Are there still good riding conditions out west at the end of March? I know it probably varies with the weather year to year, but by then will it be pretty slushy, or can I still count on some good powder? We were thinking of possibly heading to Whistler, or somewhere in CO, but don't want to be riding in slush. I've only been out west in early Jan. so I don't know what to expect...

It depends on the weather. You will probably experience spring conditions- icy in the morning, nice during mid-day, and slushy in the afternoon (particuarly on the runs near the bottom of the mountain and on the heavily used catwalk runs). Whistler has so much terrain, you are more likely to find good conditions if Whistler has a good snow year.

Yes, as long as we have a good snow year, end of March is excellent. Anywhere in the Rockies! But, the higher the better. Whistler is great, but it's lower base elevation means the best skiing is higher. Resorts in CO and UT (Cottonwood Canyons) have great late skiing seasons.

Last year I went to Snowbird (UT) 3rd week April and it was pretty good. Better late season conditions there than Park City.

Can't help with Colorado, but the higher areas in Utah (Snowbird, Brighton) should be fine as long as they get some snow this year. The north-facing slopes shouldn't slush up too much even in the afternoon.

The top areas of Whistler/Blackcomb usually stay nice well into April, although you won't want to ride your board all the way down---take the gondola the last stretch.

I just realized March is spring break time. I definitely don't want to be vacationing with some loud party animals... Do you think this will pose a problems at any ski destinations?

I think you will have more of a problem with the school age kids and families taking Easter vacations since Easter is so early this year. Places will be booked up and crowded.

Birdie - thanks for the heads up; I didn't even realize that. So I guess all the kids will be off the week of March 24 for spring break too..