bill@hpfcla.UUCP (09/18/85)
[edible line] >I am exploring the possibility of skiing in Colorado or >Tahoe area around Christmas time. >However there are reports of dreadful overcrowding (1/2 hour + lines). > >How true is it?.... > Mike Cherepov Well, it depends on when you come. Christmas is ALWAYS a popular time, because not only are lots of folks here from out of state, but there's lots of in-state folks up there who have time off. 1/2 hour lift lines can be found, but if you're smart, you can avoid most of them. For instance, lots of people say that it helps to ski the lower half of the mountain between opening and lunch (11:00 - 1:00), and between lunch and closing. While lunch is going on, head for the top of the mountain and ski the top half. Most folks head for the top, and ski it the greater part of the day. Another way to get great skiing is to pack some snacks and skip lunch altogether. I've done this with great success. In my own experience, Beaver Creek and Vail handle crowds pretty well - in fact, you can find some lifts with NO lines! Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and Keystone tend to get a bit more crowded, 'cause they're heavily advertised, and because they're closer to Denver (they also tend to discount tickets a bit more than Vail/Beaver Creek - but NEVER at Christmas!). I have no experience with the 4 mountains at Aspen. I've always avoided the week of Christmas holidays and stayed home. January and February are usually better months to ski anyway. In general, it's gonna be hard to avoid SOME crowds at Christmas, no matter where you go. Bill Gates {ihnp4, ucbvax!hplabs}!hpfcla!bill-g Ft. Collins, CO