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. Their teen programs are simply "too cool for school." Your teen will have the opportunity to experience a whole new dimension in skiing and riding; they'll meet new friends, explore the mountain and receive just the right amount of instruction to conquer the slopes, parks and pipes with confidence. See Vail.com for more.

Steamboat in Colorado, is heavily focused on teens, especially with thier Steamboat Teen Challenge program. This is a great way for your teen, (ages 13-17), to meet new friends and refine skiing skills. Available during peak periods, Dec. 13, 2008 – Jan. 4, 2009; Feb 13-21, 2009 and March 7-29, 2009. See Steamboat.com for details.

Jay Peak in Vermont offers MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES (skiers & riders, ages 10-17). When kids are ready to take their skills to the next level they move up to Jay Peak's Mountain Adventures program - higher level coaching for skiers and snowboarders ages 10 & up. Sessions can include "first tracks", intro to telemarking, and freestyle coaching. For more see JayPeakResort.com .

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. Outdoor activities include skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, even ice skating. Nightly events are happening too. For more see Smuggs.com .

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. For more see TheCanyons.com .

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 Weeks", 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.

Park Freeride Super Groups - Advanced (level 5 and 6) skiers and riders aged 10-18 can experience the Park, Pipe and mountains with no distraction! Maximum learning potential and mileage are the big benefit of these small groups (max three) geared introduce the Park and Pipe or take kids/teens to new heights! Powder and steeps are also part of the "curriculum" when conditions are right. See more on the teen program at WhistlerBlackcomb.com .

Deer Valley, Utah, offers the Teen Escape program. The Teen Escape is for those 13 to 18 years of age (all ability levels). Teens can enjoy a mountain experience with other teens while being coached on the dynamics of skiing. Teen Escape is offered 12/20/08 1/4/09; 1/16 1/19/09; 2/12 2/22/09 and 3/8 4/3/09, from 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. daily. See DeerValley.com for details.