SnoNews

Sprinkled in among the big-name resorts of Colorado are a collection of distinct ski and snowboard mountains that have the terrain, variety and unique experiences like the big boys – but without the high price tag.

We’re turning the calendar to November in this SnoCountry SnoCast, and with that comes more signals that winter is coming. A weather pattern featuring frequent storm systems will impact both the western and eastern areas this week.

Steamboat, Colorado turned snowier during Christmas. (Larry Pierce)

A majority of Canada and U.S. resorts will experience cold weather through New Year’s Day, while a few feet of snow may fall in the West.

The ultra-relaxing, body-balancing Signature Massage at Mirror Lake Inn will warm, ease, and relax sore, tense muscles. (Mirror Lake Inn)

A massage at the Mirror Lake Inn in Lake Placid left me so relaxed that I survived an Olympic bobsled run later that day.

Red, white and blue cowboy at the Fourth of July parade. (Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association/Facebook) 

If you're looking for more than your average backyard barbecue, head to the mountains this Independence Day weekend to combine stunning vistas and summer activities with a celebration worthy of the nation's birthday.

Vacationers often take a day off from skiing or snowboarding during their vacation to check out what’s happening off the slopes.

Persistent slumping on the slopes of Howelsen Hill in Steamboat Springs have ski jumpers, youth racers, town officials and history buffs worried that a piece of American skiing’s past may be slip-slidin’ away.