Planning a Steamboat Springs Vacation in Colorado: Ski Champagne Powder

 Vacation and Travel Planning to Steamboat Springs Colorado

Have you ever considered a vacation to Steamboat Springs, Colorado? If not, we’re confident you’ll be convinced by the end of this post.

Skiing in Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs, situated in Northwestern Routt County in Colorado, is known both nationally and internationally as one of the top ski destinations, and for good reason. The area is home to numerous well-known ski resorts, ski and snowboard competitions, and professional winter sport professionals. The culture is, simply put, fitting for its official registered name of Ski Town, U.S.A.!

Champagne Powder

Snowmobile Tours in Steamboat SpringsThe area of Steamboat Springs, CO is so renowned for all the winter wonders it offers, the snow even has its own trademarked name – Champagne Powder. And that champagne powder is what lures thousands of visitors to Colorado each year.

When you visit Steamboat, you have almost 3,000 acres worth of skiing to choose from covering Thunderhead Peak, Mount Werner, Christie Peak, Sunshine Peak, Pioneer Ridge, and Storm Peak. Each range boasts ski and snowboarding trails for every age and every ability, making this a perfect winter family vacation destination.

Voted #1 for tree skiing in 2009 by Skiing Magazine, there’s no need to look any further than Steamboat for your ski vacation this year. Whether you’re new to the slopes, enjoy the powder for recreation, or are sharpening your skills for competition, you’ll find the perfect mountainous adventures awaiting you.

Additional Things To Do in Steamboat Springs

Plan a Ski Vacation to Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs, CO with sky pyrotechnics from Sky Writing

When you wish to take a break from the slopes, you can choose from a plethora of other happenings in the area including entertaining annual events, as well as some of the best dining and shopping available in Colorado.

To warm up between hills and for a simply amazing sight, grab the camera, and head to the natural hot springs of Strawberry Park. Here, you’ll witness Mother Nature at her finest with 104 degree waters surrounded by the light, dry snow of the infamous champagne powder. During your visit, you can even engage in some camping, snowshoeing, or just relaxing while you receive a rejuvenating massage after a long day of skiing.

Backed by hundreds of positive reviews, there are good times abound at Saddleback Ranch, where you can take a snowmobile tour, dinner sleigh ride, or hop atop a tube and head down a tubing hill.

For an all-inclusive ski package experience, you may want to check out the popular Steamboat Springs Resort area, where you’ll find 141 powdery trails, a ski school, zip-line, alpine slide, endless meal options, unique and trendy shopping locales, concerts, hot air balloon tours, and horseback riding tours through the snow-blanketed trees and valleys.

Where To Stay In Steamboat Springs

Now that you’ve decided on Steamboat as your next vacation destination, you’re ready to find the perfect vacation accommodation, and Rent It Today can help.

From partnering companies including Condos in Steamboat, SkyRun Vacation Rentals, and Steamboat Lodging Properties, you can locate the most fitting cabin getaway, ski chalet, or ski-in, ski-out condo rental for you and your snowbunny, your family, or friends.

Unlike resort or hotel accommodations, vacation rentals in Steamboat, can give you that home away from home feeling where you can choose amongst a vast array of amenities based on your likes or dislikes. Some of the features you can choose from include hot tubs, walking proximity to ski lifts, wood fireplaces, media room, wet bar, and heated garage.

In addition to renting the perfect ski bungalow, you can rent snowboards, skis, & winter sports equipment from companies like Door 2 Door, reserve backpacking and camping gear from local outfitters, get baby items for any Jr skiers, mobility aids or medical supplies, linens, bicycles, and just about anything you can think of…so pack lightly, and let the local rental companies and concierge service providers take the hassle out of planning your next ski vacation.

With world-class skiing and snowboarding options, entertaining indoor activities, amazing accommodations, breathtaking views, delicious foods, and enough shopping options to buy the perfect souvenir for all the distinct personalities of your loved ones back home, do you really need any more convincing? I didn’t think so!

Some Ups & Downs To Renting an Entire Mountain for Skiing

Man Skiing

Your flight is booked, and your bags are packed. All that’s left is to finalize the reservations on all your rental items – the perfect chalet, a pair of skis and boots, a mountain…Yes, you read that correctly. You actually have the option to rent an entire mountain for your own snowy pleasure from various popular ski locales.

From ski resorts including Sugarbush in Vermont, Anthony Lakes in Oregon, and Turner Mountain in Montana, you and your guests can have your mountain and ski it, too! All you need is a couple thousand dollars and some willing participants. Depending on the mountain rental, the price may also include lunch and ski guides. This sounds like the perfect option for someone wanting to host a private gathering, too embarrassed to learn how to ski in front of others, or with money to burn.

Before you hit your own personal powder, though, don’t forget to stop by Rent It Today for your accommodations and accessories. At Rent It Today, we’ve got you covered when it comes to creating snow-filled ski vacation memories!

Sundance, Skiing & Snowboarding Showcase Park City, UT

Elect to Sign Up For Ticket Purchase Beginning November 6th

Park City, Utah Hosts Great Skiing, Snowboarding, and Cinema

Tuesday, November 6th marks the day you can register for a purchase time slot to get your tickets to the 2013 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. On December 20th, emails will be sent to registrants with the time and date of your purchase time slot. Advance ticket sales will then be held from January 8th through the 10th. The event will run from January 17 – January 27, 2013.

Held annually since 1978, The Sundance Film Festival is the largest independent cinema festival in the United States. In addition to Park City, additional festival venues are located in Salt Lake City and Ogden, Utah.

Considered by many to be the most significant film event in the United States, Sundance has emerged as a preeminent showcase for new films. Rising directors target the event as a key marketplace for American and international independent movies.

For more information, visit the Sundance Film Festival web site.

Cinema and Snow in Park City, Utah

If you’re an avid skier or snowboarder and planning on attending the Sundance Film Festival, don’t even think of planning a visit to Park City without taking in some of the runs in the area.

Park City, Utah is consistently rated one of the top ski and snowboard destinations in the world. Park City offers so many great runs, it is said you can spend a week skiing there and never repeat the same run. Of course, you’ll find most of the runs are worth repeating several times.

Results of SKI magazine’s 2013 reader resort survey reflected a rise in popularity for Park City’s ski resorts, so while you’re lining up your tickets to the Sundance Film Festival, visit Rent It Today’s vacation rentals and book yourself a sweet ski base from which to venture forth into the incredible array of world-class  winter sport offerings.

Park City Canyons Properties is a recommended vacation home rental provider. They offer convenient ‘ski in ski out’  lodging at The Canyons Ski Resort including the Grand Summit Lodge, Sundial Lodge, Silverado Lodge and Vintage on the Strand. They invite you to learn why those who seek luxurious ski vacation condo rentals choose Park City Canyons Properties to fulfill their vacation rental needs year after year. They are experienced professionals whose goal is to make your stay in Park City a great one so you’ll return often.

Lake Tahoe Travel and Vacation Planning

Lake Tahoe Vacation Planning

Skiing in Lake Tahoe, CA

Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts Get Much Needed Snow

A series of storms that moved through the popular Lake Tahoe Ski Vacation Region in mid January has brought long awaited significant snowfall to the areas ski resorts.

Native Indian Tribal Snow Dance brings snow to lake tahoeThis season Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts have experienced unusually low snowfall to this point, with most relying on snow machines to make the snow to allow them to operate. The recent snowfall deposited upwards of two feet of fresh powder which was welcomed by resort operators, who were happy to see Mother Nature help return the slopes to more natural conditions. Several runs were unable to be opened because of the snow shortfall, yet resort operators were optimistic that the recent snowfall would allow the mothballed runs to be opened for business as usual.

The gift from the skies came less than a week after a group of Paiute, Shoshone and Washoe tribal members performed a traditional Native American ceremony seeking spiritual help to bring snow to the Sierra.  A crowd of participants estimated in excess of 200 people took part in the January 15th exercise at Homewood on Lake Tahoe’s western shore.

A similar Native American ceremony conducted in Vail, Colorado recently produced an increase in much needed snowfall in that ski resort area.

Lake Tahoe, CA Snowboarding and Ski Vacation PlanningAs a result of the new snow on the slopes, Lake Tahoe will experience an increase in vacation and weekend getaway visitors which will create a spike in demand for rental accommodations. If you are a prospective first time visitor, or have previously visited the famous resort area, it is good to know the region still offers an excellent selection of cabins, condos, and homes on the West Shore. Furthermore there is no shortage of vacation rentals on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, CA. Popular cities and travel destinations in the area include Kings Beach, Tahoe City, Alpine Meadows, Squaw Valley, Homewood, Carnelian Bay, Truckee, and Tahoma

And while Lake Tahoe does draw a lot of visitors for its 18 world class ski resorts, snowmobiling, and winter sports, there are certainly plenty of other activities which draw fun seekers and families to the area. Boating, golf, and hiking are popular activities and many first time visitors to the area are pleased to discover that Lake Tahoe is dotted with a number of beautiful beaches, like Kings Beach, for those who love to swim and decompress in the warm sunshine.

Kayak Rentals on Lake Tahoe, CASeveral marinas in the area offer boat rental for those who want to venture out into the beautiful open waters. Kayaking and parasailing can also be found. Bicycle rental is also very popular as there are a number of paved trails through the scenic forest. If you are planning a family vacation and need to rent baby equipment or beach gear you can contact Tahoe Truckee Baby Equipment Rental LLC.

And Lake Tahoe takes no back seat to any resort area for its shopping and terrific restaurants. Those who enjoy a bit of gambling will enjoy the world class casinos as well.  Lake Tahoe is a wonderful setting in which to relax, refresh and rejuvenate. It truly is a one of a kind destination offering every amenity as well as beautiful mountain and lake scenery. Book your trip and be prepared to join or solidify your place among the ranks of Lake Tahoe lovers.

Taos Vacation Rentals and Ski Resort Travel Planning

Taos Vacation Rental in New Mexico

Discover a Skiing Gem in New Mexico’s Taos Region

Situated in the northern part of the State of New Mexico, the town of Taos anchors a region which attracts ski enthusiasts from around the world. While Taos may not be a name as recognizable as some famous ski towns, there are ample gifts from nature in the area and an abundance of opportunity rewarding both expert and novice skiers and snow boarders who elect to explore the area, including incredible views and uncrowded, well-groomed slopes.

Are you planning a Ski Vacation?

Taos vacation rentals and ski packages throughout the North Central Region of New Mexico are considered to be some of the most affordable when considering ski resort accommodations that do not deprive visitors of pampering and luxury. The Taos area has several distinct ski areas – Taos Ski Valley, Red River ski area, and Angel Fire ski area. Other winter sports include snow shoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling. Wheeler Peak at 13,161 feet dominates the area, and is the highest mountain elevation in New Mexico. Ski Magazine rates it the fourth most challenging mountain in North America.

According to New Mexico Magazine, the Taos Ski Valley area has a one to one ratio of expert to beginner/intermediate terrain, and is home to the highest rated ski school in North America. The variety of terrain at Taos Ski Valley attracts ski enthusiasts of all ability levels. The ski area includes a Children’s Center for those new to skiing or working on their skills. The legendary steeps of Taos Ski Valley offer an expert ski experience unmatched at any other New Mexico ski resort. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also available throughout the surrounding Carson National Forest. Guided snowmobile tours are conducted nearby on private land.

When the snow falls, Red River Ski Area becomes a winter wonderland with excellent skiing and snowboarding as well as an extensive list of related activities. The fun is affordable and accessible. Red River Ski Area offers top notch youth and adult programs for all abilities and budgets. Even expert skiers will find challenging ski trails to hone their skills at one of three terrain parks. For those who don’t want to stop when the lifts close, the ski area offers snow tubing and snowmobile tours.

Angel Fire Resort offers a terrific Rocky Mountain ski and winter activity experience for families, outdoor enthusiasts and groups. Situated at a 8,600-foot elevation that keeps snowfall fresh and dry, Angel Fire features stunning views of the New Mexico countryside. Visitors can choose between skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, tubing, Nordic skiing, sleigh rides, snow blades, ice fishing and more. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve the resort hosts torchlight parades to celebrate the holidays.

In the town of Taos, there are many excellent restaurants that offer incredible Southwest cuisine, along with charming shops, museums, and more. Taos can be reached by car or by air through Albuquerque, which is served by multiple airlines from Houston. A vacation to the Taos area will delight skiers of all skill levels, and is sure to earn a place on your don’t miss list.

If you are planning a ski vacation check out some of our past popular articles featuring ski resort areas in Vail, Breckenridge and Summit County, Shenandoah Valley, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Virginia Ski Vacations in The Blue Ridge Mountains

Winter is on our heels which means its time to start planning your next Ski Vacation. Featuring winter ski resort destinations, is a popular theme on Rent It Today’s blog, as a result of all the related winter rental resources found at RentItToday.com. Today’s Travel Destination article takes us to the Shenandoah Valley, part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, in Virginia.  There are two great ski resorts in Central Virginia, Massanutten Ski Resort and Wintergreen Ski Resort.

Blue Ridge Mountain Ski Vacations

Stan Horst, owner of Cabin Creekwood, is an expert when it comes to planning a Virginia ski vacation in the Blue Ridge Mountains…

Virginia Ski Vacation RentalsIt always amazes me when I talk to folks who think they have to go to West Virginia, or even further north, to find great skiing.  There are quite a number of ski resorts in the Southeastern United States, including a great option right here in Central Virginia.

Wintergreen Resort, voted “Best Ski Resort” two years running by the Washington Post, boasts 24 trails and 8 lifts with a total vertical drop of 1,003 feet.  The longest run is 1.4 miles long.  Trails from beginner to expert ensure you’ll have slopes to fit your experience level, and their lift capacity of 9,200 per hour helps to cut down wait time so you can ski more. Wintergreen has a number of lighted trails for those who enjoy night skiing. New to skiing?  Their “Guaranteed Learn To Ski & Ride” program for ages 6 and older promises that by the end of your first lesson, you’ll be turning, stopping, and riding a lift like a pro.  If not, you’re welcome to repeat the lesson at no charge.  Lessons are also available for all ages and skill levels, so if you’d like to improve your skiing or snowboarding skills, this is the place.

Other winter activities include a terrain park with rails, tabletops, spines, and hips for those wishing to learn or hone their freestyle skills.  The Plunge Tubing Park is Virginia’s largest tubing park, where riders zoom down a ten-story hill at speeds reaching 30mph, then relax while the conveyor transports rider and tube back to the top for another run.  Ridgely’s Fun Park is the perfect place for children to play in the snow, including a more gentle tubing slope.

After a day in the snow, rejuvenate your body and spirit at the Wintergreen Spa.  Services include massages, body wraps, skin care treatments, and nail care.  The Aquatics and Fitness Center provides cardiovascular and strength workout opportunities, plus additional ways to relax with heated pools, hot tubs, steam rooms, and saunas.

When you’re hungry and looking for a place to eat, you can choose from the casual Copper Mine Bistro, the Devils Grill, the Edge Restaurant, or take a short drive to the Stoney Creek Bar & Grill.  With all these options, you’re sure to find something you like.

There are plenty of lodging opportunities within the resort, but for those folks wanting a quieter getaway away from the crowds, Cabin Creekwood, located just 3 miles from Wintergreen’s entrance, provides fully furnished VA mountain cabins. These cabin rentals in Virginia provide all the comforts of home while helping you to escape from the routines of life, and enjoy the great outdoors without roughing it.  Choose from a pre-Civil War log cabin all the way to a modern mountain home.  With sizes from one to three bedrooms, Cabin Creekwood can accommodate groups of varying numbers, at prices significantly less than you’ll find in the resort.

The best way to enjoy winter sports for less is to visit midweek and to stay at Cabin Creekwood.  Prices are lower for both your lodging and your lift tickets, and the crowds will be much smaller, making your time on the slopes more fun and productive.

Whether you are looking for ski resort vacation lodging, interested in renting a snowmobile, or need ski equipment rentals, Rent It Today is a great resource for planning your next ski vacation.

Vacationing in Summit County: Colorado’s Winter Playground

Have you hit the slopes yet this ski season?  If not, consider heading to “Colorado’s Winter Playground”.  This second part to our series on Colorado travel and vacation destinations features the ski resorts and towns of Summit County, Colorado.

Breckenridge, Colorado in Summit County

Breckenridge, Colorado

Summit County is Colorado’s Winter Playground

It’s not hard to understand why Summit County is Colorado’s most popular ski and snowboard destination.  Boasting the four world-class ski resorts of Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Copper Mountain, Summit County is Colorado’s hot spot for winter sports.  Plus, the multitude of lodging and shopping options in the towns of Frisco, Silverthorne, and Dillon make planning a vacation to Summit County affordable and convenient.  So, exactly what can you expect from a trip to Summit?

Limitless Skiing Options: Each Summit County ski resort offers its own claim to fame.  With a summit elevation of 13,050 feet, Arapahoe Basin boasts the highest ski-able terrain in all of North America.  Expert and advanced skiers & boarders appreciate the resort’s 25% of terrain devoted to double black diamond trails, mixed with another 25% of black diamonds.  Beginners, however, might prefer Breckenridge’s dedicated beginner trails.  Among its four peaks, Breck has some great beginner spots right alongside its own technically challenging ski and snowboard trails.  Additionally, Breckenridge not only holds the honor of winning Summit County’s award for best ski resort, it also features the highest chairlift in North America.  The largest ski resort in Summit County, Copper Mountain sports expert bowls, terrain parks, and more than 2,400 acres of thrilling skiing and boarding.  It’s no wonder Copper was voted Summit County’s best snowboarding mountain in both 2007 and 2008.  Terrain parks are no joke at Keystone either.  Keystone’s A51 Terrain Park was ranked #4 in all of North America by Transworld Snowboard Magazine.  Plus, with night skiing, hike to bowl skiing, and a range of terrain devoted to skiers and boarders of all levels, Keystone is a popular Summit County choice.

Snowmobile Rentals:  Take a break from the slopes and enjoy the expansive back country trails throughout Summit County with snowmobile rentals.  ATV and Snowmobile Rental companies, like Colorado Backcountry Rentals, offer snowmobiles for both single and double riders.  When it comes to renting snowmobiles in Summit County,  you’ll find knowledgeable outfitters convenient to the popular ski resorts and mountain towns of Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Keystone , Dillon, and Frisco.

Convenience: Summit County’s close proximity to Denver is just another reason why it’s such a popular ski destination.  Just 70 miles west of Denver, Summit County is easily accessible from the Denver International Airport and is a straight shot via I-70.  Fly into Denver, rent a limousine, and take the short trek to your ski resort destination in style.  While each ski resort has its own amenities and lodging options, the nearby mountain towns of Frisco, Dillon, and Silverthorne also provide top notch lodging and convenience options.  Between Victorian Main Street shopping & dining in Breckenridge, a galore of Outlet Factory Stores in Silverthorne, and all the local bars & entertainment venues throughout the county, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy when you’re not hitting the slopes.

Colorado’s Playground:  Summit County has been coined Colorado’s playground for good reason.  Powder days provide plenty of reasons to celebrate all winter long.  And, Summit County certainly knows how to celebrate.  There’s always something exciting on the calendar to anticipate and partake in true Summit County style, from Breckenridge’s International Snow Sculpture Championship to the Keystone Winter Culinary Festival.   Of course, Colorado’s playground wouldn’t be complete without tremendous lodging options that offer all the comforts of home but with a spectacular Rocky Mountain backdrop.  Condos, townhomes, and large vacation homes fill Summit County with choices for every traveling group, including friends, couples, and large families.  Whether you are traveling to Breckenridge for your dream ski vacation, staying in  Keystone, planning a holiday trip to Dillon, or visiting the neighboring  mountain town of Silverthorne, you will find the perfect ski-in/ski-out condo, luxury home, or cabin for your vacation. Plus, rental options make traveling easy. Choose to pack light and rent everything from your ski equipment to your baby’s playpen once you get to town.  If you are disabled and in need of a transportable wheelchair, powerchair or mobility scooter rental in Colorado there are several reliable companies with experience in accommodating your needs.

Remember, the snow is falling in Colorado.  Why not explore the place that gives you the option of four world-class ski resorts, convenience, easy access, and plenty of lodging options?  Once you get to Summit County, you won’t know how you got through winters without visiting this gem in Colorado .

Travel Resources and Rental Companies Servicing Summit County, Colorado:Timberline Vacation Rentals in Summit County

Vacation Rental Management Companies:

Snowmobile Rental Companies:

Winter Sports & Ski Equipment Rental Companies:

Baby Equipment Rental Companies:

Medical Equipment Rental Companies:

Limousine Rental Companies:

  • Denver Limo Inc. provides ski transportation out of Denver, see their Breckenridge, Colorado limo rental listings here