next time you head to Vermont to ski one of that great state’s “name” resorts, make a day for Mad River Glen. Three miles from Sugarbush, “MRG” is a fabled ski area – owned by a cooperative of skiing devotees content to ride the only diesel-powered single chair remaining in America to 2,000 feet of vertical on demanding, “old school New England”, narrow trails. The antithesis of corporate-owned, mega-resort skiing, Mad River Glen is for the hearty skier – nearly 7/8s of its terrain is tree skiing!

Tip: 5) Alabama? Now, That is Going too Far!

Not that you might want to travel outside – say – Alabama to ski there, but Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort near Mentone, Alabama, offers skiing on two, rope tow-served trails to give locals a taste of skiing. At 150 feet, Cloudmont’s vertical is surely not remarkable – outside its region, that is! May Cloudmont know many seasons for offering folks in its area the chance to ski at all.

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Top 10 Best Family Ski Vacation Resorts in North America

Wondering where to trek the family to this ski season? Our top 10 list of best family skiing resorts makes the vacation planning easy, hopefully finding something for everyone in your family, no matter what age or skiing ability, and most importantly, something that fits your family ski vacation budget nicely.

1) Smugglers' Notch, Vermont

Most ski guides agree, Smugglers' Notch is the place for family fun in the snow. With a packed schedule of activities and entertainment options for everyone, you'll never hear "we're bored". A forgiving beginners area and gentle terrain, along with fun instructors, encourage all to learn and improve quickly. Tougher terrain for advanced skiers or ya-hoo teenagers offer challenges to satisfy all.
More: Click for more info.

2) Winter Park, Colorado

With one of the most well known and respected ski school programs, Winter Park is a choice destination for beginning and improving skiers in the family. Affordable and laid-back, despite the recent building of upscale lodging, Winter Park remains a popular family choice with a hint of charming, small ski town atmosphere. Click for more info.

3) Northstar-at-Tahoe, Lake Tahoe California

With a highly rated kids ski school, this program consistently is a favorite among families looking for camp-type options for kids of all ages. While this gives Mom & Dad some free time to do hit their own terrain, the popular "Mommy, Daddy & Me" FREE program helps parents experience the firsts on the slopes and receive useful hints for helping children enjoy learning to ski. Click for more info.

4) Whistler-Blackcomb, British Columbia

Already one of the world's most popular destinations for skiers, Whistler-Blackcomb offers adventures, activities and great skiing and snowboarding for the entire family. Offering a host of ski camp programs for kids of all ages, well trained instructors lead children through Adventure Zones, making ski lessons as fun and effective as possible. Click for more info.

5) Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Best for families with new skiers, and for that matter, Bretton Woods is a beginner snowboarder dream, with long and wide, gentle slopes. Recent expansions of the mountain have opened up fun intermediate glades and tougher challenges on some short steeps. For cross-country skiers, there's a uphill trek crossing over alpine trails to the mountain top restaurant, for worthy views of Mt. Washington. Click for more info.

6) Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Steamboat wins in the budget department, with children under 12 skiing free when a parent buys a 5-day lift pass - but it's sold on a one-to-one basis, so the family of four makes out the best. A newly revamped beginners and kids-only terrain makes learning to ski fun in smaller groups. A wild west theme keeps the young kids happy and teens will enjoy clinics with their own age group. Click for more info.

7) Boyne Mountain, Michigan

One of the Midwest's best, Boyne may not be big on vertical, but it's bursting with family personality. For those families that truly want to enjoy a family ski vacation together, a variety of slopeside accomodations offer a comfortable retreat. The children's ski school programs are highly rated and other winter activities are abundant. Click for more info.

8) Mont Sainte Anne, Quebec

This resort 30 minutes outside of the historic Quebec City is definitely a cultural destination. Varied and challenging terrain (10 World Cup race trails) keeps advanced skiers in the family happy, and the children's programs and ski school are highly recommended. Make reservations early - the best time to visit is during Winter Carnival, 17 days of winter fun in late January to early February. Click for more info.

9) Keystone Resort, Colorado

The ski village concept of Keystone works well for families with kids of all ages. With a smoothly operated shuttle system and centralized base area, parents can let older kids roam freely. Vast intermediate terrain, Keystone also offers advanced skiing and good beginner areas, and a recognizable ski school, with the exclusive Mahre Training Center, featuring Olympic brothers Phil and Steve Mahre. Click for more info.

10) The Canyons, Utah

The Canyons earns a spot as one of the most family-friendly resorts in Utah's popular Park City. While it didn't host any Olympic Events in 2002, exploring the rolling terrain of this multi-peaked mountain is a gold medal challenge, but offers plenty of trails for every skiing ability. Not far away, you can bring the kids to see the Utah Olympic Park and test out the bobleigh track yourselves. Click for more info.

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Top 10 Ski Resorts

Hope you enjoyed staying at the finest hotels around the world. Few things in life beat the luxury and amenities of fine hotels, except perhaps a visit to some choice ski destinations around the world. So bundle up and make some cocoa because we're about to embark on some crazy vertical drops...

10. Aspen, Colorado, Western United States
Want to ski with the rich and famous? If yes, then Aspen is the place to be. Aspen is known for its steeps and its four mountains that are not linked. This Colorado ski resort accommodates all by featuring excellent terrain for all skier levels.

Filled with steeps and bumps, Aspen Mountain has fantastic groomed intermediate runs as well. The mountain is also a great choice for experts, who can access hundreds of acres of terrain off the backside of the mountain. As the resort-of-choice for the "better off," Aspen has a tendency to get slightly expensive.

9. Cortina, Italy
Perhaps this is where Alberto 'la bomba' Tomba got his start. Cortina matches any resort in the Alps and served as the host of the Olympic games in 1956. Similar to Zermatt in Switzerland, life revolves around a trafficless street. One of the world's first ski resorts, Cortina is also Italy's most stylish.

8. Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, Eastern Canada
French Canadian joie de vivre meets North American service standards. Tremblant, Eastern Canada's best-known resort, has been given a facelift thanks to a $1 billion investment (that's Canadian currency, so roughly $13 American dollars).

Open since 1939, Tremblant was the first resort to open in Canada and the second in North America. What makes Tremblant even more special is that it is an hour away from Montreal. An alternative would be Mont-Sainte-Anne, which is a nicer mountain and a short trip away from Quebec City, perhaps North America's most historic city as the gateway into the " New World."

7. Stowe, Vermont, Eastern United States
One of the most renowned and picturesque ski resorts on the map, Stowe offers traditional New England charm and the biggest vertical drop in the area. Stowe's two ski areas are Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak.

The latter actually backs onto Smugglers' Notch's terrain. As a result, Stowe is amongst a handful of American resort that has a lift-link to another resort. Stowe offers over 90 shops and 60 restaurants to make sure that visitors do not trek too far away.

6. Chamonix Mont-Blanc, France
Host of the world's first Winter Olympic games in 1924, Chamonix ranks among the elite of contenders for the title of "world's most famous ski resort." Located at the foot of Mont-Blanc, it's the highest peak in the Alps and the second highest in Europe (top elevation 4,810 m/15,771 ft).

Chamonix Mont-Blanc holds bragging rights both for its lift-served vertical drop of 2807 meters (9209 feet) and for having one of the world's longest runs (Vallée Blanche), at 22 km (13.7 miles).

5. Banff/Lake Louise, Alberta, Western Canada
Located in the heart of Canada's Banff National Park, Lake Louise ranks as one of the most scenic mountain resorts in North America, if not the entire world. Banff/Lake Louise has three different ski areas (Mount Norquay/Mystic Ridge, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise) that are roughly 50 km apart (yes, they use km outside of the US).

The Insider's Guide to the Best Canadian Skiing has labeled Norquay as "an unforgiving brute legendary for its unrelenting vertical and monster moguls."

4. Vail, Colorado, Western United States
Legendary Vail markets itself as " America's favorite resort" and deserves to be ranked amongst the world's top five all-around ski resorts. As the largest single ski area in the United States, Vail offers roughly 5,300 acres of skiable, terrain.

Let's not forget the fastest high-speed detachable quads on one mountain. No small feat, I'm sure. Vail offers much more with several art galleries, museums, ballooning, dog sledding, ice skating, hockey, snowmobiling, and much more.

3. Zermatt, Switzerland
While neighboring Gstaad is one of the world's top resorts with its three five-star hotels and St. Moritz is more popular, most rank Zermatt as Switzerland's top resort. A remarkably peaceful getaway, the village is peaceful thanks to its car-free environment. Amazingly picturesque, Zermatt holds the world's second biggest lift-served vertical drop and receives huge snowfalls thanks to its altitude (and some help from snowmakers on the lower slopes).

2. Kitzbuhel, Austria
While St. Anton holds the crown of "Europe's liveliest ski resort," and Innsbruck is home to one of Europe's liveliest and most beautiful cities (the International Olympic Committee must have thought so as well, as the city hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976), Kitzbuhel is considered the "Pearl of the Alps" and is the most famous holiday resort in the Austrian Tyrol. This 700-year-old village offers visitors the charm of an alpine village. Skiing began in the winter of 1892.

1. Whistler/Blackcomb, British Columbia
These two towering mountains provide the best skiing in North America, with the biggest vertical drop. It's funny what a difference 30 years and $600 million can make. Yet there was not much there but a mountain for courageous hikers.

Whistler's charming village offers everything snowboarders and skiers crave; cafes, international stores and over 100 restaurants that cater to all tastes including Chinese, French, Greek, Italian, Mediterranean, Mexican, and Thai cuisine.

Food is key after partaking in the activities that really make Whistler legendary. Whistler quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the strongest contenders for the much-disputed title of "world's greatest ski resort." Over the past decade, Whistler was consistently voted "Best North American Ski Resort" by North Americans. The Japanese repeatedly rank it as their favorite international destination.

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Top 10: Spring Skiing Destinations

The snow is melting and the leaves are sprouting, but that doesn't mean the winter fun is over. For those wishing to catch some last thrills on the slopes before summer comes, spring skiing is for you.

These 10 resorts still have great snow under the warm sun, where skiing in your T-shirt -- hell, even in your swimsuit -- is encouraged. Note that some of these destinations offer great spring skiing conditions during different times of the year, and not necessarily around March and April.

Faraya Mzaar , Lebanon
Surprised to see a ski resort in the Middle East? Don't be. The mountains of Lebanon near the fabled Bekaa Valley boast slopes that rival those of Europe, with similar seasons. Faraya Mzaar is the best and most popular of the bunch, with 42 slopes and an excellent cross-country trail. A ski lift to the highest peak, Dome du Mzaar, offers an exceptional view of the surrounding area, seeing as far as the bay of Beirut, about 30 miles away.

During spring (which is actually the best season here, as the snow is still fresh and the weather is already warm), it's best to ski in the morning and enjoy sightseeing the rest of the day, as the snow tends to get a bit wet. But that's no problem; after an hour of driving, you'll find yourself on Lebanon's amazing beaches, where you can soak up some rays and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

What not to miss: Visiting Kfardebian, a natural stone bridge formed by wind and water erosion.

La Parva, Chile
If you're in the Southern Hemisphere, or simply want to catch some good snow in September, the Andes are for you. A stone's throw from Santiago, La Parva is a small but charming ski village with 30 slopes and 14 ski lifts.

The visitors are big partiers in this small city, congregating in the many bars, coffee shops and dance clubs. Enjoy some hot Chilean tea under the sun as you chat with the infinitely charming dark-haired beauties of the land.

What not to miss: The heli-ski service, one of the best in the continent.

Jackson Hole , Wyoming, U.S.A.
Among other warnings, the sign hanging on the entrance of the tram dock reads: "Like nothing you have skied before... You could make a mistake and suffer personal injury or death. Give this mountain the respect it deserves." No doubt the precursor to a great skiing session, a danger warning always makes things more exciting, and therefore fun.

With variable terrain and treacherous off-piste areas open to skiers, Jackson Hole is a treat for the seasoned slope lover. Unique to Jackson Hole is the aerial tram, which takes skiers up more than 4,000 feet in less than 10 minutes. And the view is one of a kind.

What not to miss: Corbet's Couloir, a 10- to 30-foot jump for serious experts. Partake if you dare, or watch the pros tackle it.

Val d'Isere, Savoie, French Alps
Ranked among the top ski resorts in Europe, Val d'Isere is one of the best in the world for expert skiers. Skiers and boarders of all levels will have a blast on its many slopes and trails.

The high altitude and feeding glacier provide excellent powder until the early summer (specifically the first week of May). Even non-skiers have loads to do, like paragliding, ice climbing and dog sledding. And in April, Val d'Isere hosts its own Adventure Film Festival.

What not to miss: The ice driving course, where you race against other go-karts on an ice track.

La Hoya, Patagonia, Argentina
Another South American spot, La Hoya's terrain is unique in that all ski runs merge at one point at the base, thanks to its wide circular glacier basin. It's one of the more popular ski centers in Argentina, thanks to its variety of runs, picturesque landscape, and numerous offerings for the outdoorsman.

After a few hours of driving, you'll find yourself in the national parks of Patagonia, where you can fish, raft, or go on a 4x4 safari expedition.

What not to miss: The off-piste skiing, known by all ski fanatics as the best in the region. Prime spring skiing season is between July and November.

From Australia to the Alps, these locales offer up great spring skiing...

Mt. Buller , Australia
August and September lead into the Australian spring, and the snow on Mt. Buller is still as full as in the dead of winter. But what makes Buller really fun is the uniquely Australian penchant for variety and excitement. Skiing is only one option; telemarking (a.k.a. freeheeling), snow tubing, tobogganing, and renting some figgles (short skis) give you all the adrenaline you need from different angles.

One of Buller's best qualities is the high capacity chairlifts, meaning you never wait in line for long. And in the early spring months, you can catch some great competitions.

What not to miss: The freeride that plunges from the back of the peak is the extreme skier's best friend.

Kirkwood , Lake Tahoe, California, U.S.A.
Tahoe is surrounded by amazing peaks that keep the snow fresh well into April. Kirkwood is the best among them, with the fullest array of services and activities, as well as the most impressive vistas. Kirkwood is famous for its off-piste lines, where enterprising skiers can explore every nook of the mountain.

With more than seven eateries and bars, a skating rink, a snowshoe terrain, cross-country tracks, a tubing hill, a massage parlor, and a dog sled track, the après-ski is as big a part of the mountain as the skiing.

What not to miss: The Grover Hot Springs only 45 minutes from the resort, where you can chill in a natural outdoor mineral pool.

Chamonix , France
Another celebrated Alpine resort, Chamonix actually publicizes its springtime offerings. The resort at the foot of Mont Blanc is a getaway for every leisure seeker. Not only are the slopes, glaciers and cross-country tracks world-class, the region is filled with galleries, museums, concert halls, a casino, and activities ranging from horseback riding to karting.

If the snow is thin, mountain biking and climbing are very popular.

What not to miss: Taking the Aiguille du Midi cable car to the highest point of the resort, where the snow is untouched and the 360-degree view of the Alps is simply awesome.

Verbier, Switzerland
There's nothing like skiing in the Alps without the maddening crowds. That's what spring is like in Verbier. The snow conditions are top-notch and you don't have to wait an eternity for the ski lift. With all the surrounding valleys, skiers can enjoy a staggering 250 miles of runs served by nearly 100 lifts.

The bright sun allows for some delicious outdoor group meals, as well as fun activities like hang gliding and paragliding, bobsledding, and snowshoe hiking.

What not to miss: The Gentianes bump run, one of the most infamous in the Alps. For the brave and skilled only.

Whistler, BC, Canada
The biggest winter party spot in North America is also hopping during spring. The site of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler Blackcomb has more than 8,000 acres of skiing terrain including more than 200 trails -- and counting.

Milder temperatures allow for more outdoor fun like heliskiing, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, and cat skiing. And there's always an outdoor party or a concert in the village, crammed with playful young things.

What not to miss: The world-class snowboarders that perform humanly impossible stunts on Whistler's ramps and pipes.

When it comes to skiing, subtraction is key: good slopes, minus the cold, minus the crowds, minus the clothes -- equals awesome slopes. If you're a snow lover, you'll want to take in all the great spring skiing before summer sets in and the land is overrun by climbers and bikers.

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You to Can Ski Down Mount Everest
 
by: Robin Shortt

Getting to the summit is optional, getting down is mandatory. - David Breashears-

Extreme Skier Maegan Carney:

Extreme skier Maegan Carney had made a bid to be the first woman, and second person to ski down the world's tallest mountain.

Because of the high winds of Mount Everest at that time, Maegan Carney abandoned her first summit attempt.

Preparation Is The Secret:

Before you climb a mountain, you need some major preparations:

You definitely need to be physically and emotionally fit.

You should have people in the group who know first aid and of coarse you have a first aid kit.

Make sure you have a schedule set up, because of the dangers involved.

The mountain you're climbing, how long it should take, how many and who are going, and where will you start your assention.

Bring a camera for breath taking views and to record your trip. A cell phone for emergencies and to call someone to share your excitement when you make it to the top.

If you have the proper climbing gear with you, there's no worries about staying the night if you get lost.

Also you know you'll get rescued by morning because the proper people have been notified.

Some Guidelines For Climbing:

It's not a good idea to be flown or driven to altitudes higher than 3000 metres. Begin your walk at below that.

Once over the 3000 metre altitude, travel up in 300 metre increments each day, thats it, no more than that.

Climb up high during the day and sleep at lower altitudes at night.

If high altitude symptoms start to affect you, stop climbing higher. If symptoms worsen, go down right away.

You will need to drink plenty of fluids, hiking dehydrates your body very fast when climbing at high altitudes and this increases as the temperature does.

Do the climb at a slow pace and you'll enjoy your climb more.

Stay away from alcohol, tobacco and other vices that will play havoc with your body and mind at these high altitudes.

A high-carbohydrate diet will really benefit you here.

In the USA there are many resorts above the 3,000 metre level, meaning you will need to keep a watch out for mountain sickness.

Some Mount Everest Facts:

Historic Mountain Climbing Deaths:

George Mallory and Andrew Irvine on June 6 1924, made an attempt on the summit from which they never returned.

An eyewitness claimed he saw the group reach the summit.

A total of 808 climbers have reached and stood on the summit, 764 men and 44 women. There were 161 that died, 36 on the descent.

More About Mountain Climbing Deaths

In 1965, was the best year for climbing, nine climbers summitted and there were no deaths.

In 1996, the worst single year for deaths, 15 climbers died.

About Mount Everest Itself:

The Highest Peak: At 29,035' (8850m), thats about five miles up, the highest summit in the world, and is close to the cruising altitude of a jet, or it is 23 times the height of the Empire State building.

Above 26,000, the body gets a third of the oxygen available at sea level.

Even after getting acclimated, the body starts to shut down, and if someone stays at that height long enough, they will die.

A lot of the climbers use oxygen here for climbing and sleeping.

The weather on Everest allows for climbing only in May and October between winter snows (December-March) and summer monsoons (June-September).

As you can tell, this article is just giving you the basics of what information you'll need to find your way to the top of the world's highest peaks.

Amazon Books has a great source of books on this subject.

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