^TM

FROM WINTER PARK RESORT AND HERTZ

By Madelyn Miller

I am not a good driver. And I can't really ski. I tried once in Switzerland and loved it, but I am not really sure if that is because of my Swedish ski instructor Micky. He buckled my boots, carried my skis, and did anything he could to make it easier for me. And I needed all the help I can get.

Too bad I never found out if Micky could drive. But at least I got some tips from Hertz and Winter Park Resort to help me make it over the pass.

Winter Park Resort and Hertz Car Rental have teamed up in a partnership focused on getting skiers and snowboarders comfortably from Denver International Airport to the slopes.  Hertz offers a full line of cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles (SUV) to suit all drivers for the scenic drive up Interstate 70 and onto U.S. 40 over Berthoud Pass and into the Fraser Valley.  To ensure Winter Park visitors are well equipped for mountain driving, Hertz offers vehicles that have a ski rack and four wheel or front wheel drive.

In addition, Hertz has developed a list of mountain driving tips included in every vehicle rented at Denver International Airport.  The following tips are the most important factors to keep in mind while driving in the mountains, particularly in winter conditions.

1) If the temperature is below freezing, allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes  before driving.  Some Hertz vehicles are equipped with an Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS),  which  includes an electronic computer.  The computer may “pulse” the pedal when “greater  than normal” force is applied to the brake pedal.  During an ABS assisted stop, the pump   motor can create an audible pump whining noise.  Both the “pulsation” and the noise are   normal and indicate that the ABS is working properly.

2) Always follow at a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you to allow for maximum braking distance, particularly on roads with snow or ice.  Hertz vehicles are equipped with All Season Mud and Snow tires that comply with the Colorado Department of Transportation requirements for safe winter driving.

3) Snow, ice, aggregate, and road dirt can cause serious build-up on your windshield and  windshield wipers.  In sloppy road conditions, repeat cleaning of your windshield wipers is  required for optimal visibility.

4) Do not use the overdrive while driving in the mountains.  Disengage the overdrive to reduce stress on the transmission and brakes.

Winter Park Central Reservations does offer discounted rates on Hertz rentals -- so visitors can make just one call to book their air, lodging, and rental car and be assured that they are getting very competitive rates.  The 800 # is (800) 729-5813, and their email is reservations@mail.skiwinterpark.com.

To learn more about the destination http://www.skiwinterpark.com

For information on Hertz: http://www.hertz.com
800-654-3131

Back to TravelLady Magazine