Many parents are familiar with the family-oriented mission of the YMCA programs. Located in urban areas internationally, this kid friendly organization offers many educational, sports, and social opportunities. The YMCA of the Rockies, Colorado also operates two budget vacation resorts that help families get out and enjoy the legendary beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Snow Mountain Ranch and Estes Park Center are nondenominational programs open to any guest. However, members receive a slight rate discount and have their reservations processed first.

In addition to opportunities to enjoy the mountains, summer children’s programs operate daily for ages three through 16. Age appropriate activities include hiking, hayrides, roller skating arts and crafts, campfire cooking, orienteering and archery.

In winter, families can spend the day cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on 125 miles of groomed trails, and return to the resort to warm up in the indoor pool. Estes Park and other prominent winter activity destinations are nearby.

Lodging options include cabins and lodge rooms. Cabins range from two to five bedrooms and include a fireplace and fully equipped kitchen. Rates begin at $138/night. Lodge rooms have two queen beds and a set of bunk beds. Rates begin at $64 during off-peak times. Accommodations are not luxurious but then you are on a budget, right?

The YMCA also offers many opportunities for family camps if you want to recreate the magic of scout camp with your loved ones.  Many of these camps offer the traditional horseback riding and canoing, but today, they’re adding modern activities as well.  It’s not unusual to find rock walls for climbing and rappelling excursions.

You can stay in modest cabins or platform tents at a bargain rate – as low as $50 per night!

Have you always wanted to go to Europe but thought it was out of the realm of possibility when it came to your pocketbook?  That’s not necessarily true!

Find the latest information on a Colorado ski lodge. After all there are over 2 dozen to choose from. Places like Aspen, Breckenridge, and Telluride and known the world over.


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This article discusses what to look for when buying new skis. The advantages of owning your own pair of skis has numerous. They make you a better skier first off because you get to know the feel of them. Saves you more time on the slopes and not in the rental shops, not to mention the money you will save over time.

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Used as a form of transportation, cross country skiing is great exercise for your body… Let along the fact that is down right FUN! A hard workout in the elements then kicking back around the fire in the lodge.

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If your family wants to go skiing on your next vacation, but you don’t know how to ski, go ahead and plan that ski vacation anyway! You can learn how to ski, and you will have a great time doing it. With a little hunting you find that many resorts will give a way free lessons when you book a day with there lodge.

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If you’re on the look out for Copper Mountain Colorado lodging, there are quite a few options available. Copper Mountain is said to be where the locals go to do their skiing in Colorado. With its award winning trails that takes into account any skill level, it has become a popular place for both families and singles.

When deciding where you’ll stay in Copper Mountain, think about how many of you there are at first. Although it may make sense to have two couples stay in a double room, you may feel differently part way into your trip. Sharing fees can be great but lack of privacy can wear on your nerves after a while. If you decide on a suite instead with only one bedroom and a pull-out sofa, you could alternate who gets the private bedroom.

Looking for information on a Copper Mountain Rental and other related resources?

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This January 26^th and 27^th , the Winter Park Resort along with the Chamber of Commerce will be celebrating Mary Jane’s birthday.  Though named after a ‘lady of the evening’ from the late 180’s… Today she is Winter Park’s most infamous mountain.  Emphasizing what Colorado skiing is all about, she shows off her steep slopes, deep valleys and small bus sized moguls.

Festivities begin with the 25^th Annual Chefs Cup Dinner and Dance at 7:00 pm of Friday, Jan 25^th.  The finest restaurants and chefs come together to show off there talents in search for the coveted Peoples Choice award with there best dishes, cocktails and a silent auction.  Tickets run $40 and $50 at the door with all proceeds going to the Winter Park Competition Center. 

Saturday and Sunday will have a list of activities including: Live music, a Mary Jane look alike contest, free bump tips, and snow sculpture contests.  In town there will be scavenger hunts, snowshoe tours, a parade and fire works, free sledding, human bowling and a list of other festivities.  All events in the town of Winter Park will be free.