Ski and Snowboard News, Deals, and Events

Ski Snowstar, in the Coal Creek Valley above the Mississippi River near the Quad Cities, has a new 'dark side' this season.  They've been adding some interesting new features to the Darkside Terrain Park, which local riders call the "more intense side of the galaxy that is Snowstar."

New features include an 8-foot rainbow rail, a mini rainbow rail, a new quarterpipe, and several new boxes.  The Bizmark has also been armored making it more of a challenge.  Past features that have helped make this one of the best terrain parks in the lower Midwest include 40-foot rails, kickers, and even a lift tower, imbedded deep in the ground, that's become one of the biggest fun boxes in the region. 

Seth's Deck Ride is a 12-foot double-wide stair set with a 2-foot-wide fun box and a 6-foot-wide rail with an attached observation deck.  The Star says it's the first feature of its kind in the Heartland. 

Don't worry iIf you're new to snowboarding. There's something for everyone to practice on, from 45-foot step down hits to 5-foot baby jumps.  Beginners have their own section of the terrain park to prepare for the Darkside.  May the force be with them.       

The Star opened in 1981 with one lift and three trails.  Nearly three-quarter-million skiers and riders have visited the area since then.  Today they offer two quad and two double chairlifts, three surface tows, 15 named runs, terrain parks, and five tubing lanes.

More information.  Or call 800-383-4002.