Summer: Time to check out ski resorts, but not for skiing

Ski resorts in summer are fun but not for skiing

ASPEN, Colo. — Looking for a late summer destination? Consider visiting some of the resort towns best-known for winter skiing.

Many of the West’s most popular ski destinations offer lots of warm-weather activities, with lodging up to 40 percent off what you’d pay in the winter. Things to do include fishing, golf, horseback riding, kayaking and whitewater rafting. Ski resorts also often use their equipment and slopes to offer scenic gondola rides, alpine slides and other adventures.

Some ski towns host summer concerts, competitions and festivals as well. The Aspen Music Festival and School in Colorado is staging “Don Giovanni” Aug. 18, 20 and 22 among its 400 summer events, while Jackson Hole, Wyo., hosts a series of mountain bike races in August.

The travel-booking Web site Ski.com offers summer packages at a number of resorts in the West, including Lake Tahoe, Vail and Whistler. Some of the deals are available through September or October, and Ski.com can also help find discount airfare. Details at SummerMountainTravel.com or call 800-556-7547.