Ski and Ride Canadian Rockies: Snow Savings from CDN $107/N Lift Tix B+B

Inspired by the Winter Olympics? For a great skiing experience, one could try to make a visit to the Rocky Mountains. The Rockies aren't just in Colorado, however -- the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Canada offer quite a few options for snowsports lovers and mountain travelers looking for a great time north of the border.

Don't believe me? Check out this account of a novice skiing couple and how the Canadians and their Rockies helped them learn some technique and some risk-taking in a very short while.

And for the upcoming spring skiing season, there are some special promotions and packages at a number of ski resorts in the Canadian Rockies. With them, you can plan your ideal winter get-away and save a bundle.

For instance, you could take advantage of the "Nakiska Family Ski" Package at the Delta Lodge at Kananaskis in Calgary, voted "Best Family Hotel (Honourable Mention) by Calgary’s Child family magazine in 2005. This package includes a family room with two queen beds, sleeping up to 2 adults and 3 kids. It's in the main lodge near he Kids Club and pool, and you'll get 2 days of lift tickets at Nakiska for the whole family, plus free rental equipment and shuttle from the hotel to the slopes. It's priced from CDN$281/N per room, and it's valid till April 4, 2010.

Alternatively, the "Jasper Ski" package offers a stay at the Amethyst Lodge in Jasper.  Skiers can enjoy a great vacation experience with beautiful mountain views and an array of amenities. You'll get a stay at the cozy Amethyst Lodge, and get a day of skiing at Marmot Basin, daily hot breakfast, and coupons for local savings, for a rate of CDN$107.50 per person per day. There is lots of fine print on this one and its' only available Sunday through Thursday nights, but it's valid until April 30, 2009. Book by calling 1-888-8JASPER.

The Banff Aspen Lodge is located within Banff National Park and near the quaint mountain town of Banff. With the "3 Day Ski - 3 Night Stay" offer, visitors can enjoy spacious and comfortable rooms at a great location, just a three-minute stroll from downtown. Families can enjoy 3N, 3D of lift tickets, with daily complimentary continental breakfast (including homemade granola) and shuttle to any of three local ski areas. Imagine skiing at Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, or Ski Banff @ Norquay with rates at just CDN$298 for two adults, children under 8 years stay free. If the kids are between 9-16 years, they pay only CDN$6 per night but must buy their own lift tickets. This rate is good till April and prices rise slightly through end of May or while the snow lasts.

For more information about this beautiful part of Canada, visit the local Ski Canadian Rockies website or call 800/ALBERTA.