Idaho
Located in the northwest region of the United States, the mountainous state of Idaho has Canada on its northern border and is surrounded by Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming and Montana. The mountains of Idaho, combined with its crisp, cold winter months, offers some superb snow sport opportunities and there are a number of ski resorts that are counted among the best in the country.
Kelly Canyon is the perfect vacation spot for those who want to relax and take things easy in a charming little town. Located in the Targhee National Forest, Kelly Canyon is a picturesque vacation area in eastern Idaho with the Kelly Canyon Peak rising sharply from the sparkling Kelly Creek to reach a height of 6,700 feet. With twenty-six skiing trails over sixty acres and 1,000 foot vertical, Kelly Canyon offers a rich variation in terrain for its size.
Though the snow is not very deep and the annual snowfall less than 150 inches, the shale surfaced mountains and dry climate ensure that it is not really necessary to have a very deep snow base for superb skiing. The snow is dry and light and the terrain varied, making it an enjoyable skiing area. Kelly Canyon is not far from Idaho Falls and the South Fork of the Snake River flows close by, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.
The lift tickets are inexpensive and there are generally no lift lines, making skiing here an attractive proposition for the family. The staff is warm and welcoming, adding a very intimate and personal touch to the vacation. A ski school and the mostly intermediate terrain make it suitable for people looking to improve their skiing in a relaxed atmosphere. Snowboarding, snowmobiling and skiing are permitted on all trails, and a new recreation spot is the six hundred foot tubing park, which is proving to be very popular with families.
This is the only resort in the region that allows night skiing, adding to its attraction. The entire area comes alive after sunset and the mountainsides are well illuminated except for the very top. Another plus point is its extensive terrain park. It has the most progressive rails in the area.
There are several small communities nearby where one can stay. Blacksmith Inn is a convenient B&B Inn located at nearby Rigby and serves as a convenient base for a vacation to make the most of the area’s attractions. Pomerelle and Grand Targhee are other popular ski resorts in Idaho for a fabulous winter vacation.
