The lull in the economy has increased travel incentives for destination resorts, and Aspen/Snowmass is no exception. This resort boasts four mountains for winter sports fun, and a myriad of alternative activities for children and families to do together. Buttermillk and Snowmass are recommended for beginners and intermediates, while Aspen Mountain and Highlands offer expert terrain for families that like to ski the steeps and moguls. New deals are emerging to lure families to this Rocky Mountain hamlet throughout the winter season. Consider the following tips when planning a family ski trip this winter.
Air Travel
Flying into Aspen can be an expensive proposition for a family. As well, winter weather conditions can cause travel delays and cancellations. Air service into the Eagle-Vail airport is often cheaper because more carriers use the airport. As well, the weather is often more reliable. Eagle is an easy two hour drive from Aspen and Snowmass. Shuttles run on a regular basis and rental cars are plentiful. Do add in the cost of the transfer or the rental to make sure the total travel price is still competitive.
Holiday Travel Deals Before Christmas
For families that enjoy spending the holidays in a destination resort, travelling to Aspen or Snowmass is a wonderful option. Typically, most resort hotels and lodges raise their prices on December 26th. Planning a trip before that date guarantees the same vacation for half the price. In addition, the town and the mountains will be virtually empty. To get the best holiday travel deals, book the trip as early as possible during the allotted vacation time.
Kids are Free in March
Spring break is another popular time for family vacations to ski resorts. For the first time ever, the Aspen Skiing Company is inviting all kids to ski and stay for free during the entire month of March. Purchase a minimum four-day/five-night lift ticket and lodge package (available through various tour operators) by January 15, and children between the ages of 7 and 12 will ski and stay for free. As part of the package, equipment rentals for kids are free too, if adult rentals are completed through Four Mountain Sports. Children, age 6 and under, are always free. In addition, a purchase of four or more kids ski/snowboard school lessons is eligible for two free tickets to Wednesday Movie Night at the Treehouse Kids' Adventure Center in Snowmass.
Lodging: Slopeside vs. Town
Visitors pay a premium to stay in the ski-in/ski-out properties. The advantages are clearly in the easy accessibility of the slopes. For a family with multiple children, this can make the most sense because the hassle of storing and moving ski equipment becomes much less of an issue. The difference, however, between staying slopeside and staying in a hotel can be as much as $300 per night.
Equipment Rental and Storage
Families who do not have access to lodging with ski in/ski out availability can rent equipment at the Aspen Skiing Company’s retail outlet, Four Mountain Sports, and store it for free at any of the base areas. As a bonus, that equipment (skis and poles only) can be transferred for free to any of the other mountains. Taking the shuttle to and from the ski areas is a lot easier (and a lot more fun) without the hassle of carrying ski equipment for the entire family.
Avoid Major Holidays
Where possible, avoid major school holidays for the best savings. Deals abound, including a free night, a free lift ticket, and free day of equipment rental. These offers only occur during the slower times, however. The best deals occur at the end of the ski season, during the week of April 5-11, 2010. During this week, an adult can purchase a 7-day lift ticket for as little as $29/day.
According to travel specialist Alex Allen, “Families should look at the big picture. Often times you will find a great airfare, but the lodging might be expensive. Try to look at everything together for different dates to be sure you have picked the best travel dates for your budget.”
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