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Ski Resort? Think Again
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Ski resorts are inappropriately named. When I tell someone I live in the Mt. Washington Valley, an area with many ski mountains in close proximity, and therefore called a ski resort, the first response I get is usually, "Oh, I haven't downhill skied in years!" Maybe if I said I live in a winter resort, people would get a better picture. Skiing is only a tiny fraction of what is offered in areas like this.
Snowshoeing is an often overlooked winter sport that is exhilarating in its own right. To walk through the woods on freshly fallen snow, and see the forest as only the animals can usually, gives your mind a much  needed break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Cross country skiing is definitely a workout, but this activity is such a different form of skiing that it doesn't even touch your adrenaline, at least not the way I do it.
One activity I think everyone can enjoy is ice skating, even if, like me, you are not the most graceful of skaters. Consider my experience trying this for the first time after 20 years. Suffice it to say that it involved blue knuckles on the railing, flailing in front of five-year-olds, and a final cheer of "Woo hoo!" when I was finally able to go six feet on my own. It's a really good thing I chose a Thursday afternoon to try this since I live in a very small community.
It is also true of "ski" resorts that, since they attract so many to the mountains, the resort area is filled with fun things to do after getting off the slopes, or "après-ski" as the aficionados say. There are unique shops with items found only in this region and wonderful dining available to meet everyone's taste. In order to  attract people from other resorts, they also have season-long events such as ice sculpting, winter carnivals, sleigh rides, horse-drawn carriages, and spectacular live theatre. And a festive atmosphere weaves its way through it all.
So, the next time you hear the term "ski resort," forget the terrifying idea of going Mach 1 down a mountain with two sticks strapped to your ankles. Instead, picture a cozy mountain cabin, a warm fire burning brightly in the fireplace, snow falling outside, and a good book. Now that's the kind of resort I'll sign up for!
Of course, for the adventurous, there is always ice climbing and winter camping, but let's face it, if you don't ski, this may be a bit ambitious.
~ Nicole Olivier
Sales Director
Hampton Inn & Suites
North Conway, NH
Skier at Mount Snow Resort, West Dover, Vermont
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