{Consideration provided by Mountain High}
I remember the very first time I went skiing. I was in my early 20s and relatively fit thanks to my love for running. I headed up to a local ski resort with a group of friends, all of whom were avid skiers. Not wanting to reveal my inexperience, I skipped the lesson and went straight for the bunny slope. While I did my share of falling, I ended up completely captivated by the sport and I couldn’t wait to get back on that mountain.
Admittedly, it took over 10 years to get me back on the slopes. Being a mom and a small business owner keeps me incredibly busy and with the holidays now behind us, taking a weekend off seems impossible. But with winter upon us and fresh powder thanks to Southern California’s latest storms, I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to spend a day at Mountain High.
Located 90 minutes from Los Angeles and Orange County in Wrightwood, Mountain High is the closest winter resort, easily accessible off the I-15. With 3 mountains to ski or snowboard, it’s easy to get away for the day without having to travel far or spend money on accommodations. The resort offers a variety of lifts and trails for beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders and even offers night skiing and snowboarding every day of the week during the season. Additionally, you’ll find a large tubing area and a winter sports school on-site.
What You Need to Ski or Snowboard
How much you ski or snowboard will help determine whether it makes sense to rent or purchase the necessary equipment. I consider myself a novice skier who might ski once or twice a year, so renting is ideal. If you plan to ski, you’ll need skis, boots and poles. If you plan to snowboard, you’ll need a snowboard, bindings and boots. I also recommend renting, purchasing, or borrowing a helmet. Rentals at Mountain High are affordable at $30 for a ski package and $35 for a snowboarding package. It should be noted that a $400 credit card deposit is required on all ski and snowboard rentals.
In addition to the above equipment, I recommend purchasing or borrowing ski pants, thermals, a warm jacket, goggles, waterproof gloves, and a wool hat. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, water, and a few energy bars.
Tips for First Time Skiers
Because it had been so long since I last skied, I felt like I was doing this for the first time. After spending the day at Mountain High, I came up with some tips for first time skiers that I think you’ll find valuable.
Be prepared. The right equipment and clothing can make the difference between an exhilarating experience and a cold, miserable one. If you plan to invest in a day of skiing, you will want to be warm, particularly on a day like Friday when it snowed for hours. Avoid wearing jeans since one fall will keep you wet for most of the day. I can’t emphasize how important it is to have a warm pair of gloves that will keep your hands dry.
Buddy up. It might seem obvious, but having a ski partner can be lifesaving, particularly if you are a beginner.
Take a lesson. There is tremendous value in taking a lesson, even if you consider yourself an intermediate skier. This is a sport that you can’t typically learn on your own. You’ll find the day much more enjoyable if you take the time to learn the basics including how to put on your skis once you’re on the mountain, how to ski your first steps, how to stop, how to turn, and how to get on and off the ski lift.
Stay hydrated. Skiing burns a sufficient amount of calories. Your body is working muscles in new, vigorous ways. Add in freezing temperatures and a change in altitude and the risk of dehydration increases.
Take regular breaks. First time skiers will quickly realize that their muscles are being worked hard. It is important to take time to rest, hydrate and refuel in order to prevent dehydration, exhaustion, muscle soreness, and injury.
Learn to Ski/Snowboard Month
January is Learn to Ski/Snowboard Month. Through January 31, 2017, purchase a Half Day First Timer Package with lesson, rentals, and a lower-mountain lift ticket for just $85 and receive a second First Timer Package for a friend FREE that day. This is a savings of $85.
1…2…3…Free
As a beginner, you’ll likely need more than one lesson to be a proficient skier or snowboarder. This Mountain High’s 1…2…3…Free package, you’ll receive a 1 hour and 45 minute lesson, rental equipment and a lower mountain lift ticket on all 3 days ($99). Once you’ve completed all 3 lessons, you’ll receive a free 8-hour, all-mountain lift ticket (valued at $74).
Mountain High Deals and Discounts
Throughout the season, you’ll find a variety of deals and discounts for your visit to Mountain High including a free 8-hour lift ticket on your birthday. For more information, visit MtHigh.com.