North American Ski Training Center – Tahoe, CA

Tag: ski Chile

  • Portillo: A Day In Your Life

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    Here’s how your morning goes when you ski Portillo, Chile with us: wake up (to powder), go downstairs for stretching and huge breakfast with the best dang coffee ever and warmed milk, walk back upstairs to get your ski clothes on, downstairs to boot up (friendly boot room attendant has brilliant memory for faces so he can match 400 guests to their boots by day 2 usually), walk 10 paces outside, click into your bindings (did I mention your skis were right next to your boots at the ski check), slide over to one of the detachable quads, stand in NO LINE, just hang out talking with other adventurous skiers or national ski team members, and whoosh! — you’re lifted into the crisp air and high above the Andean cliffs and peaks.

    You shred. You laugh. You learn. You make new friends. You try new things. And that’s all before lunch…which is 4-courses long. And you get to take your boots off. It just doesn’t get any better.

    Here’s how your afternoon goes: after your 4-course/choose anything you want lunch (slippers on feet), you grab a coffee and boot back up for a full afternoon of epic lines, great snow, exploring new terrain, and skiing with fun people while you chase your expert instructor around the mountain. Lifts close at 4:30 due to the late sunlight. At 5pm you have a glorified afternoon snack called “Las Onces.” This is a Chilean tradition and includes breads, cheeses, crackers, fruit, cookies, cakes, and tea or coffee. So yummy! Next up you hit the hot tub, sauna, massage, gym, or nap zone perhaps. NASTC offers tech talks on a variety of topics including ski technique, fitness, and of course your video from the day! Then you might head to the living room to play a game of chess, down to the basketball court or indoor climbing wall, or lounge in the bar before dinner. We eat “early”…at 8:30pm! (The second seating is at 10pm)! Dinner is….divine! Another 4 courses, fine wines, unlimited deserts…you won’t want to leave – ever. After that its coffee and bed, or there’s always the bar and disco for those with endless amounts of energy!

    You in? Book now, our annual week sells out. We’ve been taking skiers to Portillo for nearly a quarter-century (since 1995), grab your spot now!
    Thanks for reading!

  • NASTC NEWS: Chile’s Hidden Gem, Summer Reading List, Mountain Bike Demos & Stunt Show

    NASTC NEWS: Chile’s Hidden Gem, Summer Reading List, Mountain Bike Demos & Stunt Show

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    Rock Climbing Season Has Begun!

    Learning how to rock climb is easy and rewarding with NASTC’s certified guides. NASTC offers private rock climbing lessons and guiding on Donner Summit in Truckee. Donner Summit has world class granite that is ideal for climbing and you will get big views of the Tahoe Basin with each climb. Rock climbing is a great way to get away from the crowds on busy weekends and find some relaxation in the outdoors with friends and family. Call NASTC, 530-582-4772 to book a guide, two-hour, half-day (4hrs) and full-day (7hrs) time slots are available.

    Rock Climbing Guiding & Lesson Rates

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    Corralco – Chile’s Hidden Gem

    Just before the Chilean landscape starts to break apart and about a 90 min drive from the main city of Temuco is the Malcahuello Natural Reserve. Within the reserve is the statuesque Lonquimay volcano, on it’s flanks is one of Chile’s best kept skiing secrets – Corralco.
    The ski area is just over 1200 acres and does not include the backcountry skiing options. The runs in Corralco are steep with technical pitches coming off the top of the volcano. It has some of the best snow quality in South America and it’s newly renovated hotel is a bastion of tranquility full of natural light and wood. Explore a new side of Chile this summer August 22-29.

    Corralco – Andes Ski Paradise

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    Books to Read this Summer

    If you can’t chase the snow to the southern hemisphere, there are ways to satisfy the need to slide on snow. Here are some good reads to fuel your skiing daydreams. For those that are really snow/ski starved the only solution is to come to Chile with us.

    Right on the Edge of Crazy – on tour with the U.S Downhill Ski Team by Mike Wilson

    Ski the 14ers by Chris Davenport

    Free Skiing – how to adapt to the mountain by Jimmy Oden

    Total Skiing by Chris Fellows

    Portillo – the spirit of the Andes by Henry Purcell

     

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    Start Haus Bike Demo Day

    The Start Haus in Truckee is also a full service bike shop. It carries new and used bikes as well as a service and repair shop. June 6th is a Bike Demo day that includes a stunt show, free demo rides and discounts on bike sales. Come check it out! Don’t forget to join in on the FREE community bike rides every Thursday at 5:00pm. Meeting place is the Center for Health and Sports Performance parking lot.

  • U.S Ski Team Training in Chile

    U.S Ski Team Speed Group training in Corralco, Chile this summer. An inside look into a U.S Ski Team training camp and NASTC’s new summer skiing destination addition, Corralco.

  • All Conditions/All Terrain – Squaw Valley, CA

    All Conditions/All Terrain – Squaw Valley, CA

    Dates:  TBA
    Skier levels: 6-9
    Price: $650 
    Includes:  instruction, lift tickets, personalized video reviews, tech talks and a group dinner.

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    This course is a step by step progression designed to help you move past your intermediate or advanced plateau and skiing the entire mountain well whatever the conditions.  Getting 3 consecutive days of instruction and feedback from the National and Regional Demonstration Team members will elevate your skiing to a new level.  Focus on addressing some of the fundamental flaws in your technique, learn new tactics and feel your performance increase as you rip around Squaw for 3 full days of skiing and coaching with the NASTC team.  
     
    Squaw Valley is one of the largest ski areas in the Lake Tahoe area.  It has an abundance of terrain, with 6 peaks and over 100 runs all accessible by their network of 33 lifts including a funitel and tram.  Squaw is a really fun mountain to explore, there are lots of fun “hidden” runs that only a local can show you how to get to.  Squaw Valley almost has the same number of bars and eateries in their beautiful deluxe village at the base of the mountain.  It’s always a good time at Squaw Valley, USA! 

    ITINERARY:  
    Sunday, February 22:
    Meet at The Pocket by the fireplace in the Olympic House (next to Dave’s Deli).  After a short introduction we will head up the slopes.  After a couple of warm up runs you will be divided into groups so that you have an effective learning enviroment.  You will ski with your group and trainer for the remainder of the day.  Afternoon video review & apres ski.

    Monday, February 23:
    Meet at The Pocket.  Boot-up and head out to the ski lifts. Ski with your trainer and group, the afternoon will be focused on consolidating what you learned and personal feedback and coaching.  We will review video footage of your skiing at lunch.  Depart Squaw Valley for home.
               
    SAMPLE TRAINING DAY

    8:45am – Meet up with your trainer and warm up
    9:00am-12:00pm – Skill development via drills and technique work
    12:00pm-1:00pm – Lunch with group on hill
    1:00pm-3:00pm – On the snow: video, free-skiing varying conditions and terrain, personal feedback
    4:00pm-5:30pm – Indoor clinic: video viewing/technical session 
    6:30pm – Dinner with group 
     

     

    Our schedule will vary day to day depending upon snow conditions, weather and desires of your group, and your group’s general progression and improvement.  Throughout the week there will be video/video analysis, an indoor technical session, group dinners, and personal skiing evaluations.
     
    We will meet you at 8:30am  at The Pocket in the Olympic House Lodge next to Dave’s Deli.  Please arrive ready to ski.   We will begin promptly with a brief indoor orientation, pass out lift tickets, and head out to the Funitel to ski by 9:00am. 
     
    Directions:

    Take Interstate 80 to Hwy 89 South, Squaw is 10 miles south on Hwy 89 from Truckee.  Take a right at the light, entrance to Squaw Valley and follow Squaw Valley Road to the resort.
     
    The following list may help you pack:
    Alpine skis, boots, poles
    Helmet
    Several pairs ski socks
    Top and bottom long underwear
    Midlayers
    Fleece layer, top 
    Ski pants
    Ski jacket
    Spring and winter gloves
    Warm hat, baseball cap, headband, face mask, and neck warmer
    Goggles and sunglasses
    Evening clothes: pants, shirts, sweaters, sweats, (afternoon tech talks & dinners out)
    Comfortable shoes
    Toiletries, including sunscreen & chapstick, aspirin, body lotion
    Workout clothes (optional)
     
    Lodging Recommendations:
     
    The Squaw Valley Lodge for lodging in the village at Squaw.  www.squawvalleylodge.com 1-800-549-6742.  The Squaw Valley lodge offers condominium style lodging in a ski in/out setting.  In addition to cozy and comfortable rooms, The SVL has a Fitness Center & Spa that includes a sauna and steam room.  Be sure to mention that you are with NASTC when you call to make your reservations. 
     
    Transportation: If you need to fly in, the closest airport is the Reno-Tahoe International airport.  If you are renting a car, we suggest reserving a 4-wheel drive.  If you do not wish to rent a vehicle, we suggest North Tahoe Executive Shuttle, 866.583.7685 or North Lake Tahoe Express at www.northlaketahoeexpress.com or 866-216-5222. Contact NASTC for carpooling opportunities.
     
    V1DIGITAL COACHING SYSTEMS:
    NASTC’s MOST IMPORTANT TAKE HOME TEACHING TOOL: V1
    Here is the way to get the most out of your NASTC course: you will literally take your ski course “home” with you.  After all that your trainer tells you on the snow, you need to take something home to keep it all fresh on your mind. NASTC’s technology partner for this cutting edge teaching tool is V1 Digital Coaching Systems.  This program will allow you to see your video on a secure website, a virtual “locker.”  You will be able to look at your video at your leisure with skiing analysis and tips from your trainer.  The trainer does voice over critiques and offers drills to improve your skills. You can log on anytime you want to remind yourself what you are working on.  You can use this system for multiple courses to see your progress and continue to receive expert coaching and tips in-between your NASTC courses.  You can even send us video your friend or spouse shoots, we will review it, coach you on it and send it back to your locker for you to view and learn from.  Sign up for this take-home bonus feature prior to your course by contacting the NASTC office.
     
    Chris Fellow’s new book, Total Skiing is now available.  This book is the ultimate ski training resource.  It will help reinforce your on snow experience together with learning materials that you can view at your leisure.  Visit our website or call the NASTC office to order 530.582.4772.
     


    Squaw Clinic




    **PLEASE NOTE OUR CANCELLATION POLICY**: If you have to cancel for any reason (including medical), we require written notice in our office 14 days in advance of the first day of the course.  With 14 days or more notice we can refund your payment minus 10% for administrative costs.  Once we are within 14 days of the first day of the trip, we unfortunately cannot refund any portion of your payment even in the event of sudden illness or injury to you or your family.  We recommend that you buy trip cancellation insurance (available through your travel or insurance agency) in case you get sick or injured (please stay healthy!!) before or during the trip, and baggage insurance (check your Homeowner’s policy or consult your travel or insurance agency) for your ski gear and clothes.

  • Big Snowfall in South America

    Big Snowfall in South America

    		  
     
     

     

    		  

     

    Snow in the Forecast for Portillo

    Portillo is expected to be hit by a strong system at the end of the week with a forecast storm total of 69 inches! That is more snow than California had all season.
    Check out the write up on the NASTC-Portillo camp by The Ski Channel:
    http://www.theskichannel.com/news/20140603/summer-dream-skiing-in-portillo-chile-with-the-north-american-ski-training-center/

     

    Summer Dream Skiing in Portillo, Chile
     

    		  

     

    		  

     

    Truckee Running Festival

    If you are runner, join in on the fun at Riverview Park in Truckee this Saturday. There will be 5k, 10k and Half Marathon runs as well as kid races/runs and a prize giveaway at the end. Register at Granite Chief Shop in Truckee on Friday between 4-6pm.

     

    Truckee Running Festival
     

    		  

     

    		  

     

    Father’s Day Rock Climbing Special

    Don’t forget about the NASTC Father’s Day rock climbing special, June 14-15. We are offering a 15% discount on half and full day rock climbing rates next weekend only. Call now to book a memorable day for the family! Space is limited.

     

    Rock Climbing Lessons, Tahoe-Truckee
     

    		  

     

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    Contact Info:

    Phone: 530-582-4772

    Email: [email protected]

    PO Box 9119
    Truckee, CA 96162

    		  
     

     

     

     

  • NASTC NEWS May 17, 2013

    NASTC NEWS May 17, 2013

    The Mt. Shasta Climb & Ski is kicking off this weekend; we are looking forward to hear back from the crew for stories from their weekend adventure on one of California’s highest peaks. 

    BOOK NOW for your rock climbing adventure or lesson with NASTC over Memorial Day Weekend!  Escape the crowds and take in beautiful views as you play on the rocks.  Donner is summit is a highly acclaimed area for rock climbing and comes with the extra bonus of big views of Donner Lake and the Pacific Crest Trail is right there if you wanted to add a little hiking to your day.  NASTC’s fun and friendly guides are ready to show you and your family a fun time on the rock.  Our guides are AMGA certified and NASTC provides all the gear you need.  All you have to do is show up in your athletic gear ready to climb!  Call 530.582.4772 or email the NASTC office to reserve a time slot. https://skinastc.com/about/rock-climbing-instruction-and-guiding

    KidsClimb! is June 27 & 28:  Our annual kids rock climbing camp is always a sold out event.  Reserve your spot early!  The two day camp is from 9:00am-1:00pm each day.  The first day is spent at the Ropes course at Squaw Valley, where kids warm into climbing and learn the basic movements and problem solving skills.  The second day is spent on Donner Summit where kids will have the opportunity to climb a variety of pitches ranging from introductory climbs to intermediate/advanced pitches.  Your kids will be on belay at all times and work with our awesome team of guides to literally reach new heights. https://skinastc.com/all-courses/162

    Women’s Climbing Workshop – July 20th:  Our women’s climbing workshop is returning after its successful launch last summer.  This one day workshop is open to all levels of climbers.  This is a great event to get your feet wet if you have never climbed before AND a great day to spend climbing with other women and sharing technique and tips for climbers with more experience.  This day is about camaraderie amongst women in sports and building a stress-free, anxiety-free supportive environment to learn something new and with the freedom to share tips and ideas with each other. https://skinastc.com/all-courses/244  

    Portillo, Chile – August 17-24:  A summer dream skiing adventure.  Join NASTC in Portillo, Chile for a unique summer vacation.  Our weeklong ski improvement camp will help you step up your skiing and move off that intermediate or advanced plateau.  You will build the necessary skills and tactics to descend the famed runs of Portillo, like Rocajack, Lake Run and Primavera. Coaches are selected from across the United States and are ranked amongst the best in the country.  You will also learn valuable free-skiing skills such as how to read terrain and how to select which aspects to ski.  The on-hill instruction is complemented with a selection of indoor presentations on a variety of topics including how to tailor your off-season cross-training to help improve your skiing, equipment and skiing performance and more.  This is an education filled week in the beautiful location of Portillo, Chile combined with lots of mileage on the slopes, the hospitality of a world class resort and the warmth and friendliness of the Chilean culture.  

          

     

     

     

  • Looking for An Adult Summer Ski Camp?

    Looking for An Adult Summer Ski Camp?

    The North American Ski Training Center (NASTC) based here in Truckee, CA runs a weeklong adult ski training camp in Portillo,Chile.  NASTC brings the top ranked instructors from the U.S to coach the weeklong ski program.  The camp focuses on freeskiing skills and breaks down your technique to help you build a stronger skillset and overcome the proverbial plateau.  The camp’s theme is to improve one’s comfort on all types of conditions and terrain.  Groups are small and intimate which means lots of 1:1 coaching time with your trainer.  Portillo offers an endless supply of terrain including the ideal ski in/out setting.  Not to mention Portillo has a lot of inspiring history to draw from and its guests include businessmen from Brazil, music producers from New York, snow enthusiasts from Europe and North America and of course the U.S and Austrian ski teams.  For many reasons Portillo is the ideal training ground, its isolation way up in the Andes offers breathtaking views and almost bottomless powder, due to its expansive off-piste terrain, it’s hard not to get some fresh tracks after a storm. 

    This is most certainly not the ski camp your kids go to.  Meals involve gourmet creations from the hotel’s heavily lauded restaurant.  When you walk through the door at the end of the day you hand your skis and boots to a valet that stores them overnight for you.  There is a bar with live music every night as well as a nightclub if you have ambitions to dance till the sun rises.  A heated outdoor pool and hot tub where you can take in the spectacular sunset over the Inca Lake. 

    At the end of the week, not only will your skiing skills be stronger than ever but you will feel relaxed, rejuvenated and inspired, it’s all part of the magic of Portillo. 

    photo courtesy of Ski South America

  • Freeski Training Center in La Parva, Chile

    From The Ski Channel: http://www.theskichannel.com/news/skinews/20110414/World-class-freeski-training-center-to-be-built-in-La-Parva-Chile

    “With the latest announcement from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) approving men’s and women’s Ski Halfpipe for the 2014 Olympics, La Parva is on the forefront of building the ultimate training facility to be ready June 2012. 

    It’s location in the heart of the Andes mountains and provides excellent snow conditions from June through October, creating an ideal off season training destination for Northern Hemisphere athletes. The resort has begun the process with the addition of the new high speed “Fabres” chairlift that gives access to five new on piste runs and will be fully operational by 2012. This sector is the prospective location for the new halfpipe and freestyle training area.

    In addition to on snow training facilities La Parva expects to build an exclusive “Athlete Lodge,” that encompasses all aspects and needs of today’s elite athletes. Dry land training area, media rooms where teams can review footage of training runs, and cafeterias for team meals. This facility will be a complete on and off snow destination where teams can harness the skills they need to be the best in their sport.”

    It is great that the South American resorts are stepping up and starting to stake a bigger claim in the snowsports industry.  An investment of this sort is also proof of the growing global popularity of skiing and snowboarding.  Events like the X-games and Olympics are offering these sports and athletes some global exposure.  It is also making skiing and snowboarding more attractive to younger generations as it provides them with an outlet for creative expression. 

  • Winter season wind down

    The sun sits higher in the sky, the air is warmer, birds are chirping and the snow around town is melting really fast.  These are all the signs that Spring is definitely here and Winter is on its way out.  In previous years, most people would already start wearing flip flops and shorts but this year Mother Nature is keeping us guessing.  One day it’s sunny and warm and the next day looks and feels like a mid-winter storm.  After a delightful winter season filled with almost innumerable powder days, most people are exhausted with skiing.  It’s understandable when the Spring temps climb and the snow gets extremely mushy by 1:00pm, the idea of sweeping off the deck and firing the barbecue is more inviting then fighting that stop and go feeling when you’re skiing the afternoon slush.  Though, a day spent with good friends and great snow conditions can re-energize one’s mind toward skiing. Spring is a great time to reel things in and focus on your technique and spend some time re-working those basic skiing fundamentals.  There is hardly anyone out there and you are no longer charging for those big lines like you did when there was pow on the ground which gives you more time, patience and focus.   You don’t need to spend the whole day out there  just a few hours is all you need.  If you are wondering how to afford skiing a few hours – take advantage of the Spring pass deals that the resorts are offering.  Alpine Meadows has one of the greatest deal $99 Spring pass followed by Squaw Valley with a $199 Spring pass.   We are lucky this season to have such a solid snowpack that the conditions on the slopes are excellent, there are no melt through spots, rocks are still covered by the 500 inches of snow that sit on top of them.  Sometimes Spring skiing can be depressing because all the brown spots start appearing and the run keep shrinking but not this year.  Take advantage of the warm weather and the great snow to get some focused practice in before you hang your skis up for the summer.

  • Tip for Skiing Heavy Snow: Clock Drill