Skiers hitting the slopes this winter will see big improvements at both Seven Springs and Hidden Valley resorts, as well as at other popular resorts in the region.

Lawrence Walsh, the Post-Gazette expert in recreational snow sports, presents all the latest updates in his annual ski preview. Resorts in the Rockies are building their children's programs and those in New England are expanding their snow-making systems.

His preview includes a detailed list of all resorts in the region, with map, the skiing conditions, costs and rental opportunities. You'll also find ways to hit the slopes on a budget and myriad ways to learn to ski or snowboard.

The stories

• A complete guide to the region's slopes
• Area resorts upgrade facilities on the slopes and off, and in most cases raise fees
• Young snowboarders and skiers go West
• New England resorts focus on snowmaking
• Slow-cooking recipes will heat you up after skiing
• Learn-to-ski programs offered
• TelePalooza Festival to be Feb. 2-3
• Mon Valley Ski Club plans two events
• Crowd-free skiing in the Rockies
• If you go: Skiing in the Rockies