What happens with ski vacation destinations during the summer?

So what happens to ski vacation destinations when the summer sun starts melting the snow up?  Closing may be an option for some resorts, but for others, summer’s an opportunity to welcome another type of crowd – the nature loving ones. 

Many ski destinations have expanded their summer offerings to lure nature enthusiasts and those who’d like to skip the cookie cutter beach vacations.  Here are some things you can expect at a ski resorts on warmer days:

Mountain bike trails

As the cold season makes way for warmer days ahead, snow melts to reveal breathtaking drops, terrains and gardens that will make fat-tire happy mountain bike enthusiasts happy.  Many resorts offer bike trails with a scenic view of the mountain and lots of fresh air, once the ski season ends and the ice has melted.  You can bring your own bike, or you can rent from one of the resorts’ shops.

Zip lines

If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, a thrilling ride from the snow-less mountain down to the bottom of the mountain via a zipline can be an exhilarating experience.  Many resorts are taking on this thrill activity, offering not only heart pumping action, but also exceptional views along the way.  

Scenic tour via chair lift or gondolas

If ziplining is not your cup of tea, but you would still appreciate an eagle’s eye view of breathtaking mountain scenery, a chair lift or gondola tour can be a more fitting choice.  Yes, the mountains look just as good without the fresh coat of snow most ski enthusiasts would greatly appreciate.  Some resorts will even welcome guests with a lunch al fresco at the end of the tour. 

Hiking trails

Many ski resorts allow people to take advantage of what the area has to offer, more naturally - venture their trails without the snowsuits needed!  Lots of opportunities for hiking give picturesque views along the way.  In ski/snowboard season, stopping to take in those views, much less take a picture of them, can be rather difficult... Summer makes the perfect time for that. Just like the slopes themselves, the hiking trails can be used by beginners to more advanced hikers with steep climbs and rocky terrains.

White water rafting   

Nothing says sweet-summertime more than a thrilling white water rafting adventure with your family and friends. Ski resorts, such as those in Vail offer many rafting trip options, from full or half day to short trips from beginners and intermediate rafters. Just call the resort operator to make your reservations or visit their main website.

Cultural events and activities

Ski resorts, host many cultural activities that involve arts, crafts, and a good deal of food and wine that can bring out some new experiences you would have never tried otherwise.  Beaver Creek in Colorado plays host to a non-stop array of festivals, from art and music to BBQ’s.  Watch out for the Thursday Night Rodeo series, where one can get a taste of calf scramble and bronco riding.  

For many ski vacation destinations, the fun never really ends even when winter is long gone. But that doesn't mean you can't start looking into plans for your next ski vacation this upcoming season - it's never too early!