Debbie Gabriel
Summer in North America’s Mountains has officially arrived with the top mountain destinations ready to welcome visitors.
Discover the best festivals and events, thrilling new experiences, impressive dining offerings and more taking place across California, Utah, Colorado, British Columbia and Quebec this season.
Feel both adrenaline and Zen in Palisades Tahoe, California
New for the summer at Palisades Tahoe is the Tahoe Via Ferrata (from $119 pp). Thrill-seekers will be able to explore Palisades Tahoe’s most iconic rock face, The Tram Face, which towers directly above the base area of the resort. No prior experience is necessary as the experienced guides take groups through the exploratory routes, where there’s breath-taking views aplenty. This summer, Palisades Tahoe will also hold a free, outdoor yoga series every Wednesday evening from 6 July until 31 August. The hour-long class is guaranteed to leave yogis feeling will and truly Zen. www.palisadestahoe.com
Explore on two wheels in Mammoth Mountain, California
Pedal Up Bike Tours will launch guided mountain bike packing trips in Mammoth Mountain later this summer (price TBC), exploring the hidden corners of the Eastern Sierra and Long Valley. Guides will take guests on curated routes through lakes and hot springs, where they’ll learn about local ecology, history and sustainable recreation, before setting up camp for the night. Mammoth Mountain is widely regarded as one of the best biking destinations in the USA and is also home to a bike park which offers trails, jumps and more. www.mammothmountain.com
Reach new heights with CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures, British Columbia
CMH Bugaboos, one of CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures’ luxurious mountain lodges, will launch new Alpine Trail Running Trips in July. The retreats take runners to indescribable wilderness via helicopter, where they can cover up to 30km of untouched terrain in a day. Each evening, guests can sooth aching muscles in the luxury lodge, where there’s a steam room, swimming pond and rooftop hot tub to enjoy. From $3,103 pp. www.cmhsummer.com
Discover Deer Valley Resort, Utah, one bite at a time
Taking place on Fridays and Saturdays, 8 July – 26 August, Deer Valley’s Grocery~Café will host Summer Dinners on the Deck, a new, curated dining experience. Guests will be able to feast on themed dishes from regions around the world, from hearty Italian favourites and wines during the ‘Taste of Italy’ night to Japanese classics with the ‘Sushi and Sake’ menu. Saturdays will also see Mountaintop Brews & Tunes take place, an afternoon music and beer event featuring different craft brewers every week. www.deervalley.com
Family fun in Winter Park, Colorado
There’s endless amounts of fun to be had for families visiting Winter Park this summer. Book a ride on the Alpine Slide – the largest of its kind in Colorado – test balance and agility with the kid-friendly rope courses, or expertly scale the outdoor climbing wall. Little ones can also try the Junior Trailblazer Scavenger Hunt, a free scavenger hunt where they’re tasked with challenges to complete around the resort before claiming their Official Junior Trailblazer prize. All activities from $54 pp. www.winterparkresort.com
