2018 Momtrends Family Ski Guide

Snow

MOMTRENDS WINTER 2018-2019 FAMILY SKI & SNOWBOARD GUIDE

Slip Sliding Away?

No Way! 3 Driving Tips to Stay Safe on Winter Roads

The Best Snow on Earth 7 Ways to Play in Utah

Lean In

Women Join Forces on the Slopes to Take it to the Next Level

letter from the

Editor

If

you add up all the ski resorts in America, last year about 56 million of us spent a day on the slopes. This number has been flat for about a decade. Snow sports simply aren’t growing.

In my opinion, the only way to grow participation in winter sports is one mom at a time. Five years ago, I started the SNOW guide as a resource for families to play outdoors in the winter. Now, more than ever, I think we all need to unplug and enjoy the simple pleasures of a day spent in the snow.

This year, my challenge to you is to get out there with your kids. With so many things competing for our attention, there’s nothing more important than the ability to focus on what’s in front of us. Snow sports like skiing, boarding and snowshoeing force you to look ahead and live in the moment. Make this the year you plan a girls’ trip to bond on the lifts or pull the kids out of school on a powder day. Let’s all vow that as parents, we can be the force to save winter.

Nicole

Editor in Chief & Founder: Nicole Feliciano, CEO Momtrends Media nicole@momtrends.com | Instagram: @skimomsfun Follow us on Facebook: @skimoms Marketing Manager:

Brooke Stewart | brooke@powermomsmedia.com

Design & Layout:

Jane Maynard | jane@janemaynarddesign.com

COPYRIGHT © MOMTRENDS 2018. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

table of

Contents

Utah: Seven Ways to Play | 4 Winter Driving Tips | 6 Gear from The North Face | 8 Lean In: Women On Snow | 10 Mountain Mama Pullover | 12 On Mountain Lunches | 13 Vermont: The Deep South | 15 Tools of the Trade: Teaching Kids | 16 Ski Weekend Packing List | 19 Recipe: Mulled Wine | 20 It’s All About That Base...Layer | 21 Colorado Three Ways | 23 Not Above Bribery | 24 Kid-Friendly Resorts | 25

26

Skiing Hokkaido, Japan | 26 An Insider’s Guide to Telluride | 28 Best Snow Pants | 30 Eyewear on the Mountain | 31 It’s Easy Being Green | 32 Ski Mom Pledge | 33 Warm Feet 101 | 34 How To: Fit Your Ski Boots | 35 Take a Snow Day | 36

25 20 10

U TA H

S E V E N W AY S T O P L AY

Getting to all 13 Utah ski resorts is definitely bucket list worthy. With loads of direct flights into Salt Lake City, skiing and riding in Utah is even becoming a weekend trip for families who crave deep, powdery snow. Here’s your Ski Utah bucket list!

1

2 3 4 5

6 7

Try Nordic Skiing at Solitude

Hop on the free shuttle that connects the Center Village to the Solitude Nordic Center – there are almost 20 km of cross-country trails to take in. Then get coached by a pro! Aram Hajiyan, an Olympian who competed for Armenia in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, is incredibly patient with newbies. He keeps things light and fun while also increasing knowledge by 1000%.

Click here to find out more

Ski with an Olympian at Deer Valley

Heidi Voekler is a three-time Olympian and all around awesome person. Deer Valley is now her home mountain and you can hire her to spend the day with you. Heidi grew up skiing in the Berkshires in New England and holds six top-ten World Cup finishes. She’s a gorgeous skier and a lovely person. Full day with a Champion is $2,000 and half day is $1,200

1

Click here to find out more

Chill out in the Yurt at Sundance

Sundance guests tend to be the type who love a bit of quiet. The wood cabins blend with the surroundings effortlessly. For more zen, wander down to the yoga yurt for sunrise meditation.

It’s a 30-minute guided meditation in the most peaceful setting – there’s even a fireplace warming the room naturally.

Click here to find out more

Ride the Coaster at Park City

Sure, Park City Mountain Resort is the largest single ski and snowboard resort in the United States. With 7,300 acres of terrain, over 350 trails, 41 lifts, and eight terrain parks, there’s a lot to ski and board. But make sure you save time for another way to get down the hill – the Alpine Coaster. Climb into the toboggan-style cars of the Alpine Coaster and get ready for the ride of your life.

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Click here to find out more

Ride Under the Lights

Brighton is known for terrain parks. The terrain park crew keeps moving the features around so what’s here today might be gone tomorrow. The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down. They have the most night skiing terrain in Utah with 22 runs on over 200 lighted acres.

Eat in Your Slippers

Alta has some amazing powder and skiing this mountain can work up an appetite. Take your lunch break at Collin’s Grill, the full-service Euro-style restaurant located above Watson’s cafeteria. The building is located midway up the Collins lift. Once you find Watson’s, take off your ski boots and slip on the complimentary slippers while you have lunch. Try the gumbo and save room for dessert. Reservations are recommended (801-799-2297).

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Click here to find out more

Race a Snowmobile

Snowbird Lofty Peaks Snowmobiling is located at Snowbird Resort, just a short, scenic 2030 minute drive from the Salt Lake Valley. The adventure starts with a ride on the world famous Aerial Tram to the 11,000 ft. summit of Hidden Peak, providing breathtaking views of the Wasatch. With over 100,000 acres of incredible riding and phenomenal views from the highest elevation snowmobile starting point in North America, the snowmobiling and scenery are second to none.

Click here to find out more

6

WINTER

DRIVING

TIPS

Three tips to protect your family on snowy winter roads There’s nothing more beautiful than walking in a winter wonderland, but driving in it can be a different story.

As moms and dads we need to be prepared for snow, ice and cold temperatures. There are three easy steps we can take to protect our families from treacherous road conditions.

1

Tires are your most important driving safety tool.

• In the winter, stick to two types of tires: winter tires and all-weather tires. Ironically, most all-season tires are not designed for winter use.

• Winter tires are meant to tackle snow and ice, and they come in two versions: studded and nonstudded.

2

• Head here to find out if studded or non-studded tires are best for you.

3

• Head here to learn how to check tire pressure

Make sure the pressure is on

• As the temperature falls, so will your tire pressure – in fact, you’ll lose one pound of pressure for every 10-degree drop. That’s why you might see your dashboard’s tire light come on this time of year even though you don’t have a flat. Low tire pressure leaves you exposed to blowouts and puts your family in danger. There’s an easy remedy: Make sure your tires are inflated to your car’s recommended level.

Experience is the best teacher

• Practice creates peace of mind. One of the best things you can do when conditions get bad is to take a low-stakes spin on a slippery parking lot. PS: This is also a great way to teach driving-aged children how to handle the wheel when things turn treacherous.

When it comes to your family’s safety, tires are one of the most important investments you can make. When the roads turn nasty, you’ll be glad you invested in a premium set of tires designed to keep you secure. To make sure you choose a tire that’s tailored to your family’s winter safety needs, visit NokianTires.com.

STAND OUT ON THE

MOUNTAIN

THE NORTH FACE WOMEN’S SALLY PANTS $99 Why blend in, when you can stand out. This season, try a print on for size. The North Face Sally pant in Transantartic Blue Snowfloral print is meant to make a statement. This durable, waterproof pant is under $100 and comes in solids too. It’s also quite warm.

THE NORTH FACE WOMEN’S CLEMENTINE TRICLIMATE® JACKET $280 You’ll get three jackets in one with this purchase. Wear just the shell, the inner liner or both, depending on the weather. The shell is breathable, waterproof and durable and pops in the Valencia orange color. The inner jacket has Heatseeker™ insulation and can be worn solo or zipped into the outer shell for the coldest days.

All photos Martha Wirth

LEAN IN WOMEN ON SNOW BIG SKY, MONTANA Stratton Mountain Burton Girls Time Out

With snowboarding’s roots at Stratton, this Burton camp is a 2-day experience for riders of every ability, ages 18+. The Girls’ Time Out Snowboard Camp is a women-only, two- or three-day camp designed by Stratton’s female riders to make fearless riders out of all participants.

Riders get personalized instruction to improve everything from laying down turns to conquering new types of terrain.

Includes opening reception the first night of the camp, two or three full days onsnow instruction, demos from Burton, and access to Stratton’s Training & Fitness Center. Lift tickets not included.

Dates and Rates: • February 10-13 (Sun-Wed): Two- or Three Days on Snow • March 22-24 (Fri-Sun): Two days on snow Two-Day Camp: $381 Three-day Camp: $421

LESSONS AREN’T JUST FOR THE KIDS, GET INVOLVED IN A WOMEN’S GROUP TO TAKE YOUR SKIING OR BOARDING TO THE NEXT LEVEL. HERE ARE A FEW OF OUR FAVORITES.

Alta Women’s Ski Camps

Push out of your comfort zone at the Alta Lodge Women’s Camp. Top instructors from Alta’s Alf Engen Ski School lead these three days of ski camps. Package includes four nights of lodging, great food, and camaraderie. It’s an intense few days to make big progress, but it’s also a ton of fun. The focus is on fundamental skiing skills to improve speed control, confidence, and efficiency, allowing you to access and enjoy more of Alta’s worldfamous terrain.

Geared towards intermediate to advanced skiers. Package also includes high-end demo skis and an optional yoga class.

Dates and Rates: • January 24-28, 2019 (ThursMon): $2,870 per person, double occupancy, standard room; $3,572 single occupancy, standard room • March 3-7, 2019 (Sun-Thurs): $2,815 per person, double occupancy, standard room; $3,459 single occupancy, standard room

Big Sky Women’s Clinic

Come with an open mind and be willing to try new things. Take your skiing and confidence to a higher level in Montana with a 3-day clinic led by top certified women’s pros. The goal? New confidence that will let you ski the whole mountain.

Expect to ski both on- and off-groomed terrain during the clinic. Each day will consist of a specific skiing concept. The leaders will utilize drills, terrain, and video analysis as well as group and individualized coaching to work with you to improve your ability to ski more of what Big Sky has to offer. Ratio for instructor to participants is 1:6.

Minimum ability requirement for this clinic is strong parallel skier (no wedge) on all blue and groomed black terrain.

Package includes three days of instruction from top certified women, video analysis, boot fitting at Big Sky Sports, buffet lunches at the Peaks restaurant, complimentary après drink at a Big Sky restaurant and discounted Camp Lift tickets at $78.

Dates and Rates: • January 19-21, 2019: $750

ALTA WOMEN’S CAMP PHOTO CREDIT: NICK RICE

STRATTON MOUNTAIN

Mountain Mama Britt, founder of

Made of Mountains,

knows a thing or two about outdoor life.

Glacier National Park, the Bob Marshall Wilderness and Flathead Lake are all a part of her backyard. She designs outdoor-inspired goods for mountain lovers and adventure families. All the apparel is made in Bigfork, Montana and 5% of sales are donated to Glacier National Park.

Visit madeofmountains.com today and use code MOMTRENDS15 to save 15%!

Photos by Jack Affleck Instagram: @vailjack Website: JackAffleck.com

MOUNTAIN MAMA PULLOVER $46

MOUNTAIN GIRL PULLOVER $38

Super soft and perfect for a big night in. This comfy top has a raw-edge hem that won’t unravel.

The perfect slouchy tee for a Mountain Girl. Looks great solo or layered with a turtleneck under the wide neckline.

O N MOUN TAIN

LUN CHES

Splurging for an elegant lunch at a swank resort can be swell. But day-today lodge lunches can get expensive and often get us out of healthy eating patterns. With a little planning, you can feed your family on the mountain as well as you do at home.

O U R FAVORIT E TAST Y T REAT S • GoGoSqueeze • Lara bars

• Clementines • Vermont jerky minis

• Cabot Cheese singles

WA S T E -FREE LUNCH Lunch box with robot | $80

This system keeps lunchtime 100% waste free. Kit includes: Stainless Steel Tiffin, 2 reusable ziploc-style bags, 1 set of lightweight cutlery, and organic cotton napkin, plus optional add-on Stainless Steel ice pack.

WAT E R BOTTLES Que Bottles | $24.99

This collapsible bottle is beautifully designed to be both functional and fashionable. Keeps you hydrated onthe-go and is BPA free & plastic free.

Nalgene

BPA free, durable and dishwasher safe.

Vapur

Reusable, foldable, attachable, and freezable, plus the carabiner makes it easy to attach to your lunch bag.

K E E P IN G M OM ’S COFFEE WARM Stanley | $40

The classic container to keep your beverages warm. Bonus...the insulated lid doubles as an 8-oz cup!

Zojirushi | $24.99

This chic stainless mug comes in rose gold and keeps tea warm for half a day.

H OT F OOD ON THE GO Stanley Portable Crock Pot | $42 Always have a hot meal in the lodge with this vacuum-insulated crock.

For our favorite soup recipes, click here!

TIP: LABEL EVERYTHING WITH MABELS LABELS!

OU TLE T

For a full list of special offers visit ManchesterDesignerOutlets.com

VERMONT THE DEEP SOUTH

Southern Vermont is known for being family friendly and providing easy access to the outdoors, for both city dwellers and suburbanites. Here’s how to play in the powder without having to get on a plane.

Mount Snow

Vermont’s closest big mountain to the Northeast’s metropolitan areas, Mount Snow boasts four mountain faces of downhill skiing and snowboarding – 86 skiable acres, 600 total miles of trails, and 20 lifts. With convenient on-mountain activities, lodging and dining options, it’s an ideal destination for avid skiers and amateurs alike. Beginners are welcome at the learning discovery center, which includes four magic carpet lifts, one rope tow and a fixed grip triple chairlift. There’s adequate space to get comfortable, fall on your bum, and get back up again.

Momtrends Tip: Feeling the need for speed? Try one of the daily snowmobile tours!

Where to Stay: Mount Snow owns and operates the 197-room Grand Summit Resort Hotel and the 92-room Snow Lake Lodge.

Click here to read the Momtrends review

Okemo

There’s plenty of room to spread out and find on-mountain bliss at Okemo. They have 667 acres of terrain and 46 miles of trails. Fun fact: Okemo’s vertical drop is 2,200 feet, the biggest vertical in southern Vermont. Speaking of speed, Okemo’s Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster is all about thrills. Glide on the tubular rails as you zip down the mountain. Passengers control their speed, go as fast as you dare! Okemo resort also has incredible snow-making capabilities. Okemo is blessed with 200 inches annually, but when Mother Nature gets stingy, the snow cannons are blasting, covering over 98% of the trails!

Momtrends Tip: Stay in The Jackson Gore base area. You get the roominess of a condo with the full-service amenities of a hotel and a fully-outfitted kitchen in your room. The rooms are all ski-in, ski-out.

Click here to read the Momtrends review

Bromley

Bromley has a lot of terrain yet still feels really manageable – especially with little kids. And on cold days, no one complains that Bromley has a southern exposure. Consider this the budget play of Southern Vermont. Saving on lift tickets is super simple when you pre-purchase lift tickets online. Keep in mind, the earlier you book the better – online ticket rates increase daily as your visit gets closer! I found adult rates as low as $54/day, and they go down lower if you purchase multiple days.

When it comes to skiing and riding, I like the wide open trails and friendly staff. It’s a perfect place to try out catching some air. Bromley has a new, progressive terrain park designed by Arena Snowparks.

Start them young! Daycare with Skiing is available for kids from 2 1/2 - 6 years old and includes indoor childcare & activities, plus time outdoors with ski lessons.

Click here to learn more about Bromley.

Stratton

Stratton is probably the busiest of the Southern Vermont options, likely due to all those subway ads! Stratton is a tried-and-true destination to start the kids out in snow sports. For beginning boarders and skiers, Stratton has secluded areas off the main arteries – your tentative tot doesn’t have to worry about getting mowed down by an expert zooming down to the base. All in, Stratton has more than 670 acres to ski. Fun fact: the longest trail is Mike’s Way to Wanderer, coming in at 3 miles. Stratton does an excellent job at providing weekend warriors with groomers and Stratton excels at snow making.

Momtrends Tip: There’s a gondola which can help move loads of folks up the mountain on crowded weekends.

Where to Stay: The Black Bear is very dated and ready for a renovation. If you are looking for full service, I advise staying in Manchester at either the Kimpton Taconic or the Essex Resort and Spa. Additionally, you can try your luck with Airbnb to stay in one of Stratton’s many slopeside condos.

Click here to read the Momtrends Review

Getting There: If you live in the tri-state area, you don’t have to do all the driving. Take Amtrak from Penn Station to Albany Rensalear – from there it’s about a 90-minute drive to Manchester Vermont. Or take the bus! The Stratton Jitney runs from December 21st, 2018 - March 17th, 2019, leaving each Friday and returning Sunday – ride lasts appx. 4 hours. Click here to book!

TOOLS OF THE

TRADE teaching kids There’s a special place in heaven for parents who take on the task of teaching kids to ski or board. Most of us mortals head to the ski school and fork over money to have our precious offspring get up and running.

However, thanks to some new tools it’s now a bit easier to take on those first turns (and be sure to flip to page 24 for bribery tips!).

SkiRing® | $15

SkiRing, an innovative ski training tool, is a lightweight plastic ring designed to assist in proper hand placement. Every coach knows nothing good happens when the hands drop. Keeping the skier’s hands in front supports the center of mass to the base of support to direct pressure along the length of the ski. SkiRing gets hands in the proper position while decreasing anxiety, because, c’mon, that is just more fun! Developed by a mom and ski coach, this simple, yet genius, tool is perfect for parents who are tired of saying, “Get those hands forward.”

The Edgie Wedgie $15 This tool is useful once your kiddos are comfortable with the feel of the snow and start to build leg strength.

Kid Pack $45

A leash of sorts, these are slightly controversial. They don’t give the kiddos the same feel for the snow, but some parents swear by them.

Don’t forget the old-school tool of two broom stick handles duct taped together!

THE MOST ADVANCED TRANSPORT SYSTEMS FOR BOOTS, HELMET AND GEAR CLASSIC SERIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY CARRY YOUR BOOTS, HELMET AND GEAR IN COMFORT & STYLE

XT1

TM

XTW

TM

EDGE JR

TM

ISOSCELES STORAGE SYSTEM BACKPACKS: TM

Comfortable, organized and balanced. Side pockets carry boots, a large central compartment holds a helmet and all your gear

TRV PRO: TM

TECHNOLOGICALLY REVOLUTIONARY HARD CASES PROTECT YOUR SKIS OR SNOWBOARDS

Boots, helmet and gear backpack for the World Traveler

SHIP

L IT!

IT!

ROL

Check skis on a plane or ship with confidence

TRANSPACK PRO SERIES CONSTRUCTION: Super rugged ballistic nylon and ripstop. Functional additional internal and external zippered pockets for accessories and tools

HEATED BOOT PRO XL : TM

Carries all your gear. Extra large side pockets can hold lots of equipment and accessories or even another pair of boots (not heated)

BOOT TECHNOLOGY HEATED BOOT PRO : TM

TM

Featuring the Boot Vault backpack storage system with expanding front pocket to hold a helmet

TM

www.transpack.net

TM

HARD CASE SHUTTLE :

HARD CASE JET :

Single Ski Rolling Carrier

Double Ski or Snowboard Rolling Carrier

KEEP

CALM AND SKI ON!

Mabel’s Labels waterproof, personalized labels are perfect for all of your winter gear. Avoid having to replace expensive lost items in the middle of the season!

Visit mabelslabels.com and save 10% with this code at checkout: SKIMOMS10

Offer valid until June 30, 2019. Coupon may be used only once, has no cash value, cannot be combined with other offers or promotions and is not applicable towards taxes, express shipping or discounted products.

SKI WEEKEND PACKING LIST* 2 base layers for each child, bottom and top 3 pairs of socks 1 fleece or ski sweater 1 pair of pants or bibstyle overalls 1 waterproof jacket 2 pairs of ski gloves or mittens 2 hats 1 balaclava 2 turtles/neck warmers 2 pairs underwear per day of skiing 1 pair goggles 1 helmet 1 pair ski boots 1 pair winter boots

MOM TIP:

1 pair fleece bottoms or sweats for lounging after skiing 2 long sleeve t-shirts 1 pair pajamas hand warmers and toe warmers lip balm & sunscreen swimsuit & flip flops (for après ski hot tub) sunglasses *Items listed are per child for a three-day weekend. For a weeklong trip, bring quarters and laundry detergent!

Label everything with personalized, waterproof labels from Mabel’s Labels. These labels are the perfect way to avoid mixing up or losing expensive ski gear.

OUR TWO FAVORITES ARE:

Mini Custom Name Stickers: Perfect for labeling skis, boots and poles, as well as water bottles, goggles and helmets.

Personalized Bag Tags: Perfect for identifying ski bags, boot bags and lunch bags, just to name a few!

RECIPE

Mulled Wine

A twist on the classic recipe!

We chose not to up the sugar content and used more spices.

It’s also perfect for après ski – you can throw it in the crockpot on low and let it cook while you’re on the slopes.

Serves 4 Ingredients: • 1 Bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon • 3 Cinnamon Sticks • 15 Whole Cloves • 1 Naval Orange, sliced • 1/2 Teaspoon Freshly Zested Nutmeg • 8 Allspice Berries • 2 Cardamom Pods • 1 Vanilla Bean, split and scraped (add the pod to the pot as well) Directions: Add all ingredients to a pot and cook on your stovetop over medium heat until it reaches a simmer. Turn to low and cover. Continue cooking on low for about 20 minutes. If making a larger batch in the crockpot, add all ingredients and cook on low for 1 hour. Serve immediately and garnish with additional cinnamon or orange slices if desired.

Photos by Leslie Morrison

IT’S

ALL

ABOUT

THAT BASE

LAYER

FROSTBITE PULLOVER $89 This fun, seasonal half-zip is the

perfect cold-weather layer for all your winter activities. The mock neckline

and thumbholes add protection from the frigid air, while moisture-wicking

performance fabric keeps you feeling fresh, whether you hit the slopes or the gym.

REVERSIBLE LEGGING $79 Two is better than one. This reversible legging (print on one side, black on

the other) is a seriously stylish twofer designed for all your yoga sessions, workouts, and active adventures.

LANDS’ END WOMEN’S EXPEDITION WINTER SNOW BOOTS $159 Romp in the snow and keep those

feet dry and warm in these cozy snow boots.

PHOTOS BY MARTHA WIRTH PHOTOGRAPHY

Willkommen

Every trip you take is a chapter in your story — We invite you to write yours with us.

Stay with us and enjoy: World-class Service Luxurious Suites featuring Fireplaces and Balconies Sonnenalp Kids Club Program Sonnenalp Adventures (Guided Hiking, Snowshoe Tours, etc.)

Three Restaurants and One Bar with Live Music European Spa

www.sonnenalp.com | sonnenalpvail 970-476-5656 | 20 Vail Road, Vail, CO 81657

COLORADO SNOW MUCH FUN…ON ANY BUDGET! THREE WAYS TO SKI COLORADO Loveland

The first way to ski Colorado is like a local. Loveland is too cool to be kept a secret from those of us who live out of state. Deceptively small when viewed from the road, Loveland has over 1800 skiable acres and 94 trails. Many of the skiers at Loveland are locals because it’s so darn convenient. Denver residents are only 53 miles away from Loveland’s slopes – it’s one of the first ski hills along I-70.

Loveland has a clever layout. Beginners head to Loveland Valley, where they get a break from being mowed down by rippers over at the base area. Most beginners really appreciate having their own lifts and base area so they don’t have to co-mingle with intermediates and experts, which can be intimidating.

We loved seeing locals take advantage of the grill situation. It’s BYOB – bring your own brats to the mid-mountain area called Ptarmigan’s Roost (FYI Ptarmigan are birds). Everything here is cost conscious and about bringing snow sports to as many families as possible

Click here to read the full Momtrends Review!

Winter Park

Another way to ski Colorado is the family way, and Winter Park Resort has been wooing families for 76 years! Averaging over 320 inches of annual snowfall and 3,081 acres of award-winning terrain, this resort can keep you plenty busy for a weekend. And it provides easy-access for families flying in. Located just 67 miles northwest of Denver, Winter Park Resort is the closest major destination resort to Denver International Airport.

For a third consecutive season, the Amtrak Winter Park Express will transport passengers from downtown Denver’s Union Station to the slopes of Winter Park Resort. New for the 2018-19 season, the Winter Park Express will offer additional Fridays in the January-March operating schedule, plus a brand new lounge car for food and beverage purchases. The Amtrak Winter Park Express offers travelers to the Denver International Airport the option to travel to a renowned Colorado ski resort without renting or setting foot in a car.

Winter Park is also a favorite of families, borrow a red cart to get your gear from the car to the base area!

Click here to find out more!

Vail

Go big! That’s the third way to ski Colorado. There are 5,200 acres of skiable terrain at Vail and a lot of luxury to enjoy. If you’re used to hightouch experiences (and we are), you need to prep for this trip. The best decision we made was to stay at the Sonnenalp. The small scale and top-notch service at this resort made mapping out our ski days so much easier.

A winter trip to Vail usually includes time on the mountain, and Sonnenalp is prepped and ready to make family ski and boarding maximum fun. At check in, send your snow sports gear off to the Ski Concierge.

The next morning when you’re ready to take on the slopes, stroll through Vail Village to the Gondola. You won’t need to lug anything, just bring your sense of adventure and the kids. Vail has some of the best skiing I’ve ever experienced. From big, lucious bowls to diving in and out of glades, there’s something to challenge and delight everyone.

Click here to get all the details on Vail holidays Click here to read the full Momtrends Review!

Don’t Miss! Vail Holidays is the perfect place for family

celebration this holiday season. In December the town and mountain come alive with music and other events to celebrate the season. From harp concerts to acapella to pop, there’s a ton of music to enjoy. And you won’t want to miis Olympic medalist Patrick Chan skate.

Bribery Not Above

Some days are easier than others. When

temperatures dip and energy wanes, a good parent

isn’t above a little bribery. We polled our readers to come up with the top bribes to keep the kiddos going!

M&Ms

Gummy bears

–Lindsey P –Monica S

A Skittle every time they got on the chairlift.

–Jenny K Five runs and you can get a waffle at the waffle cabin.

–Karen N

French fries for skiing without holding mommy’s hand. Starbursts for long lift lines.

–Kate H A chocolate kiss for every run without complaining! (Usually for me when it’s really cold.)

–Alana S Gum on the lift and hot chocolate and nachos later....I don’t think they realize I would buy hot chocolate anyways.

–Denise D French Fries are standard but on a particularly hard day we up the ante with a large cookie. For mid-run meltdowns, I go with some M&Ms in the pocket of my pants.

–Jason D

MOMTRENDS TIPS: FOR THE ULTIMATE IN BRIBES

1. Sugar Lips mini donuts located in the Center Village at Copper Mountain.

2. Waffles at Corbet’s Cabin: Ride the Aerial tram to 10,450 feet for this treat in Jackson Hole, WY. 3. Candy Cabin at Beaver Creek, located at the top of the Strawberry Park Express Lift: They sell candy by the pound – pick from classics such as Swedish Fish, Sour Worms, Warheads, Root Beer Barrels and more!

kid-friendly RESORTS Not all ski resorts are created equal – some cater more to adults while others aim to make magic for families. Most parents we know work incredibly hard to earn vacation time outdoors. Our picks for family snow vacations are all about experiences that will maximize fun.

Beaver Creek

Some mountains just understand the challenges of getting kids on snow.

Beaver Creek excels at removing the obstacles that get in a family’s way.

Last year they unveiled the new Red Buffalo Park, full of kid-friendly glades and kid-centric snow play. For 2019, Beaver Creek Resort is building on its reputation as the world’s best luxury family resort by debuting Haymeadow Park, a second signature learning area. That means Beaver Creek will have the most dedicated learning terrain in the state of Colorado. We think kids will love the new Ice Cream Parlour located at The Ranch.

Click here to read the full Momtrends Review!

Click here to book your trip!

Don’t Miss! The snow sculptures created by JW Busby, a

35-year member of Beaver Creek Ski Patrol, and the 3pm fresh chocolate chip cookies at the base area.

Tremblant

At Mont Tremblant in Canada you can get a feel of being in a European ski village with great snow quality without having to fly across the Atlantic. Plus, when it’s too cold or blustery to ski, there’s tons to keep the kiddos busy at Tremblant. Kids love skiing the South Side – try the winding Nansen Haut. Or, on the North Side, try the P’tit Bonheur down to the Lowell Lift. A maple taffy on snow is required at the end of the ski day – watch the experts make them right next to the gondola. There’s usually a line and it’s definitely worth the wait!

Click here to read the full Momtrends Review!

Click here to book your trip!

Don’t Miss!

Located right in the village, the Aquaclub is an indoor water park sure to keep your kids happy for hours and will leave them exhausted at the end.

Solitude

This place knows the secret sauce of a family vacation: good snow, no crowds and instructors who love what they do. I remember one children’s lesson at Snowmass a few years ago – when I dropped the girls off it was chaos as there were 800 children in lessons that day. At Solitude the only thing big is the mountain – the rest of the experience is incredibly intimate. They have a wonderful childcare facility that even gives 2-year-olds the chance to get out and slide around. Lines? Yeah, you won’t have to deal with those here.

Click here to read the full Momtrends Review!

Click here to book your trip!

Don’t Miss! Explore the snow shoe and cross country trails right out of the village.

Skiing Hokkaido, Japan

By Diamante Travel Chris Burley and Rachel Naidus, Co-Founders Diamante Life While Japan is known as the Land of the Rising Sun, it should be known as Land of the Deepest Snow. Hokkaido, the northernmost island of the Japanese Archipelago, has long been known by deep powder aficionados as the global record holder for snowfall. When cold Siberian air from the Asian Continent mixes with the moisture of the Pacific, it creates epic snowfall, leading to amazing skiing opportunities. Combine these world-class skiing conditions with a growing ski infrastructure, unique cultural experiences and Japanese hospitality and you have the perfect getaway for your next family ski vacation.

Where to go on Hokkaido?

Niseko: Known as the Aspen of Asia, Niseko is the most developed hub of skiing on Hokkaido. Formerly a sleepy potato growing region, the Niseko Valley now plays host to the largest concentration of upscale hotels, villas, restaurants and retail centers that accommodate the visiting skier. The Niseko United resorts are a combination of four ski areas that are interconnected, allowing a variety of terrain options for all levels of skiers. Niseko also boasts the best rated ski school in the area with bilingual teachers available for hire.

Rusutsu: The ski area of Rusutsu is a family friendly destination with a well developed base area that caters to Japanese and foreign families alike. It boasts the largest amount of terrain of any ski area on the island giving visitors the opportunity to explore extensively during the course of their stay.

Kiroro: While among the smaller resort areas on Hokkaido, what Kiroro lacks in terms of base infrastructure it more than makes up for in quality skiing opportunities. With the deepest snow of all the other resorts and a limited daily skier allotment one can always find fresh tracks at Kiroro. The all-inclusive hotels at the base ensure that you do not have to leave the area for anything, allowing you to focus on the world class skiing at your doorstep.

Must-Dos on Hokkaido:

Relax at an Onsen: Onsen are traditional Japanese hot springs and offer the perfect place to rest your tired legs after a long day on the hill. Make sure you check the regulations before visiting as some are very strict about age limits, visible tattoos and other limiting factors.

Sample Izakaya Fare: While Niseko is flush with high end restaurants and fine dining establishments, make sure to take some time to explore a traditional Izakaya (local pub, kid friendly). Izakaya food is served like Tapas, small portions for the table to share and it is delicious as well as authentic.

Visit Otaru on a down day: Just a short and scenic drive from the major ski areas, Otaru is a traditional Japanese fishing port that offers a glimpse into what Japan looked like 100 years ago. Explore the downtown center and the dock area to take in the traditional architecture and village life.

Diamante was founded in Aspen Colorado in 2016 by two individuals who are dedicated to creating memorable travel and event experiences for their clients. Click here to find out more.

I am one of the few thousand residents of the tiny town of Telluride, Colorado. After a year and a half of living here, I still feel like one of the luckiest women in the world.

It’s a one-of-a-kind place, a jewel. Speaking of Jewel, she lives here…I think? I’ve never actually seen her.

Oprah, Jerry Seinfeld and Tom Cruise also have homes here – although, again, you wouldn’t know it. This isn’t a super glam town like Aspen, it’s much more low-key.

I could go on and on about how my kids are learning Spanish, becoming amazing skiers, and how there are programs here to push and challenge every interest. But I want to get to the heart of the matter, or the headline, as I like to call it, and share my favorite spots in Telluride!

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO

TELLURIDE

By Erin Busbee, Busbee Style

Two Towns in One

There are two separate towns: Telluride and Mountain Village, which are connected by a free gondola. The ride takes about 15 minutes. In Mountain Village you’ll find great shops and restaurants. I love to pop into Heritage to shop, and eat at Tomboy Tavern and Tracks. I always order a healthy teriyaki or southwest rice bowl here. You can also head over to the Madeline and go ice skating or grab a Starbucks coffee. By design, this is one of the only chain stores you will see here.

Skiing

Telluride Ski Resort (or Telski) makes skiing and boarding simple and painless for families. One of the amazing things about this mountain that sets it apart from its competitors is that, even during the busiest week of the year, the longest you will wait in a lift line is 15 minutes.

Shops

Two Skirts This beautiful boutique is co-owned by Kristin, a long-time Telluridian. She loves to buy very feminine and fashion-forward pieces. You’ll find everything from popular contemporary designers, like Rag & Bone and Alexis, to more obscure up-and-comers, like Never a Wallflower.

Scarpe This shop provides a mix of contemporary, edgy and functional fashion. They carry a ton of amazing denim, boots, sweaters and scarves. Scarpe also has men’s clothes, stuff for the kiddos, and even gifts!

Telluride Sports If you want to stock up on some ski gear or anything sporty, be sure to stop by Telluride Sports.

They have two locations: one in town and one in Mountain Village. The Mountain Village location now carries mostly high-end ski gear like Bogner and Sportalm. In town there are options for every budget.

Food

Siam Siam has incredible Thai food. I mean, really good. Getting a table here is the only issue as they do not take reservations. We usually pop by at 5 pm to see if they can take us.

High Pie Pizzeria Everyone in town will likely try to send you to Brown Dog, but my personal preference is High Pie. Their wood-fired pizza with the thin crust is my favorite! I always order the goat cheese salad, too.

Cosmopolitan For a fancy night out, you should make a reservation at Cosmopolitan. The food is delicious. Note: I would not recommend bringing toddlers here.

Altezza My family likes to go to Altezza at the Peaks and sit outside on warm summer evenings. The views are incredible.

Allred’s If there is a view better than this one while dining, I haven’t seen it. This is the place to come to have that quintessential mountain dining experience.

Hiking

Download the All Trails app and find a trail that makes sense for your ability and schedule. My favorites include: Hope Lake, Blue Lake and the Sneffels Highline Trails.

BEST SNOW PANTS KEEP THE WINTER FUN GOING AS LONG AS YOU CAN! A GREAT PAIR OF SNOW PANTS IS ESSENTIAL FOR EVERY KID. WE’VE ROUNDED UP OUR FAVORITES.

1

2

4

3 1. Lands End - Squall Pant | $78+

This waterproof and windproof nylon shell is a snow staple for many families. Sizes are available for everyone from tots to teens and include the Iron Knees & Seat®, a double-layer of extra-tough nylon patched on the knees and seat. When your ripper outgrows these, use the Grow-a-Long™ leg system to extend the pant by 2” for long-wearing value. Little kids love that these pants are easy to put on and adjust (and so do teachers).

2. Stio - Kids’ Rafferty Insulated Pant | $149

This brand is based out of Jackson Hole and they know a thing or two about snow. These aren’t dumbed-down designs for kids; the pants are just as sturdy as the adult versions, with waterproof Hulett™ canvas shell fabric and fully sealed seams. It stands up to routine wipeouts and everyday wear and tear.

3. Burton - Skylar Bib Pants | $150+

Keep the snow on the outside, not on the inside, with these high-bib pants. Even the biggest yard sale of a fall won’t result in a cold kiddo. The DRYRIDE Durashell™ fabric keeps the interior dry and the 100 grams of Thermacore™ Insulation provides warmth. Plus, Burton always comes up with trendy colors like “olive branch.”

4. Shred Dog - Ridgeback | $128

Some kids want bibs, some don’t – the Ridgeback Pant has a removable bib so your shredder can decide based on preference or mountain conditions. These pants come in black or fun prints and are fully waterproof and fully seam taped. Thanks to some cool design engineering they call the “Adjust-a-Fit system,” parents can customize the fit.

eye

spy a mogul!

EYEWEAR ON THE

MOUNTAIN

Wonderfy Goggles | $120

The lenses fit into this lower profile Shred goggle. Racers love these for the wide field of vision.

Shred 7-Piece Lens Kit | $81

Gogglesoc | $14.95

Scratched goggles are next to useless. This Goggle Glove is an easy way to protect your lenses. A gogglesoc is a protective microfiber cover for your ski or snowboard goggles.

One size fits all (mostly).

Mixing it up! We love supporting racers. Shred was co-founded by Olympian Ted Ligety. For anyone who truly cares about performance it’s fun to experiment with this pack of seven different lenses.

WHAT IF YOUR KIDS WEAR GLASSES?

GOOD QUESTION. YOU CAN GO TWO ROUTES. Get a frame that fits close to the face, like the Rec Specs

Spy French Fry Googles | $120

Protection is essential for skiers and boarders; might as well make it fun to wear too. These French fry and pizza goggles from Spy Optics are perfect for your little rippers.

Order custom goggles from SportRx. Scan your prescription and send it in, an optician will carefully look over your order.

SportRx creates goggle inserts for ski or snowboard goggles.

SportRx works with many popular brands. We like the Oakley Miner Youth

TIP: LOOK FOR 100% UV PROTECTION ON ALL EYEWEAR

IT’S EASY BEING

A MOM FINDS HER ZEN ON THE WINTER SLOPES

GREEN

By Keryn Means WalkingOnTravels.com and TwistTravelMag.com This was going to get ugly. My legs were going one way, while my body was going another. Down I went. A sprained shoulder later and I knew I would never be a speed demon. Why in the world was I trying to keep up with my husband? I hated going fast.

Looking back, I still don’t know why I thought I would ever be the “cool” snowboarder and race down a mountain. I didn’t grow up on the slopes. I picked up snowboarding at 28 years old. Two kids (including hiatuses due to pregnancy, births, breastfeeding, etc.) and a sprained shoulder later, and I was barely a novice snowboarder at 34 years old.

After my very minor accident on the slopes, I switched over to skiing. When the time came for a little more action, which happened to coincide with my boys strapping on their skis for the first time, I decided to try some downhill runs once again.

While my boys took to skis like fish to water, pushing each other to go faster, try jumps and other crazy things (they do bounce when they fall, after all), I stuck to the greens. Four years after they started lessons and I’m still happily wandering down the green runs.

I don’t ski often enough to become a pro; just enough to be comfortable and control my speed on those long runs.

I swish back and forth, taking the hills with confidence instead of panic.

As for my kids, I send them off to ski and snowboard camp with their friends. Everyone can meet up with me for a little après ski at the lodge when they are finished for the day. If they need money, well, they can find me at lunch, enjoying a steaming bowl of soup and a nice whiskey sling. Because let’s get real, ladies – skiing really is all about après.

Photography by Karyn Means

I see no need to become a speed demon.

In fact, I have a fear of uncontrolled speeds.

SKI MOM PLEDGE

BY KIM-MARIE EVANS

Being a ski mom is not just about being a mom of skiers – it’s about being a mom who skis! To join the Ski Moms club, complete the following pledge sheet, post it on social media and tag us at #skimoms. Why should the kids have all the fun?

We promise no hazing! And, sorry, no dads allowed.

My Ski Mom Pledge (Circle all that apply)

try

improve go pro with keep up with blaze past totally annihilate

On my honor I promise to _____________ to ___________ / _______________ my skiing.

My goal is to __________________ / _______________ / _____________________ my kids on the slopes.

Kids shouldn’t be the only ones who get rewards for days on the mountain.

massage mug of spiked cocoa nap

I will reward myself with a ___________ / ___________________________ / _____

100

20

1 or 2

for every _________ / _________ / __________ runs.

In an effort to improve my skills, I’m not just going to pay for lessons for the kids (who don’t

private lesson family lesson

appreciate them enough anyway) and plan to take a ________________ / ________________ .

When I meet my goals I will require my children to refer to me as:

boss queen of the mountain

my mother, the myth, the legend

Beyoncé but on skis

_____________________________ / _____________________________ / _____________________________ For inspiration I will repeat to myself in the early freezing hours of the morning: I am FAST, I am STRONG, THE COLD NEVER BOTHERED ME ANYWAY. I am FASTER than my 3-year-old, I am STRON GER than I think I am, the cold DOES bother me but I’m totally pretending it doesn’t.

Someone get mommy some coffee NOW. Make the ski season about more than just getting the kids on the mountain Reward myself for days on the slopes just like I reward my kids.

Take a ski lesson just for me.

Treat myself to a ___________________________________________ (ex: pedicure, massage, etc.)

Goals

______________________________________

______________________________________

______________________________________

How Many Days _______

WARM FEET 101

By Kristen Lummis, The Brave Ski Mom

Nothing ruins a family ski day like cold feet. Here are six ways to keep everyone’s feet toasty.

1 2 3

Wear one pair of ski socks. Layering socks changes the fit and can make ski boots too tight. Boots that are too tight can lead to cold feet.

Buckle strategically. While the toe buckle should be snug, the instep buckle should be loose. There is an artery that runs across the top of the foot and if it is constricted, toes will get cold.

Keep ski boots warm. Cold ski boots mean cold feet. Store your boots indoors, never in a garage or car. When driving to the resort, keep your boots upfront rather than in the trunk of the car.

your ski boots. After a day of skiing, use boot dryers or remove the liners and let them 4 Dry dry near a heating vent. fueled. Children, especially, expend a lot of energy while skiing, and hungry 5 Stay and thirsty kids are cold kids. Make sure everyone is well hydrated and eating snacks throughout the day.

it up. Though expensive, heated socks and liners for your boots can make a big 6 Tech difference.

Boot Dryer | $45

Darn Tough Yeti Socks | $24 Lenz Heated Socks | $300

HOW TO:

FIT YOUR SKI BOOTS

By Kristen Lummis, The Brave Ski Mom

Ski boots are your most important piece of ski equipment because your boots connect you physically to

your skis. A well-fitting ski boot transfers your motion and energy into the skis. The better fitting the boot, the more efficient the transfer of energy. The more efficient the transfer of energy, the more enjoyable and fun skiing becomes.

Boot Fitting 101 Because ski boots that fit well are essential, knowing how to properly check the fit of ski boots is a useful skill.

Remember, ski boots should be pleasantly snug, but never painful. This is true for kids and adults.

Here’s how to assess children’s ski boots.

1 2 3

Check the boot sole length. Center your child’s bare foot against the exterior sole of the boot. You want approximately 1” of boot sole extending on each end.

Check the shell size. Remove the boot liners. Wearing ski socks, place your child’s feet into the empty boot shells. Direct her to move her feet forward and get into a skiing “ready position” (knees bent, ankles flexed).

Using a flashlight, look for space behind her heels at the back of the boots. Ideally, each boot should have 5/8” to 1” of room.

Check the entire boot. Replace the liners, put the boots back on and ask your child to walk around. Next, have her use the “ready position” to flex the boots forward at the ankle. Your child should be able to wiggle her toes while in this position.

For older children and adults, simply try on the boots with ski socks. Over time, ski boot liners become “packed out,” meaning the boots become progressively looser. If you feel like your feet are “swimming” in the boots, it’s time for new ski boots.

TIP!

If your child complains that her boots are tight but the shells measured to fit, take the boots to a ski shop and get the liners stretched. If in doubt, always check with a ski shop boot fitter.

TIP!

Custom footbeds are another option that will improve the comfort and performance of ski boots. We recommend getting them when buying new boots. Ask your boot fitter.

TAKE A SNOW DAY...

“DOCTOR’S” ORDERS!

And by “Doctor” of course we mean “Mom.” Print out the excuse note below whenever you and your kids need a snow day! Excuses (i.e. “valid medical reasons”) created by one of our favorite ski moms, Kim-Marie Evans of LuxuryTravelMom.com. Thanks for the help, Kim-Marie!

Ski Moms Community Health Center www.momtrends.com

SNOW DAY EXCUSE SLIP Date: This is to certify that must take a snow day / week for the following reason: My child has a horrible case of powder flu. It’s very contagious and the entire family has come down with it. We will be following doctor’s orders: make first tracks.

My child is researching the physics of gaining speed by converting gravitational potential energy into kinetic energy of motion. We will be submitting findings for extra credit in AP Physics, whether they are currently enrolled in the class or not.

My child is embarking on a triadic family dynamic bonding and improvement mission in a closely controlled environment. In addition to studying the effect of claustrophobia and motion sickness they will be examining the efficacy of both intrinsic and external reward systems.

The most important lessons in life have never been learned in a classroom.

“Doctor” Mom’s Signature

in seed time learn, in harvest teach,

in winter

enjoy.

william blake