Ski Resorts in Summer
Cheap Vacation Deals at Breckenridge, Killington, Whistler
No snow but plenty of fun awaits frugal families who take advantage of all-inclusive travel packages in the summer at ski resorts in the U.S. and Canada.
Plan a family vacation this summer at a ski resort and take in the beautiful mountain scenery, golf and outdoor activities at a fraction of the cost during the winter months. The larger ski resorts often offer inclusive vacation packages, host outdoor music concerts and sponsor sports festivals. Or you can plan your own trip while reaping the benefits of discount hotel rates and a relaxed resort-town atmosphere in the off season.
Here are some sample summer deals at ski resorts.
Breckenridge Resort, Breckenridge, Colorado
Book before June 17, 2007, and get 30 percent off summer lodging rates at this Colorado ski resort in a Victorian mountain town. Rates are available for travel until Oct. 18, 2007. The deals start at $62.50 per night, per person and include a free scenic chairlift ride on the Colorado Superchair. This lift stops at just over 11,000 feet, where riders can hike trails at the peak and behold some of the most breathtaking views anywhere of the Continental Divide. Families who plan a summer vacation at Breckenridge can also take advantage of golf, whitewater rafting and horseback riding fun.
Cheaper Breckenridge digs: The Fireside Inn Bed and Breakfast and Hostel sits in downtown Breckenridge and offers the “Organ Loft Family Room,” which sleeps up to seven, for $84 a night.
Killington Resort, Killington, Vermont
The largest ski resort in the Northeast, Killington has put together an extensive array of activities for summer visitors to this central Vermont town. Climbing walls, water slides, mountain biking and gondola rides greet visitors from June through early October. A contraption named “The Bungee Thing” sends brave participants flying through the air while tethered above a trampoline. The kid-friendly “Summer Adventure” package starts at $51 per person, per night.
Thrifty Killington lodging: Kids under 12 stay free at the Happy Bear Motel and $65 a night gets families a room with two double beds.
Whistler-Blackcomb Ski Resort, Whistler, British Columbia
Book by June 14, 2007 and get 50-percent off your third night at participating hotels and lodging properties at this huge Canadian ski resort. Rooms start at $89 a night. The Blackcomb Base Adventure Zone runs from June 4 to Sept. 3, 2007. Feel your way through a maze, zip down the mountain on the Westcoaster Luge, or try the Acro-Adix Trapeze (with a safety harness). Day passes, starting at $11.95 for children, are available for all Adventure Zone activities.
Save on gas at Whistler: Whistler Village is pedestrian only. Take the free Village Shuttle from 8 a.m. to midnight from your hotel or condo to visit restaurants and attractions.
