Which tubing hill is better, Howelsen or Saddleback? Is one faster? Better lift capacity? Do both offer a warm place to hang out and watch the kids for those who are not tubing?
You can stay in Olympian Hall but not a very good view of the tubing hill since the lift house is in the way AFAIK. You do get a good view of the main ski slope to see races, etc.
Never been tubing so I have no comment on relative merits of the actual characteristics of either place. Friends who have been to Saddleback have been very happy and others have enjoyed Howelsen.
My suggestion is look at the Saddleback web site and see if all the other activities appeal to you. If not, go the Howelsen route. You can also ski cheaply at Howelsen while the kids are tubing.
I went to Saddleback last year. Thee was a nice log cabin snack bar waiting area but you couldn't really see the tubing hill so well becuase the runs aren't lighted so bright. On a moonless or cloudy night it gets very, very dark when you are away from the town and general population as Saddleback is.
We had a great time by the way. We plan to do it again. The view of a twilight Steamboat from the ranch is worth the trip alone.
I have never been to Howelsen for tubing but we do frequent Saddle Back quite a bit. My kids (and myself) have a blast. Just a side note - try it during the day time. That's when we go. It is great fun and the family that runs the ranch couldn't be friendlier. There is a lodge to hang out and watch - they serve home made chili and have other snacks and drinks as well.
Wife and I took the kids, 9 and 8, to Saddleback last year. First experience for all of us and we are going again this year. BIG hill, different runs and great easy lift to pull you back up that you never had to wait for. The cabin is very convenient and (during the day) does give a decent view of the hill. Never went to Howlesen but our friends who live in SB had recommended Saddleback. It's not in town but the drive is very very easy.
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