You don't have to wait for winter to have a great time at a ski resort. With their spectacular views, miles of hiking trails and thrilling lift rides, these often-overlooked areas beckon to fresh-air-loving families. What's more, many of the more-developed spots now qualify as all-season destinations, offering a range of summer activities from mountain biking to music festivals. Prices and programs vary, so call your local ski area for details. Here's a sampling of what you can find at ski hubs across the nation:
- SMUGGLERS' NOTCH, JEFFERSONVILLE, VERMONT
A family of four can trek with llamas and have a gourmet lunch for $95 to $125 (depending on kids' ages). Call 800-451-8752 or go to their web site.
- SQUAW VALLEY, OLYMPIC VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
Scale a climbing wall ($12 per person, plus $4 shoe rental), swim in a mountaintop pool ($7) or ice skate ($7 for adults, $6 for kids 12 and under) in the year-round, outdoor rink (a cover protects the ice from the summer sun). Call 800-545-4350 or go to their web site.
- SUGAR MOUNTAIN, BANNER ELK, NORTH CAROLINA
Mountain bike for free on more than 20 miles of trails. Call 828-898-4521 or go to their web site.
- SUN VALLEY, IDAHO
Ice-skate outdoors in summer! ($8 for skaters over age 12, $7 for under; $3.25 for skate rental.) Call 208-622-2194 or go to their web site.
- WATERVILLE VALLEY, NEW HAMPSHIRE
A weekend day pass ($30 for adults, $20 for ages 6 to 16) includes bike rental, tennis, golf, boat rental and more. Call 800-GO-VALLEY or go to their web site.
MONEY SAVER: Rather than ride the lift, ask resort personnel if you can hike the access road to the top.
WEB RESOURCE: To find a resort near you, log on to Ski Resorts Guide.
Other links to resorts:
Big Sky Summer Ski Resort
New Hampshire Summer Ski Resorts
Summer Resorts of Vermont
LIBRARY LINK: The Mountain Biker's Guide to Ski Resorts by Robert Immler.
INSIDE SCOOP: Mountains can get cold. Make sure you pack enough layers to keep you toasty.
