Tuesday, November 7, 2017

Black Friday Cyber Monday Ski Steals and Downhill Deals

Mt Norquay ramps up the pre-season prep on Thursday to win the opening race - beating Nakiska by one day
(Photo by: Luke Sudermann) 
Mt Norquay opening day by Tera Swanson
Mt Norquay pipped Nakiska by one day in the race to be the first ski resort to open in Canada this season. Opening at 11am Fri Nov 3, Mt Norquay plans to run seven days a week, 9am to 4pm, until the end of the season. With 27cm of fresh snow, they’re in good shape for the first tracks of the winter plus an open terrain park. Andre Quenneville, General Manager at Mt. Norquay, says the resort has been busy making $1.5 million worth of upgrades for 2017/18. “We’ve added a brand new, state-of-the-art Piston Bully snow cat to our fleet to keep our signature Norquay corduroy as pristine as ever, and we’ve made major mechanical upgrades to our chairlifts, including Mystic and Spirit, and the famed North American Chairlift,” he explains. Skiers and riders will also notice brand new washrooms, and some great new rental gear. "These upgrades are our way of making our guests' snow days with us that much better, and keeping the ride to your runs as smooth and speedy as possible,” Quenneville says. Mt Norquay's popular Starlight Dinner events are 
also coming up in January and March, intimate evening dining experiences at the resort’s iconic 1950s teahouse, the Cliffhouse Bistro. The Snow Tube Park is expected to open on Dec 1.
Mt Norquay is open! By Tera Swanson
Sister resort, Lake Louise Ski Resort, opened today and Banff Sunshine is also opening earlier than planned, tomorrow (Nov 8)! Pics next week....
Frozen first day at Nakiska

Nakiska by Abbydell Photography
Nakiska, Calgary's closest ski area, was the second resort in Canada to open this season with a preview weekend Nov 4/5. "This is the Perfect Storm!" says Powder Matt. "Mother Nature slams the Canadian Rockies with huge storm snow - over 40 cm and much more on the way and Voila! Let’s go ski!" 

 With skiing off the Gold Chair, there were seven runs and the Gold Road Ski Out open, as well as two great glades areas. Here are a few comments from First Day Dippers: "Day 1 Nakiska Ski Area you have out done yourself like seriously the gladed runs were boot deep and untouched this season is going to be bonkers!!" said Shammah F. "Had a great day yesterday, off to a good start Nakiska!!!!"
- Scott L; "For November 4th, I have zero complaints. First few runs at first chair were amazing in the glades," - @plumbshredda; "Glades were where it was at," - @phill.romeo; "Best Nov. 4 turns I've ever made," - Dawn W. Go to Powder Matt's blog for tips on prepping for early season skiing: https://powdermatt.com/blog/5-tips-on-preparing-for-ski-season/amp/ 

 Black Friday/Cyber Monday - The Shopaholics Holiday!

 Coming up 24 Nov is the annual Black Friday/Cyber Monday shopping frenzy! Although you may not relish standing in line at department stores at 5am, it might be a good idea to check out some of the online deals on ski trips and gear to get the most of your mountain money this season. Lots of gear sales going on at the moment. Check out all your favourite shops and brands online and don't forget these websites: http://www.the-house.com/black-friday-cyber-monday-deals.html; https://www.sunandski.com/c/black-fridaydeals; https://www.evo.com/sale; https://www.skiessentials.com/; https://www.columbia.com/black-friday-sale/. 
Zeal Optics HD Camera Goggles - a quarter of their usual price over the holiday!
HEADS UP! Zeal Optics HD camera goggles will be $99 over Thanksgiving Weekend - a saving of $300!! Buy them for yourself and for your skiing/snowboarding family or friends. They include an HD video (1080p) and still camera (8MP), heads-up display and many more techie features. Once supplies run out, there are still numerous other goggle styles reduced by 50 %. 

 Last chance to buy Vail Resorts Epic Pass - this Sunday!! More details below.

Telluride Ski Resort | Ben Eng
Take Advantage of Early Winter Specials in Telluride
As holiday festivities ramp up, Telluride Ski Resort is the perfect getaway haven to escape and savor some quiet time before Christmas—all while taking advantage of an assortment of resort exclusives that are not offered any other time of the year. 

“Early December is an incredible time to visit Telluride, with our lodging serving as the ideal spot to enjoy all early season activities, says Rudy Sharp, VP of Hospitality. "Our ski-in/ski-out facilities are second to none, and if you’re here at Thanksgiving, our world-class culinary team will take care of Turkey day in style. Not only will we do the cooking, we’ll do the dishes too!” 

Telluride Ski Resort | Doug Berry
Telluride Ski Resort | Ryan Bonneau
Thanksgiving at The Peaks Resort & Spa: Enjoy the annual Thanksgiving Dinner event at Altezza, featuring a delectable buffet menu that includes artisanal soups, salads, main courses and desserts. Gluten free options are available. Lodging at The Peaks includes complimentary lift tickets and full access to Thanksgiving dinner.

December to Remember: Get cozy at the Inn at Lost Creek for 3 nights or longer and receive 10% off your stay, plus a $250 gift card so you can shop around Telluride with none of the hassles of dealing with a crowd.

Mountain Collective Exclusive: Mountain Collective™ members receive exclusive lodging deals at The Peak Resort & Spa, including discounted lodging and $150 credit at The Peaks Resort & Spa when you stay a minimum of 4 nights.

Early Season Ski Free Package: Visit Telluride between Opening Day and December 15 and receive complimentary lift tickets when you stay at a participating lodging property. Skiers are in for a treat with a brand new 15-acre terrain-based teaching facility, a new 300-foot magic carpet and an expanded grooming fleet to enhance the groomed terrain across the resort.
Powder Mountain, Utah Sale
Shopping and ski gifts at Powder Mountain, Utah:
Powder Mountain began its Black Friday Sale Oct 30, running to Nov 30th, with deals all month. "Bonus cash is back! Get 10% added cash to your gift card purchases," says JP Goulet who I skied with last year on an amazing powder day. "Also, save up to 15% off on 5, 10 and 15 Multi Session Passes." He says these - or gift cards - are perfect stocking stuffers for the shredders in family or friendship groups. Go to store.powdermountain.com for details. 
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadow
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Tahoe:

Pick up your season pass at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows on Saturday, Nov 25 and get up to 20% off your shopping at: The North Face, Parallel Mountain Sports, The Ledge Board Shop, Oakley, Patagonia, Squaw One Logo Co., Spruced Gift & Home, Lather & Fizz, Squaw Dogs, Kalifornia Jean Bar, Mindplay, and Plumpjack Sports (and also the same for all season pass holders). "This annual season passholder party is back and better than ever! The Village at Squaw Valley comes alive with local Dj's, $2 beer benefit stations, raffles and discounts on all of our stores brand new merchandise," says Sam Kieckhefer, Public Relations Coordinator. "We will also have balloon artists and other fun activities for the kids. If you're a season passholder, this is your chance to get all your winter gear and apparel at the best price around."
Crested Butte - Dave Kozlowski/CBMR
Lowest Room Rates of the Season at Crested Butte, Colorado:
Crested Butte Mountain Resort will be offering a Black Friday – Cyber Monday promotion (11/21 – 11/27) on www.skicb.com/blackfriday. "With nightly room rates starting at $89, this is the best time to save on your winter ski vacation to Crested Butte," says Zach Pickett, Communications Coordinator. "In addition to steep lodging discounts, discounted lift tickets are also available." More information can be found at www.skicb.com/blackfriday.
Crested Butte - Tom Stillo/CBMR

Chalet de l’Altiport, Alpe d'Huez 
Save nearly 50% on a self-catered stay before Christmas at the beautiful Chalets de l'Altiport in Alpe d’Huez, France:


"Nicknamed ‘the Island in the Sun’, because of the generous ‘300 days of sun’ average it boasts each year, the Alpe d’Huez grand domaine ski area ensures superb snow conditions, 240 km of undulating pistes and an enviable weather record," says Lynsey Devon. Nestled 500 metres above the Bergers area, the beautiful Chalets de l’Altiport (sleeping up to 16 people) feature large private terraces, offering panoramic views of the mountains, plus private saunas or hot tubs, in which to unwind. "Inside, think large crackling fireplaces, wood and stone interiors and deep, rich colours, to create a warming atmosphere," Lynsey describes. "Leave the chalet and make the most of the town centre, where numerous restaurants, shops and bars, plus a swimming pool, leisure centre, ice rink and cinema await." A week’s stay, from 2 December 2017, costs from £9 per person per night / £64 per person per week (£768 total, was £1,455 total – saving 47%) for 12 people sharing a six-bedroom chalet. Return flights (London to Grenoble) cost from £48 per person with easyJet. Transfers, lift passes, ski hire and food are extra. For more info contact: Ski France 0203 475 4756 www.skifrance.co.uk.

Sugarbush Inn
Sugarbush’s Best Deal is Now on Sale:

The Sugarbush Quad Pack is back. For the sixth year, Sugarbush Resort, Vermont is selling a pack of four transferable, unrestricted lift tickets through the month of November. Tickets, priced at $229, may be used on one day or multiple days anytime during the 17-18 winter season. The Quad Pack represents a 53% savings, and is on sale now through the November 30th. “We saw a lot of success with our Quad Pack over the last few years, and it continues to be one of the best deals out there,” says Win Smith, President of Sugarbush Resort. “If you take the time to plan ahead, you can find some great deals for the winter season.” To pair nicely with the Quad Pack, the Sugarbush Inn is offering the Pillow Four Pack through December 20th. The regular package includes four nights in a standard room for $399, and the deluxe package includes four nights in an upgraded room for $449. Guests can use all four nights consecutively or split them up throughout the season. Purchase online at sugarbush.com, or on the phone at 800-53-SUGAR.


Vail Resorts Cyber Monday Deals:

Grand Summit, Park City
Courtesy of Vail Resorts
Grand Summit Hotel, A RockResort | Park City, UT
Debuting a $15 million before the opening of the winter 2017/2018 ski season, Grand Summit Hotel, A RockResort will provide an elevated mountain luxury with right-out-your-door access to the largest ski resort in the United States.
The Deal
  • Up to 40% off Best Available Rate when you book by 11/29/17.  
    • Lodging rates as low as $155* at Grand Summit Hotel, A RockResort (Hotel King, Queen/Queen, or Studio)
    • $119* at Silverado Lodge (Studio Murphy)
    • $126* at Sundial Lodge (Standard Guestroom)

Lodge at Vail, A RockResort | Vail, CO
The Lodge at Vail, A RockResort offers an alpine chalet charm coupled with impeccable service located just steps from Gondola One and at the heart of the city’s dining and shopping scene.
The Deal
The Arrabelle, Vail - Courtesy of Vail Resorts
The Arrabelle at Vail Square, A RockResort | Vail, CO
The Arrabelle at Vail Square is a luxury resort hotel offering old world charm and the timeless elegance of Europe’s grand resorts, with the romance and world-class style of Vail’s alpine heritage..
The Deal


Residential amenities include a Great Room with Bar, spectacular year-round pool and hot tubs, firepit, fitness center with movement studio and treatment rooms, teen room and ski-valet. Situated at the base of Vail Mountain within walking distance of exceptional shopping, restaurants and the Eagle Bahn Gondola, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Vail are a limited collection of 71 whole-ownership residences.

The Deal
DoubleTree at Breckenridge - Courtesy of Vail Resorts

DoubleTree by Hilton Breckenridge | Breckenridge, CO

Situated across the street from Peak 9 of the world-renowned Breckenridge Ski Resort, the hotel offers spectacular Rocky Mountain Views perfect for families looking for an adventurous spring break. With onsite ski/snowboard rentals, ski school with onsite pick up, ski valet and easy access to more fun activities including ice skating, sleigh rides, shopping, and gold mine tours.
The Deal
  • As low as $149 for Standard Room at DoubleTree by Hilton Breckenridge
  • Up to 40% off and rates starting from $99 across Vail Resorts’ Breckenridge portfolio

The Pines Lodge, Beaver Creek - Courtesy of Vail Resorts
The Pines Lodge, A RockResort | Beaver Creek, CO
Nestled among ancient aspen and pine groves on the mountains of Beaver Creek, The Pines Lodge offers breathtaking views and access to world-class shopping and dining located just steps away. The intimate, elegant 60-room lodge is home to an AAA Four Diamond Award-winning restaurant and features an outdoor pool, Jacuzzi and fitness center as well as a small selection of deluxe condominiums and townhomes.
The Deal
  • Rates starting at $199 (early season weekdays at The Pines) between November 22-28

Jackson Lake Lodge | Moran, WY
Boasting 60-foot windows along the entire lobby, with a panoramic view of pristine Jackson Lake and the majestic Teton Range above, Jackson Lake Lodge offers guests many reasons to visit Grand Teton National Park. Jackson Lake Lodge in Grand Teton National Park is a full-service, eco-hotel that serves as the hub of activity in the Park. It boasts 385 rooms, from the stunning suites in the main lodge to the cottage rooms that surround.
The Deal
  • $198 for Classic Cottages at Jackson Lake Lodge
  • Up to 40% off across Grand Teton Lodge Company portfolio

River Run, Keystone - Courtesy of Vail Resorts
River Run | Keystone, CO
Guests will find amazing shopping, upscale and casual dining, and signature events right outside the door. Premier Units are deluxe, quality condos that are professionally decorated with mountain-inspired furnishings and feature complete kitchen, living room and enough bedrooms to accommodate the whole family.
The Deal
  • Up to 50% off our Best Available Rate when you book between 11/22 - 11/28 on snow.com/cybermonday
  • Kids Ski Free by simply stay two nights (or more) and kids 12 and under ski and ride free.
*Offered only when booking direct with Keystone Resort.  
  • Play for Free add-on includes:
    • Free night of arrival lift tickets for night skiing
    • Free Ice Skating admission & 20% off skate rentals
    • Free Yoga or Fitness Class
    • Free 1 hour Tennis Court rental
    • Free Nordic Center Trail Fee
    • Play for Free activities


 Last Chance to Purchase the Epic Pass is Sunday, Nov. 19 for Worldwide Access to 45 Iconic Mountain Resorts  
  • Epic pass holders save more than 40 percent compared to lift ticket window prices
  • The Epic Pass and Epic Local Pass now offer coast-to-coast access in North America with the addition of Whistler Blackcomb and Stowe Mountain Resort
The deadline to purchase the 2017-2018 Epic Pass is Sunday, Nov. 19. The Epic Pass continues to provide the greatest value in skiing and snowboarding, offering access to 45 of the world’s best mountain resorts, including Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, the largest resort in North America, and Vail Resorts’ first East Coast mountain resort, Stowe in Vermont. In addition to unlimited, unrestricted access at Whistler Blackcomb and Stowe, for only $899, the 2017-2018 Epic Pass also includes unlimited, unrestricted access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood at Lake Tahoe; Perisher in Australia; Afton Alps in Minnesota; Mt. Brighton in Michigan; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin. Epic Pass holders can also enjoy limited access to 30 European ski resorts.

Skiers and snowboarders can use the Epic Pass for early-season turns at Arapahoe Basin, open now, as well as Keystone and Breckenridge – both scheduled to open Friday, Nov. 10. With resorts opening throughout the month of November, this is the last chance to purchase a season pass for the 2017-2018 winter season. Season pass holders save more than 40 percent compared to lift ticket window prices.

Scheduled Opening Dates:
Colorado
Keystone: Friday, Nov. 10
Breckenridge: Friday, Nov. 10
Vail: Friday, Nov. 17
Beaver Creek: Wednesday, Nov. 22
Utah
Park City: Friday, Nov. 17
Canada
Whistler Blackcomb: Thursday, Nov. 23
Lake Tahoe
Heavenly: Friday, Nov. 17
Northstar: Friday, Nov. 17
Kirkwood: Wednesday, Nov. 22
Vermont
Stowe: Friday, Nov. 17

2017-2018 Ski and Snowboard Season Pass Options
  • Epic Pass™: Ski unlimited and unrestricted from opening day to closing day for only $899. The Epic Pass pays for itself in just over four days of skiing or snowboarding. Enjoy full access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood at Lake Tahoe; Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont; Afton Alps in Minnesota; Mt. Brighton in Michigan; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin; Whistler Blackcomb in Canada; and Perisher in Australia for the 2018 season. The Epic Pass grants limited access to Les 3 Vallées, Paradiski and Tignes-Val D’Isere in France; 4 Vallées in Switzerland; Arlberg in Austria and Skirama Dolomiti in Italy. A child pass (ages five to 12) is $469.
  • Epic Local Pass™: For $679, receive unlimited and unrestricted skiing or riding at Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Wilmot, Afton Alps and Mt. Brighton with limited restrictions at Park City, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, plus a total of 10 days at Vail, Beaver Creek, Stowe, and Whistler Blackcomb with holiday restrictions. The Epic Local Pass pays for itself in just over three days. A child pass (ages five to 12) is $359.
  • Epic 4-Day™: A convenient option for a short ski trip. The pass pays for itself in just over two days and includes a total of four unrestricted days valid at Whistler Blackcomb, Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Park City, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, Stowe and Arapahoe Basin, plus four additional free days at Afton Alps, Mt. Brighton or Wilmot Mountain. The Epic 4-Day Pass is $459 for adults and $249 for children (ages five to 12).
The deadline to purchase a 2017-2018 season pass is Sunday, Nov. 19. For additional information on season pass options and to purchase, visit EpicPass.com. 












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