This Ain't Your Parents' Summer Camp!

The programs usually run for a about week, including five or so days on the snow. Your instructors have been trained to give you the best coaching possible, including personal video analysis of your riding skills and one-on-one instruction (as time allows). Groups are small at most camps (I have found the more expensive the camp, the more exclusive the classes), and you are divided according to your skill level and goals and sometimes age. There are camps that focus on boardercross, half-pipe, and jumps, so even the jaded pro can find something challenging. Speaking of pros, most camps invite professional snowboarders (you know, the ones who get paid to ride) out each summer to visit and talk to the groups. It's not uncommon to find yourself waiting in line at the halfpipe, right behind someone who just won a championship this year. Pros need practice, too, and there are only so many places to go in the summer!

Be prepared. Mt. Hood and Whistler/Blackcomb Mountains can both get fresh snow in the summer, so bring gear and clothing to accommodate both summer and winter conditions. Snowboarding helmets are mandatory at some areas, so make sure you pack yours. If you plan on flying into Vancouver, remember that Canada follows standard customs procedures to enter the country. Pack your gear, especially your snowboard, securely. There are many good snowboard travel bags out there. You don't want to arrive at your destination with a cracked board. If you forget something, don't worry. Most camps have access to rental facilities and sport shops.

Reserve your place at the camp early, as spots tend to fill up fast. Most camps require that you arrange a deposit, with the rest to follow. Also, be aware that many of the camps won't offer a full refund if you have to bail to close to the actual arrival date. With some planning and less money than a round-trip ticket to New Zealand, you can be well on your way to riding heaven, right in the middle of summer.

For more information: Windell's Snowboard Camp http://www.teleport.com/~windcamp (800-765-7669)

Mt. Hood Snowboard Camp http://www.aracnet.com/~mhsc/directory.h... (1-503-668-8322)

Mt. Hood Summer Ski Camps (also snowboarding) http://www.teleport.com/~skicamp/snowboa... (503-337-2230)

Rocky Mountain Snowboard Camp (970-879-9059)

Ultra Ski and Snowboard Camp http://www.ultraski.com (503-644-1250)

High Cascade Snowboard Camp http://www.highcascade.com/new/index.htm (800-334-4272)

Delaney Snowboard Camp http://www.delaneysnowboard.com/summer_c... (503-231-5402)

U.S. Snowboard Training Center (800-325-4430)

Whistler Summer Snowboard Camp http://www.do-more.cnchost.com (604-932-3238)

K2 Dave Murray Summer Ski and Snowboard Camp http://www.skiandsnowboard.com (604-932-5765)

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