After slipping into a mild, post-ski-season depression, I finally embraced Summer and pulled myself out of my funk. Ripping down my favorite ski runs on a mountain bike, sipping out of a jumbo mug filled with local brews at Oktoberfest, and a hike to a scenic picnic spot under a ski lift made me realize that resorts offer oodles of options for Summer fun.
More and more ski areas are shifting towards offering other outdoor activities during the off-season, making them prime Summer destinations, even past “closing day.” Thanks to their high elevation, the mountains offer a break from the Summer heat, and resorts frequently offer spectacular deals on lodging.
A quick web search is the best way to find resorts delivering Summer stoke. Here are a few events to help you start filling in your calendar:
Squaw Valley, California
Squaw Valley offers a great lineup of Summer activities including: outdoor yoga classes, weekly concerts, expert led hikes, disc golf, miniature golf, and a par-71 championship golf course. The best part? Most of them are free! Visit the Squaw Valley website for details.
What not to miss: Wanderlust, July 17th – 20th
“Yoga. Music. Nature. Wanderlust is a one-of-a-kind festival bringing together the world’s best yoga and wellness teachers and top musical acts and DJs, all in a setting of breathtaking natural beauty.”
PHOTO: Wanderlust Festival
Steamboat, Colorado
From hot-air balloon festivals to art festivals, Steamboat is the place to be this Summer. I hiked there a few years ago and really enjoyed the high views and extensive trail system. Check out their schedule of additional activities on the Steamboat events calendar.
What not to miss: The 33rd Annual Hot Air Balloon Rodeo and 40th Annual Art in the Park, July 12th and 13th
“The Hot Air Balloon Rodeo and Art in the Park offer artistry and color both on canvases and in the air making them a staple of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, in the summertime.”
PHOTO: Steamboat Springs
Telluride Ski Resort, Colorado
Chill at a bluegrass festival, get high on a ropes course, or treat yourself to a day at the spa. Telluride is an ideal Summer escape for outdoor lovers. Visit the Telluride Ski Resort activities page for more information.
What not to miss: The 38th Annual Telluride Jazz Festival, August 1st – 3rd
“The Telluride Jazz Festival is America’s destination Jazz Event. Since 1977, Telluride’s majestic perch high in the San Juan Mountains has been the site of the annual event produced by Colorado non-profit organization the Telluride Society for Jazz.”
PHOTO: Telluride Jazz Festival
Park City, Utah
Several Park City resorts host Summer events and offer package deals. One standout activity is mountain biking. From total beginner to expert, all riders will enjoy this area. Park City is one of the few gold-level Ride Centers in the nation, an award given to them by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). Visit the Park City website for ideas.
What not to miss: The Park City Food and Wine Classic, July 9th – 13th
“Experience more than 100 food artisans, wineries, breweries, distilleries, epicurean purveyors, and locally-made products at this ultimate food and wine experience.”
PHOTO: Park City Food & Wine Classic
Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort, Utah
Just minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort offers a wide range of activities for vacationers. Family visitors are welcomed with a mountain rollercoaster, climbing wall, and other rides and events.
What not to miss: Oktoberfest, Saturday and Sundays, August 16th – October 12th
“Oktoberfest features the tastes of Bavaria with entertainment from local and national German bands and yodelers. Admission is free, and there are plenty of food, entertainment, and, of course, beer, to go around.”
PHOTO: The Active Explorer
What not to miss: Wasatch Wildflower Festival, July 27th
If you can’t make it to Snowbird on the 27th, Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude also host this event on different days throughout July 25-27.
“The Wasatch Wildflower Festival is a three-day event hosted at the four Cottonwood Canyon ski areas to celebrate the beauty and diversity of wildflowers in the Wasatch.”
PHOTO: The Active Explorer
Armed with new inspiration, take a few moments to check out other Summer activities offered by your favorite ski destination. Use caution however, visiting ski resorts during the Summer may result in unbridled exuberance, money savings, and excessive fun.
Leave a Reply