Epic Moms

Blog Post: Thinner doesn’t always mean better!

Anonymous — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 18:33:00 GMT

Living at 8500 feet in the mountains comes with its privileges: the view is outstanding, deer sightings are common, world-renowned ski slopes are minutes away, and it’s incredibly peaceful (if you don’t live with pre-schoolers!). Recently, we were reminded of one of the flip sides: the thinner air’s effect on oxygen saturation, especially when illness strikes.

Flashback to July 2007…our son, Max, came into the world 4 weeks early. The doctors attempted to give him more time to develop inside the safety of my womb, but after a night of monitoring at the hospital, I was told the only cure for the HELLP syndrome and preeclampsia I had developed, was to deliver my first born at 36 weeks. I awoke from general anesthesia and was wheeled in to hold my baby boy’s teeny tiny hand for the first time. He was perfect in every way except for the fact that he needed supplemental oxygen. As a premie, his lungs weren’t fully developed and adding our altitude into the equation made it even more difficult for the little guy to get what he needed. Luckily, though, he only needed a small amount and could get that through a nasal cannula. We lived with that cannula and oxygen tank for 4 months. It was definitely a bit of a nuisance, but it was a necessary nuisance and we were grateful that was the only medical issue he had to overcome.

Four and a half years later, Max was reintroduced to oxygen tanks and those sad little stickers that hold nasal cannula in place on children’s faces. He had had a lingering cough for weeks, but without other symptoms, we didn’t worry until the day he spiked a 102.3 fever and complained of difficulty breathing at school. I took him to our doctor’s office right away and with an oxygen saturation level of 90%, I immediately saw a red flag. At our altitude, O2 sats are usually lower than at sea level, but when vitals are examined at well-check visits, my kids are usually around 96%, give or take a percentage point. After a chest x-ray, he was started on antibiotics, even though nothing was noted in the radiology report. Following the medical advice we were given, Max rested and was given as many fluids as he could tolerate, but continued to deteriorate. After seeing 5 doctors in 6 days, including two in the ER, he was admitted to the Vail Valley Medical Center and finally given a diagnosis (other than “he’s got a virus”) of worsening pneumonia.

Our little trouper was in the hospital for 2 days and I remember at one point saying that I wished we lived at a lower altitude so he wouldn’t have to fight so hard against the bug that was doing such a stellar job of depriving him of oxygen. As a parent, you do what you can to ensure your family is safe, healthy, and happy. Were we doing that by choosing to call the Vail Valley our home? Most definitely!!

Yes, Max probably would’ve had a shorter stay in the hospital if we lived at, or closer to sea level, but viruses and bacteria will find you no matter where you live on the planet (unless it’s a sterilized bubble!). I’ve called the Rockies “home” now for almost 10 years and will continue to do so, even if we have to endure the occasional burden of home oxygen tanks.
The air is certainly thinner up here, but it’s also fresher. Besides, with a wonderful community and the friends and family we have nearby, it’s also filled with lots of love.

--Trista Sutter (@TristaSutter on Twitter)

Blog Post: Where to go on a South Tahoe ice cream crawl

Aimi Xistra-Rich — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 05:17:00 GMT

With the weatherman predicting August to be sunny and warm with temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s beachgoers, bike riders and hikers are going to be looking for ways to cool down. My advice -- take a pit stop at one of these cool shops for treats that will put on the chill.

The Red Hut Café has been serving Tahoe locals and visitors for over 50 years. A few years back, the Gardner family opened a new Red Hut on the corner of Ski Run Boulevard and Highway 50, a perfect location for breakfast before hitting the slopes of Heavenly. But during Tahoe’s warm summer months you’ll find a gem hidden inside, the 50’s style fountain serves up all the classics, from malts to triple-scoop sundaes with whipped cream and cherries. An assortment of flavors fills the cases and the décor, ambiance and fountain jerks are just the topping on the…well…sundae! The Red Hut is open seven days a week from 6:00am to 10:00pm, and has recently begun serving delicious dinners.

Stop two on my ice cream crawl takes us to Aloha Ice Cream, located on Highway 50 in the small shopping complex next to the Bank of America. Opened by the Rise family a few years ago this summer cold spot serves tasty cold treats and hosts a cooler full of homemade ice cream sandwiches, cakes and frozen chocolate covered bananas. I never know what I’m going to order when I walk through those doors but word around the streets is that the Tahoe kids’ favorite flavor is Bubble Gum (on a sugar cone). They don’t accept credit or debit cards so make sure to bring cash.

With a full belly and frozen brain, the tour continues down Highway 50 over to Highway 89 to Camp Richardson where you’ll see the crowds gathered outside Tahoe’s most popular ice cream stop. Always hopping and delicious, this is the easiest stop for bikers on the bike trail. The waffle cones are always fresh and you can literally smell the aroma from a mile away. Make sure to plan some time in your day if this is where you’re planning to get your cool down because the line can easily stretch out the door and across the lawn. You won’t be disappointed, it’s definitely worth the wait!

-- Aimi Xistra-Rich

Blog Post: Pedi with your daughter

Aimi Xistra-Rich — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 04:01:00 GMT

Truly a special experience, enjoying an afternoon at the spa with your daughter is every mom's dream. Granted my daughter is only four years old which doesn't allow for a lot of spa treatments, or time, but she still enjoys being pampered just as much as her mom!

This was really Grandma's idea during her last visit from Alaska. Every time she comes to Tahoe she wants to get a pedicure since she's wearing her Birks on a daily basis. This summer she decided that she wanted Mila to join in the fun and I really didn't know what to think. But since she's Grandma, so I chose to go-with-the-flow!

We didn't make an appointment but were able to get right in at the Nail Spa at the Raley's Village near the Heavenly Gondola. Mila was very interested when we walked in and all the ladies were lined up getting their toes painted. The receptionist directed us to the wall of polishes which ranged from lime green to deep purple -- this was a treat for Mila who picked out a sparkling pink.

Lucky for me there was another woman there with her two daughters who were getting mani-pedis. Both these girls seemed very entertained so my optimism was rising fast. (Her youngest was just turning two!) Mila sat in a little chair next to my big massage chair with the bubbling water. Since Mila was only getting polish I let her play with my iPod while I was getting the treatment.

On her best behavior, Mila was polite and intrigued by having someone else paint her toenails. She was so good that the lady offered to paint her fingers and she quickly accepted. The little flowers that were hand painted on were the icing on the cake.

Tips to ensure a smooth experience:

Ask your daughter if she wants to go, if she does than she'll probably be a doll instead of a devil.
Spend a little time looking over the different colors and enjoying that aspect of the trip. It was never a big deal to me but Mila was ecstatic at all the choices.
Bring a form of entertainment, I brought my iPod which helped since my treatment took longer.
Use the toenail and fingernail "drying" to keep your daughter seated.
Relax and enjoy this experience with your daughter!

Cheers to pedis!

Aimi X.

Blog Post: How to have an epic Fourth of July at Beaver Creek

Krista Crabtree — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 17:12:00 GMT

There is a truism that every parent comes to realize as their children age: If the kids are having fun, everyone's having fun. This adage rang true for our family on a summer weekend trip to Beaver Creek.

Granted our vacation happened to fall on the motherload of kid-friendly holidays -- the Fourth of July -- but even without the parades and fireworks, we still would have seen more smiles than our monthly quota. Halfway through our trip, our daughter exclaimed, "I love the whole world of Beaver Creek." To her, it was a magical world full of majestic mountains, blossoming flowers and high-octane kid activities. To us, it was just the right balance of beauty, luxury and laughter.

We kicked our summer weekend off at the FAC (otherwise known as Friday Afternoon Club) at Arrowhead. Our daughter found a playground right out of the car the way a bloodhound picks up a trail.

As we approached the Broken Arrow at the base of the ski lift, we could hear the band and see a gaggle of kids playing on the green lawn. Our daughter had her shoes off and jumped for joy at the feel of the green grass between her toes. We met some friends with a daughter the same age and actually finished a conversation over beers as the girls entertained themselves. FAC is a local's hangout and a great way to watch the sun set behind the mountains.

We stayed at the Pines Lodge in Beaver Creek, nicknamed by our four-year-old as "The Castle."

"I could stay here for a hundred days," she says as we arrive. In this case, we agreed that we could too. The combination of cozy beds, swimming pool, hot tub, great views of the valley and proximity to the village provided us with everything we needed to make us all happy and comfortable. The best thing of all, our daughter said, was that our hotel was so pretty and she loved everyone who worked there. The value of her opinion? Priceless.

Saturday morning we were ready for adventure. Riding to the top of Centennial Express Lift rated high on our preschooler's cool factor scale. But the High Mountain Adventure Tour -- Beaver Creek's new one or two hour jeep tours -- was off the charts.

Children need to be 36" or taller to ride in the custom-made jeep with cushy seats. We opted for the one-hour tour, which was perfect for our preschooler. Our daughter's eyes grew heavy in the jeep, but she fought to keep them open so she wouldn't miss a thing. As we wound our way under chairlifts, past trails and near wildflowers, our guide Richard taught us about local flora and fauna, the names of the peaks and facts about the resort. It felt like a mountain safari, and to punctuate that feeling, we even saw a deer and her fawn.

Our jeep tour returned back to Spruce Saddle in time for lunch. After noshing on tasty barbeque, our daughter befriended numerous kids in the giant sandbox, arguably with the best view around.

The chairlift ride down is exhilarating no matter how old you are and if you're an avid skier, you can't help but feel funny without skis, boots and bindings adding weight to your legs. My husband and I felt smug about gaining so much altitude so that we could enjoy high-alpine living without the long hike, which can be a challenge with a preschooler.

As you head down Centennial, you have a clear view of all the kid activities at the base: rebound trampoline, mini-golf, climbing wall, bike rentals and pony rides. A stop at the Summer Adventure Center (in the adult's ski school space) can provide you with essential information such as the location of the Beaver Creek Children's Museum or the Children's Fountain.

Like every four-year-old, our daughter set her sights on these activities and reminded as often that we needed to do them. But on this sunny, Saturday afternoon, our sights were set on swimming.

This summer we realized with great joy that our daughter is old enough to entertain herself for hours -- literally -- in the pool, interrupted only by sunscreen reapplications and hydration breaks. She instantly befriended the other kids in the pool and we enjoyed seeing them several times during our stay. To her, they were as familiar as old friends after their shared splash sessions.

Around 5:00 p.m., I took the opportunity to slip off for some mom time, which actually benefits the entire family. I visited the Bon Appétit tent in the village for one of many culinary demonstrations that are worth your while. Steven Toppel, the executive chef from Beano's Cabin, showed us how to make smoked trout, pickled cucumbers and spinach/avocado salad.

The standing-room only crowd got to taste the fruits of his labor. It was in that inspired state that I met my husband and daughter for dinner at Toscanini in Beaver Creek Village. We opted for an outside table near the Black Family Ice Rink, which surprisingly operates during the summer time.

Ice skating served as an ingenious form of entertainment, that and the bracelets we bought at the toy store called Generation BC. Toscanini even has gluten-free pasta, providing an entrée that our daughter (who has a sensitivity to wheat) could eat.

No summer evening in the village would be complete without a visit to Rimini for some ice cream, gelato or sorbet. It's hard not to feel like a kid when you're looking at dozens of flavors.

The only thing we missed out on the whole vacation was enough sleep, but that was because there was so much to do. Since it was late after our Saturday adventures and sorbet dessert, we didn't go to the renowned fireworks in Avon. However, after our daughter went to sleep, my husband and I were able to watch the fireworks from our hotel window. The best part: when the fireworks were over, we didn't have to go anywhere. We were already where we wanted to be.

Sunday, July 4 proved to be another Colorado blue-sky day: perfect weather for Vail America Days and the Fourth of July Parade. We joined our friends from the area for the impressive parade, which goes from Golden Peak to LionsHead.

The best part according to the girls? The candy that was thrown into the streets by the people in the parade. Parking free in LionsHead, we had a prime viewing spot for fire trucks, marching bands, floats, and Pazzo's Pizza guys skiing down the street.

After a short drive back to Beaver Creek for some down time (which entailed our daughter watching a movie in a hotel room while mom took a cat nap) we walked down to the village.

Beaver Creek's Independence Day Celebration was a happening spot for families-blankets adorned the grass in front of the stage where bands played throughout the evening. The skies opened up at night for some much needed rain, but we danced happily to the sounds of Jimmy Buffet.

Then fireworks exploded over the Centennial Express Lift, lighting up our daughter's wide eyes. This was the first fireworks display that our daughter would see and remember and it was an incredible show, seemingly showering blossoms of light right over us.

Monday morning, a little groggy, but determined to soak in every second of our vacation, we rode our bike with our daughter in the Chariot attachment into the village for breakfast. I knew my daughter was looking at the rebound trampoline longingly so we took her over to it. She met the weight requirement and was assigned to a trampoline. She was tentative at first, then jumped higher and higher, "as high as the mountains, mommy!" she said.

After we checked out of our hotel, we had time for one more activity...pony rides at Beaver Creek Stables. Kids 7 and over can go on trail rides with their parents, but our four year old (and children 6 and under) could choose between two ponies -- Mr. T and Gonzo --for a free spin around the corral.

After waving good-bye to the ponies and Beaver Creek, I felt content knowing that my family had a wonderful weekend together. As we walked to our car, my daughter's little hand in mind, she looked up at me, smiling and asked, "Can we come back every summer?" That certainly sounds good to us.

-- Krista Crabtree

Blog Post: Country Boy Mine Tours in Breck offer family fun

Kara Williams — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 18:26:00 GMT

If you're vacationing in Breckenridge and looking for a break from summer heat (or from the action on the ski slopes), consider taking the whole family on a tour of the Country Boy Mine, where it's always a cool 45 degrees deep into the side of a mountain.

On this excellent tour - a true walk back in time - you'll learn what life was like for miners who shoveled ore or manned a drill in dark, dank conditions for 10 hours a day in the late 19th century.

In fact, when my kids and I took a tour of the mine, I think we were most shocked to learn that boys as young as 7 years old served as "blast monkeys": it was children who carried live dynamite into the mine to blast the hard rock. (Trust me, there was a wave of shocked "Ohhhhs" among the moms on our group tour when we heard that bit of trivia.)

Our knowledgeable tour guide - dressed like a miner in overalls, a heavy coat and, of course, the requisite helmet - shared so much interesting mining history. We learned, as we made our way 1,000 feet underground through dimly lit passageways, that it was bad luck to run in a mine, so if the miners got wind of a pending cave-in, they would walk very quickly to safety. How did they know a disaster was about to occur? Via the rats they'd introduced to the mine. The small rodents could feel the tremors well before the jack-hammering men could.

Besides the hugely entertaining and informative 45-minute mine tour, other family-friendly highlights at the Country Boy Mine include panning for gold and sliding down a super-slick, super-steep, 55-foot ore chute.

The mine is indeed open year-round (though gold-panning moves inside to the blacksmith shop in extremely cold temperatures) and children of all ages are welcome. Be sure to bring your camera when you go; some visitors have found strange wispy apparitions or ghostly orbs in photos they've taken in the mine. But don't let the thought of ghosts stop you from entering what may or may not be a haunted mine. The Country Boy Mine is a top-notch attraction in Breckenridge - one you'll want to experience on your family vacation to the area.

-- Kara Williams

Blog Post: Heavenly valley offers summer fun

Aimi Xistra-Rich — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 16:15:00 GMT

Let's play a quick word association game. I'll say a phrase and you say the first thing that springs to mind. Ready? South Lake Tahoe.

Did you say "summer vacation"? I'll bet you a pair of Classic Uggs you didn't.

Summer may seem like a funny time to vacation in the mountains, but when you consider all the things you won't have to do if you visit when the weather is warm -- such as fight crowds and replace your kids' outgrown snow clothes -- it makes a lot of sense.

No snow doesn't mean no thrills

Start your vacation with a ride on the Heavenly Gondola, an 8-passenger glass cabin that whisks you 2.4 miles up the mountain in 12 breathtaking minutes. The mid-station observation deck has expansive views of Lake Tahoe as well as a gift shop and café.

At the summit you can hike, bike, or enjoy an al fresco barbecue lunch on the patio. Don't miss the 26-foot climbing wall either. With its auto-belay system, you and your kids can experience all the thrills of rock climbing without the pesky risks.

If your kids still have energy after that, send them into the Spider Zone, an interactive climbing structure that ends in a two-story inflatable slide. "They'll sleep tonight," a mountain employee promised as my kids gaspingly climbed for the third time. He was right.

Family fun in Heavenly Village

Back at the base of the mountain, you won't want to leave Heavenly Village without shooting a quick 18 holes of mini-golf, visiting the Nestle Toll House Café, and sampling some fudge at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

If the adults in your party need to recharge after all this fun in the sun, Seattle's Best Coffee has got your back. If it's mealtime, check out the Driftwood Café where their motto is, "For locals only, and special people."

Saddle up

Got a horse lover or two in the family? Try a 1-hour trail ride with Zephyr Cove Resort Stables. The minimum age is 7, but younger kids can be led around the stable area for no charge if older family members book a ride.

As you amble over pristine forested trails high above the lake, you won't believe you're so close to civilization. The horses are happy, healthy, and surefooted and the guides (some of whom compete in rodeos all over the west) are friendly and fascinating.

Go fishing (hooks optional)

Just outside of town is picturesque Sawmill Pond, a kids-only fishing hole that's stocked with lots of huge, hungry trout just waiting to be caught and released (though you can take them home for dinner if you like).

If your kids are squeamish about hurting fish, go to the Taylor Creek Visitor Center where a self-guided nature trail loops through stands of Aspen trees past a marsh to a Stream Profile Chamber. This awkwardly named but nonetheless cool attraction gives you a fish-eye-view of the residents of Taylor Creek. Fall is the best time to visit, when the leaves are yellow and the Kokanee salmon are a gorgeous bright red.

Fly high

You haven't seen Lake Tahoe's crystal blue perfection from every angle until you've strapped on a parachute and reeled out 1,200 feet of line behind a speedboat with Ski Run Boat Company.

Kids as small as 40 pounds can fly (though they may be required to fly tandem). Feeling nervous yourself? Grab a friend or three. As long as you weigh less than 500 pounds altogether, the sky's the limit.

-- Aimi Xistra Rich

Blog Post: 10 must-have gear items for summer adventure

Krista Crabtree — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:09:00 GMT

One of the boons of traveling to the mountains in the summertime is that our gear weighs significantly less than winter paraphernalia. This also means that our usual checklist -- helmet, goggles, neck warmer, gloves/mittens, jacket, pants, ski socks, hand warmers, etc. -- is fortunately shorter, giving our overworked and often very tired parent brains a much need respite for a few months every year.

But before we head to the hills, we take the time to pack a few hot summer items. We have found that the right gear provides fun and comfort for our child. Afterall, if the kids are happy, everyone's happy and we can all relax and enjoy our well-deserved summer vacation.

1. Avoid the dreaded question: "Are we there yet?" by bringing enough activities to amuse your child on the way to the mountains. The Jet Plane and Airport Terminal ($13/each) allows ages 3 and up to act out their travel experiences with a toy plane, a terminal and even a security checkpoint. Older kids enjoy a portable DVD player (Philips 7" screen, around $70) with headphones, which magically allows them to remain seated for longer than a parent would think possible.

2. Good coverage is so important at high elevation and we have found that broad-spectrum, mineral sunscreens provide the best-and purest-protection for our active mountain kid. Founded by a Boulder, Colo. mom, Goddess Garden Kid's Natural Sunscreen ($11 for 3.5 ounces) has 82 percent organic ingredients and is effective immediately, unlike chemical sunscreens, which can take up to 20 minutes to activate. According to our kid, it doesn't smell too funny or give you the white clown face look that some zinc oxide products do.

3. Hydration is a hot topic in the mountain environment and there's no better way to get liquids into little bodies than to give them a cool water bottle. CamelBak Kid's Bottles ($14) comes in fun designs (we're partial to the Lime Mermaid) and have the CamelBak Big Bite valve, which is more fun than drinking from a regular glass. As a mom, I'm into what's not in the water bottle: no harmful BPAs or phthalates.

4. With mountains come variable weather and it's best to be prepared for an afternoon rain shower. Enter the Kids 2.5 Layer Raincoat ($59) by Molehill Mt. Equipment. Kids will like the color options for girls and boys (we have pink!), and parents will appreciate that the coats are waterproof and breathable. Got toddlers or infants? Check out Molehill Mt. Equipment's water and wind repellent one-piece suits-great for hikes with the backpack.

5. I know that a stick would be just fine for roasting marshmallows, but kids love the Coaglan's Telescoping Fork ($5). Be it a campfire in the woods or a chiminayo in the village, your older child will be captivated by placing sugary treats at the end of the telescoping fork and rotating it above flames. One bit of advice: Marshmallows may hinder your expectations for an early bedtime.

6. Though potentially not so fun for your child, a first-aid kit may come in handy for you. When heading to the mountains, we add a collection of medical essentials to our car or luggage. You could purchase something like the Adventure Medical Kit Ultralight/Watertight First-Aid Kit ($36) or make your own. Include sunscreen, bug spray, aloe for burns, ointments for wounds and of course any medications your child needs. For best results (or at least to shorten the amount of tears), include bandages with cartoon characters on them.

7. Vail Resorts offers amazing hiking opportunities for every level. As kids increase their stamina on the hiking trails, they need a rugged shoe. Teva kid's Riva Mid WP ($70) has a kid-friendly, durable pull cord lacing system for easy entry/exit, plus a waterproof upper-great for splashing in mud puddles or walking through mountain streams.

8. A sun hat is to summer as ice cream is to a cone. In other words, don't leave home without one. Coolibar hats ($14 and up) come in a variety of styles such as hats with chinstrap for youngsters, bucket hats and all-sport hats with neck and ear protection

9. There's a saying in the mountains: If you don't like the weather, wait a minute. When you need a little extra layer, outfit your kid in a Patagonia fleece vest (Synchilla, $39, or Retro Kids, $45). Make sure you have your camera because there's always a photo op when your kid has on a cute vest.

10. As if she has a built-in divining rod, when there's water in the vicinity, our daughter will find it. Since kids love water, give them a quick-drying, gripable summer sandal with Keen watershoes ($40 and up). They come in fun, sporty styles, like the Newport H2, and have an easy-to-use elastic cord lace system.

By Krista Crabtree

Blog Post: Family-friendly pubs of South Tahoe

Aimi Xistra-Rich — Fri, 27 May 2011 14:10:00 GMT

Tahoe Pubs are a year-round staple on the South Shore. Where do you go when you're fresh off the slopes? Seeking an ice cold Guiness? Or maybe a Black and Tan? Well grab the family and head to these family-friendly pubs of South Tahoe!

Located across from the Heavenly Gondola, McP's Pub Tahoe has been serving up amazing pub grub, free pool and cold beers since the 90's. Relocating the business during the development of the Heavenly Village to a brand new two-story cedar building gave the pub new life. Now McP's has earned the reputation of being a local's spot that welcomes new faces and friends. The two-story layout sets the family restaurant upstairs, while the pool tables and fire pits are downstairs. Order anything on the menu, you won't be disappointed.

Under new ownership MacDuff's Public House is located in midtown across from the Tahoe Bowl on Fremont St. The colonial style white house creates the perfect setting for this truly Scottish pub. Tons of beers on tap and a kid's menu add to the perks. It's location next to the bowling alley makes for a great afternoon family outing, lunch and a few frames. The pork sliders are amazing as was the Greek Gyro Pizza prepared in the wood-fired oven. I've also heard that the Fish n Chips are the best in the basin.

Heading towards the "Y" on Hwy 50 just passed Tahoe Keys Blvd. you'll see a green barn-shaped house on the left; home to Steamers Bar & Grill. One word...yummy. Super friendly atmosphere and tons of awesome outdoor seating. The bartender brought over the kid's menus and a highchair as soon as we walked in the door. The bar was full of locals and everyone was so happy; super good vibes. The kids enjoyed chicken strips and fries while we ate some delicious hot dip sandwiches. The extensive outdoor seating and open area make this a fabulous spot for dining outside with the family.

Just past the "Y" on Hwy 89 you'll find the luck of the Irish with you at Murphy's Irish Pub. The bar area offers tables next to a welcoming fire and TVs entertain the kids. I swear they pour the coldest Guiness on the tour. They offer a fresh salad bar that has homemade bacon bits and the Shepherd's Pie is delicious. They also serve-up some amazing stuffed baked potatoes. Wash one of those down with a dark beer and you're full for two days! There is a very nice outdoor area at Murphy's and it's a convenient stop after a day at Kiva or Pope Beach.

You CAN have the best of both worlds...family dining with the rich pub atmosphere.

Cheers,

Aimi X.

Blog Post: South Tahoe's top playgrounds for kids of all ages

Aimi Xistra-Rich — Thu, 26 May 2011 21:48:00 GMT

Looking for the perfect park for your munchkins? Here's all the information you need to pick the best one for your family.

Kahle Community Park - Stateline, Nev.

This park is located outside the Kahle Community Center located at the bottom of Kingsbury Grade/Hwy 207 in Nevada. Conveniently located near the casino strip and multiple hotels and dining, this spot is easy to make into a stop on your afternoon agenda. Suited for children of all ages the park is home to swings, slides and a simple climbing gym. Note that children over 10 may become bored fast as the activities are simple and the structure itself is small. My four and two year olds love this park. It's next to the soccer field and track so there's often other activities going on. There's also an outdoor BBQ pavilion and a basketball court.

To get there: Kahle Park is located between Highway 50 and Kingsbury Grade (207 )as they come together. You can enter from either road. The Kingsbury Grade entrance is across from the Exxon. The Hwy 50 entrance is at the light on Kahle Drive, 775 586-7271.

If you're looking for a nearby lunch place try Mott Canyon or Thai One On, both kid friendly and delicious!

South Tahoe Recreation Complex - South Lake Tahoe, Calif.

The South Tahoe Recreation Complex is home to the ice hockey arena, indoor pool, gym and enormous outdoor play gym. This is the bees knees for kids of all ages. There's a swing set with toddler swings too, a tire swing, zip line, Jeep, climbing walls, sand box...it has it all! It's adjacent to a basketball and volleyball court and large open grass play area. The structure itself has multiple slides of various sizes and shapes, a chain climbing wall, monkey bars, rope bridge and cross-playground communication. This is a popular park so try to avoid visiting right after school lets out.

To get there: The park is located at 1180 Rufus Allen Blvd. From Hwy 50 take Rufus Allen Blvd. park is about a half-mile down on right hand side.

Nearby lunch hotspots include the Snowflake Drive-In, Freshies and Sprouts.

Regan Beach Park - South Lake Tahoe, Calif.

Conveniently located on Lakeview Ave. Regan Beach is Tahoe's oldest park facility. Regan Beach Park provides fun for the entire family with amazing views. The moderately-sized structure is ideally designed for older children and there are no toddler swings. A fireman pole and double slides highlight the facility. There is a snack shack at the park which is nice for quick bites and it is easily reachable by bike. There's an adjacent grass area perfect for playing tag, kicking a ball and just running around. It also has a nice sand volleyball court. Try to avoid late afternoons as the park is a popular spot for the older kids.

To get there: Turn onto Lakeview Ave. from Hwy 50. Go about a mile and the Regan Beach entrance is on the right.

Tahoe Paradise Park - Meyers, Calif.

By far the largest and most beautiful of all South Tahoe parks, the Tahoe Paradise Park is nestled behind a neighborhood on the Upper Truckee River. With river access and beautiful views of Echo Summit, the Tahoe Paradise Park provides a perfect spot for kids of all ages to enjoy a beautiful Tahoe day. With the most swings of any park and only merry-go-round, this park is a hidden gem. The structure is huge and make by Little Tikes, it has everything from a pirate rope bridge to a spiraling slide. The park is adjacent to baseball fields and houses BBQ grills to complete your afternoon outing. This is a great place to host a kid's party!

To get there: Follow Hwy 50 from South Lake Tahoe to Meyers. Turn right on Apache Drive just before the agricultural checkpoint. Turn left when the road ends, head to the end.

For delicious deli sandwiches to-go visit Lira's Market, or dine-in at the Downtown Cafe.

Enjoy each day in Tahoe and make it special with a visit to one of the local parks!

Have fun, play hard,

Aimi X.

Blog Post: Kid-friendly activities for summer in the mountains

Kara Williams — Mon, 09 May 2011 15:27:00 GMT

Vail Resorts might roll out the red carpet for families in the wintertime, but the resorts truly overflow with family-friendly adventures in the summer months, when sunny skies and a temperate climate are ideal for playing in the outdoors. Here's a peek at just a few of the activities available at Vail Resorts mountains for the entire family between mid-June and Labor Day:

Adrenaline junkies won't want to miss the Peak 8 Fun Park in Breckenridge, where the new year-round alpine coaster twists and turns down 2,500 feet of raised track between two ski runs; you control the speed of the two-seater car, so if you or your pint-sized passenger is feeling timid, you can take it easy navigating the corners, as well. Also on tap at the Fun Park in the summertime: the equally exciting alpine slide, a high-altitude mini-golf course, climbing wall and bungee trampoline, plus the state's largest human maze. Combine these activities with gemstone panning, a bouncy house, guided hikes and scenic chair-lift ride, and you may just need a full day (or two) to enjoy everything Peak 8 has for kids to do.

Vail's on-mountain equivalent is Adventure Ridge, at the top of LionsHead's Eagle Bahn Gondola. Vail's smallest guests can take a short pony ride around a corral, while children ages seven and up are invited on longer horseback rides. Free for all are a slackline, bocce ball, cornhole and horseshoes, or try your hand at disc golf (it's a nominal fee if you don't bring your own Frisbee). At the base of the mountain, take the whole family cycling on the paved recreation trail along Gore Creek; bike rentals are available at many shops in town. Skateboard enthusiasts should check out the rails and ramps on top of the LionsHead parking structure, and little ones can climb, swing and slide to their hearts' content at the awesome playgrounds in Ford and Donovan parks.

Plan your Beaver Creek vacation to ensure you're in town on a Thursday night for the wildly fun Beaver Creek Rodeo in Avon. Experienced cowboys and cowgirls compete in events like calf roping, bareback bronc riding and barrel racing, while even visiting kids can try their luck at mutton' bustin and the calf scramble. Moms and dads, you aren't left out: sign up in teams of three to compete in burro racing. The Beaver Creek Hiking Center can customize a private hike to your family's ability level. The knowledgeable guides are chock full of information about the local history, ecology and geology, so your kids will learn as you're enjoying some outdoor exercise together in the fresh mountain air along the way.

Tubing in June? It sounds a little crazy, but because snow lingers on the slopes at Keystone, you can actually soar down the mountain in a giant innertube at Adventure Point in the early weeks of summer. No need to heft the heavy tube back up; you get to hop on a giant conveyor belt to the top. Find more kid-friendly activities at the Adventure Center at Keystone Lodge, where you can rent paddleboats and canoes, go panning for gold and feed the fish in enormous lake. If it's a little peace and quiet amongst nature you're seeking, consider a mellow trail ride with Keystone Stables, where you'll wind your way on horseback through the lodgepole pines of Araphoe National Forest. In the evening, take a horse-drawn wagon ride to the old Soda Creek Homestead, where down-home cookin' is on the menu in a rustic setting. Note: When you book your vacation lodging through Keystone-managed properties, you get a discount-filled Adventure Passport to save on your family fun.

At South Lake Tahoe's Heavenly, be sure to hop off the gondola mid-station to take in the phenomenal lake views from the giant observation deck here. Young naturalists might want to chat with the Eco Rangers who are on hand to answer questions about the area's flora and fauna. At the top of the gondola, tell your kids they get to weave up Adventure Peak's SpiderZone climbing structure after they join you on one of the self-guided hikes, ranging from one to four miles, at 9,000+ feet. In town, there's no end to the amount of fun you can have on sparkling blue Lake Tahoe. Book a cruise on a classic paddle wheeler, or rent a pontoon, canoe, jet ski or motorboat to set your own course and agenda. For thrills, get a birds-eye view of the lake by flying high on a parasailing excursion. Of course, there's nothing wrong with simply kicking back on one of Lake Tahoe's beaches and watching your kids build sandcastles while you refill energy stores for your next family-friendly mountain adventure.

-- Kara Williams

(Reprinted from PEAKS Winter 2010-11, the magazine of Vail Resorts.)

Blog Post: Traveling in ski country with kids with food allergies

Krista Crabtree — Sat, 07 May 2011 16:18:00 GMT

Having a child with food allergies is challenging, but when you add traveling into the mix, it can be downright frustrating.

Parents with kids who have severe nut allergies need to approach every thing they do with the attentiveness of the secret service securing an area for the president. For some kids, even airborne particles can mean a trip to the emergency room. For these families, preventing allergy attacks has become a way of life.

Often the easiest thing to do is to rent a condo or hotel room with a kitchenette so that you can control the food preparation. But for others -- like myself -- who have children with less severe allergies, negotiating your way around ski country is much easier today, thanks in part to the growing awareness of food sensitivities and intolerances in the food industry.

Both my daughter and I are sensitive to wheat and cow's milk. Though we are not allergic to gluten, the results of eating wheat are not pleasant for either one of us, so we typically ask for gluten-free options. Our restaurant experiences always end up with the waiter going to the kitchen to ask the chef about ingredients, but I find that asking questions is the best way to make sure you get the meal you need.

On a recent visit to Larkspur in Vail, Colorado, we were pleasantly surprised at the gluten-free options. The waiter was excited to tell me about a Belgian gluten-free beer -- which was surprisingly light and refreshing. My daughter was most excited about the gluten-free bread since we usually sit sadly before meals as others enjoy bread and butter.

The Larkspur menu proudly displays many gluten-free options and the waiter assured us that the chef is always willing to amend a meal to suit dietary restrictions. We even got to have dessert -- a course that is typically filled with wheat or dairy items -- and we both happily shared raspberry sorbet.

Many on-mountain dining areas have items designed to cater to gluten or dairy free diners. Make sure to read signs and take the time to ask someone about the choices. Two Elk at Vail typically has wheat-free brownies, which makes for a great treat on a cold day. Salad bars and baked potatoes are a good option, as well as soups, though be sure to ask about the ingredients if they are not listed. Sometimes I ask for the low-carb option for burritos. Low carb means wrapping the veggies and protein up in lettuce instead of a flour tortilla. With a little creativity, I can always find something that suits my needs.

When I put my daughter in ski school, I always ask what they are serving for lunch. Typically ski schools put a button or tag on your child that says "allergy kid" and lists what the allergy is. It's a good idea to pack extra food for your child if you are worried that they will not get enough lunch or snack.

Just be conscious that many ski schools do not allow peanut products because of the severity of peanut allergies. All in all, it takes a little research, a few questions and a little prep time, but ski country is a great place to go.

-- Krista Crabtree

Blog Post: A Mother’s Day tribute to my mountain-loving mama

Morgan Bast — Fri, 06 May 2011 17:33:00 GMT

Let's just say I was a terrible kid. Ever since I was born I pretty much made it my mission to make my mother's life miserable. Colic as a baby? Done. One terrible tantrum fest after another as a toddler? Done. A fiery spirit and hair to match as a child? Done. And don't even get me started on how I was as a teenager. Let's just say I wasn't exactly pleasant.

But like all good mothers, my mom put up with it. She was patient and understanding when I needed it and pushed back with a vengeance when I was testing the limits. She was tough -- but because she had to be. It wasn't always consistent (my mother has a habit of changing her mind often) but her love was. And so was her love for the mountains.

My mom taught me how to ski when I was 18 months old in Big Bear Lake, Calif. (The photo above is at Snow Summit with my sister on the right) At around age five, we were hiking in the southern California mountains as much as possible. And at age 11, we moved to Frisco, Colo. to fully embrace my mom's passion for the hills. It took me a long time to embrace my new locale, but eventually it hit me that those mountains my mom was talking about all the time were actually pretty awesome.

Pretty soon I threw myself into the ski industry full-force as a result of my mom's passion and my dad's career as a marketing guy at a ski resort. I loved every minute of it -- the attitude, the altitude, and especially the gear. (I probably own eight or nine ski jackets and only one purse.) Since my change to a mountain girl, the best experiences of my life have happened in the mountains. From camping trips with my friends to bottomless powder days to even getting married at the base of the Big Horns in Wyoming -- I come alive in the hills and no, it's not because of the sound of music. Nowadays, if you say 'mountain,' I'll say 'yes.'

For this Mother's Day, the person I have to thank for all my passion for the mountains is my mom. More than anything, she's lead by example and continuously helped me to stay grounded, even while at 9,000 feet.

She's taught me that despite all the petty problems I have, I can drive up I-70, look around and things will melt away. My issues don't stand a chance against the behemoths surrounding Lake Dillon. I now take the attitude, 'if it won't matter in a year, then it shouldn't matter today.' Those mountains know what matters and I appreciate them for it.

Why should you raise your kid to be a mountain-loving person like me? Because maybe one day, when they are successful and happy with a freshly-made goggle tan, they'll look back and thank you for doing it.

Thanks mom.

--Morgan Bast

Blog Post: Spas cure the mud season blues

Krista Crabtree — Thu, 05 May 2011 21:46:00 GMT

I have a confession: I am addicted to skiing. But at least it's a healthy addiction, right?

Like any addiction, however, when the stimulus is taken away, there is always some type of withdrawal. My withdrawal happens during what is commonly referred to in any ski town as "the shoulder season." Admittedly, I have been moping about since Vail closed a few weeks ago. When my daughter asked me what I wanted for Mother's Day, I said, "skiing." To make matters worse, it has been snowing off and on since closing day. But I found a remedy this shoulder season to cure my end-of-the-ski-season blues.

Coincidently, it's a three-letter word, just like S-K-I and luckily it stays open through the shoulder season, the winter season --actually all season long. My new favorite three-letter word for the shoulder season? S-P-A.

On a beautiful day in May, with snow still covering the slopes in Lionshead, I had the opportunity to celebrate Mother's Day by going to the spa at the Arrabelle, A RockResort. I stood outside of the Arrabelle and looked longingly at the slopes before I entered the spa.

I took some comfort in the wooden sculptures designed to look like skis that line the walkway to the spa's inner sanctum. At first, I couldn't relax even though everything about the surroundings told me to unwind: the relaxation room with its chairs that beckon you to lounge; the serenity fountains; the lemon-infused water; the light spa snacks of tasty nuts and dried fruit; the jet tub in the women's locker room and the steam room, both sparkling with jewel-like tile. Wouldn't any normal person peel off their street clothes and jump in? My head said I should be outside on the mountain, but my body began to betray me when I saw women relaxing in the jet tub. They looked so...happy. Happy, content and relaxed. So I joined them.

We nibbled on snacks, sipped a little champagne and relaxed in the awe-inspiring ambience. As if that weren't enough, I had two treatments, too. I was escorted into a luxurious treatment room for a massage. The therapist's strong hands seemed to work out the kinks from every mogul run, powder day or groomer I skied that season.

Next, I decided to get a facial to treat my face after a season of sun, snow and sweat. A facial, I realized, is like eating an ice cream sundae without getting any calories from it. It's so delicious for your face. My skin reacted well to Naturopathica brand of skin care they use, founded by Barbara Close, a clinical aesthetician, herbalist, aromatherapist, massage therapist and author.

To top it off, the aesthetician gave me sorbet, which I ate lounging in the relaxation room, feeling smug and satisfied in my über-soft spa robe and my newly-hydrated face, thinking "this, I could get used to." And my shoulder season blues? I forgot all about them somewhere between the eucalyptus oil steam shower, the mellow music, the massage and the facial. Spa, you're my new favorite three-letter word for the shoulder season.

Here's another incentive to go to the RockResorts Spa at the Arrabelle in Vail Square this shoulder season: 35 percent off select spa treatments plus a complimentary seasonal enhancement if you upgrade to an 80-minute treatment. Valid through May 26, 2011. Call 970-754-7754 for appointments or visit rockresortsspa.com/arrabelle.

-- Krista Crabtree

Blog Post: Legends at Sparks Marina; outlet shopping near Tahoe

Aimi Xistra-Rich — Sun, 01 May 2011 00:09:00 GMT

Just over an hours drive from South Lake Tahoe you'll find the Legends at Sparks Marina, a shopper's paradise! Plan to spend an entire day seeking out the best deals for your shopping budget.

The mall is nicely situated at the Sparks Marina and is new, being open almost two years now. It's open-air design is perfect for the hot temperatures in the summer.

Legends offers stores for everyone in the family. There's Carter's, Osh Kosh B'Gosh, Gymboree, Sanrio for the kids; Forever 21, Guess and Volcom for the teens; Scheel's and Nike for Dad; and Ann Taylor and Body Shop for Mom.

The Scheel's offers a real treat to break from shopping, a ferris wheel. The ferris wheel is for kids 42" and above and each ride costs only $1. There is also two archway fish tanks with exotic fish to entertain all ages.

Nearby you'll find plenty of lunch options including an Olive Garden and BJ's Brewery. Across from the mall is the Wild Island water park where you could split part of your group for multi-levels of entertainment.

Aimi X.

Blog Post: A Tahoe spring day with a tween

Aimi Xistra-Rich — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 20:25:00 GMT

What to do, what to do...

When my friend asked me to spend the day with her twelve-year-old daughter I was excited to see what we could get into. We decided that the sunshine and beautiful weather called for a bike ride.

South Tahoe's Sierra Ski & Cycle Works sells, fixes and rents all types of bikes. We were able to rent a bike for two hours and they had one small enough for my little girlfriend. We parked our car at the shop, put on our helmets and took off on our bikes.

The bike path along Highway 50 is safe and smoothly paved. We rode about two miles down to the target="_blank">Heavenly Village where we cruised in and out of shops and stopped for some fudge at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

The Heavenly Village is a great place to eat, people watch and shop. Once we were finished there we crossed the street into the Raley's Shopping Center. We shopped at Sidestreet Boutique and Sports LTD before stopping at the Jamba Juice for a healthy smoothy.

Anxious to get on our bikes again, we geared up and rode across the street and down to the beach, looping around by Edgewood Golf Course and re-connecting with Highway 50 at the Wells Fargo Bank. From here we rode the three or so miles back to the bike shop to return our bikes.

With the shopping and the snack stopping I was able to keep my tween friend all smiles. The bike riding was fun but we balanced out our day so that we weren't burnt out or too tired to enjoy ourselves.

Sometimes keeping a bike trip short and sweet keeps everyone happy!

Aimi X.

Blog Post: Tahoe places for rainy day fun

Aimi Xistra-Rich — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 15:34:00 GMT

Sometimes a little rain can bring spirits down. But don't fear on your next trip to South Tahoe. One, it rarely rains and two, there is plenty to keep your kids entertained. From toddlers to teenagers Tahoe has indoor activities for all ages!

If you're staying near the Casinos a great indoor spot is the Harrah's Arcade. Alongside Skee Ball and Jet Skis there is a jungle gym, ball pit and an area for pizza. It's a great place to have a Birthday Party or to just get out some energy.

Movies are always a good rainy day past time. On the South Shore there are two options: the Heavenly Village Cinemas located across from the Putt Putt in the Heavenly Village, or the Horizon Stadium Cinemas located inside the Horizon Casino. Make sure to check movie times as matinees are less expensive and there are often deals. Phone the Heavenly Village Cinemas at 530.544.1110, the Horizon at 775.589.6000

Who doesn't love bowling? Tahoe Bowl on Fremont Street, will put up bumpers for the little ones. Open from mid-morning to around 10pm, the bowling alley is a great place for hours of entertainment. Not only is there bowling, but there's also a pool table, arcade games and a Blue Dog Gourmet Pizza (and a bar for adult entertainment).

The Tahoe Tot Spot is located on Hwy. 50 and Al Tahoe Blvd. in the Rite-Aid Center. Designed for toddlers, this venue offers a ball pit, gymnastics area, game room, art room and tons of toddler fun. Call ahead as operation times vary 530.541.5994.

At the "Y" of South Tahoe there is a huge McDonald's with an indoor play place that is perfect for rainy days. Children have to remove shoes and wear socks to play in the play place. Adult supervision is required and the play place accommodates children ages two to adult.

A brand new indoor skateboarding facility is prepping to open at the "Y" soon...

There are tons of fun indoor activities in Tahoe. If you ever are looking for something fun to do ask someone you see with kids; Tahoeians are friendly and usually open to sharing some of their favorite Tahoe spots.

Aimi X.

Blog Post: My top 3 favorite Vail events

Anonymous — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 03:08:00 GMT

If you've read any of my husband's blogs, you know that the last few Ryan has written have pretty much cornered the Bachelor market! That market is of course the one that draws tens of thousands of the fans of the show to his dispatches and what blogger doesn't want people to view what they've written? That's kind of the purpose, right?!

Well, I'm hoping that even without a title related to the show that introduced us, that I will still get a few hits and you'll want to read what comes into my braindead-from-being-a-mother-with-young-kiddos-mind.

So, what is it that I think you should know about Vail for my last blog of the season? Why not events that we personally try to attend every year that would LOVE for you to attend as well?! Maybe boring for some who never see themselves visiting, but maybe inspirational to get you to book a ticket to come visit our little resort town...and not just to ski!!

These are THE events of the year that we attend and think you should too:

World Pondskimming Championships -
Pondskimming, you ask? Well, the best way I can describe it is a friendly competition between locals and visitors, alike, who dress up in silly costumes, make fools of themselves, and hopefully don't get wet...unless it's in the hot tub afterward!

After skiing down one of Golden Peak's slopes and hitting a kicker that figuratively gives you wings, you either skim across the pond to potentially win, or flop face or butt or belly first into the ice cold water. Ryan and I have judged it for the past 5 or 6 years and although we'll never be a participant, we'd love to see you there! Come join us on Easter Sunday! Info at SpringBacktoVail.com.

American Ski Classic -
As with anything, if you ask those who attend the ski classic why they do so, you will find that everyone has a different reason. For me, I love it because I can cheer my husband on in a ski race (and everyone knows I love to do that), meet GREAT people, support an organization that does so much for the community I call home, lets me selfishly reconnect with friends that I sometimes only see at it's weekend of events, oh, AND...as a little star struck girl from the Midwest I can spot and sometimes even chat with a celebrity (or 10)!

If you want to join me, Ryan, the kids, legendary ski racers, pillars of the Vail community, and maybe even Chris Harrison... goto VVF.org and get your tickets for next year!!

First Descents Ball -
Even though this year will be hard to top after Ryan's incredibly sweet acceptance speech for his Golden Paddle Award, I don't know that we will ever miss a future First Descents Ball.

After all...we have official nicknames that everyone gets when they attend camp and we were lucky enough to do just that this past summer. What are those nicknames you ask? Mine was given when I said "what do you call something that is a big supporter?" I was of course referring to my family, but if you use your imagination, you may guess that it didn't end up referring to that!

Anyway, back to the point (sorry, I get distracted easily!). With our intense involvement in the 10.10.10 campaign last year, Ryan and I were blessed to become part of a family that strives to do what everyone should -- help others. What makes them even more worthy? They help young adults struggling with cancer and do so in a way that doesn't feel forced. Please join us next year, and every year after that! FirstDescents.org

-- Trista Sutter

Blog Post: 4 tips to help kids bounce back from a scary fall

Jamie Pearson — Sat, 16 Apr 2011 20:12:00 GMT

On day two of our annual Tahoe ski trip, my 11-year-old daughter lost control, sped down the hill kamikaze-style, and crashed. Fortunately she fell into a forgiving drift of pristine powder. Unfortunately once we fished her out, she shakily spoke aloud the words no skiing parent wants to hear: "I want to go down on the gondola."

Falling is part of learning and learning is part of skiing. After you make sure your kids aren't really hurt, here are a few things you can do to gently get them back on skis after a scary fall.

1. Warm them up
Has it been decades since you learned to ski? If so, you've probably forgotten that an unfortunate side effect of falling is getting snow absolutely everywhere. Just because you've picked your kids up and brushed them off doesn't mean they're warm or dry.

Retreat for half an hour to a fireside table in the lodge and dry off by the fire. If you've got hand warmers somewhere in the bottom of your backpack, now is the time to dig them out.

2. Administer junk food
I've been a mom for over a decade now, and the healing properties of sugar still never cease to amaze me (this is medically documented, by the way). Taking kids to the snack bar for some hot chocolate and a pastry, cookie, or candy bar of their choice will take their mind off falling faster than anything.

3. Break for some snow play
Instead of forcing kids to ski (which never works anyway, trust me), find a quiet place where they can build a snowman, make snow angels, and throw snowballs. This is a great way to remind kids that snow is fun. If you only get in three runs as a family, so be it.

4. Make it a game
If your kid is still crying or stonewalling (or both) and the only way down the mountain is to ski down, make it into a game. Follow the Leader is a classic that can incorporate plenty of silliness, and Red Light Green Light and Simon Says can be adapted to the slopes too. If all else fails, there's no shame in taking off those skis and walking down the hill. After all, tomorrow is another day.

--Jamie Pearson

Jamie writes about family vacations on her award-winning blog, Travel Savvy Mom.

Blog Post: Beaver Creek's children's ski school reviewed

Rachel Walker — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 22:46:00 GMT

There's one thing you won't find at the Ranch, the children's ski school building at the top of the Buckaroo Express Gondola at Beaver Creek: parents.

Just for kids
With a strictly-enforced rule of allowing only adults who work for the ski school (that would be instructors and the folks in the kitchen), the state of the art, secure, two-story building is like the winter equivalent of Neverland.

Fun on and off the slopes
Outside, performers dressed as cowboys and explorers entertain kids taking a break from skiing with an engaging comedy sketch. Inside, cooks are preparing really good food with fresh, and often organic, ingredients.

Instant feedback
Flat screen televisions are integrated into the walls, and instructors can plug in video cameras for some post-skiing critiquing.

Yummy food
At mealtime, the kids sit at specific tables and order the food through their instructors, who send it to the kitchen and pick it up. Translation: there is no cafeteria madness that takes place at so many on-mountain dining areas. Parents don't have to worry their kids will get swamped in the mayhem, and they can rest assured that everything has been doe to ensure their kids have access to nutritional and tasty eats.

And all of that is just at break time.

On the snow
When it comes to the ski school itself, Beaver Creek prides itself on employing world-class instructors who return year after year. The school can provide gear rentals (including helmets). And while there are certainly some times to forego ski school and teach the kids yourself, there are plenty of occasions to hire a professional.

Planning for this season and next
So whether your family is sneaking in some late-season skiing this month or looking ahead to next year's vacation, it's never too early to investigate ski school.

The low down:

Cost (all prices are per person and are for the 2010/2011 season):

Age 3-14 all day lesson/lunch (lift ticket/pass required): $162
Age 3-14 all day lesson/lunch (lift ticket included): $187

Location: School meets at Gerald R. Ford Hall, between the Park Hyatt and McCoy's Cafe

Open: 8:00am-4:30pm (Registration begins at 8:00am)

Information/reservations: (970) 754-5464.

A typical day All of the classes are taught by patient instructors who put a premium on the kids' enjoyment. Classes are divided by age and ability level, and kids stay in their group during the duration of the day, and for meals and snacks at the Ranch.

-- Rachel Walker

Blog Post: 5 fun Northstar activities for non-skiers

Jamie Pearson — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 20:01:00 GMT

Just because you or someone in your party doesn't ski or snowboard, doesn't mean you can't stay busy and happy on a winter trip to Northstar-at-Tahoe. Once you've exhausted the dining and shopping opportunities in the village -- which is no small feat, there are plenty of active things to do on the mountain and in the Village.

Geocaching on snowshoes
Snowshoeing is a lot like hiking, except you're wearing bulky clothing and working a lot harder. Geocaching is a high tech treasure hunt where you use a handheld GPS to locate a hidden item (in this case, a waterproof canister with tiny treasures inside). Northstar combines the two activities and the result is definitely greater than the sum of its parts.

Check in at the Northstar Resort Cross Country, Telemark, and Snowshoe Center where you'll pick up your gear and get a quick GPS lesson. Bring some small trinkets to swap when you find the cache. Cache locations are rated (just like ski slopes) and while the GPS will get you within 30 feet of your target, expect to search and dig a little.

Tubing
Your whole family will love Northstar's J-shaped tubing hill with three whoops, especially since there's a tow lift to haul you back to the top of the hill. Riders are required to be 36 inches tall and able to hold onto to the tube's handles themselves. While parents can make "daisy chains" with their kids, no double riding on the same tube is allowed. Weather permitting, the tubing hill is open daily and reservations are strongly recommended.

Ice skating
Rent skates for just $5 and access to the gorgeous 9,000 square foot rink (which becomes a roller rink in the summer) is free. It's a lot of fun for not very much money. Take a few spins around the ice and then reward yourself with s'mores (kits available for purchase inside True North). On Turtleneck Tuesdays, do it all to hits from the 70s and 80s from 5:00-8:00pm.

Cross-country skiing
For people who enjoy beautiful scenery more than traveling downhill fast, cross country skiing is a slam dunk. Even complete beginners can be up and running with minimal instruction. If you go with kids, it's very important to only go out as far as they are willing to come back. Otherwise you could be in for a very long day.

The Bungy Trampoline
The year-round Bungy Trampoline (located on the Village Center Overlook) gives people of all ages between 20 and 220 pounds a safe, but thrilling experience and a good work out too. The trampoline lets you fly high, but the harness and bungy cords keep you from falling. It's open daily from noon to dusk, call ahead to confirm.

--Jamie Pearson

Jamie writes about family vacations on her award-winning blog, Travel Savvy Mom.