Ski Trip 2023

Jan 13-16, 2023

Troop 1299 Returns to Ski Apache in 2023!
We are pleased to announce we will be returning to Ski Apache in Ruidoso, New Mexico for our annual ski trip in 2023. This ski resort has been the preferred destination for this event for many years and the trip has been a big hit with scouts and Scouters. You won't want to miss out on this fun-filled adventure which will take place over MLK, Jr. weekend (Jan 13-16). Be sure to review the contents of this message to learn more about the trip and then sign up soon.

Event Cost

The cost of this event, which includes transportation, housing, food, ski equipment rental, and lift tickets, is $500 per person. Those who have never skied before are highly encouraged to take beginner group lessons which costs an additional $85. For those who would like to snowboard, there is an additional $25 fee. Adults who would like to attend and chaperone but not ski may do so for a discounted trip price of $250.
We recognize this cost is more than what we have charged for this event in the past. This is due to the increased costs of the trip, in particular the price of lift tickets and gas.
Remember that fall fundraising is going on now and is a great way to earn money to help pay for or reduce the cost of this or other scouting events. We never want a Scout to miss out on an activity due to financial constraints. Campership funds are available for those who may need them. See Mrs. Piorkowski for additional details.

Sign Up

To sign up, visit the Ski Apache page on the troop website. This can be found in the info/forms section or by clicking the Ski Apache logo link at the top of the home page. A $100 deposit is required in order to register and reserve your spot. The remaining amounts must be paid in full no later than December 12, 2022. Please note that once expenses have been incurred (lift tickets, etc.) refunds may not be available for cancelations.

More Info

Be sure to review the Travel Advisory document that is linked here. There is very important information you need to know about this trip before deciding whether or not to attend. You will be asked to confirm that you have read this document when signing up and paying your deposit. 

We will be staying at the La Junta Guest Ranch near Ruidoso, NM. This resort is located near Ski Apache and has several cabins where we will stay for our 3 nights. Similar to what we have done in previous years, these accommodations will provide us with a place for sleeping, eating, and relaxing. 

To review pictures and a list of amenities, click on the link above. We have reserved the Casita, Deer Trail Lodge, Bear Foot Lodge, Deck House, El Rancho Grande, Wild Horses Lodge, Ski House, and The Cantina (where we will cook and eat breakfasts and dinners).

Pre-event Preparation

• Altitude sickness can be a problem for those who are not used to higher elevations. Symptoms are very similar to dehydration as is the treatment. All attendees should plan to drink plenty of water every day starting at least a week ahead of the trip. Avoiding sodas will help as well. 
• Drivers: Do not wait until the last night to pack. Staying up late will increase drowsiness the next day which is not a good combination with a long road trip. 
• Packing List:
  • Waterproof or water-resistant clothing (pants and jacket)
  • Ski gloves
  • Ski hat or beanie
  • Goggles or polarized sunglasses (it can be very bright)
  • Sunscreen
  • Clothes for dressing in layers (temperatures can vary greatly during the day)
  • Clothes for evenings
  • Pillow (bedding is provided but if you like to have your own, you can bring it)
  • Toiletries
  • Spending money for trip (optional)

Travel Details

• We will be meeting at Suncreek UMC at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023. Please be on time as we will want to be able to leave no later than 8:00 a.m.
• Remember for Allen ISD, this is a school day (unexcused absence) so you will want to make whatever advance preparations are needed to not get behind at school. The following Monday is a school holiday.
• Be sure to eat a hearty breakfast before leaving.
• The troop permission slip should be downloaded from the troop website and turned in during the meeting the Monday before the trip. 
• Class A uniform should be worn while traveling. 
• Bring a full water bottle for the trip and for drinking while at the cabins. 
• Because this trip is more than 3 hours, electronic devices will be allowed. Content (movies, music, games, etc.) must be Scout appropriate and is subject to the approval of the driver, who has the sole discretion around the use of electronic devices within the vehicle. Be sure to bring charging cords and portable chargers. 
• For those who may be prone to car sickness or altitude sickness, please bring a plastic bag in the event one is needed. Drivers are also recommended to bring plastic bags as it is not uncommon for someone to get sick while traveling on this trip. 
• We will stop for lunch at a fast food type restaurant both on the way there and on the way back. 
• Snacks may be brought from home or be purchased during fuel/restroom stops, at the discretion of the driver (may not allow messy foods, etc.). Stops need to be limited and quick so we will not likely allow shopping during every stop. 
• We will eat dinner upon arrival at the cabins.

Accommodations

• Please let us know of any dietary restrictions which you may have as soon as possible but no later than January 6, 2023 (one week prior). 
• Evening activities may include a campfire, games, etc. Feel free to bring activities you would like to do with you on this trip (cards, Super Smash Bros. tourney, etc.).
• Meals will be prepared by the adults and served buffet style. Scouts will be assigned to clean up the dining area after each meal. 
• Sleeping assignments will be made in advance and in accordance with Boy Scouts of America overnight accommodations standards. Please do not ask to change rooms or beds. In some cases, scouts may be assigned to share a bed with a parent or be assigned to a sofa bed. 
• Our host at La Junta Guest Ranch has been very gracious and is excited to welcome us to their property. They have given us a discounted rate and are providing some extra perks for our group.
• It is extremely important that we set a good example as a reflection of ourselves, our families, our troop, our charter organization, our school, and our community. This means we should be conducting ourselves in accordance with the Scout oath and law. It means we are courteous and kind and that we keep ourselves mentally awake when we are in the home of others or out in public. 
• Prior to returning on Monday, we will ensure all personal belongings have been removed and that the cabins are clean. Everyone will be responsible for their own area and the property as a whole. We should strive to leave the property cleaner and in better condition than we found it.

Ski Resort

• We will finish breakfast and KP on time in order to arrive at Ski Apache with time to be ready to start skiing or be on time for group lessons for those who need them. 
• We are renting ski gear. It is important that you keep up with your gear (skis, poles, boots, helmet) and take good care of it. Each person is individually responsible for their own gear. You will use blue tape and sharpie markers to write your name on your gear to help you keep track.
• Lift tickets will be handed out as a group and must be attached via zip tie to your jacket. Do not lose your lift ticket. 
• The buddy system must be strictly followed at all times. Buddy groups can be more than two people and it's a good idea to have at least 4 in case you need to split up. Plus, skiing can be more fun with a group. Buddies should be of similar skiing abilities so everyone can enjoy the activity. In the event you lose contact with your buddy, you should ski to the bottom of the mountain and wait there to meet up with them or find one of the troop adults (adults will be continuously stationed at the bottom). 
• We will eat lunch at a predetermined time and location. It is REQUIRED that all attendees show up for lunch as a check-in to make sure everyone is accounted for. 
• We plan to offer the Snow Sports merit badge on Sunday for those who are interested in earning it. 
• If you have a cell phone, it is recommended you keep it charged and with you while skiing. A list of phone numbers for everyone in our group will be provided to you when we arrive. 

That's it for now. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.