Want to learn to snowboard or snow ski before booking a pricey vacation and hitting the mountain slopes? Be ready for ski lifts, snow drifts and powdery trails with expert training at Texas Ski Ranch just off IH-35 near New Braunfels. The snow park is the newest addition at this 70-acre sports complex.

In order to learn, you don't need white powdery slopes where the snow flies. The simulated terrain and surface construction at Texas Ski Ranch is designed to provide a "real" effect. So if you're a beginner, you can learn at TSR without wasting precious hours when you arrive at your snow skiing or snowboarding mountain vacation destination. You'll be ready to go!

TSR is the perfect place to learn and you can choose from several options from cable systems to private sessions. Instructors teach those who've never even tried before, adults or kids, at the Burton Learn To Ride Center. And the beginners learn with each other, separate from those who are more experienced.

More accomplished snowboarders can hone their skills at TSR's Terrain Park. There's always something new to try, more moves to learn or styles to perfect. Train with a coach - or just hit the slopes for hours on your own. During the off-season, spend your time practicing and improving your technique on the winter sports you enjoy.

If you prefer flip flops to snowboards, you don't have to choose between types of family vacations or daytrips at TSR. Just head to the other side of the complex where you can bare your toes in warm sandy beaches with the water lapping at your feet. Loll the day away underneath a colorful sun umbrella, cold drink in hand, music playing. You'll never be bored, because the lake action is going on right in front of you.

Stand Up Paddleboarding! From SUP to water skiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, waterskating - TSR has it all! TSR offers lessons to those of all skill levels, beginner to most advanced. All equipment including life jackets and helmets are provided. Choose from a variety of learning systems or packages designed to fit your needs. Advanced riders can take advantage of the private boat lake to improve their skills, enjoying the lake's rails and kickers.

According to TSR, "riders come from all over the world to train with our qualified professional-level coaches. If you are looking to be the next pro or are simply seeking a better first time experience out on the lake with your friends and family, we are here for you".

No place to play, learn or compete? Skateboarders, inline and freestyle skaters rejoice! TSR's 15,000-sq. ft. street course-style skate park will provide you with the thrills you've been missing. Concrete and steel construction transitions, ramps, rails, half pipes . . . something for every skill level. If you have no idea what a half pipe is, there's a great viewing area to watch. Competitions, camps and clinics are held throughout the year.

And so much more!! Located beachside, this laid-back restaurant provides lots of choices of delicious fresh food served by a great staff. There's a full bar - and a view of all the action makes it another great place to hang out. Wahoo's offers a special party menu for birthday parties and can cater any event on- or off-site. Phone Wahoo's Fish Taco at 830-627-7226. Check out the restaurant's fantastic daily menu and you'll plan your day around the food!

There's no better way to celebrate a birthday or other event than a day on the lake at TSR. All-inclusive party packages are available to provide boat, driver, ride time, a private coach and other amenities.

Or choose a popular "winter" snowboarding party. Package deals include snowboards, boots and helmets for all guests and a private teaching coach. Or try a Texas-style snow-tubing party!

Kids' (and adults!) birthday parties at TSR are awesome, with so many activity choices. TSR's party planners can help you customize any party from sports entertainment to refreshments.

"Trampoline" hardly describes it - you probably haven't seen a trampoline park like this one! 15,000 square feet of spring-floor trampolines, tumble tracks, trampoline games and private party rooms. It's awesome. See the TSR website for pictures of the layout and design of this mammoth playground. Reasonably-priced 2-hour or all-day sessions, are offered. Call (830) 237-7039 for more information on session times, the waiver required, what to wear and the special time reserved for very young children.

For more fun, check out Camp TSR! Half- and full-day and overnight summer camps are available. And plan to attend TSR's annual shows and events. February brings FreezeRide. The 2015 event was planned to include snowboarding and wakeboarding competitions, fashion show Wahoo's parties and a casino night to raise money for local charities. In April during Austin Canoe and Kayak Demo Days, colorful boats line the lakes for outdoor enthusiasts and paddle fanatics to see and try out the latest models of kayaks, SUPs, canoes and catamarans. TSR CableStock will be held May 7-10, 2015. Find out all the details of this musicfest at: www.TSRcablestock.com. See the TSR website for other 2015 scheduled events or call for information. Phone ahead when traveling, because activities, dates and times can change due to weather and other considerations.

Tired of being outvoted when it comes to picking a place for summer vacation or weekend fun? How many times do you have to hear how bored the kids are? Want a getaway spot that's economical? TSR is centrally located, activities are reasonably priced and relaxing at the beach doesn't even require an admission fee! But more importantly, there's something to suit everyone at this huge sports complex.

At Texas Ski Ranch, the whole family can vacation or daytrip together, with everyone enjoying what interests them most. So c'mon. Give it a try. Learn something new and dive into one of the action-filled arenas. Or have a great lunch, then head for the beach, grab a lounge chair underneath a palm tree and enjoy the action-packed show around you!

TSR is located at 6700 North IH-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130. Their website, www.texasskiranch.com, has pictures, descriptions and further information on the sports complex and all it has to offer. Call 830-627-2843 for specific times, reservations required, overnight accommodations, parties, catering and other amenities. Ask about the Early Bird and other specials which provide discounted rates.