With the prospect of heavy snowfall combined with blue skies, Arizona Snowbowl has a lot to look forward to in March. On average, late February and March are the highest snowfall months. So make no mistake, the winter of 2013/14 chapter two is just beginning.
It is also the month we offer some great programs for those skiers and riders looking to save. From Family Fridays to Spring Break specials and Two-for-One Tuesdays, there is always an affordable way to hit the slopes.
However, Snowbowl’s best rates are reserved for groups of 10 people or more. By booking a group in advance, each member saves over $10. Plus, for groups of 11 or more, the group leader receives a complimentary ticket or package.
The end of February marked the beginning of Family Fridays – when families can visit Snowbowl from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for $10 tickets, $10 rentals and $10 lessons. This is a fun way for families to spend their Friday evenings together and get outside at the same time. Plus, sunset skiing on the peaks is always a beautiful sight. Our lessons are family-style, so parents and children will take lessons side-by-side. We recommend arriving at Snowbowl early to prepare for the family lesson at 3:30.
We recognize family trips can be stressful at times, but here are some tips to help keep everyone happy on the slopes:
– Arrive early to avoid rental and lift ticket lines.
– Dress in layers as weather can change rapidly while on the mountain.
– Eat breakfast and drink lots of water throughout the day.
– Try to be patient – skiing and snowboarding do not come naturally to everyone and the unfamiliarity can be frustrating.
Spring skiing and riding can be the best days of the season. It’s always important to remember that when you’re in high altitude, the sun’s rays are more powerful then off mountain. A good recommendation is to always wear 15 SPF sunscreen or higher and to reapply it frequently. Even on cloudy days, sunburns can happen rather quickly. A good pair of sunglasses or a mirrored goggle are a must.
The combination of intense sun and high elevation can sometimes lead to dehydration or fatigue if you’re not careful. It is crucial to continuously drink water while on the slopes. Water stations are located throughout the lodge to encourage visitors to stay hydrated.
We take sun safety seriously at Snowbowl, which is why we’ve created “Sun Smart March.” There are sunscreen stations throughout the lodges and complimentary sunglasses are given out to students in ski and ride school who have no other form of eye protection for the entire month of March.
All rail riders and park shredders should mark their calendars for March 15 to compete in the Findlay Toyota Rail Jam. For just $25, skiers and riders can show off their skills in the Sunset Terrain Park. This competition is a Jam format – or 45-minute time blocks – starting at 12:15 p.m. Discounted lift ticket vouchers will be available for athletes to purchase at registration.
Competitors ages 18 and up can compete for a portion of a cash prize of more than $2,000 – riders and skiers ages 17 and under can enter to win some awesome industry swag.
Sponsored by Findlay Toyota, Arizona Snowbowl, SPY, Rome Snowboards and 32 Snowboard Boots, this Jam is bigger and better than ever.
Throughout the day, industry representatives including Muscle Milk, Rockstar, SPY goggles, Rome Snowboards and others will be on the mountain giving away swag, product information and samples. Grab a beverage and a bite to eat at Hart Prairie Lodge and watch some of the state’s most talented park riders!
All of us at Arizona Snowbowl are working hard to make everyone’s spring skiing and boarding experiences fun and safe. We can’t wait to see you all on the slopes! FBN
Jason Stratton is the marketing director at Arizona Snowbowl. For more information, visit www.arizonasnowbowl.com.