Falling Off A Ski Lift At Winter Park Resort- All Because of a Break Through Ski Lesson
During a ski lesson with JT Thompson at Winter Park Ski Resort, I tumbled off the Sunnyside chair lift. It all happened so quickly- basically I didn’t get my ski tip off the ground fast enough and found myself head first with a mouthful of powder. JT screams back to see if I am OK. Laughing, I tell him not to worry, no broken bones, and will catch the next chair up. Shaking the snowpack off my helmet, I cruise solo to the top, realizing I was so distracted with a break through moment in the lesson that my mind was in celebration land. And for the record, the spill was totally worth the change in my skiing.
This was my 8th time on the slopes for the year. I skied a few times growing up but never enough for the sport to stick. This year, I wanted to cruise comfortably on speed sticks without fear. I felt closer to my goal after a lesson with JT. He started by correcting what he called my “survival skills.” No longer was I allowed to take the chair position while riding. I learned it’s about standing perpendicular and putting pressure on my toes instead of my heels. After I started to get used to the new stance, JT threw the golden nugget at me.
“Let the tips of your ski’s guide you down the mountain. Trust your equipment,” he told me. I finally felt the ease of letting my skis do the work for me. It was a battle before because I was trying to steer my skis in an unnatural pattern. Finally, I felt like I was following the path of least resistance. I was so amped up that I finally got around the learning curve; it’s just unfortunate that my ski tips didn’t reach the pinnacle with me.
More reasons I loved skiing with JT of the Winter Park Ski School:
Trust: For me, it wasn’t just about trusting my equipment but also my instructor. JT was excellent about progressing and pushing me just the right amount. His sense of humor keeps your from thinking to hard or taking the sport too seriously. It really is about having fun- but of course with the right form and technique-, which you are sure to leave with.
Expertise: JT has been a ski instructor at Winter Park for more than 30 years and it shows. Not only does he talk about the history of the mountain along the way but knows how to make a change in your skiing.
Love for the Sport: It’s easy to tell JT is a “soul rider” because of his respect and love for the sport. As I see some people battle down the mountain and wedge down moguls, I realize during my lesson I want to ski in a way that does the sport justice. Or in a style that JT projects so passionately.
Carri’s Catch: The newest kid on the block for dining is Lunch Rock Restaurant at the top of the Mary Jane Territory. Grab a seat on the deck with a Colorado brew and take in views of the Continental Divide.
More on Winter Park Ski Resort:
Acres: 3,081
Trails: 143
Lifts: 26
Longest Run: 4.9 miles
The mountain is divided into 7 territories. I started the day warming up on the Winter Park Territory where groomers and easy runs rule the roost. From there, we explored the Parsenn Bowl for wide open views and skiing on intermediate terrain. On day two, with my refined skills, I headed to Vasquez Ridge for less trafficked runs and more powder.
Maybe (or not) in my future: The Terrain Park, Mary Jane Territory (the spot famous for steep terrain and bumps), Eagle Wind and The Cirque where you will find the most challenging terrain on the mountain.
Closing Day: April 26, 2015.
Where to Stay:
The Winter Park Chateau, a Victorian styled bed and breakfast, sits high on a hill less than a block from main street. Innkeepers and owners, Greg and Laura, serve up a breakfast that goes beyond run of the mill with menu items like egg soufflé, roasted potatoes and fresh fruit. Soak in the second story balcony hot tub for straight shot views of the Continental Divide and sprawling mountains. Or, wind down in the family room of the home with freshly popped kernels from the vintage popcorn machine.
Check out our video interview with the Winter Park Chateau Here
Insider Tips: (Off the Mountain)
Beer: Hideaway Park Brewery serves up an awesome cherry sour beer- grab a 5 oz. pour for 3 bucks or go for the full glass for double price. Everything from stouts, red ryes and IPA’s are also served.
Breakfast: Rise & Shine Café & Bakery makes doughnuts and bread in house. Sit down at the lunch counter and order up a power breakfast with a cup of Colorado organic roasted beans.
Biking: Throw your leg on a Fat Bike at Snow Mountain Ranch, about 10 minutes from the town center, where just over 6 miles of trails are designated for bikes only. Bulky tires do a good job of gripping snow but don’t be surprised if you spill a few times. Luckily, soft powder will catch you.
