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Teen Ski and Ride Programs There are resorts that get it -and resorts that don't. Teenagers just don't want to hang with their parents all day and night. It's just so - not cool. Nor do young teens want to hang with teeny-boppers, pre-teens, teens, or any one who is not, well, a teenager.

Ski resorts are starting to cater to this teen set with special programs and ski/snowboard schools. From age specific groups to special programs, resorts across the country have come up with a variety of activities, lessons and other events just for teens. Here's a samples of some cool stuff for cool kids ("oh mom - cool is just so not cool" - JP age 13).

Vail in Colorado has specific teen lessons. In the "Mileage Plus" program teens can explore the mountain - top to bottom and bottom to top - with a Teen Pro instructor.

Intermediate and advanced skiers and riders will receive just the right amount of instruction to enter the park and pipe with confidence. Teen groups (13+) will be formed to meet individual level (when groups meet minimum size).

Steamboat in Colorado, is heavily focused on teens. Intermediate and advanced skiers, ages 13-17, are grouped together for a day of lessons ad cruising.

Beginner teens, ages 15+ are encouraged to join the three-day "first time series," offered through the adult program. Aspiring park and pipe hounds should check out the Parkology program.

Jay Peak in Vermont offers Mountain Adventures to take teens off the beaten path, offering something out of the ordinary. Teens can explore snowshoeing in the woods, catching "first tracks," cross country skiing, telemarking, snow skating, or even apprenticing with instructors.

What do teens do best? Hang. Smugglers Notch in Vermont offers two afternoon and evening teen hangouts - and no, parents are not allowed. The Teen Alley Teen Center is for ages 13-15.

In this supervised center, teens can get access to high speed Internet, Xbox, DVDs, pool table, ping-pong, music and popcorn. Plus they have special events for teens including DJ dance parties, Flip Out at the FunZone, I Did a Sled Teen Style.

For older teens aged 16 and up, Smuggler's offers the Outer Limits Teen Center - freedom and independence - Smugg's style. They've got access the Internet, Xbox, cards, DVDs, pool table, ping-pong, popcorn and dancing. Nightly events are happening too.

The Canyons in Park City, Utah offers special Teen Weeks for teens ages 13-17. Teens get to ski or ride all day, hang with friends over lunch, and then tear up the mountain for the rest of the day. Offered during holiday weeks.

Whistler/Blackcomb in British Columbia continues to be the hot spot for teens. Whistler's got a selection of programs for teens. The best value is "Discover Whistler Days", where participants get a hefty discount.

Ride Tribe Camps are great options for teens as you get the same instructor all week and cover tons of mileage - huge vert. After skiing or riding teens can get together for other activities such as indoor rock climbing.

Whister also offers some incredible evening programs for teens. The Ride Tribe Holiday Jib Session is for ages 13-18. A sweet night for teens on the rails and fun boxes at the base of Blackcomb - includes pizza dinner and night moves ticket.

-By Tammie Thompson -