Saturday, January 17, 2009

Snow Fun


Like many locations in Northern California, Yosemite National Park has four seasons. Each season in Yosemite offers countless adventures and for winter there is “snow” better place.

Yosemite has some of the most beautiful and breathtaking vistas to enjoy winter activities from skiing to snowboarding to a romantic getaway at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast (http://www.abedofrosesbandb.com/), or a cabin rental at Sugar Pine Cabin (http://www.sugarpineatyosemite.com/).

One of the most popular, and affordable places to experience the true feeling of winter in Yosemite is at the outdoor Curry Village Ice Rink. Starting in mid-November and lasting until mid-March, winter adventurers can glide (or slip and fall, a lot) across the hockey-sized ice rink, which is open to skaters of all ages.


This winter the world famous outdoor rink, one of the few true Americana experiences left in the western United States, celebrates its 80th anniversary. It was first established in 1928 when the Yosemite Winter Club flooded an unused parking lot and today it remains a permanent fixture surrounded by towering pine trees, and snow covered granite mammoths like Half Dome.


Due to its wonderful views and charming atmosphere the ice rink is a haven for families and couples searching for an unforgettable moment in the valley. Even for those not skating, a fire pit and warming pit are located next to the rink and are ideal for socializing, watching other skaters, sipping on some hot cocoa, or just appreciating the beauty of a snow-clad Yosemite in winter.


Daily skating sessions are offered from 3:30 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 9:30 p.m. weekdays (weather permitting). On weekends and holidays, the rink is open for an additional morning session from 8:30 to 11 a.m., afternoon sessions from noon to 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 to 6 p.m., and an evening session from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Ice-skating in Curry Village is $8 per adult, per session, and $6 per child. Skate rental is $3 per session. Helmets are available at no additional cost, and private sessions for groups up to 200 in size are available. A family of four with two adults can skate for a total of $40.


Another family favorite winter destination in Yosemite is the Badger Pass ski area. In the winter, when the hoards of tourist have left the valley, a gentle one-hour, vista filled ride is all it takes to reach Badger Pass from A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast (http://www.abedofrosesbandb.com/). Badger Pass is widely known as California’s oldest ski area but perhaps it is most known for its excellent beginners’ terrain for first-time and novice skiers and snowboarders.


Unlike many other ski areas Badger Pass has an extremely unique, relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for kids or people looking for a low-key experience in the snow covered Sierra. With 10 runs, nearly 85 percent of the downhill slopes are designated for beginners and intermediate-level skiers and snowboarders. A new terrain park keeps freeriding snowboarders entertained. Five lifts carry skiers and snowboarders around the mountain.


Badger Pass features one of the best and largest sundecks in the Sierra. Parents and on-lookers can watch their kids and friends learn how to negotiate the snow covered high country of Yosemite while soaking up some California sun. They also have a popular ski program for youngsters, the "Badger Pups" kids downhill program. It offers customized instruction for little skiers ages four to six years old.


Badger Pass is a full-service ski resort offering ski and snowboard instruction, rental equipment, a ski shop, childcare, and a cafeteria and lounge. The ski area is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the season, which is generally mid-December to late March (weather permitting).Elevations range from 7,200 feet to 8,000 feet with a vertical drop of 800 feet with an average temperature range of 30 to 60 degrees. Seasonal snowfall averages about 17 to 20 feet.


Aside from the skiing, another great aspect of Badger Pass is the off-the-slope fun. Guided snowshoe walks, extensive cross country skiing and the family favorite snow tubing, are also available. Services at Badger Pass include a cafeteria, ski shop, day lodge, ski repair shop, and baby-sitting (children must be out of diapers and toilet trained.)


All-day lift ticket prices for adults are $38 and half-day, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. are $28. Youth ages 13-17 are $32 and $22. Seven to 12 year old’s tickects are $15 and $11. Adult season passes are $376. Rentals for everything from ski boots to helmets are available as well.

To start planning your winter getaway contact us at bedofroses@sti.net.

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