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(c) Elliott Publishing.

Spring Ski Deals
Cheap Charlie · May 29, 2000

As many of you know, in my other life I write guidebooks about skiing - Skiing America and Ski Europe. For you skiers out there, I have to let you know my fax is overflowing with big spring skiing bargains.

For me, spring is the best time to ski. The temperatures moderate and many resorts enjoy some of the best snow of the year. This is an excellent time to head north to Canada as well. The snowpack last longer and the days are moderate. Plus, the Canadian dollar exchange rate vis-à-vis the US dollar is all stacked in our favor.

If you are on the East Coast, head far north to Tremblant about two hours beyond Montreal or to Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham just outside of Quebec. Vacations at these ski resorts are almost like a vacation in France. The food is wonderful and travel is much easier.

Further to the West, in the Canadian Rockies, plan on skiing at Lake Louise, Norquay and Sunshine (all near Banff), or head further north along the Glacier Highway to Jasper with extensive skiing at Marmot Basin.

In the far West there is excellent skiing at Whistler/Blackcomb (but not with the major bargains) and at Red Mountain (with major bargains). Both spots are perfect for expert skiers who are searching for challenges.

The bottom line is the Canada spells good skiing and bargains during the Spring skiing season between now and Easter.

Here in the good old USA, everyone is offering enticing deals to lure spring skiers. Aspen and Snowmass plus Vail and Beaver Creek have previously unheard of deals for week-long packages during the coming six weeks or so. There are some advanced purchase requirements, but these are not hard to meet.

The rest of Colorado, Utah and Wyoming all have great snowpacks and are getting more snow every week. I know some of your thoughts are turning to golf and warmer weather pursuits, but skiing is at some its best now.

For those of you looking for a place where you can ski in the morning and then golf in the afternoon, try an April trip to the Lake Tahoe area or to Mammoth Mountain. The altitude of the ski slopes and deep snow coupled with wonderful golf courses just starting to open makes for what some consider sporting paradise.

It is hard to beat.

Another tip for you skiers - during the next three months check out significantly reduced season passes being offered at many resorts across the country. These season pass deals are starting at $199. They are available in every region of the country and for skiers who focus on one resort or a group of resorts, they make a lot of sense.

Have a great time in the snow and the sun.

Charlie Leocha is the Boston-based author of Travel Rights: Know the Rules of the Road and the Air Before You Go. Cheap Charlie appears every Monday on this site. E-mail him at charlie@ticked.com or access his Web site.