Ski and Snowboard News, Deals, and Events

Dodge Ridge, which is fast approaching its 60^th birthday, has long held the title of the premier family-oriented resort in the Central Sierra, if not the entire range.

As celebration of its special place in California winter sports lore, Dodge is hosting its first-ever Family Winter Carnival Saturday, Feb. 28.

The carnival will feature events for parents and children of all ages -- whether they are skiers or snowboarders, experts or beginners -- including:

*The Subaru parent/child giant slalom, in which one parent and one child team up, each takes one run, either on skis or snowboard, on a GS race course. The results are based on the two runs added together.

*A one-legged ski race, in which kids 5 and under compete with one ski on and one off.

*A kids air show, in which youngsters can throw their best tricks off a small kicker.

*A kids obstacle course for children, either on skis or snowboards, to negotiate.

*Face painting for kids in the Family Lodge.

*The older kids (i.e., adults), can partake in a wine tasting in the North Fork Bistro.

Dodge Ridge has teamed up with local lodging partners to create stay-and-ski-free packages as part of the Family Winter Carnival. Details are available online.