Ski Resorts Offering Year-Round Activities and Events
When most people think of ski resorts, they picture snow-covered slopes and cozy lodges. However, many ski resorts are now offering much more than just skiing and snowboarding in the winter. These resorts have embraced the concept of year-round activities and events, catering to visitors during all four seasons. From mountain biking and hiking to music festivals and yoga retreats, there is no shortage of fun and excitement at these ski resorts. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top ski resorts that offer a year-round experience for their guests.
Summer Fun in the Mountains
Gone are the days when ski resorts shut down operations in the summer. Nowadays, many resorts offer a variety of activities to keep visitors entertained, even without snow on the ground. One such destination is Vail Ski Resort in Colorado. Known for its exceptional skiing in the winter, Vail transforms into an outdoor playground in the summer. Visitors can go zip-lining, mountain biking, and even white-water rafting on the nearby Eagle River. Plus, the town of Vail hosts numerous events throughout the summer, including outdoor concerts and art festivals.
If you’re looking for more of a wellness retreat, head to Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada. The resort offers yoga and meditation classes, as well as access to hiking and biking trails. You can also relax at the Scandinave Spa, taking in the stunning mountain views while soaking in the outdoor hot pools. And for those seeking an adrenaline rush, you can fly through the trees on the resort’s exhilarating zipline tour.
Autumn Adventures at the Base of the Mountains
Fall is often a quiet time at ski resorts, but many have started to offer events and activities to attract visitors during this shoulder season. Park City Mountain Resort in Utah is a prime example of this. In addition to its renowned skiing and snowboarding, Park City also hosts the annual Autumn Aloft hot air balloon festival. Visitors can watch as colorful balloons fill the sky against the backdrop of the majestic mountains.
Another popular autumn destination is Stratton Mountain Resort in Vermont. The foliage in the surrounding Green Mountains is a sight to behold, and the resort takes full advantage of this with events such as the annual Harvest Fest. Visitors can enjoy hayrides, pumpkin carving, and live music while taking in the breathtaking fall scenery.
Winter Wonderland All Year Round
Of course, ski resorts are still known for their winter activities, and many have started to offer winter adventures beyond just skiing and snowboarding. Big Sky Resort in Montana offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails for those looking for a more tranquil winter experience. The resort also hosts the annual Big Sky Big Grass music festival, showcasing bluegrass musicians from across the country.
If you prefer a more unconventional winter experience, head to Snowbasin Resort in Utah. The resort offers guided snowcat tours, where visitors can explore the backcountry terrain and take in the stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The resort also hosts the annual Winterfest, featuring live music, food trucks, and fun winter activities for the whole family.
Springtime Vibes in the Mountains
As winter turns to spring, many ski resorts start to wind down their operations. However, some have started to offer springtime activities to entice visitors. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming is a popular springtime destination, offering ski and snowboard clinics, live music, and a variety of other events. Plus, the nearby town of Jackson hosts the annual Jackson Hole Rendezvous music festival, featuring big-name artists and local food and drinks.
For a more unique springtime experience, head to Mammoth Mountain in California. The resort has one of the longest ski seasons in the country, often staying open until July. But in addition to skiing and snowboarding, visitors can also enjoy activities like mountain biking, hiking, and even golfing in the spring. Plus, the resort hosts the annual Mammoth Reggae Festival, bringing the island vibes to the mountains.
Embrace the Year-Round Fun at Ski Resorts
As you can see, ski resorts are no longer just a winter destination. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, wellness retreats, or lively events, these resorts have something for everyone during all four seasons. So don’t limit yourself to just a winter vacation, and start planning your year-round ski resort experience today!
