In a heartening turn of events for the ski community, Indy Pass and Unofficial Networks have teamed up to breathe new life into Hickory Ski Center in Warrensburg, New York. This collaborative effort marks a significant milestone for the beloved ski center, set to operate its lifts again after an eight-year hiatus.

The Hickory Ski Center, with its rich history dating back to 1946 and founded by 10th Mountain Division veterans, had been a cornerstone for the local ski community. Its recent struggles with operational costs, especially soaring insurance prices, had cast a shadow over its future. However, the center’s relentless spirit and the support from Tim Konrad, the publisher of Unofficial Networks, and Erik Mogensen, CEO of Entabeni Systems and Indy Pass, have sparked a glimmer of hope.

Konrad’s personal connection and passion for Hickory, coupled with his awareness of the center’s struggles, propelled him to reach out to Mogensen. This call ignited a chain reaction of support, leading to Indy Pass and Unofficial Networks stepping in to offer a much-needed lifeline. Mogensen’s vision to involve more organizations in supporting independent ski areas aligns perfectly with this initiative, offering a sustainable future for these cherished local gems.

The partnership has resulted in Hickory Ski Center reopening as well as joining the Indy Pass for the 2023/24 season.

Sue Catana, Hickory’s manager and the daughter of its founders, expresses deep gratitude for this intervention. The collaboration between Unofficial Networks, Indy Pass, and Entabeni Systems not only ensures the operation of lifts for the season but also brings hope for many more seasons to come. Furthermore, the team from Indy Pass and Entabeni will offer their expertise in streamlining operations at Hickory, reinforcing the center’s journey toward sustainability.

The collaboration of Indy Pass and Unofficial Networks in the revival of Hickory Ski Center reaffirms the two entities’ dedication to safeguarding the unique culture and legacy of independent skiing.

In commemorating this remarkable achievement, we are reminded of the immense strength of community cooperation and joint efforts. It is our hope that the rejuvenation of Hickory Ski Center extends beyond a local victory; it serves as a shining example and source of inspiration for small, independent ski areas across the globe.

About Hickory:

Hickory Ski Center, nestled above the Hudson River in Warrensburg, NY, stands as a hidden gem in the world of skiing. This quaint center, reminiscent of the 1950s, charms visitors with its vintage lodge, complete with a unique, handmade fireplace, and a welcoming front porch that offers panoramic views of its main slope, “The Hunny Run”. Ideal for relaxed lunches or après-ski socializing, this porch epitomizes the center’s community spirit.

Hickory boasts 1,200 vertical feet and 19 trails, providing a variety of terrains accessible via three vintage surface lifts. These trails, maintained by a dedicated community of members and volunteers, preserve the authenticity of old-school skiing, untouched by modern machinery. The tree skiing and steep runs off the summit are highlights of the terrain, especially on a snowy day. The ski area relies entirely on natural snowfall for an authentic experience.

Hickory’s The atmosphere is distinctly family-friendly, welcoming skiers of all ages. Practicality is key in dress code, with skiers opting for comfort and utility over modern ski fashion.

For those interested in more stories and details about this charming ski haven, the Hickory Ski Center Blog offers an in-depth look at the experiences and memories created at this unique skiing destination.

Image Credit: NYSkiBlog

Official Press Release:

INDY PASS AND UNOFFICIAL NETWORKS TEAM UP TO KEEP NEW YORK’S HICKORY SKI CENTER OPEN

 23/24 INDY PASS WAITLIST TO CLOSE ON DECEMBER 10th 

GRANBY, COLORADO – Indy Pass and Unofficial Networks announced today that they have combined efforts to provide financial assistance to Hickory Ski Center in Warrensburg, New York, so the resort may run its lifts for the first time in eight years.

The ski center will join the Indy Pass for the 2023/24 season, and season passes go on sale today at skihickory.com. Hickory pass holders will be eligible to purchase Indy AddOn Passes at a 30% discount. The Indy Pass will close the 2023/2024 waitlist on Sunday, December 10th.  

Hickory Ski Center was founded in 1946 by veterans of the 10th Mountain Division and has served the surrounding community and offered uphill traffic only since 2016. With rising costs, specifically insurance, the ski area faced an uncertain future until their plight caught the attention of Tim Konrad, publisher of Unofficial Networks.

“My family spends much of the winter in the Adirondacks, and I have been ski touring at Hickory since 2015. Over the years, I’ve been keeping close tabs on their struggle to reopen lifts, and when I learned how far they had come and how close they were to achieving their goal, I knew we had to do something. So I called Erik at Indy Pass to discuss how we could offer our support,” said Konrad. 

“After Tim called, we did a quick assessment and decided that Entabeni would step in on this one. It is important to recognize the collaboration between Entabeni, Indy Pass and Unofficial Networks. The more organizations we can get involved to stabilize these small, independent areas, the better our chances of scaling this movement,” said Erik Mogensen, CEO of Entabeni and Indy Pass.

“We have been working with our Hickory skiing community to help overcome the financial obstacles that could prevent the opening of the lifts at Hickory. The emergence of Tim and Erik with their lifeline has put us in a position to operate this season with lift certification, and hopefully for many more to come,” said Sue Catana, Hickory manager and daughter of founders Fran and Hans Winbauer.

The Indy Pass and Entabeni team will also consult with Hickory management on how to streamline operations and become more sustainable.  

Indy Pass and parent company, Entabeni Systems support independent resorts from Europe to Japan, but primarily in the US and Canada. On October 18, 2023, Black Mountain, New Hampshire, announced that support from Indy Pass would enable it to remain open for the coming season and has since hired a new GM and retained ski resort turn-around expert Andy Shephard to help secure a buyer.

About the Indy Pass –

The Indy Pass is the fastest-growing multi-mountain pass in the world. It offers 180+ Alpine and Nordic resorts across the US, Canada, Europe, and Japan, each providing two days of skiing or riding. Indy resorts are independent of any major corporate ownership, and many are owned and operated by multi-generational families providing a uniquely authentic and affordable skiing experience.

About Unofficial Networks –

Established in 2006, Unofficial Networks stands as a leading online destination for mountain adventure, with a strong emphasis on skiing and snowboarding. The website boasts a passionate team of contributors who diligently craft, curate, and highlight a broad spectrum of content. This includes in-depth features on global skiing culture, up-to-date news, and diverse entertainment aspects related to mountain sports. Serving as a comprehensive resource, it appeals to a global audience of mountain sports aficionados, from beginners to experts, providing them with insightful, engaging, and informative content that celebrates and promotes the captivating world of skiing and snowboarding.

Follow Indy Pass on Facebook and Instagram @Indyskipass, #indyrevolution

Follow Unofficial Networks on Facebook and Instagram @UnofficialNetworks

As we edge closer to the winter months of 2023-2024, many of us are curious about what Mother Nature has in store. Will it be a season of gentle snowfalls and crisp, cold mornings, or are we in for a series of intense snowstorms and freezing temperatures? Here is the latest winter weather predictions and outlook for the 2023-2024 winter season from Direct Weather.

Remeber that forecasting winter weather is a complex and vital task, involving advanced meteorological models and data analysis. Meteorologists use satellite imagery, atmospheric pressure readings, and historical weather patterns to predict winter conditions. They assess factors like El Niño or La Niña effects, jet stream patterns, and ocean temperatures to anticipate snowfall, blizzards, and temperature fluctuations. Accurate forecasts are crucial for public safety, enabling timely warnings for severe conditions like ice storms or extreme cold snaps. These predictions guide individuals and communities in preparing for winter hazards, ensuring road safety, and planning for potential disruptions in daily life and travel.

In the world of winter sports, the right gear is not just about comfort; it’s about protection and maybe a little bit of style too. Obermeyer’s Mer De Glace Sunglasses have quickly become a top pick for skiers and snowboarders seeking both style and superior eye protection. Specifically, for backcountry skiers who face unpredictable terrain and variable lighting conditions, these sunglasses offer unparalleled protection and clarity. They also look great on a sun deck at an apres ski party. So, let’s take a look at the features that make these sunglasses standout.

Mer De Glace Sunglasses Features:

• Exceptional UV Protection: High altitudes and reflective snow surfaces increase the risk of UV exposure. The Mer De Glace Sunglasses from Obermeyer offer complete protection against UVA and UVB rays, safeguarding your eyes from potential snow blindness and long-term damage.
• Durable Design for Mountain Adventures: Understanding the ruggedness required for mountain sports, Obermeyer has designed these sunglasses with a robust frame. This ensures they can withstand the inevitable falls and rough handling associated with skiing and snowboarding.
• Comfort Meets Functionality: Tailored for active users, the Mer De Glace Sunglasses promise a secure and comfortable fit, essential for those high-speed descents and challenging mountain terrain.
• Sleek and Stylish: Obermeyer has not compromised on style. The chic and modern design of these sunglasses ensures that you look as good as you feel while on the slopes. AS the old saying goes, “You’ve got to look good, to ski good.”

Obermeyer’s Legacy in Skiing: Dating back to 1947, Obermeyer, founded by Klaus Obermeyer in Aspen, Colorado, has been a pioneer in the ski industry. Klaus’s innovative spirit led to the creation of the first down ski parka, revolutionizing ski apparel. Obermeyer’s dedication to quality, functionality, and style is evident in every product, including the Mer De Glace Sunglasses, which embody the company’s ethos of high-performance gear for the outdoor enthusiast.

For skiers and snowboarders particularly those heading into the backcountry, the Mer De Glace Sunglasses by Obermeyer are a stellar choice. They offer unparalleled UV protection, glare reduction, durability, comfort, and style. These sunglasses are more than an accessory; they’re a testament to Obermeyer’s enduring legacy of innovation and quality in winter sports gear. Equip yourself with Mer De Glace Sunglasses and enjoy a fusion of safety and style on your winter adventures.

Zoa Engineering announces new co-founder/investor, new headquarters, and long-awaited product available on Nov 10th.

Vancouver, BC- Tuesday, Oct 31, 2023 – Zoa Engineering, innovators of the PL1, the first portable, personal, backcountry rope-tow are officially going big, announcing a new co-founder and investment to help take the team to the next level and change with a major innovation in the way skiers and boarders travel uphill.

The new investment has unlocked the company’s potential for growth. They are moving into a new Headquarters warehouse and office space in Vancouver, BC, bringing employees on full time, and launching a full inventory order to go on sale on November 10th at www.zoaeng.com at 12:00 noon PST. 

“Our crowdfunding campaign met its goal, selling out in just a few hours. That was more than a year ago. We’ve since honed the manufacturing and assembly process, and delivered to 125 customers around the world.” Explained PL1 Inventor Robert Button “.Our customers and supporters have been patiently waiting to get out there with their own PL1’s. We’re excited to take things to the next level and to help our supporters ski and ride more and work less.”

The next level kicks off on November 10th at 12:00 noon PST when PL1 units go on sale.

Bringing on new investment was required to move the company forward. Zoa is excited to bring Andrew Zwicker of Rossland, BC on board as Cofounder/ Marketing and Sales Director. Bringing with him a significant investment in the company and a wealth of ski industry, business, marketing and sales experience,  the company is ready to grow in a big way. Zwicker is also working on game-changing new enterprise opportunities for ski areas, backcountry lodges, heli and cat operations to add new experiences and products for their guests, as well as working with search and rescue to help them move quicker through the mountains.

“I have been following Robert and Eric’s progress for a couple of years now from afar. It has been a long term dream and goal of mine to bring new business models to the ski industry and what the Zoa guys were doing was very close to what I had in mind,” explained Zwicker. “It’s exciting to bring our ideas and energy together to bring every skier and boarder’s dream to life. Having a lift of your own, when and where you want to ski.”

Moving into their new Headquarters in the bustling Clark/Commercial Drive neighbourhood of Vancouver, a short drive south of their testing grounds in the North Shore Mountains and Sea to Sky Corridor, Zoa’s ability to efficiently manufacture and assemble PL1 units will be greatly increased.

“It’s been an increasingly short term goal of ours to move this operation into one dedicated space and out of my guest room and storage space,” explained CoFounder  Robert Button. “This is going to be a well designed space where we can efficiently assemble and ship as well as foster and design the next Zoa innovations.”

With 125 PL1 units in the wild already, Zoa is bringing powder and backcountry access to the people, when and where they want it. Helping skiers and boarders go further, faster and get more skiing and riding in, with less effort. As the first portable, personal backcountry rope tow on the market, they are looking to follow in the footsteps of change that electric bikes brought to the cycling world.

Important Facts

• The ZOA PL1 is the first portable backcountry rope tow system. 
• It is a patent-pending, powerful tool for backcountry skiing and boarding that fits in your backpack and helps skiers and boarders get more laps with less work.
• Average skiers can expect between 2,500 and 3,500 vertical feet per battery. 
• Typical days have 5,000 to 7,000 added extra vertical feet with the PL1 with 1 extra battery.
• Weight: 10.8 pounds
• Minimum operating temperature -40 C
• Completed one of the most successful Kickstarter campaigns for products over $1,000, selling out 125 units.

For more info visit www.zoaeng.com 

Power banks are a great companion for camping and outdoor escapades. Power banks like Anker’s 747 (on sale now for 44% OFF) ensure your crucial devices like phones, GPS, and flashlights remain charged for potential emergencies. Plus, they extend your device’s life, keeping you connected, entertained, and safe. These portable gems are versatile, with options for various needs and even eco-friendly solar-powered models. So, whether you’re navigating, powering up outdoor gear, or staying connected, a power bank underlines the convenience and peace of mind of your next outdoor adventure.

Anker Power Bank, 25,600mAh Portable Charger 87W Bundle with 65W USB-C Wall Charger

Why are power banks such a smart idea for camping and outdoor adventures? You might be thinking, “Why do I need one of those?” Well, here are some pretty good reasons:

Emergency Power Backup: Picture this: You’re out in the wilderness, surrounded by nature’s beauty, but there’s not an electrical outlet in sight. That’s where a power bank swoops in to save the day. It’s your lifeline, making sure your essential devices like your smartphone, GPS, flashlight, or even a mini-fan stay charged up and ready to go in case of an emergency.

Extend Your Device’s Life: When you’re camping, your phone is often your trusty sidekick for navigation, photos, and staying connected. But guess what? Batteries can run dry pretty quickly. That’s where a power bank comes in handy. It keeps your devices running without you having to fret about running out of juice. Perfect for longer trips or those times when you’re off the grid.

Safety First: When you’re out in the wild, having a charged phone is a safety must-have. It lets you make emergency calls, send messages, and check maps and weather updates to stay informed about any unexpected changes in your surroundings.

Entertainment On-Demand: Who doesn’t love a bit of downtime in the great outdoors? Whether you’re grooving to music, reading e-books, or watching a movie under the stars, power banks let you enjoy these creature comforts without draining your device’s battery.

Powering Up Your Gear: It’s not just your gadgets that can benefit. Power banks can also recharge or run various outdoor gear like lanterns, headlamps, portable speakers, and even small camping appliances, adding a touch of convenience to your camping experience.

Eco-Friendly: Think about the environment! Using a power bank means fewer disposable batteries, which can be pretty harmful to the planet when not disposed of properly. Power banks are rechargeable and last a long time, reducing waste.

Handy and Portable: These little gadgets are compact and easy to carry in your backpack. Some even come with solar panels, so you can recharge them using sunlight. Now, that’s what I call eco-smart!

Peace of Mind: Knowing you’ve got a reliable power source with you brings peace of mind. Whether you’re in the middle of nowhere or dealing with unpredictable weather, you’ll be prepared for anything.

Choices Galore: Power banks come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you need a tiny one for a quick day hike or a hefty one for an extended camping trip, there’s a power bank to match your needs.

In a nutshell, power banks are your camping buddies, ensuring you’ve got power when you need it most. They keep you safe, entertained, and connected in the great outdoors, making your adventures even more enjoyable. So, the next time you head out into nature, don’t forget to pack your trusty power bank!

Support us! Unofficial Networks may earn a small commission from the affiliate links in this article. 

As Halloween approaches it seems like a good time to share this spooky video from an abandoned ski resort in the Borscht Belt of New York State. If you’re into local history the wikipedia page for The Nevele Grand Hotel (Nevele is Eleven spelled backwards) is worth a read…reminds me so much of the “The Shining” I felt like they were going to turn a corner and run into twin girls holding hands. Happy Halloween:

As of October 2019, the hotel still sits unused and deteriorating.

RELATED: Exploring Massive Abandoned Ski Resort Near North Korean Border

This article was originally published by Luke Hinz on Curated.com:

Skis come in many different shapes, sizes, and lengths and can be aimed at beginners, intermediates, and experts. That makes for a lot of variables to keep track of. And truth be told, it can be a bit much, even for grizzled veterans. The breadth and scope of skis for intermediate skiers, in particular, can be downright labyrinthine. In this article, we want to break down what makes for an intermediate-level skier and highlight some of the best skis to fit every intermediate style—including yours.

Am I an Intermediate Skier?

Intermediate skiers no longer depend on the ‘pizza wedge’ to control their speed and stop on the slopes. Instead, intermediate skiers can perform turns with their skis parallel to each other throughout the entire length of the turn. They also maintain complete control while coming to a stop, and they are comfortable cruising along greens and blues and might even be venturing onto black runs. And they just might be ready to explore off-trail, otherwise known as off-piste. If you’ve mastered or are mastering, it’s time to start considering an intermediate-level ski.

Decide What You Like to Ski

The most important part of buying a ski is matching with a ski that is best for how you like to ski. For example, if your favorite thing about skiing is cruising blue runs, you’re not going to be looking for a wide powder ski. Likewise, if you’re itching to find the secret powder stashes off in the trees, you probably don’t want a narrow carving ski. Therefore, it can be best to break down the different types of skis: frontside/carving skis, powder skis, and all-mountain skis.

Frontside/carving skis tend to be geared strictly for on-trail or on-piste skiing. They often boast a rather aggressive parabolic shape, meaning they are narrow at the point underneath the boot, typically anywhere from 65-85mm, then widen considerably in the tip and tail. They also tend to be shorter skis than other options and have a shorter turning radius. This design allows the ski to initiate turns easily and makes for quick, energetic turns on groomed runs. They also sport a camber design, meaning the ski arcs up from the tip and tail, with the highest point under the bindings. This creates pressure at the tip and tail, making it easier to hold a strong turn on hardpack and groomed runs. But while these skis perform great on-piste, they tend to struggle when they find their way into powder or off-piste skiing, such as in trees. With such narrow waists, they get bogged down in deeper or more demanding snow.

In contrast, powder skis tend to be very wide underfoot, anywhere between 100-125mm, to float effortlessly through deep snow. These days, most powder skis are constructed with a full rocker design, meaning the tip and tail are upturned to allow them to rise over deep snow and float. Powder skis are usually not as stiff as other skis and can feel more playful, but the drawback is this is not a good character to have on groomed runs and ice. Such wide skis don’t hold an edge as well as frontside skis on hardpack runs and can feel chattery and unstable.

So you can see the problem: a ski designed to perform well in powder will not perform great on groomed runs, and vice versa. So what’s the answer? Enter the all-mountain ski. All-mountain skis bridge the gap between the specialized skis and generally are anywhere from 85-105mm underfoot. Almost all of them are parabolic in shape as well, but the figure is not as aggressive as a frontside ski. Likewise, many all-mountain skis will have a shallow rocker design in the tip and tail. Still, they are not as aggressive as a dedicated powder ski, and they will have a regular camber design underfoot.

All-mountain skis are designed to tackle all aspects of the mountain, from carving on groomers to plowing through deep powder. In essence, these skis embrace the idea of ‘Jack-of-all-trades, master of none’ philosophy and boast the most versatility among skis. They can be the best options for a burgeoning intermediate skier.

The Most Recommended Intermediate Skis

Whew, that was a lot of knowledge. But it sets the foundation for what to look for. So with that out of the way, let’s dive into the most recommended skis for intermediate skiers.

1. Nordica Enforcer 94

The Nordica Enforcer has developed quite the cult following over the last few years, for good reason. Known for its approachable yet hard-charging style, the Enforcer is one of the best-selling all-mountain skis on the market. Although it comes in a 110 and 104mm waist, the 94 hits the sweet spot by being able to grip hard on groomers and hardpack, but rocker in the tip and tail help it float playfully through powder and packed powder. Whether railing down groomers or blasting through crud, the Enforcer has a very intuitive feel and will have intermediate and even advanced skiers across the spectrum, making turns with the utmost confidence.

2. Blizzard Black Pearl 88

This one is for the women ready to conquer the mountain! Blizzard’s Black Pearl is one of the best-selling skis of all time and gets rave reviews as being highly versatile across all kinds of terrain and conditions. Blizzard built the ski with their patented Flipcore design, resulting in a very natural and progressive flex across the length of the ski. What does that mean? It means the Black Pearl has superior edge grip, sticking to hardpack and groomers like white on rice. These are confidence-inspiring skis. And while 88mm underfoot don’t make these the best skis in deep powder, they do sport a slight rocker profile in the tip and tail, allowing them to surf over deeper conditions.

3. Völkl Mantra M6

The Völkl Mantra has been a mainstay on the all-mountain scene for a long time. Still, Völkl tweaked their best-selling ski, shortening the lengths of metal inlaid with the core, resulting in a much more approachable and manageable ski than earlier iterations. That being said, the Mantra still retains its reputation as a very precise but demanding ski. The M6 is definitely on the stiffer end of the spectrum and likes to make bigger turns at higher speeds on groomed runs. At 96mm underfoot, it can still float through powder conditions, but it won’t be quite as playful as the Enforcer above. But for skiers who demand stability above everything else, the Mantra M6 is as solid as a rock.

4. Salomon QST Lux 92

For female skiers who have exhausted the groomers and frontside trails and are looking to dip their toes into the off-piste trees and steeps, the QST Lux is their ticket to the wild side. The QST Line is Salomon’s more playful and versatile line of skis, and they are built to explore the whole mountain. The QST Lux boasts a poppy and flexible Poplar wood core that gives the ski a responsive and energetic feel, but a Titanal metal insert under the foot keeps it honest on groomers. Salomon goes a step further by using a cork “damplifier” in the tip, which keeps the ski’s swing weight low without sacrificing stability. A healthy amount of rocker in the tip and tail lets the Lux sail easily off the trail into brand new adventures off-piste.

5. Head Kore 93

The Kore series by Head is an enigma in the all-mountain category. How does a ski that weighs so little perform at such a high level? The answer lies in its construction. In place of metal, which most brands use to stiffen their all-mountain skis, Head uses a mix of Koroyd, a light honeycomb-like material, along with graphene, carbon, and karuba for its core. The result is a stiff, no-nonsense ski that can keep up with much heavier all-mountain skis but is light and intuitive enough to appeal to a large range of intermediate skiers. That being said, such a light design can’t match an all-metal ski, so the Kore tends to chatter more at high speeds.

6. Nordica Santa Ana 98

I know what you’re thinking: Nordica gets two mentions on this list? That’s how successful Nordica has been over the past decade, and the Santa Ana is their women-specific all-mountain charger. Nordica uses one sheet of metal in the Santa Ana instead of two in the Enforcer. The result is a damp and stable ski that likes to rail on groomers, but a carbon layout throughout the ski keeps it playful and approachable for all-mountain use, while rocker in the tip and tail make it soft-snow friendly. The Santa Ana isn’t quite as stiff as the Black Pearl above and will shine more in soft-snow conditions.

7. Blizzard Rustler 9

While Blizzard is best known for the best-selling Brahma series and the hard-charging, race-like Bonafide, the Rustler has quietly been making a name for itself as a softer, do-it-all all-mountain alternative. While the Rustler has metal in its construction, much like other Blizzard designs, the metal in the Rustler tapers as you get closer to the tip and tail, giving the ski a softer flex. The length of metal in the ski also varies depending on your particular length, meaning shorter versions of the Rustler have a softer flex than longer lengths, tailoring the ski to the particular skier. In brief, the Rustler is where Blizzard shows its soft side. This ski is right at home in soft snow and fluff and loves to reward the playful skier. If you emphasize fun while skiing (which, let’s face it, everyone should), the Rustler will keep a smile on your face from first lift to last.

8. Line Pandora 94

The Pandora 94 is the middle-tier width in Line’s very popular Pandora series, with the 104 being more of a powder-focused ski and the 84 being a very reliable beginner ski. The 94 aims to combine the best of both as a softer flexing ski that makes for easy turning and high maneuverability in bumps, trees, and more technical terrain. Line uses Carbon Fingers to stiffen the ski in place of metal, keeping the Pandora light and responsive. To finish it off, the Pandora benefits from Line’s 5CUT Multi-Radius sidecut, which promises five different turn radiuses within the ski, meaning lady rippers can trust the Pandora to make large, effortlessly, high-speed turns as easily as slower, smaller turns.

9. Rossignol Sender 94 Ti

Rossignol is the architect behind the Soul 7, arguably the best-selling ski of all time. Their honeycomb tips and tails were common sights at ski resorts worldwide for the better part of the last decade. With such a positive response, what did Rossignol do? They tossed everything out the window and rewrote the playbook. Enter the Rossignol Sender 94 Ti. Built with the same shape and profile as the old Rossignol Escaper, as well as a lightweight paulownia core, Rossignol ratchets things up a notch with the introduction of a Titanal metal layer to make the ski more damp and stable when carving up groomers at higher speeds. This means that the notorious chatter for which the old Soul 7 was known for is now a thing of the past. One popular carryover from the older models is the iconic Airtip, which keeps the weight of the Sender down, resulting in some impressive maneuverablity for a ski with metal in it. And with a midfat 94 mm waist, the Sender is not only primed for groomers and the frontside, but also ready to tackle the occasional powder day.

10. Rossignol Rallybird 92

Two consecutive Rossignols round out the list of most recommended skis for intermediate skiers, and the Rallybird 92 is aimed at women skiers who want one ski to do everything. The waist width fluctuates with the length, with the 162cm ski bearing a 92mm waist, while the 170cm has a 94mm waist. The Rallybird 92 also has a lightweight paulownia core and Diago fibers inlaid in the core for stability. The Rallybird 92 is for women who don’t want an overly demanding ski that can still ride groomers but will be playful and fun in groomers and off-piste. It certainly isn’t the most hard-charging ski, but sometimes skiers don’t need that—sometimes, skiers just want to have fun.

There is no doubt that a vast range of options exists for intermediate skiers looking for that perfect ski, but with a little research, you can find the ideal ski. And if you pick the right intermediate ski, then the next time you search for skis, there’s a good chance you’ll be looking for an Expert ski.

If you want to continue your search, check out the 10 Best All-Mountain Skis and the 9 Best Intermediate Skis. As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to me or any of my fellow Ski Experts on Curated to help you pick out the best ski for you.

RELATED: The Biggest Outdoor Retailer You’ve Never Heard Of

Coleman Outdoor Compact Folding Table, Sturdy Aluminum Camping Table with Snap-Together Design, Seats 4 & Carry Bag Included; Great for Camping, Tailgating, Grilling, & More

 *As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Coleman must have built too many of these compact folding camping tables and are now in a position where they need to get rid of them. Currently, they’re selling on Amazon for a deep discount. These camping tables are great; we’ve used them before for preparing food, eating dinners, and for just having a place to keep stuff up and out of the mud and dirt. You’re built by Colman so you know it’s not some cheap Chinese knockoff that’s going to fall apart the first time you go to use it.

Play cards or enjoy a meal at the campsite on the Coleman Compact Roll-Top Aluminum Table. This ultra-portable table also works well as a hydration station at a kids’ ball game.

Coleman

“In May 2022 my boyfriend and I drove through Yellowstone on our way home to Montana. We got out at Old Faithful, and that’s when we saw this lady standing right next to it! I started filming and captured the park ranger catching her in the act.”

So often we see tourists doing dumb stuff in National Parks with no repercussions so it’s pretty satisfying to see one get busted. The woman didn’t walk away in handcuffs but she did get a solid chewing out by a park ranger. Remember folks, traveling off Yellowstone’s boardwalks in geothermal areas is not only detrimental to the fragile ecology, it’s extremely dangerous and as hot springs have injured or killed more people in Yellowstone than any other natural feature. 

Protect Your Park; Protect Yourself

Yellowstone’s scenic wonders are sure to take your breath away: don’t let them take your life. From boiling hot springs to thousands of wild animals, some of the hazards in Yellowstone will be new to you. Protect yourself and the sights you plan to enjoy by following a few simple rules:

• Never approach wildlife
  The animals in Yellowstone are wild and unpredictable, no matter how calm they appear to be. The safest (and often best) view of wildlife is from inside a car. Always stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals, including bison and elk.
• Stay on boardwalks and trails in thermal areas
  Hot springs have injured or killed more people in Yellowstone than any other natural feature. Keep your children close and don’t let them run.
• Never feed wildlife
  Animals that become dependent on human food may become aggressive toward people and have to be killed. Keep all food, garbage, or other smelly items packed away when not in use.
• Never park in the road or block traffic
  Use pullouts to watch wildlife and let other cars pass. Stay with your vehicle if you encounter a wildlife jam.

We can’t guarantee your safety in Yellowstone, but these concepts will help you avoid the most common accidents. See below for more great advice, and be sure to review our Rules & Regulations, Laws & Policies, and tips for backcountry travel.

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Coleman has a smoking deal going on right now on their SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa. There is nothing like a good soak after a day in the mountains, and these “portable” inflatable hot tubs give you the ability to set up a hot tub just about anywhere.

Coleman SaluSpa Inflatable Hot Tub Spa | Portable Hot Tub with Heated Water System

Product Description

After a long day, there’s nothing more relaxing than sinking into warm, bubbling water right in your own backyard. The Coleman® SaluSpa® AirJet provides a soothing massage experience for up to 4 people, while still being quick and easy to set up. Simply attach the pump and watch as it inflates. Soothing Massage System: The AirJet system features 140 jets which release bubbles from the bottom of the spa to create a warm, bubbling hot tub environment. These soothing bubbles will help you relax and unwind right from the comfort of your home. Durable Construction: This spa’s inflatable walls and internal beams are made of durable, puncture-resistant, DuraPlus material which prevents damage. This type of internal construction prevents stretching and expansion, allowing the spa to retain the same shape no matter how many times it’s inflated and deflated. The included Freeze Shield automatic heating function prevents inner components from freezing during colder temperatures ensuring you can enjoy your spa year after year. Contents: Equipped with a pump that quickly inflates the spa, heats it up, runs filtration and controls the massage system, this spa is both easy and convenient. The pump can easily be reached from inside the spa and features cup holders for drinks and snacks. Also included is a ChemConnect dispenser that maintains clean, healthy water by evenly dispersing the proper amount of chlorine. To top it all off, this Coleman spa comes with a reinforced cover that locks in heat while not in use, as well as keeping dust and debris from collecting on the water.