helen

I'm in the very beginning stages of planning a ski vacation. we are early 30s and have never skied before. what would you recommend as a good resort for first time skiers? we're looking for something romantic, luxurious, fun, nice restaurants, and a place that we would feel comfortable learning to ski. Also, a place that has other activities besides skiing would be nice - just in case we can't handle a lot of skiing since this would be our first time.

Thanks in advance! -Helen

dnorrie

Where do you live? Eastern or Western States or Canada? A lot of the runs on Western Canada ski hills are quite challenging, even for intermediate skiers. In Montana, you might check out Whitefish. A great ski hill with tons of runs and some really good ones that are totally suited to beginners. Have fun.

melinda

I need to know a budget too. I learned to ski at 30 and found Telluride to be great as it has a mountain just for beginners and all the boarders and black diamond people would not be caught dead there. Real nice wide open runs that are just meandering and the scenery is to die for. Crested Butte is always voted the most romantic and has the best restaurants in my opinion but the slope can be steep there even on the green runs with the exception of maybe 3 runs. Steamboat is a fun place but the green runs get so crowded with blue run people feeding into them which is intimidating. Snowmass in Aspen is great for beginning but it is crowded like Vail. Beaver Creek has it's green runs up at the top of the mountain so you get the views which is unusual. In Utah, Brighton and Alta have wonderful beginner area's. Park City and Deer Valley have narrower runs which make me nervous. Think about learning to snow board as well...some say it is much easier and quicker to learn though I have not taken the plunge. My vote would be for Telluride as it is a fun town and is so pretty and you can have a huge chunk of space to yourself. Do a half day morning lesson your first two days. Rent your equipment...don't buy yet. Invest in some warm gloves and neoprene (sp) socks and get those hand warmer packets. You must wear a hat as you will be falling a lot and getting snow on your head. Have fun. It is a great way to spend a vacation and everyone is so friendly. Write me with questions if you wish.

helen

melinda, thanks for your suggestions. i live on the west coast of the US, but would be willing to fly anywhere in the US for a "ski vacation". budget is not an issue. thanks again!

Ginny

For first time skiers I would suggest, Steamboat, Park City, Vail/Beavercreek or Aspen (if you like glitz). While Telluride is nice, it is more geared to intermediate and expert skiers.

ezron

I might be little biased. But, we were in your shoes 2 years ago. We chose Breckenridge. It is a GREAT place to learn to ski, and it is one of the most charming little towns you'll ever find.

Neil

Beaver Creek is a great place to learn to ski. Unlike many resorts where beginners are relegated to the lower part of the mountain, Beaver Creek has a large beginners' area at the top. Its a great combination of wide, gently runs with spectacular views. The ski school is excellent.
Another advantage at Beaver Creek is their nordic park. If you want to take a break from downhill skiing, you can cross-country or snowshoe in a huge nordic facility, also at the top of the mountain. Its much more beautiful than croos country skiing on a golf course at the bottom of the mountain.There are also great spa options if you are interested.

We loved everything about Beaver Creek--the only downside is that its expensive.