Orbitz.com is thinking skiing... are you?

Just announced! Mammoth Mountain is among the Top 10 Early Ski Destinations in America for 2010 according to the Orbitz Insider Index, which released their rankings Nov. 1 (it seems skiing is on everyone's mind, not just ours!) The Chicago-based travel company listed 2 California resorts in the Top Ten, stating,

"In addition to ski and snowboard enthusiasts, the Top 10 Early Ski Destinations deliver something unique for everyone - from world-class ski resorts to luxurious spas, upscale shopping, eclectic boutiques, a vibrant nightlife and other athletic pursuits such as mountain biking and trail blazing." Read the whole story here >>

Why Early Ski?
Early season generally refers to the in-between weeks following a ski area's opening day (Mammoth's is Nov. 11) and before the holiday rush. At Mammoth, this also means cheaper lift tickets, deals on restaurants and lodging, less-crowded slopes and more fresh powder for you to track. Early ski season lasts for such a short period of time that those in the know, make the trip - otherwise it could be 2011 and peak season by the time you get on the slopes. Trip-planning tools for November ski trips to Mono County:
Mammoth Mountain Early Season Lift Tickets>>
Mono County Lodging Deals>>

The talk show queen's Yosemite camping adventures to air this Friday
When Oprah Winfrey and friend Gayle King went camping earlier this month, the cameras followed. Their Oct. 1-2 activities in Yosemite National Park included touring the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, Tunnel View, a campfire chat, a mule ride and guided fly-fishing along the Merced River. Their shelter for the night? An REI pop-up trailer stationed at the national park's Lower Pines campground. The duo's adventure is set to air in two parts on Friday, Oct. 29 and Monday, Nov. 1, 2010.

Style your own "girls getaway" trip
To plan your own Sierra camping adventure, hit up one of Mono County's campgrounds, hotels or cabins, just over the Tioga Pass from where the famous pair pitched their tent. Tioga Pass (Hwy. 120), the scenic road that connects Yosemite Valley with Mono County, is currently open and will remain passable until winter snows arrive (visit the CalTrans web site and enter "120" to view any highway restrictions before you depart). Still need some inspiration? Check out snapshots of the views Oprah and Gayle witnessed on their trip on Yosemiteblog.com, which now showcases the wonders of Yosemite and Mono Lake.