first timer skiing in Denver
 

I'm planning a 2 weeks 2 adults 1 children (2 1/2 yrs old) vacation in Denver beginning November 30, 2005. We plan take ski lessons since we have never done it before. What do you think? What should I expect?

I think you need to do a little research to decide where you are going to ski. Skiing is at least 1 1/2 - 2 hrs away (Summit County) from Denver at the very least and November skiing is iffy at best.

With a toddler along, you'll want to find a ski area or lodge with a good kids' daycare. You'll probably have snow to ski on, as they can usually at least make snow for prime runs by late November. Not powder skiing, but for first timers that won't matter. Instead of staying in Denver, I'd suggest you stay a few nights at the resort area, to avoid the sometimes dreadful drive on I-70 in and out of Denver. Summit County might be your best bet as then you could choose from several mountains. If you do't mind a longer drive, Aspen is great. Also a few mountains there to choose from.

P.S. Definitely take ski lessons!! It's not a sport to just jump on skis and go.

I agree with MaureenB's suggestions. Since you will be in Colorado for awhile you might want to drive to the Aspen area for part of your trip. It takes about 3 1/2 hours one way and is a pretty drive through a couple of canyons.

Snowmass (8 miles out of Aspen) is owned by Aspen Ski Company and has a great ski school. Of the Aspen area resorts I believe Snowmass is the first to open each year.

As a Denverite, I have to throw my 2 cents in as well. Nov is iffy but you will probably be OK with the manmade snow. I totally disagree with staying in Aspen (outrageously expensive) but do agree with Summit County. First timers would enjoy Copper Mountain Resort or Breckenridge. I love Keystone but find the mountain is a lot colder than the other 2. Stay at your chosen location - you do not want to brave the I-70 traffic. If you want to get off to a good start - lessons are imperative. Hope this helps!

Search Aspen prices if you're interested. It's not outrageously expensive, actually. And it's a special place IMHO. The Chateau Dumont, a Prias property, is reasonable right in the heart of Aspen-- but a bit dated. The Gant and Aspen Square are excellent and often have great deals on their condos. Don't know Snowmass, but there are a lot of condos there, too. We have always preferred to be in the heart of Aspen town.

Since you're talking about November, I would wait to see who's got the most snow. You shouldn't have trouble getting a place to stay in November.

Is this a ski trip or a trip to Denver that may include skiing? If a ski trip, 2 weeks seems like a long time for a first time.

Breckenridge is very good for first time skiers and offers good child care.

Whatever you do- dont let anyone talk you into believing you are ready for something more advanced until you are really ready.
I was talked to the top of Mary Jane after 1/2 day lesson and tumbled and fell and hyperventilated all the way down - luckily without any broken bones.

The child will have to go to child care (daycare) as the ski resorts won't take a child in ski school until they are 3 and potty trained. You might be able to hire a private instructor for the 2 1/2 year old.

If the child will be 3 later in the ski season, then I would postpone the trip until that time.

Personally, I wouldn't put a toddler in a ski lesson. Really too young at 3 IMHO. My kids started around 6 and that was plenty young.

I disagree that Aspen is outrageously expensive. While there are outrageously expensive places to stay (Try Little Nell at $2000/nt and up over Christmas week) there are also less expensive accomadations and the town is awesome. Other than the Christmas holiday you can always get good rates in Aspen. And no reason to book way ahead of time as the twon will not be full the first week of December.

Even during Christmas Week you can stay at the Pokolodi Lodge on Snowmass for $159-169 per night and for considerably less in early December. The Wilwood Lodge and Silvertree Hotel are also moderate although not as inexpensive as Pokolodi. Because you are a beginner skier all three of those hotels are good choices as they are near the mall area where you get your lift tickets and equipment.

There are many condos above the mall area of Snowmass but many are ski in ski out which might or might not be good for you as a beginner.

I would put the 2 1/2 yr old in the daycare program as opposed to the ski school.

Check out www.aspensnowmass.com for lodging choices in Aspen and Snowmass.