SUPPLEMENT TO ThE bOSTON PhOENix | NOvEMbER 11, 2011
SnowShoeing with aLPaCaS and ShaPe ShifterS _by Jasmine Lywen-Dill | p 8 Ski fLiCkS: taking hitS and SUrvivingavaLanCheS _by Alexandra Cavallo | p 4
Ski+ Snowboard gUide
Kelse y M arr
F PLUS, ComPLete Ski + Snowboard LiStingS at thePhoenix.Com/Ski
4 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
From Slope to Screen sKI-FILM sTARs Jen HudAK And CAROLIne gLeICH TALK ABOuT HeMATOMAs, AVALAnCHes, And MOunTAIn CuLTuRe _ By A le x A n d r A C AvA l lo
We chatted up pro skiers 25-yearold Caroline Gleich and native New Englander 25-year-old Jen Hudak (in town this week to host the Boston Ski & Sports Club’s annual “Blizzard” ski season kickoff event,) both featured in two of the year’s major ski flicks — Warren Miller’s Like There’s No Tomorrow and the Ski Channel’s documentary Winter, respectively. The girls ski-schooled us on what to do in case of an avalanche (um, run?), how to take a hit, and general slope style badassery. Trust us, these chicks have got some serious steez.
B
JEn HUDAk Halfpipe and Freeskier + Five-Time X game Medalist YOU MOVED TO UTAH AFTER HIGH SCHOOL, BUT YOU GREw Up SkIInG OUT EAST, SInCE YOU’RE FROM COnnECTICUT, RIGHT? wHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOUnTAIn OUT HERE? The one I skied at the most was Okemo. You know, I was a little skier early on, and they have really great mogul skiing at Okemo, and had a really good half pipe — probably, at that time, the best half pipe on the East Coast. It was really just a great place for me to train and start getting involved in a new sport, like half-pipe skiing was at the time.
IS MOGUL STYLE SkIInG A TOUGH TYpE OF SkIInG TO GET InTO? Yeah, it can be intimidat-
ing, but when I got into it, it was just me and my friends, and we were trying to see how crazy we could get on our skis. I’ve always lived a little more on the fearless side of things and liked to do crazy stuff. But I
HIGH FlyInG Jen Hudak, who appears in the ski Channel’s doc Winter, says she’s “always lived a little more on the fearless side of things” — and has the bruises to prove it.
thephoenix.com/ski | supplement to the boston phoenix | ski + snowboard guide | november 11, 2011 5
DID YOU HAVE AnY REALLY MAJOR wIpEOUTS wHEn YOU wERE FIRST STARTInG OUT? You
know, I definitely took a lot of hits, but at that time — well, I still pride myself on this — but I could take a hit. But yeah, actually, a lot of girls in the industry have these giant hematomas on our hips. Mine is from a half pipe in 2003, in Switzerland. It was super icy, and I crashed and hit my hip into the ground. My whole side was bruised and swollen, and I still have, like, scar tissue in my hip from that almost 10 years ago now. But that was kind of my biggest one then. But I tended to bounce when I was younger, and not break. I don’t bounce as well now.
THERE’S A CERTAIn AMOUnT OF RISk InVOLVED wITH YOUR CAREER AnD THE SpORT In GEnERAL. wHEn YOU’RE GOInG InTO A TRICk, DO YOU ACknOwLEDGE THE FACT THAT YOU MIGHT nOT MAkE IT OUT OF IT? I think all of us accept that injuries are a part of what we do. And it’s a very intense sport, and we’ve known people to pass away, and people that have been paralyzed and suffered traumatic brain injuries, and it’s a heavy thing when you start thinking about it. But we all set goals for ourselves, and have
tricks that we want to do, and take all the precautions that we can in preparing for tricks. We’re not reckless, and even our wildest tricks have smaller things that you can do before you’re doing that wildest trick, so everything’s a progression. You start small and you work your way up. You acknowledge the risk, but then you just make sure that you’ve taken all the precautions and that you’re trained and ready for it, and at that point you can’t think about it. It’ll make your worst fears come true. . . . But I think it makes us appreciate what we do even more because it is so risky. K eI TH C ARLs e n
think now it’s actually kind of easier to get into, because parks are so well-maintained and built — there’s smaller jumps you can start on, and work your way up to larger jumps. At the time that I was starting, there weren’t really any teams or programs for that sport. It was hard to find a coach and have that support. But at this point there’s a ton of programs. The East Coast does a really good job with teams that you can join and coaches that you can work with to ease your way into it, and learn how to do the crazy stuff.
DO YOU GO TO THE X GAMES EVERY YEAR? I do. I go to the
long time, and then it finally happened, and I was able to look back at all my hard work and know that it paid off.
HAVE YOU EVER SnOwBOARDED, OR ARE YOU STRICTLY A SkIER? I have
snowboarded. I’m not very good at snowboarding. It’s a totally different sport. It feels weird to be stuck in one body position. You can change your body position all the time on skis, and that’s what makes it work. So on the snowboard . . . it’s funny. It’s weird.
pLUS, I FEEL LIkE wIpInG OUT On A SnOwBOARD HURTS A LOT MORE. That’s where I
Jen Hudak
get into trouble on a snowboard. I don’t know how to make adjustments or correct anything, because I’m stuck to this board . . . and generally it ends up bad.
X Games every year, and it’s my favorite event of the year, for sure.
wHAT wAS IT LIkE THE FIRST TIME YOU wEnT? I mean, ev-
IS THERE AnY MOUnTAIn
erything at X Games is kind In THE wORLD THAT YOU of over the top, and there’s HAVEn’T SkIED AnD wOULD so much pressure and exciteSTILL LOVE TO GET TO? I would ment and just chaos around love to get to Alaska at some you all of the time, and the point. I think the mounfirst few years I was there, tains are really incredible I got really distracted by it. up there, and there’s just It was hard for me to figure so much virgin snow all out how to stay calm and around you. Yeah, that’s a Caroline Gleich pace myself in such a highplace I’ve never been that I energy environment. The would absolutely love to go. first time I medaled was really, really exciting, and then the first time that I won wHAT wOULD BE YOUR BEST ADVICE TO the X Games was absolutely incredible. SOMEOnE wHO’S nEw TO THE SpORT? It was something that I dreamed of for a I would first recommend that they try both
CAROLInE GLEICH Big Mountain Freeskier YOU GREw Up In MInnESOTA AnD UTAH. HAVE YOU EVER SkIED THE nORTHEAST? I have. I’ve skied at Jay Peak and Stratton. I really love visiting Vermont and the East Coast for skiing. Like, when I went to Jay Peak, we got so much powder, it was crazy. And I think Vermont is just so charming. It’s, like, a totally different aesthetic than we have out here.
THAT’S TRUE. IF YOU GROw Up SkIInG In VERMOnT , YOU’RE JUST USED TO SkIInG On SHEER ICE. IT’S wHAT YOU THInk SkIInG Is. The first time you ski out West, you don’t even know what to do with all the powder. There are a lot of great skiers that come from both Minnesota and the East Coast. Because I think if you can learn to edge on the ice, than you can probably ski anywhere.
Continued on p 6
Ski Bum 78 Special
$
*
Free S
tow
FOR
skiing and snowboarding before deciding to do one or the other. Just rent some equipment and try, because I think everyone’s different. My best friend growing up tried to be a skier for years, and struggled with it, and the day she put a snowboard on her feet — she just took off and had a great time. So, yeah, don’t get too fixated on doing one discipline; try them both and see what you like better. And know that it’s definitely something that has a learning curve, and you’re going to fall the first couple times you go out. After you give it time, I think it’s going to be really, really incredible and such a fun way to enjoy the winter. Because without it, I think, “God, how could winter be enjoyable?”
e Card INCLUDE LIFT TICD ($75 VALUE ) KET D ISCOU NTS!
Fine Dining at Emily’s Popular Pub with Cozy Atmosphere Sleigh Rides on the Premises Discount Equipment Rentals Available
More Info On Line!
Full Breakfast included!
5 &Burger Brew
99 $ .
Pub Specials Served 3 to 6pm
434 Edson Hill Rd. Stowe, VT 802-253-9722 www.stowehofinn.com
Ski Clubs & Group Specials
Call or contact our ski club specialist for details: nbrock@stowehofinn.com * Not available holidays. Other restrictions may apply. SHF Phoenix ad 10,11.indd 1
10/28/11 1:32 PM
6 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
wHEn DID YOU START SkIInG pROFESSIOnALLY? I moved to Utah when I was 15, and
then when I graduated from high school, I started to pursue my career as a professional skier. But I wasn’t very good at first. It took me a little while to catch up, do you know what I mean? Because I didn’t grow up skiing, like with the race training or any of that stuff.
THAT’S InTERESTInG, BECAUSE I FEEL LIkE A LOT OF pRO SkIERS wERE kInD OF GROOMED FOR IT SInCE THEY wERE VERY LITTLE. Yeah, I feel that way as well. When I first told my friends and family that I was going to be a pro skier, everyone thought I was crazy. So I just kept at it for a lot of years, and I skied every day, because I definitely had a lot of catch-up to do with the people who’d been skiing their whole lives.
DID YOU FEEL LIkE THAT wAS A HUGE DISADVAnTAGE? At first I did, yeah, but I think that in
the long run, looking back now, it was actually sort of good — because to have a career, especially in freeskiing, you have to have a lot of passion and a lot of drive. And so I think a lot of the people who grew up doing it have a tendency to get burned out.
wHAT EXACTLY IS FREESkIInG? It’s what I
was doing in the Warren Miller film [Like There’s No Tomorrow]. It’s using the whole mountain, and sometimes back country and side country, and there are no gates, so you can just kind of go wherever you want. It’s kind of the spirit of the skiing, I guess.
IS THAT MORE DAnGEROUS THAn DOwnHILL SkIInG OR RACInG? It can be, because there’s
avalanche danger that you have to deal with. So we filmed the part based out of the
Cottonwood Canyon ski area in Utah, but a popular thing now is to go into the back and side country, outside the gates of the resort, and so we’d go into the back country as well. And we’d all taken a lot of avalanche courses, and as long as you have the safety gear, and read the avalanche reports, and have taken a class or two, then most people will be okay.
wHAT ARE YOU SUppOSED TO DO IF YOU GET STUCk In An AVALAnCHE? Well, the best
thing to do is avoid getting into one. [Laughs] Well, I guess they say that you want to swim, you know, to stay on top of it. But if you’re fully buried, it’s most important that you’re with people who have an avalanche beacon, a shovel, and a probe. Those are the three pieces of necessary gear that you really want to have. That way, they can dig you out.
In THE DOCUMEnTARY YOU TALk ABOUT “MOUnTAIn CULTURE.” HOw wOULD YOU DESCRIBE THAT TO THE UnInITIATED? I like
the word “bohemian.” You know the intellectual types that pursue this alternative lifestyle, instead of, like, normal 9-to-5 kind of thing? I’d kind of describe it like that. Because in Salt Lake, there are a lot of people who are free thinkers, and there’s this vibrant outdoor community here who have kind of chosen the path less traveled, I guess. So it’s just kind of taking our passion and making it into our work. Does that make sense? It’s tough to describe, in a way.
AnY ADVICE FOR pEOpLE wHO wAnT TO GET InTO THE SpORT LATER In LIFE? I’d just say
to get gear, hit up your local ski shops. There are so many opportunities and deals for cheap gear in mountain communities.
wI LL w Is s M An
Continued from p 5
Free FAllInG Caroline gleich shows off her freeski skills in warren Miller’s Like There’s no Tomorrow. “It’s kind of the spirit of skiing,” she says. I think a lot of people think it’s a really expensive sport to get into, but a lot of mountains have discounts for locals. The best piece of advice is to get your own ski boots. Make sure you have a nice snug fit and you’re comfortable in them, because you can always rent or borrow skis or whatever, but boots are really important to have. And, really, skiing is just, like, the best way to make the winter. . .
BEARABLE? Yeah! Exactly, bearable. For me, that’s totally what it was. ^
Warren Miller’s Like There’s No Tomorrow screens november 11-12 at the Berklee Performance Center and november 13 at the endicott College Auditorium in Beverly. For more information on screenings of Winter, visit skichannel.com.
Ski NH Anywhere, Anytime Lift Ticket Packages Save $11 - $20+ on weekend and holiday lift tickets. Tickets are fully-transferable, share with family & friends - packages start at 6 tickets
Stay for 3 and Get 1 FREE!
For complete details visit SkiNH.com or call 800-887-5464
$319
UNLIMITED 5 MOUNTAIN PASS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS
FOR MORE INFO, CONTACT: COLLEGEPASS@MOUNTSNOW.COM
NEW!
attitash.com
crotchedmountain.com
jfbb.com
mountsnow.com
skiwildcat.com
8 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
EvErybody must gEt stonE(hEngE)d At AmericA’s stonehenge, you cAn snowshoe your wAy, by cAndlelight, through thousAnds of yeArs of ArchAeologicAl history. but first, you’ll hAve to pAss by some AlpAcAs. _by Jasmi n e Ly w e n - D iL L
When I went to Stonehenge in the UK last year, it was hard to get a picture of just the rocks without some tourist being in your frame. After a couple of minutes waiting in line, I just wanted to be done with it, post the pictures on Facebook, and officially say I’d been there.
B
The Christmas Farm Inn & Spa is a lifestyle leisure and event resort dedicated to providing a quintessential New England experience. We offer first-class accommodation, memorable events, authentic country cuisine and exceptional caring service. In the Spirit of Christmas, we celebrate the simple pleasures of life every day: friends, family, fun, love, adventure and wellbeing...
Special Offer: Save 10% off retail rates. Make a reservation online at christmasfarminn.com/skiing and enter “Phoenix” in the promo code box, or call 603 383 4313 and ask for the Phoenix Winter Offer.
These were my expectations for the site billed as America’s Stonehenge, but at 10 am on a recent Saturday, I was one of just four people at the 105-acre site on Salem, NH’s Mystery Hill. I was won over by not just the site’s history, but the expansiveness of the forest. It’s hard to remember places like this exist after weeks of breathing God knows what kinds of pollution and falling asleep to the sound of car alarms and police sirens in the city. The whole place is family-run, purchased and opened to the public in 1958 by the aptly named Robert Stone, who
passed away in 2009. I got a personal tour with Robert’s son, Dennis, a commercial pilot who followed in his father’s footsteps by continuing to maintain and research the land with his wife, Pat. We started by walking by the alpaca farm at the beginning of the trail (and seeing one of them kiss Dennis on the lips; he really likes alpacas). Fun fact: according to Dennis, alpacas are native to North America, not South America. He said he had wanted to reunite the animal with their “homeland.” The main attraction at America’s Stonehenge is a handful of ancient stone
· A 15 acre historic White Mountain resort in Jackson Village, NH · Close to Black Mountain, Attitash, Cranmore, Wildcat, Bretton Woods and Jackson XC · Mix n’ Match discount ski, tubing and coaster tickets available online or at the Front Desk · 41 Rooms, Suites and Cottages for 2 – 8 people · A quintessential New England experience · A full-service AVEDA Concept Spa · Indoor Pool, Hot Tub and Fitness Centre · Restaurant and Pub · Families and Ski groups welcome.
structures and cave-like dwellings. No one knows for sure where they came from; theories range far and wide. Some say it was a Native American site dating back millennia, or that it was built by wayward Irish monks in AD 1000 — though academics contend it was part of a cider press owned by a farmer in 1825. Nonetheless, charcoal found at the site has reportedly been dated to 6000 years ago. Given that history, it’s easy to imagine why rumors spread about people experiencing paranormal activity here, and the eeriness of the vast expanse of open land definitely lends itself to ghost sighting claims. Dennis said that, the weekend before I visited, a paranormal group came to investigate, and that their energy meters kept going off. Then he casually added, “I’m not so sensitive to that stuff, but my son has seen shape shifters out here.” If it’s not too spooky for you, the gem of the site’s offerings is the candlelight hike. Every Saturday from January 14 to February 18, the Stones open up additional acres to the public and light the trail with kerosene candles. Sounds like the perfect place to take that special hook-up buddy to on Valentine’s Day. It’s $15 for adults — $10 if you bring your own snowshoes — and reservations are required. For children, it’s $10, $7 if they bring their own shoes. (On a regular day, admission prices are $8-12 for adults, and $5-8 for kids.) Best part: that rate includes hot chocolate and cookies. This would also be a great outdoorsy activity to remind yourself that stars actually do exist in the night sky. (Although it’s recommended to bring flashlights because it can get really dark out there.) Sleds are suggested for little ones too young to walk/talk/snowshoe.
JA s min e ly w e n -dil l
thephoenix.com/ski | supplement to the boston phoenix | ski + snowboard guide | november 11, 2011 9
On February 4, there will be a special full-moon trek. It’s recommended you stay away from any wolf-like creature you might encounter that night. Don’t worry though, if you get spooked out, it’s probably just a friendly shape shifter. ^
america’s stonehenge is located at 105 Haverhill Road in salem, nH. For more information call 603.893.8300 or visit stonehengeusa.com.
NH College Breakout Pass* Unlimited skiing and riding on the best snow in the East at MOUNT SUNAPEE and under the lights at GUNSTOCK.
$
9 5 2
SOS College Pass* Unlimited skiing and riding at the closest big mountain to Boston at MOUNT SUNAPEE and easy-to-reach OKEMO and STRATTON.
$
5 1 3 1
9/1
2/1
il 1 unt
mount sunapee.com *Available to full-time students. Some restrictions apply.
1
8/1
2/1
il 1 unt
10 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
DRAFT PICKS folloW up A loNg DAy oN ThE SlopES WiTh A loNg NighT AT ThE SlopE-SiDE BAR _by Mich ae l c . Wa ls h
A long day of skiing can take quite a toll your body. Anyone who’s ever dove headfirst down a double-black can attest to this — you know the deal, where the skis end up in the woods and you end up eating a pile of powder. Some prefer to shake the aches by cozying up next to a warm fireplace, or taking a headfirst dive into the hot tub. But us? We say that stuff is for the birds. Give us a bucket of booze and a dance floor to replace post-mountain hangover with a more literal type of hangover.
B
Stowe
Maine
the alcheMiSt | 23 South Main St, Waterbury, VT |
Saddleback
Sarge’S SportS pub and grub | 2454 Main St, Rangeley, ME | 207.864.5616 | admittedly a hike — nearly five hours — from our fair city, it’s unlikely that you’ll be making a day trip to saddleback. so why not make a night out of it, and get your pub and grub on at a place that actually encourages you to do so in its name?
Sunday river
Matterhorn | 292 Sunday River Rd, Newry, ME | 207.824.6836 or matterhornskibar.com | eighteen drafts on tap, live music Friday through sunday, and a specialty drink known as the glacier bowl — which is basically maine’s equivalent of a scorpion bowl, served in a 60-ounce container. Sunday river brewing coMpany | 29 Sunday River Rd, Bethel, ME | 207.824.4253 or sundayriverbrewpub.com | monday and wednesday seem to be the days to hole up at the brewing company post-shred session — with 50-cent wings and $1.50 drafts, respectively.
Matterhorn, Newry, Me
SugarbuSh
verMont killington
wobbly barn | 2229 Killington Rd, Killington, VT | 802.422.6171 or wobblybarn.net | even if you don’t ski, free nachos and live music offered up daily from 4 to 8 pm should be enough to get you up to killington. pickle barrel | 1741 Killington Rd, Killington, VT | 802.422.3035 or picklebarrelnightclub.com | a happy hour featuring $3.50 tallboys, 50-cent wings, and a music lineup featuring some serious nationally touring acts is what sells the pickle barrel for us. plus, we just like the name.
Mount Snow
Snow barn | 49 Mt. Snow Access Rd, West Dover, VT | 802.464.1100 or mountsnow.com/ snowbarn.php | located so close to the base of the mountain, you could potentially tumble down your entire final run and land on a barstool. valley view Saloon | 131 Route 100, West Dover, VT | 802.464.9422 or valleyviewsaloon.com | the exterior looks like it could’ve existed in the old west, and the beer list looks like it exists in our dreams. our type of place.
802.244.4120 or alchemistbeer.com | not only is alchemist a pub, but they also operate a cannery only a mile from the eatery where they are “currently focused on brewing one beer perfectly”: their double ipa, cordially referred to as the heady topper. anyone who cares that much about beer is good people in our eyes. the Matterhorn | 4969 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT | 802.253.8198 or matterhornbar.com | recently named to USA Today’s “10 great places for post-ski nightlife” list, the horn is all class. it boasts a menu featuring gourmet pizzas and sushi, but is also capable of delivering a party atmosphere, with a martini bar regularly offering up live music. the ruSty nail | 1190 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT | 802.253.6245 or rustynailbar.com | the cocktail menu here is about as long as a chairlift ride to the summit. plus, the rusty nail’s relative proximity to burlington means that there is a serious lineup of diverse music on a near-nightly basis.
hyde away inn and Restaurant, Waitsfield, VT horsefeathers, North conway, Nh
Slide brook lodge and tavern | 3180 german flats Rd, Warren, VT | 802.583.2202 or slidebrooklodge.com | the slide brook mug club is a thing. it’s sort of like that time we tried to start a beer club, except it isn’t just us sitting in our living room getting drunk by ourselves. localfolk SMokehouSe | 9 Route 17, Waitsfield, VT | 802.496.5623 | a mouthwatering menu featuring hickory-smoked barbecue, tex-mex, and 24 beers on draft. hyde away inn and reStaurant | 1428 Millbrook Rd, Waitsfield, VT | 802.496.2322 or hydeawayinn.com | literally constructed on the side of a mountain, the hyde away’s tavern floor is sloping, as if you just took down one too many microbrews. a burly plate of their generously portioned nachos should help you regain your center of gravity. the caStlerock pub | 1840 Sugarbush Access Rd, Warren, VT | 802.583.6594 | located slopeside at sugarbush, this pub lends itself to midday, between-run beers. the only problem is once you sit down, it’s unlikely that you’ll ever want to leave. hello, half-day pass!
new haMpShire cranMore
horSefeatherS | 2679 White Mountain hwy, North Conway, Nh | 603.356.2687 or horsefeathers.com | “sustenance, merriment, & cheer” proclaims the slogan of this restaurant. no complaints from us. their
specialty half-pound burgers elicit those three emotions from us without fail.
bretton woodS
the cave at the Mount waShington reSort | 310 Mt Washington hotel Rd, Bretton Woods, Nh | 603.278.1000 or mountwashingtonresort.com | rumors swirl online as to whether this place inspired The Shining. either way, we remember that one time we got so drunk in this northern new hampshire haunt that we actually started to see ghosts. fabyan’S Station | Route 302 at Cog Base Rd, Bretton Woods, Nh | 603.278.222 or brettonwoods.com | at one time a train station, the atmosphere alone at Fabyan’s reminds you that you’re really in new hampshire. whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing is really up to you.
loon
the coMMon Man | 10 pollard Rd, lincoln, Nh | 603.745.3463 or thecman.com | with a handful of locations throughout the granite state, common man lincoln is our focus, both because of its proximity to one of the biggest and baddest mountains around and because of those goddamn delectable crab cakes. gypSy cafe | 117 Main St, lincoln, Nh | 603.745.4395 | margaritas are the specialty here, and while that doesn’t exactly lend itself to winter climes, we hear they make those things with tequila, and we like tequila. paul bunyan rooM on loon Mountain | 60 loon Mountain Rd, lincoln | loonmtn.com/info/winter/ dining.aspx | considering that this place is located on the mountain, we’re not going to suggest that skiing at dangerously high speeds after a beer or two might be more fun than doing it sober. in fact, that might even be illegal. so we’re definitely telling you not to do that . . . truant’S taverne | 96 Main St, North Woodstock, Nh | 603.745.2239 or truantstaverne.com | Featuring bars upstairs and downstairs, this local joint houses a dive-y atmosphere and a robust menu of comfort food that’ll keep your pockets fat and your waist size fatter. woodStock inn Station and brewery | 135 Main St, North Woodstock, Nh | 603.745.3951 or woodstockinnnh.com | they brew their own beer. it is delicious as all hell. that is all.
waterville
coyote grill | 98 Valley Rd, Waterville Valley, Nh | 603.236.4919 or wildcoyotegrill.com | coyote grill stands above the rest of its waterville competitors — not just for its hefty dinner and pub menus, but because it’s literally high up in the air, overlooking mt. tecumseh, mt. osceola, and snow’s mountain. ^
This
TRIPLE black diamond is sweeeet.
This is the
best trip ever! So much
My wife is
this place!
We love the
kids’ programs... soon my daughter will be
ripping
The whole family’s
happy.
So much to do.
down this
with me.
Picture your family at Smugglers’ Notch Vermont.
Where Family Fun is Guaranteed!
#
1 for Family Programs
SKI Magazine Reader Survey - 13 years
SNRT4932_BostonPhoenix_4.875x6.25.indd 1
FREE Winter vacation brochure & DVD! 1.800.451.8752 // smuggs.com/bp 11/1/11 3:50 PM
JOIN THE WFNX COORS LIGHT SNORIDERS
THIS SEASON! 2012 Events: Jan 7 - Wildcat Jan 21 - Black Mountain Feb 4 - Waterville Valley Feb 11 - Attitash March 10 - Bretton Woods
“Every sport has its Mecca; the stadiums, race tracks or ball parks against which everything else is judged... Skiing has them too... There’s an agelessness to the place. Mad River Glen is an institution...” Photo credit: Michael Riddell
Powder Magazine
www.madriverglen.com
wfnx.com/snoriders
12 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
GEAR GRAB
boston’s ski and snowboard sherpas show the way to value in this season’s equipment _ By C h r i s to p h er s . p ineo
Call it what you want — skiing, snowboarding, riding, or shredding — but only call it affordable if you’re savvy to the good deals hiding throughout the city. This sport follows an age-old rule: you wanna play, you gotta pay. But don’t worry about that rule, because we got you. For the 2011-2011 sports season, the sleuths at the Phoenix have hunted down some experts who really know their way around the slopes. Tips from these pros will help you get this year’s best gear — and still have a few bucks left when you’re done. Here’s what our experts had to say.
B
J.P. Bedard and aaron ThomPson set up shop with their buddy Tim Morse way back in the 2009 to bring Wicked Sharp Ski and Sports to West Roxbury. They maintain a true commitment to affordability with their “Wicked Good Deal,” which allows parents to set up their kids with skis, boots, and bindings for only $99.99. They always welcome trade-ins, which can save you more cash while ridding you of the stigma of hitting the slopes in last year’s gear. After these guys got us pointed in the right direction, we found a local snowboarding company to bat clean-up on this list of tight deals. scoTT PeTrichko stepped up with some fine-detail advice on outerwear and snowboards. As a co-founder and creative director at Brighton’s Bean Snowboarding Inc., he knows what you need to get going downhill fast.
Bean snowBoards Commonwealth — re-issue | $399.99
J.P. Bedard and aaron ThomPson managers/Founders of wicked sharp ski and sports, west roxbury (wickedsharp.com) Fischer skis The moTive 76 all-mounTain skis | $599.99 | fischersports.com |
fisCher skis the motive 76 all-mountain skis | $599.99
Fischer made the Motive 76 as a diverse all-mountain ski for strong intermediate to advanced skiers. Because of a 76mm waist, the Motive 76 can hold the ice and snow underneath it in a way that provides a seamless transition throughout the changing conditions of a daylong series of runs over traveled trails. The width maintains stability, so even if the changing conditions come from an active snowfall, you should still be good as the snow pack breaks down toward the end of the day. The ski can handle any speed on any terrain the mountain throws at you. A full sandwich sidewall construction holds the edge as you go. A slight rise in the tip camber makes it easier to transition into a turn even in a wide range of conditions. This way, the tip of the ski stays on top of the soft snow and any crud
you come across. The ski flexes intuitively and responds easily because of the RS 11 Powerrail Binding System. Take on the whole mountain, or just ski casually. The Motive 76 can do the trick. TransPack sidekick BackPack | $49.99 | transpack.net | This Bad Larry holds pretty much all the gear you need for easy carry around any winter destination. The pack features a lightweight external boot and helmet backpack, so you can lump everything you need between your shoulder blades while carrying your skis. It’s made from durable, tough, waterresistant-coated 600 denier polyester. The side-padded ski-boot holders with air/water-drainage grommets keep everything relatively dry — or at least not soaking the inside of the bag — as you wander through potential wetness. The zippered helmet pocket with expandable mesh gusset comes in handy no matter the size of your head. The waterresistant tarpaulin bottom keeps water from sneaking in when you set the pack down. The closed-cell-foam-padded back holds various other things. Contoured adjustable neoprene shoulder straps ensure a comfortable carry. The adjustable sternum strap gives you stability. Lift the inside top lid to reveal a goggle pocket. The slider on the double-locking, selfrepairing nylon coil zippers keeps the zippers intact. It holds 1150 cubic inches or 18 liters. auclair son oF T all-leaTher Gloves | $69.99 | auclairgloves.com | For the little ski dude in your life, these gloves offer great protection from the weather and any hand-menacing slope hazards. Kids like their garb cool — and what’s cooler in the world of skiing than the official supplier of the US Freestyle Ski Team? These pre-eminent ski glove makers added great functionality by loading the Son of T with Thinsulate insulation and wicking to keep mini-ski-hands warm and dry, and they made the whole thing out of 100 percent leather. Waterproof, windproof, and highly breathable, these gloves should stick around.
Continued on p 14
14 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
664 US Route 3 • Exit 33,I-93 • Lincoln NH 03251 800-343-8000 • (603) 745-8000 www.indianheadresort.com • info@indianheadresort.com
transpaCk sidekiCk BaCkpaCk | $49.99
green wax true universal performanCe wax | $8
SKI & STAY!
Enjoy some of the Best Skiing in the East at
LOON • CANNON • BRETTON WOODS & WATERVILLE
lytro Camera | $399
AND Experience all that Indian Head Resort has to offer!
PLUS: ENJOY FREE USE OF ALL INDIAN HEAD RESORT FACILITIES INCLUDING: Heated Outdoor Pool Open All Winter Heated Indoor Pool • Indoor & Outdoor Hot Whirlpool Spas 50” PLASMA HDTVs in all motel rooms! Saunas • Game Room • Gift Shop • In-Room HBO® Movies Entertainment in our Thunderbird Lounge Near Area Attractions, Sightseeing and Tax-Free Shopping
LOON Mid-Week Ski & Stay CANNON Mid-Week Ski & Stay From $108.50 PP/DO*
From $73.50 PP/DO*
Loon Weekend Ski & Stay CANNON Weekend Ski & Stay From $143.50 PP/DO*
From $125.50 PP/DO*
*PLEASE NOTE: Not Valid Holidays or Feb. Vacation Weeks. Does NOT include Tax or Gratuities. Subject to Change.
English Rose Inn
Continued from p 12 Bean snoWBoards commonWealTh — re-issue | $399.99 | The re-issue board
is manufactured right in Allston. Bean made this directional twin and built it on a true twin chassis with a centered stance with the option to set it back for when the drifting snow runs deep. The board uses a signature People Combo wood core with multiple species of wood laid into just the right spots to put the pop and strength where the board needs it. Offering a directional flex, the designers laid the Comm up with triax glass and a carbon-fiber stringer for the backbone running down the center of the board. Riders get what the designers call “a responsive yet buttery feel with superior snap” as they go in and out of turns and the board delivers an extra boost in the “pop” of an ollie. The impact-resistant “ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene sintered base” comes standard, allowing maximum wax absorption while adding firstto-the-bottom speed, and, according to the designers, that makes it bomb-proof. The fully wrapped hardened stainlesssteel edges guard against any rust even after leaving your board in a bag or the back of the closet, and the hardness keeps a sharp edge on the board even after repeated runs cutting through the harsh New England ice.
scoTT PeTrichko Co-founder/Creative director of bean snowboard inc., brighton (beansnowboarding.com) mcB cusTom-made ouTerWear | custom
Just Three Miles from Jay Peak Ski and Golf Resort! Ski and Stay Packages Available
We invite you discover the warmth and romance of our Victorian Country Inn. We offer 14 beautifully decorated guest rooms and suites with private baths. Lace curtains, hardwood floors, crocheted and homemade quilts adorn the antique filled rooms.
We are conveniently located in the Northeast Kingdom where you can visit 10 Historical Covered Bridges, Ride Vermont’s only Aerial Tram, Hike the Scenic Long Trail or Hazen’s Notch, and Cycle our Challenging Picturesque Mountain Roads. 195 Vermont Route 242 | Montgomery Center, Vermont 05471 | (802) 326-3232
www.englishroseinnvermont.com
priced | mcbcustom.com | We’re really digging the “local” movement that’s hit the industry, and most people overlook where their outerwear comes from. Well, we found a company located right in New Hampshire focused on making top-notch snowboarding gear. The company is called MCB Outerwear, and they guarantee their product for life, a great step in sustainability, too. Everything they make — from fleece to backpacks — comes hand-made and specifically tailored to each customer. The company was founded in 1995 in Montana, but they’ve since relocated to Thornton, NH. Hit the place up on your way to Waterville Valley, or check them out online.
Green WaX True universal PerFormance WaX | $8 | greenski-
wax.com | Speaking of sustainability, the latest is going green with your wax. After a day of shredding, it is the one thing that is undoubtedly left behind, ending up in the local
streams from the winter thaw. To solve that problem, Green Wax has developed a wax that is 100 percent petroleum and PFC free, made right here in the good old US of A. By the way, every new Bean snowboard comes freshly tuned with Green Wax, and many mountains have adopted it for their tuning shops. Go! PeeT shoe drYer | $39.95 | peetshoedryer.com | I got these two seasons ago, and in my opinion, they are the best pair of boot dryers on the market, hands down. The Go! Peet dryer uses UV light to destroy the funk and keep those boots dry, and having dry, stench-free boots is the first step in a keeping your ride comfy all day long. They even come with a car adapter, so you can start drying them on the ride home. Beard head vikinG comBo Beard haT | $54.99 | beardhead.com | Everyone needs some fun, and with the popularity of mustaches these days, the Beard Head line offers the freshest in headgear. They are sure to have your style (we’ve got the grandpa and the Viking), they’ll keep you warm, and they’ll always get a laugh. lYTro camera | $399 | lytro.com/camera | One thing that seems to be ubiquitous these days is cameras — they are everywhere and on every device. But this one, from Lytro, is special. The Lytro is a light-field camera, which means that it captures light from all the points in space traveling within the shot, or the entire light field — as opposed to your standard camera, which only captures a single plane of light. Translation: each picture has an infinite number of focal points. It is epic. Pair this with a Go Pro HD helmet cam, and you’ll capture every ridiculous Beard Head moment.^
Beard head viking ComBo Beard hat | $54.99
How do you “Wachusett”? “I Wachusett by …
“I Wachusett by …
not spending a million hours in the car driving further north!”
seeing the smile on my daughter’s face when we’re skiing together.”
“I Wachusett by …
“I Wachusett by …
renting a ‘slope skybox’ for a memorable special event”
enjoying the Nachos in the Black Diamond Restaurant.”
“I Wachusett by …
“I Wachusett by …
trying the latest gear in the MTNside Ski & Ride Demo Center.”
racing my buddy in the night race league!”
Tell us how you “Wachusett”!
Go to FACEBOOK/wawawachusett
Wachusett Village Inn AND CONFERENCE CENTER
499 Mountain Road Princeton, MA 01541 (800) SKI-1234 • (978) 464-2300
499 Mountain Road Princeton, MA 01541 (978) 464-2626
9 Village Inn Road Westminster, MA 01473 (800) 342-1905 • (978) 874-2000
Wachusett Mountain Ski Area operates in cooperation with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.
wachusett.com • mtnsideshop.com • wachusettvillageinn.com
16 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
d r a o b w o ski+sn tIngs tings and eventsi, For Complete ski lis go to thephoenix.Com/sk
MassacHusetts Berkshire east South River Rd, Charlemont, MA | 413.339.6617 | berkshireeast. com | A variety of family-friendly terrain located alongside the Deerfield River. Berkshire East has two full-service lodges, a ski school, racing, and tubing. VERTICAL DROP 1180 feet TRAILS 45 total; 30 percent novice, 35 percent intermediate, 35 percent expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS two surface lifts, one double chair, two triple chairs, one quad HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4:30 pm; weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4:30 pm; night skiing Wed through Sat 4 to 10 pm RATES weekdays $38, seniors $28; weekends and holidays adults $58, juniors/seniors $38, students $48; half-day afternoon adults $40, juniors/seniors $28, students $35; night $28 all ages RENTALS skis full-day $30, halfday $20, snowboards full-day $35, half-day $25 INSTRUCTION group lessons (ages eight and up) $30/hour; private lessons $60/hour, $30 per additional person Blandford ski area 41 Nye Brook Rd, Blandford, MA | 413.848.2860 | skiblandford.org | Operated by the Springfield Ski Club, 76-year-old Blandford is the oldest continuously run club-owned ski area in North America. VERTICAL DROP 465 feet TRAILS 22 total; six novice, 11 intermediate, five expert SNOWBOARDING two terrain parks SNOWMAKING 80 percent LIFTS three double chairs, one multi-lift, one magic carpet HOURS Fri through Sun 8:30 am to 4 pm, with night skiing in Jan and Feb RATES season passes $99 to $349. Individual day rates $15 to $45, based on skier’s age, holiday/ non-holiday, and area coverage RENTALS skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots $24 adults, $19 juniors; skis $15; snowboard $17; ski boots $7; snowboard boots $8; poles $3 INSTRUCTION group lessons members adults $29, juniors $23; guests adults $35, juniors $27; private lessons member $60, guest $65; $27 per additional member, $30 per additional guest Blue hills ski area 4001 Washington St, Canton, MA | 781.828.5070 | skibluehills.com | The closest thing to having a winter wonderland in your own backyard, the William F. Rogers Ski Slopes on Great Blue Hill are a city slicker’s best friend. If Mother Nature’s lagging, 90 percent of the 60 acres of terrain are covered by man-made snow, and more than half of the 12 trails are lit for night riding. There are separate areas for beginners, mid-tier skiers/boarders, and parks and pipes riders, as well as private and group lessons — everything you need to change your outlook on winter.
VERTICAL DROP 309 feet TRAILS 12 total; five novice, four intermediate, three expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 90 percent LIFTS double chair, magic carpet, wonder carpet and handle tow HOURS Mon through Wed 2 to 9 pm, Thurs through Sat 9 am to 9 pm, and Sun 9 am to 5 pm; hours vary on holidays and are subject to change; closed on Christmas Day RATES weekends $24 to $36, juniors $20 to $32, and weekdays $18 to $27, juniors $16 to $25 RENTALS skis, boots and pools or snowboard and boots $28, helmets $6.25 INSTRUCTION group or semi-private lessons $25, private lessons $60 ($32 per additional hour), children’s lessons $25 to $45 Bousquet ski area 101 Dan Fox Dr, Pittsfield, MA | 413.442.8316 | bousquets. com | Conveniently located Berkshires ski area with family-oriented activities and tubing. Child
care available. VERTICAL DROP 750 feet TRAILS 22 total, almost evenly divided between expert, intermediate and novice SNOWBOARDING terrain area SNOWMAKING 98 percent LIFTS two double chairs, three surface lifts HOURS Mon through Wed 9 am to 9 pm, Sun 9 am to 4 pm; hours vary on holidays and are subject to change RATES Mon through Fri $25, Sat and holidays $42; Mon through Sat nights $20, Thurs Night Owl special $15; snowtubing $15 for two hours RENTALS skis, boots and pools, snowboards and boots, or skiboards and boots $30; snowboard and ski boots only $15; poles or helmets only $7.50 INSTRUCTION private lessons $65/ hour, group lessons $35/hour, Kids All-Day program $75 for half day, $95 for full day; first-time package $65 for lift, lesson, and rentals
Jiminy Peak 37 Corey Rd, Hancock, MA | 413.738.5500 | jiminypeak.com | Call 413.738.7325 or 888.454.6469, or check Web site, for snow conditions. Amenities include a children’s center and a tavern. Also offers non-skiing activities like tubing and the Winter Mountain Coaster. VERTICAL DROP 1150 feet TRAILS 45 total, about one-quarter novice, half intermediate, one-quarter expert; 3 terrain parks, one small, two large; longest trail is 2 miles SNOWBOARDING three terrain parks (two big, one small), one glade trail, mogul runs SNOWMAKING 96 percent LIFTS one six-passenger high-speed, two quads, three triples, one double, two surface lifts HOURS Weekdays 9 am to 10 pm, weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 10 pm RATES Full day adults $61, teens $52, juniors/seniors $44; Half day adults $57, teens $48, juniors/seniors $40; twilight
THIS SECTION’S COVER IMAGE, AND THE ILLUSTRATIONS THAT APPEAR THROUGHOUT THE LISTINGS, WERE CREATED FOR THE phoenix By BOB MALONEy’S FALL 2011 ExPERIMENTAL ILLUSTRATION CLASS AT MASSART. SEE ALL OF THE ARTWORK AT THEPHOENIx.COM/SKI.
K ARL A CROW ELL
downHILL
LIs
hours $36-$42; holiday prices vary; Mountain Coaster $9/ ride, $7/ride with lift ticket RENTALS skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots full day $36, half day $33; helmets $10; wristguards free INSTRUCTION Group lessons start at $44 for $90 minutes; Beginner ski packages start at $74; private lessons start at $95, $70 per extra person nashoBa Valley ski area 79 Powers Rd, Westford, MA | 978.692.3033 | skinashoba.com | Nashoba Valley claims 17 trails (the number used to be higher), even though anyone standing and looking at the 240-foot hillside — roughly onethird the height of the Prudential Tower — would have trouble figuring out where some of them end and others begin. Still, it’s a learner’s paradise, with clearly demarcated areas for each skill level, serviced by their own lifts. That, the location, private and group lessons, and half-day as well as nighttime tickets make this one of the most convenient places around to learn how to ski or ride. Ski school, tubing park, and ski and snowboard shop at base. Call 800.400.7669 for snow conditions. VERTICAL DROP 240 feet TRAILS 17 total, three novice, eight intermediate, six expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS three triples, one double, three rope tows and two conveyors HOURS weekdays 9 am to 10 pm, and weekends 8:30 am to 10 pm RATES Weekdays $38, kids under 12 $36, kids under 5 $22; weekends and holidays adults $48, kids under 12 $46, kids under 5 $22; half-day and night skiing is discounted RENTALS skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots $32; demos $42; skis for children ages 5 and under $23; helmets $10 INSTRUCTION private lessons $90/ hour, $45 per additional person; group lessons $45/hour; rental and lesson packages and race training also available otis ridge Rte 23, Otis, MA | 413.269.4444 | otisridge.com | A familyfriendly ski area for beginners and first-timers. VERTICAL DROP 400 feet TRAILS 10 total; four novice, four intermediate, two expert SNOWBOARDING SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS double chair, t-bar, pony tow, camp tow and j-bar HOURS Weekdays 9:30 am to 4 pm; weekends and holidays 9 am to 4 pm; night skiing Wed through Sun 5 pm to 10 pm RATES Weekdays $20 adults, $15 beginners; weekends $30 adults, free for seniors, $15 beginners; Night skiing $15 adults, $15 beginners, seniors free RENTALS skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots $25 weekdays, $25 weekends and holidays; skis or snowboard only $15 weekdays, $20 weekends and holidays; poles only $7 INSTRUCTION private lessons $60/ hour, $35 per additional per-
son; group lessons $30 ski Bradford South Cross Rd, Haverhill, MA | 866.644.7669 | skibradford.com | Just minutes from Boston and the North Shore, Ski Bradford has an uphill capacity of 9600 skiers per hour. Lessons for all ages and abilities, racing, complete rental shop, full-service snack bar, large base lodge, ample parking, and more than 80 hours of operation per week. VERTICAL DROP 248 feet TRAILS 15 total: three beginner, four intermediate, eight expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park with jumps, rails, boxes, and events and competitions throughout the season SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS three triple chair lifts, one T-bar, and three rope tows HOURS weekdays 8:30 am to 6 pm; weekends, school vacation, and holidays 8:30 am to 4:30 pm; nights Monday through Saturday 6 to 10 pm RATES weekdays and twilight hours $30; nights $26; weekends $43; discounts for half days and learners RENTALS ski or snowboard package $30, $25 half day or night; juniors $22, $18 half day INSTRUCTION group lesson $25; private lesson $70 ski Butternut 380 State Rd, Great Barrington, MA | 413.528.2000 | skibutternut. com | Call 800.438.7669 or check Web site for snow conditions. Includes a children’s nursery, clubhouse with locker rooms and cafeteria, upper lodge, sun deck, and ski rental, repair and clothing shop. Also hosts a professional ski school and five-lane tubing center. Now offering private lessons for learning to ski on Telemark skis. VERTICAL DROP 1000 feet TRAILS 22 trails total, eight novice, eight intermediate, six expert SNOWBOARDING three terrain parks for different abilities with jumps, rails, boxes and pipes SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS three quads, four magic carpets, double, triple, power, tubing handle tow. HOURS Weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends and holidays 8:15 am to 4 pm, tubing center open Sat 10 am- 8 pm and Sun 10 am to 5 pm RATES Mon through Fri $25 adults, $20 juniors/seniors, $15 children; Sat through Sun $55 adults, $45 juniors/seniors, $20 children; student discounts available; tubing $18/ two hours any age RENTALS skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots $35 adults, $30 juniors, $20 children; helmets $10 INSTRUCTION group lessons $40 an skill level; private lessons $90/hour, $50 per additional person; private Telemark lesson $90/hour only by reservation ski Ward 1000 Main St, Shrewsbury, MA | 508.842.6346 | skiward.com | Located just minutes from major highways, Ski Ward is small but offers terrain for all abilities, a mogul field, a race facility, ski school, and an instructional terrain garden and learning pipe. VERTICAL DROP 220 feet
thephoenix.com/ski | supplement to the boston phoenix | ski + snowboard guide | november 11, 2011 17
MaIne
Big squaW mountain Rte 15, Greenville, ME | 207.695.1000 | bigsquawmountain.com | A scenic mountain resort in the Moosehead Lake Region with glades and trails designed by renowned trail designer Sel Hannah. VERTICAL DROP 1750 feet TRAILS 33 total; 33 percent novice, 33 percent intermediate, 34 percent expert SNOWBOARDING no terrain park, but snowboarders are welcome SNOWMAKING 70 percent LIFTS one triple chair, one double chair, one T-bar, and one pony lift HOURS Fri through Sun 9 am to 4 pm and during vacation weeks RATES adults $25, seniors over 69 and children under four ski free RENTALS ski or snowboard package $30 INSTRUCTION private lessons $30/ hour, group lessons $20/hour Bigrock 37 Graves Rd, Mars Hill, ME | 207.425.6711 | bigrockmaine.com | Established in 1960, Bigrock Ski Area was purchased in 2000 by the Maine Winter Sports Center. Steps have been taken to make this family-friendly ski area ideal for learners. Its projected opening day is December 11. VERTICAL DROP 980 feet TRAILS 27 trails: 15 percent novice, 63 percent intermediate, 22
Ski/Ride Day and Night
PATS PEAK
Discounts for Groups of 15+
POP SATURDAY NIGHTS: Skiing, Snowboarding, Tubing, Rentals, Lesson Tips, Entertainment & more from 3pm to 10pm starting Jan. 7th for just $43.
New Hampshire's Largest Night Skiing Facility! Only 90 minutes from Boston ni COLE COOg An
TRAILS 9 trails total; three novice, three intermediate, three expert SNOWBOARDING quarter-pipe and terrain garden with two rails, jump, box, tire bank, and cannon SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS two handle-pulls, t-bar, triple chair, tube lift HOURS weekdays 11 am to 9 pm; Sat and holidays 9 am to 9 pm; Sun 10 am to 5 pm RATES weekdays $25, $10 children 10 and under, $15 half-day (handle-pull only); weekends and holidays $40, $35 halfday, RENTALS skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots $30 weekdays, $35 weekends and holidays; helmets $10; discounts for military and seniors INSTRUCTION group lessons $35/ hour; private lessons $70/ hour, $50 per additional person; rental and lesson packages for beginner and intermediate skiers available Wachusett mountain 499 Mountain Rd, Princeton, MA | 978.464.2300 | wachusett.com | Wachusett Mountain is a decent place for beginners and intermediate skiers/riders alike. Granted, it also has a few black-diamond trails and a vertical of 1000 feet, but truth be told, its proximity is its greatest asset. Call 800.SKI.1234 for ski conditions. VERTICAL DROP 1000 feet TRAILS 22 trails total; 30 percent novice, 40 percent intermediate, 30 percent expert SNOWBOARDING snowboard-friendly resort with diverse terrain for all abilities SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS two high-speed quads, two triple chairs, three carpets, one pony lift HOURS weekdays 9 am to 10 pm, weekends 8 am to 10 pm RATES prime season weekdays adults $47, juniors/seniors $38, children $10; weekends adults $52, juniors/seniors $38, children $10. Peak season adults $53, juniors/seniors $42, children $15 RENTALS skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots fullday $32 adults, $26 juniors/ seniors, $20 children, $10 helmets; half-day $27 adults, $21 juniors/seniors, $15 children, $8 helmets; packages available INSTRUCTION group lessons $40160; private lessons $80/hour; semi-private $55/hour
percent expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 37 percent LIFTS one triple chair, one double chair, one poma lift, one carpet lift HOURS call for details RATES weekday, adults $25, juniors and seniors $20; weekends $30, $25 RENTALS ski and snowboard $20 INSTRUCTION group lessons $27, private lessons $20 Black mountain of maine 39 Glover Rd, Rumford, ME | 207.364.8977 | skiblackmountain.org | A family-oriented ski area with snow tubing and ski racing (classical, slalom, and freestyle) throughout the season. VERTICAL DROP 1150 feet TRAILS 20 trails: five novice, six intermediate, and nine expert SNOWBOARDING half-pipe and terrain park SNOWMAKING 90 percent LIFTS one T-bar, one handle tow, one double chair, and one triple chair HOURS daily 9 am to 4 pm RATES adults $34, juniors/seniors $29, under five and over 75 free RENTALS full day $8, half day $6 INSTRUCTION runs several children’s ski programs throughout the season; prices vary camden snoW BoWl Off Rte 1, Camden, ME | 207.236.3438 | camdensnowbowl.com | The ski area overlooks Penobscot Bay and includes areas to skate and tube slide, as well as a toboggan chute. VERTICAL DROP 850 feet TRAILS nine total; two novice, six intermediate, one expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 45 percent LIFTS two T-bars, one double chair, and one surface lift HOURS Wed through Fri 10 am to 8 pm, and Sat and Sun 9 am to 4 pm RATES weekdays $23 for adults, $21 for students, weekends $35 for adults, $26 for students. Half-day and night rates also available. RENTALS ski and board packages $26 INSTRUCTION $25/hour and a half for group lessons, $50/hour for private lessons hermon mountain 441 Newburg Rd, Hermon, ME | 207.848.5192 | skihermonmountain.com | Small, local mountain featuring a varied blend of slope difficulty. VERTICAL DROP 360 feet TRAILS 21 trails: 40 percent novice, 40 percent intermediate, 20 percent expert
SNOWBOARDING half pipe SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS one chair lift, two surface lifts HOURS Mon through Fri 3 to 9 pm; Sat and Sun 9 am to 4 pm RATES adults $25; juniors $20 RENTALS skis $20 adult, $14 juniors; snowboards $20 adults and juniors INSTRUCTION group lessons $15/90-minutes; private lessons $30/hour lost Valley 200 Lost Valley Rd, Auburn, ME | 207.784.1561 | lostvalleyski. com | With nearly 100 instructors, Lost Valley has one of the largest ski schools in Maine. The mountain is projected to open for the season on Dec 17. VERTICAL DROP 240 feet, with a NE exposure TRAILS 15; six novice, four intermediate, five expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS two double chairs, one T-bar HOURS Mon through Thurs 2 to 8:30 pm; Fri 10 am to 9 pm; Sat and holidays 9 am to 9 pm; Sun 10 am to 5 pm RATES weekdays, adults $24, juniors $22; weekends, adults $45, juniors $33 RENTALS ski or snowboard package $26 INSTRUCTION private lessons $70 or $81 with rentals, semi-private lessons $95 for two people and $25 for each additional person saddleBack ski and summer lake PreserVe Rte 4, Rangeley, ME | 207.864.5671 | saddlebackmaine. com | The 12,000-acre preserve includes Saddleback Mountain and Saddleback Lake. Glades and other “free” skiing opportunities challenge experts, but plenty of terrain is groomed and smooth for beginner and intermediate skiers. Backcountry cross-country trails available at no charge. Projected opening day is Dec 11. VERTICAL DROP 2000 feet TRAILS 66 trails and glades SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 85 percent LIFTS two quads, two double chairs, one T-bar HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm; weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES weekdays, $49, $10 seniors, children under six free; weekends, adults $59, juniors 7 through 18 and college students $49, seniors over 70 $10, children under six free RENTALS adult ski or snowboard
Continued on p 18
GET ON THE BUS
Henniker, NH
DIRECT FROM BRAINTREE, BOSTON & SALEM, NH
patspeak.com • 1-888-PATS PEAK
18 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
Free Hot Breakfast Indoor Heated Pool, Hot Tub and Sauna Free Wi-Fi Close to Several Ski and Snowboarding Mountains 51 Hannaford Square Bennington, VT 05201 P: 802.440.9862 F: 802.440.9864
ski. shred. Party. comPlete new england downhill + crosscountry ski guide.
trails, events, comPetitions, Parties, mobile, cross-country, downhill, aPrés-ski, weather conditions, real-time uPdates
The Chapman Inn is a delightfully quaint inn located in the heart of Bethel’s historic district, overlooking the town common.
2 Church Street PO Box 1067 Bethel, Maine 04217 207-824-2657 877-359-1498 FAX: 207-824-7152
We include our world famous full gourmet breakfast, as well as warm genuine hospitality with every stay.
At the Chapman Inn, you are not just a room number, but a real person with a real name, who deserves to be pampered
Follow Us
facebook.com/bostonphoenix
twitter.com/bostonphoenix
Mi C HE LLE ROBE RgE
Phoenix.com/ski
Continued from p 17
package $35, junior/senior ski or snowboard package $25 INSTRUCTION group lessons $69, private lessons $79/hour shaWnee Peak 119 Mountain Rd, Bridgton, ME | 207.647.8444 | shawneepeak.com | Offers top-to-bottom night skiing on 19 trails, plus one of the largest pipe/park combinations in New England. VERTICAL DROP 1300 feet TRAILS 44 total; 25 percent novice, 50 percent intermediate, 25 percent expert SNOWBOARDING half-pipe, two terrain parks, and grommetgarden beginner’s park, all equipped with night lighting SNOWMAKING 98 percent LIFTS one quad, two triple chairs, one double chair, one surface lift HOURS Mon 9 am to 9 pm; Tues through Thurs 9:30 am to 8 pm; Fri 9 am to 10 pm; Sat 8:30 am to 10 pm; and Sun 8:30 am to 4:30 pm RATES weekdays adults $39, juniors/seniors $32; weekends and holidays adults $56, juniors/seniors $42 RENTALS ski or snowboard package $34 INSTRUCTION semi-private lessons $50/hr, $60/90-min, $105/ three hours; private lessons $55/hour, $75/90 min, $135/ three hours; first-timer packages and kids’ programs also available sugarloaf 5092 Access Rd, Carrabassett Valley, Kingfield, ME | | sugarloaf. com | With the first double-blackdiamond trails in New England, Sugarloaf had an early lead carving a niche out for itself with the core winter-sports set. It’s a fun, challenging mountain with 54 miles of trails, three terrain parks, a superpipe, and separate snowboard-cross and skiercross courses designed by two-time Olympic snowboard-cross gold medalist Seth Wescott. Maine’s second-highest peak sees an average of 200 inches of snow each year and celebrates its 60th anniversary on January 8. VERTICAL DROP 2820 feet
TRAILS 139 total; 25 percent novice, 32 percent intermediate, 28 percent advanced, 15 percent very advanced SNOWBOARDING three terrain parks, one superpipe, one half-pipe, one snowboardcross course SNOWMAKING 95 percent LIFTS two superquads, two high capacity quads, one triple chair, eight double chairs, and two surface lifts HOURS weekdays 8:30 am to 3:50 pm; Sat and Sun opens at 8 am RATES regular season, adults $79, young adults $66, juniors/ seniors $55; RENTALS ski or snowboard package $39 adults, $26 juniors/seniors INSTRUCTION one-day first-timer’s ski or snowboard lesson $80, group lessons $35/90 min. Private lessons $100/hr between 10 am and 1 pm or $85/hr/person before 10 am or after 1 pm sunday riVer 15 South Ridge Rd, Newry, ME | 207.824.3000 | sundayriver. com | Sunday River offers skiers and snowboarders eight interconnected peaks featuring a hearty selection of double black diamonds and open bowls among its 132 trails and terrain parks, so you never have to ride the same run twice. The mountain has done a good job of clustering trails together by skill level, so you shouldn’t run across (or over) beginners while stomping through White Heat’s moguls or tackling Locke Mountain runs. Additionally, a superpipe and four terrain parks provide ample opportunity for trick riders to jib, bonk, and air to their hearts’ content. VERTICAL DROP 2340 feet TRAILS 131 total; 25 percent beginner, 35 percent intermediate, 40 percent novice SNOWBOARDING four terrain parks, a super-pipe, and a mini-pipe SNOWMAKING 92 percent LIFTS nine quad chairs (four highspeed detachables), four triple chairs, two double chairs, three surface lifts HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm,
and weekends 8 am to 4 pm; subject to change RATES adult $79; teen $67; junior/ senior $55 RENTALS ski or snowboard package $39 INSTRUCTION group lessons $35/90min; private lessons $85/hour titcomB mountain 180 Ski Slope Rd, Farmington, ME | 207.778.9031 | titcombmountain.com | Cross country trails for all levels of expertise on 16 kilometers of trails and alpine skiing with night skiing available on some days. VERTICAL DROP 350 feet TRAILS 17 trails: 24 percent novice, 29 percent intermediate, 47 percent expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 70 percent LIFTS two t-bars, one pony lift HOURS Mon, Tues, Thurs, and Fri 3 to 6 pm; Wed 3 to 8 pm; Sat 9 am to 6 pm; Sun 9 am to 4 pm RATES weekdays, adults and teens $15, juniors $12; weekends, adults $25, teens $22, juniors $20 RENTALS skis or snowboards, adults $18, juniors or seniors $15 INSTRUCTION private lessons $25; semi-private lessons $15
new HaMpsHIre
arroWhead 14 Robert Easter Way, Claremont, NH | 603.542.7016 | arrowheadnh.com | Arrowhead Recreation Area is jointly run by the city of Claremont and the Arrowhead Recreation Club. It offers day and night skiing and boarding, as well as tubing. VERTICAL DROP 1210 feet TRAILS nine trails: one novice, five intermediate, three expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING none, but infrastructure is being laid out for future snowmaking LIFTS three lifts HOURS Fri 6:30 to 9 pm, Sat 10 am to 4 pm and 6 to 9 pm, Sun 10 am to 4 pm RATES adults $8, juniors $6; night skiing $6, $4 RENTALS ski or snowboard $12 INSTRUCTION group lessons $11, private lessons $16
after 12:30 pm). Kids under six always ski free RENTALS ski or snowboard $30 adults, $24 juniors INSTRUCTION group lesson package $79 for adults, $69 for juniors (includes lift ticket and rentals); private lessons $55/hour; semi-private lessons $50/hour Bretton Woods Rte 302, Bretton Woods, NH | 800.314.1752 | brettonwoods.com | The Granite State’s largest ski area, historic Bretton Woods features four terrain parks and 101 trails on 434 acres, including intermittent tree runs and the Rosebrook Canyon Glades, a large free-riding area with patches of heavier maintenance than might typically be expected of “backcountry” terrain, although it still provides plenty of opportunities to sit in the back seat as you plow through the powder. Snowmaking covers 92 percent of the mountain, so you can ride morning, noon, and night whether Old Man Winter is doing his job or not. Season begins in midNovember. VERTICAL DROP 1500 feet TRAILS 101 total; 25 novice, 29 intermediate, 31 black diamond, 16 double diamond SNOWBOARDING four freestyle terrain parks SNOWMAKING 92 percent LIFTS five quads, two carpets, one double chair, one triple chair HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, and Sat and Sun 8 am to 4 pm; night skiing 4 to 9 pm on selected dates; subject to change RATES weekdays adults $70, teen $57, junior $43; weekends and holidays adults $78, teen $64, junior $49, senior $78 RENTALS adult package $41; seniors/juniors $30 INSTRUCTION group lessons $35/90 min, private lessons $85/hour cannon mountain 9 Franconia Notch, Franconia, NH | 603.823.7771 | cannonmt. com | Cannon Mountain was the site of the first passenger tramway in North America and is the home of the New England Ski Museum. Call 603.823.7771 for snow conditions. VERTICAL DROP 2180 feet TRAILS 75 total; 15 novice, 40 intermediate, 20 expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park open to skiers and riders
SNOWMAKING 97 percent LIFTS one tram, three quad chairs, three triple chairs, one wonder carpet, one rope tow HOURS Mon and Fri 9 am to 4 pm, weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4 pm, closed Tues through Thurs RATES regular season: adults $59, college/teen $49, juniors/ seniors $39; holiday: adults $64, college/teen $53, juniors/ seniors $42 RENTALS ski/snowboard rentals $41 for adults/teens/seniors, $30 for juniors INSTRUCTION group lessons $40, private lessons $50/hour cranmore mountain 1 Skimobile Rd, PO Box 1640, North Conway, NH | 800. SUN.NSKI | cranmore.com | This affordable resort tucked away in downtown North Conway offers more than 200 skiable acres, as well as seven dining options, kids’ programs, tubing, night skiing, and entertainment and special events all season long. Scheduled to open on Nov 26. VERTICAL DROP 1200 feet, with W, NW, and SW exposures TRAILS 43 total, with seven glades: 36 percent novice, 44 percent intermediate, 20 percent expert SNOWBOARDING freestyle terrain park with quarter-pipe SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS one quad, one triple chair, two double chairs, two carpets, one rope tow HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, Sat 8:30 am to 8 pm, and Sun 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES adult $59, teen $49, kids/ seniors $39 RENTALS ski and snowboard packages $35 adults, $32 youth INSTRUCTION group lessons $59 to $125, private lessons $75 to $225; prices vary by age and length crotched mountain 615 Francestown Rd, Bennington, NH | 603.588.3668 | crotchedmountain.com | Crotched Mountain has the highest snowproduction capacity per acre in New England and offers Midnight Madness skiing from 9 pm to 3 am on Fri and Sat nights VERTICAL DROP 875 feet TRAILS 17 total; 28 percent novice, 50 percent intermediate, 22 percent advanced
SNOWBOARDING Crotched Mountain Park is equipped with its own quad chair, and Zero-G terrain park features its own triple chair SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS two quads, one triple chair, one double chair, one magic carpet HOURS Mon 1 to 9 pm (9 am to 9 pm holidays), Tues through Sat 9 am to 9 pm; Sun 9 am to 5 pm. Midnight Madness begins Jan 1 RATES weekdays, adults $45, juniors/seniors $35; weekends, adults $54, juniors/ seniors $44. Midnight madness is $41
L Au REn M Ay
attitash mountain resort Rte 302, Bartlett, NH | 800.223.7669 | attitash. com | Attitash Mountain Resort and nearby Wildcat Mountain are now under the same ownership and offer two of New Hampshire’s larger ski areas for the price of one. Lift tickets are valid for use at both resorts and allow skiers and riders to enjoy the most vertical, value, and variety. Attitash Mountain Resort features some of New England’s most advanced snowmaking technology, excellent grooming, and après & on-snow events that are the essence of the skiing lifestyle. Call 877.677.7669 for snow conditions. VERTICAL DROP Attitash, 1750 feet; Bear Peak, 1450 feet TRAILS 77 total; 33 percent novice, 47 percent intermediate, 20 percent expert SNOWBOARDING the terrain park on Thad’s Choice has more than 1700 feet of ramps, table tops, huge air hits, rails, boxes, & jibs SNOWMAKING 98 percent LIFTS three quad lifts (two highspeed detachable), three triple lifts, three double lifts, and one surface lift HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES midweek adults $63, teens (13 through 18) $48, seniors (over 65) and juniors (6 through 12) $39; weekends/ holidays adults $70, teens $55, seniors and juniors $50; multi-day and military discount tickets also available; ages 5 and under free ticket when accompanied by adult/ guardian with valid ticket RENTALS skis and snowboard packages $36 INSTRUCTION private lessons $79 an hour, $20 per additional person; group lessons adults $35, full-day childrens programs $79, half-day $59; lesson and rental packages available Balsams Wilderness ski area 1000 Cold Spring Rd, Colebrook, NH | 800.255.0600 | thebalsams.com/skiing | This 15,000-acre resort in the Great North Woods has NASTAR facilities, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and a skating rink. Lifts are complimentary for registered guests. VERTICAL DROP 1000 feet TRAILS 16 total, plus five gladed areas; 25 percent novice, 50 percent intermediate, 25 percent expert SNOWBOARDING 16 total, plus five gladed areas; 25 novice, 50 intermediate, 25 expert SNOWMAKING 80 percent LIFTS two triple chairs, one double chair, one rope tow HOURS weekdays 9:30 am to 4 pm; weekends and holidays 9 am to 4 pm RATES midweek $40 adults; junior/senior $30; weekends and holidays $45 adults; $35 junior/senior RENTALS ski or snowboard package $35 INSTRUCTION group lessons $45/90 min, private lessons $70/hour Black mountain 373 Black Mountain Rd, Jackson, NH | 800.698.4490 | blackmt.com | A family-friendly ski area located in the Mount Washington Valley with activities, racing, and special events throughout the season. Call 800.475.4669 for snow conditions. VERTICAL DROP 1100 feet TRAILS 44 trails and glades; 34 percent novice, 32 percent intermediate, 34 percent expert SNOWBOARDING half-pipe and two terrain parks SNOWMAKING 98 percent LIFTS one triple, one double, one platter-pull, one J-bar HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES weekdays, adults $35 and juniors/seniors $25 ($5 off after 12:30 pm); weekends, adults $45, juniors/seniors/ students $30 (33 percent off
ROBE Rt Mu L AK
thephoenix.com/ski | supplement to the boston phoenix | ski+ snowboard guide | november 11, 2011 19
RENTALS $29/day INSTRUCTION group lessons $29, private lessons $70/hour gunstock 719 Cherry Valley Rd, Gilford, NH | 603.293.4341 | gunstock.com | Located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Gunstock has scenic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the third-longest lift in the state. The Panorama High Speed Quad takes skiers over a mile to 1400 vertical feet in only six minutes. Tubing park has five chutes and is serviced by a hand tow lift. Backcountry cross-country ski tours and clinics offered throughout the season, as well as skijoring (cross-country skiing with your dog). The tentative opening date is Dec 3. VERTICAL DROP 1400 feet TRAILS 55 total, 12 percent novice, 61 percent intermediate, 27 percent expert; night skiing includes 21 trails and five lifts SNOWBOARDING all trails, freestyle terrain park, and wall SNOWMAKING 90 percent LIFTS one high-speed quad, two quads, two triples, one double, one conveyor, one handle tow HOURS Mon 9 am to 4 pm; Tues through Thurs 9 am to 9 pm; Fri 9 am to 10 pm; Sat 8:30 am to 10 pm; Sun 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES weekdays adults $63, teens $50, children/seniors $36; weekends and holidays adults $72, teens $59, children/seniors $46; night and half-day skiing prices are discounted; Mon tickets are two-for-one RENTALS ski/snowboard packages adults/teens $38, children/ seniors $30; ski boots only $20; snowboard boots only $20; skis only $28; poles only $5; helmets $10 INSTRUCTION group day programs $75 to $95; private lessons $65/ hour; semi-private (two person) lessons $120/hour king Pine 1251 Eaton Rd, Madison, NH | 603.367.8896 | kingpine.com | King Pine’s gentle terrain is ideal for children and beginners, but thrill-seekers can ski “Pitch Pine,” one of New England’s steepest trails. Area includes a skating rink, indoor pool, nursery, tubing area, and fitness complex. The Nordic Center at King Pine features scenic trails on the
grounds of Purity Spring Resort and through the pines of the New Hampshire Audubon Sanctuary. Opening day is Dec 10. VERTICAL DROP 350 feet TRAILS 17 total; 44 percent novice, 31 percent intermediate, 25 percent expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS three triple chairs, two rope tows, one magic carpet lift HOURS Mon, Wed, and Thurs 9 am to 4 pm; Tues and Fri 9 am to 9 pm; Sat 8:30 am to 9 pm; Sun 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES adults $47; juniors/seniors $33; children 5 and under free; beginner lifts adults $35, juniors/seniors $22 RENTALS adults $34, juniors under 13 $26, children under six $16; snowboard package $34; halfday rentals available INSTRUCTION group lessons $76 adults, $66 juniors; private lessons $68/hour, $28 per additional person loon mountain 60 Loon Mountain Rd, Lincoln, NH | 603.745.8111 | loonmtn.com | Call 603.745.8100 for snow conditions. The resort is located in the White Mountain National Forest. Season scheduled to begin on Nov 19.Loon’s Nordic and Adventure Center also hosts snowshoeing, ice-skating, indoor climbing, workshops, and Nordic rental/ trail/lesson packages. VERTICAL DROP 2100 feet TRAILS 55 total; 20 percent novice, 53 percent intermediate, 27 percent expert SNOWBOARDING six terrain parks, a 18’ Superpipe, and a mini-pipe SNOWMAKING 97 percent LIFTS one gondala, three highspeed quads, one fixed-grip quad, one triple chair, three double chairs, two carpet lifts, and one handle tow HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm; weekends and holidays 8 am to 4 pm RATES check website or call for details RENTALS check website or call for details INSTRUCTION check website or call for details mcintyre ski area 50 Chalet Way, Manchester, NH | 603.622.6159 | mcintyreskiarea.com | Offering a beginner-friendly trail selection and a wide range of lesson opportunities. VERTICAL DROP 169 feet TRAILS seven trails: six novice, one intermediate SNOWBOARDING two terrain parks SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS two chair lifts HOURS weekdays 10 am to 9:30 pm, Sat and vacation weeks 9 am to 9:30 pm, Sun 9 am to 5:30 pm RATES weekdays, adults and juniors $22; weekends and holidays, adults $32, juniors $28 RENTALS weekdays, adult ski package $20, juniors $16; snowboards $28, juniors $26; weekends skis $24, $20; snowboards $30, $28 INSTRUCTION call for details mount sunaPee 1398 Rte. 103, Newbury, NH | 603.763.3500 | mtsunapee. com/mtsunapeewinter/index.asp | A family-owned and operated resort in southern New Hampshire. Season runs from late November to mid-April. Call 603.763.4020 for snow conditions. VERTICAL DROP 1510 feet TRAILS 65 total; 17 novice, 32 intermediate, 16 exper SNOWBOARDING three terrain parks SNOWMAKING 97 percent LIFTS three quads (one highspeed), two triple chairs, one double chair, three carpet lifts, and two surface lifts HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm; weekends and holidays 8 am to 4 pm; half day starts at noon RATES weekdays adults $68, young adults $54, juniors/seniors $44; weekends and holidays
Continued on p 21
Grab Gear! Get Deals! Have Fun! presented by
NOV Seaport World Trade Center DAY! 10-13 One Seaport Lane, Boston
Thur: 3pm-10pm • Fri: 10am-10pm Sat: 10am-8pm • Sun: 10am-6pm
VETERANS
Lots to See & Do!
&
PRESENT
Boston’s b S k i & S n o wi g g e s t board
SALE
One Year Subscription to SKI or TRANSWORLD SNOWBOARDING + a $10 Gift&Card With paid admission.Restrictions apply.
PRESENT
• Uncle E’s Interactive Fun & Games • ELITEAM Family Fitness Challenge • Fall Brawl Street Comp • Skyriders Freestyle Aerial Demo • Stowe Kids’ Play Learning Center • Slackline Interactive Skill Center • Manufacturer, Resort & Travel Reps
2
$
OFF ADMISSION with this ad. One per person. Cash only. Kids under 12 FREE.
Save ONLINE by using promo code PHNX when you pre-purchase your tickets. For more info log on to OnTheSnow.com
Scan the code at right with your cell phone for more information
Boston’s b iggesfun most Ski & SThe nowboardt you can have without your lift ticket on!
S
BEWI Productions, Inc. For exhibit info: 781.890.3234 • bewisports.com
K ATE LYN COME AU
thephoenix.com/ski | supplement to the boston phoenix | ski + snowboard guide | november 11, 2011 21
Continued from p 19
adults $72, young adults $58, juniors/seniors $46; half-day and South Peak only tickets available RENTALS skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots adults $40, juniors $28; skis or snowboard adults $32, juniors $21; poles $8; snowboard boots $18; helmets adult $10, juniors $8; Telemark skis available INSTRUCTION private lessons $95/ hour, children aged 3-4 $65; group lessons adults $45/ hour, children’s vary by age and ability Pat’s Peak 686 Flanders Rd, Henniker, NH | 603.428.3245 | patspeak.com | Call 888.728.7732 for snow conditions. Offers child care and kids’ programs, snowtubing, and aprèsski entertainment. VERTICAL DROP 710 feet TRAILS 22 total and six glades; 11 novice, four intermediate, seven advanced/expert SNOWBOARDING “Turbulence Park” terrain park, freestyle terrain park SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS two triple chairs, three double chairs, two carpet lifts, two handle tows and one J-bar lift HOURS daily 8:30 am to 4 pm until Dec 24; hours extended after the holiday and vary throughout the season RATES weekdays adults $44, youth $41; weekends and holidays adults $56, youth $48 RENTALS skis, boots and poles or snowboard and boots adults $36, juniors/seniors $32, children $24; premium equipment $46 INSTRUCTION group lessons $30; private lessons $75/hour Ragged Mountain 620 Ragged Mountain Rd, Danbury, NH | 603.768.3600 | raggedmountainresort.com | Call 603.768.3971 for snow conditions. Out-of-bounds skiing is available if natural snowfall permits. Season open Nov 26. VERTICAL DROP 1250 feet TRAILS 45 total; 30 percent novice,
40 percent intermediate, 30 percent expert SNOWBOARDING four terrain parks, including a “learn to slide” beginners park SNOWMAKING 84 percent LIFTS one high-speed summit sixpack express, two triples, one double, one surface lift HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm; weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES weekdays adults $58, teens $44, juniors/seniors 65+ $34, seniors 75+ $24; weekends and holidays adults $68, teens $54, juniors/seniors 65+ $44, seniors 75+ $34; half day tickets available RENTALS ski and snowboard packages adults $39, juniors $29; half-day ski or board $29; helmets $10 INSTRUCTION private lessons weekdays and Sun $69/hour, Sat and holidays $79/hour; $29 per additional person; group lessons start at $39 WateRville valley 1 Ski Area Rd, Waterville Valley, NH | 1.800.468.2553 | waterville.com | Waterville is a readily accessible mountain that provides exceptional bang for your buck. Its 52 trails span 259 acres — all of which are covered by snow guns — and include terrain parks, a superpipe, and tree skiing. The two double-black-diamond trails here are mogul runs. Opens for the season on Nov 20. Call 603.236.4144 for snow conditions. VERTICAL DROP 2020 feet TRAILS 52 total; 20 percent novice, 60 percent intermediate, 20 percent expert; intermediate and expert glades and mogul runs SNOWBOARDING terrain park and superpipe SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS two high-speed quads, two triples, three doubles, five surface lifts HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, and weekends 8 am to 4 pm RATES adults $69; teens $59; youth/seniors $45; Sun kids under 12 ski free; Mon and Fri tickets 2-for-1
RENTALS ski and snowboard packages adults $42, juniors $35, children under 6 $29; helmets $13 INSTRUCTION group lessons $42; “Learn to Ski/Ride Program” $75/day; private lessons peak $99/hour, off-peak $85/hour Whaleback ski aRea 160 Whaleback Mountain Rd, Enfield, NH | 603.448.1489 | whaleback.com | This mountain focuses on extreme sports and offers night skiing, programs, camps, and events. They have a pub at the base. VERTICAL DROP 700 feet TRAILS 30 total; 60 percent or more are novice and intermediate; 21 trails equipped for night skiing SNOWBOARDING two terrain parks SNOWMAKING 85 percent LIFTS one double chair, one magic carpet and 3 surface lifts HOURS weekdays 1 to 8 pm, Sat 9 am to 8 pm, Sun 9 am to 4 pm RATES weekdays $20, last two hours only $15; weekends and holidays adults $40, youth $30, children/seniors $25, last two hours only $15; half-day tickets available RENTALS ski and snowboard packages adults $30, youth/seniors $25; boots only $20; skis and poles or snowboard only $20; helmets $10 INSTRUCTION group lessons adults $29, youth $24; private lessons $65, $25 per additional person; lesson and rental packages available Wildcat Mountain Rte 16 , Pinkham Notch, Gorham, NH | 603.466.3326 | skiwildcat.com | Wildcat Mountain is 100% within the White Mountain National Forest across from Mount Washington and features legendary scenery, longer trails, and a season that goes well in to spring. Now under the same ownership as nearby Attitash Mountain Resort, lift tickets are valid for use at both resorts and allow skiers and riders to enjoy the most vertical, value, and variety. Call 1-888-SKI-WILD for snow conditions.
Continued on p 23
Enjoy lodging and fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere of casual elegance. Discover all a Vermont Winter has to offer.
Our 1847 Historic Inn has 16 guestrooms in 3 buildings, many with fireplaces and 2 person jacuzzi’s. The Chef /Owner offers a contemporary American menu & extensive wine list. Executive retreats, destination weddings & rehearsal dinners a specialty. 3904 Route 7A Arlington VT 05250 Arlingtoninn.com (802)375-6532
Alpine Skiing
g SnowboArdin
XC Skiing
ubing Snowt
oeing SnowSh
iCe SkAting
Sleigh rideS
Free leArn to Ski & SnowboArd leSSonS ...All SeASon long! It’s simple. Just purchase rentals and a beginner lift ticket at our regular price and we’ll include a group lesson for FREE ($29 value)! 8 Visit kingpine.com/learn for details! Just 15 minutes south of Conway on route 153 King Pine Ski Area & Purity Spring Resort KingPine.com
PuritySpring.com
Route 153, East Madison, NH
(800) 373-3754
TWO MOUNTAINS ONE TICKET Attitash Mountain Resort and Wildcat Mountain, two of New Hampshire’s larger ski resorts located just 20 minutes away from one another, offer lift tickets, season passes and savings valid at both. Combine Wildcat Mountain’s high-elevation snow, scenery and location 100% within the White Mountain National Forest with Attitash Mountain Resort’s advanced snowmaking, grooming, events, slopeside lodging and area nightlife, and rediscover the White Mountains this winter. VALUE, VARIETY & VERTICAL IN THE MOUNT WASHINGTON VALLEY
Route 302 Bartlett, NH 800.223.SNOW attitash.com
Route 16 Pinkham Notch, NH 888.SKI.WILD skiwildcat.com
Continued from p 21
VERTICAL DROP 2112 feet TRAILS 49 total: 25 percent novice, 45 percent intermediate, 30 percent expert SNOWBOARDING progression terrain park with snow elements, rails, & boxes SNOWMAKING 90 percent coverage LIFTS one high-speed detachable summit quad, three triples HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm; weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES midweek adults $63, teens (13 through 18) $48, seniors (over 65) and juniors (6 through 12) $39; weekends/ holidays adults $70, teens $55, seniors and juniors $50; multi-day and military discount tickets also available; ages 5 and under free ticket when accompanied by adult/ guardian with valid ticket RENTALS ski and snowboard packages $35 INSTRUCTION private lessons $69 an hour, $20 per additional person; group lessons adults $35, full-day childrens programs $89, half-day $69; lesson and rental packages available
Vermont
ascutney Mountain ResoRt 449 Ski Tow Rd, Brownsville, VT | 802.484.7000 | ascutney.com | Includes an indoor sports center, ice skating, and tubing. The mountain also has nine Double Diamond slopes and the highest percent snow coverage in the state. VERTICAL DROP 1800 feet TRAILS 57 total; 30 percent novice, 40 percent intermediate, 30 percent expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park and half-pipe SNOWMAKING 95 percent LIFTS one quad, three triple chairs, one double chair, one magic-carpet surface lift HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES weekends $62, juniors and seniors $45; midweek $60 and $44 RENTALS ski or snowboard packages $35 INSTRUCTION two-hour group lessons $38, one-hour private lessons $85 bolton valley | 877.9BO.LTON | boltonvalley.com | This full-service resort offers child care, dining, a sports center, and evening activities. VERTICAL DROP 1704 feet TRAILS 64 total; 27 percent novice, 47 percent intermediate, 26 percent expert SNOWBOARDING three terrain parks SNOWMAKING 60 percent LIFTS two quad lifts, three double chairs, one surface lift HOURS Mon through Tues 9 am to 4 pm; Wed through Fri 9 am to 8 pm; Sat 8:30 am to 8 pm; Sun 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES weekends $64, juniors and seniors $54; midweek $54 and $44 RENTALS adult ski or snowboard package $40, junior ski or snowboard package $29 INSTRUCTION call for details bRoMley Mountain 1-63 Bromley Lodge Rd, Peru, VT | 802.824.5522 | bromley.com | A family friendly resort with varied terrain and lots of sunshine. VERTICAL DROP 1334 feet TRAILS 43 trails and glades; 12 novice, 16 intermediate, 11 expert, four glades SNOWBOARDING three freestyle terrain parks and half-pipe SNOWMAKING 84 percent LIFTS two quad chairs, four double chairs, two Mitey-Mites, one T-bar HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES midweek adults and teens $49, junior $39; weekend adults $65, teens $55, juniors $39; holiday adults $69, teens $59, juniors $45; non-holiday Sunday specials available RENTALS skis and snowboards $44, $34 for juniors INSTRUCTION group lessons $49/90-
min, private lessons $89/hour buRke Mountain 223 Sherburne Lodge Rd, East Burke, VT | 802.626.7300 | skiburke.com | Offers dining, shopping, and entertainment. The mid-Burke lodge and the Willougby and Poma lifts are slated to open on Dec 12. All other services will open on Dec 19. VERTICAL DROP 2011 feet TRAILS 45 trails and glades on 250 skiable acres; 25 percent novice, 45 percent intermediate, 30 percent expert SNOWBOARDING four terrain parks; all trails but one are snowboard-friendly SNOWMAKING 80 percent LIFTS one high-speed quad chair, one fixed-grip quad, one J-bar, one POMA surface lift HOURS daily 9 am to 4 pm RATES adults $68, students/ juniors $51, seniors $53; holiday periods $70, $56, and $54 RENTALS adult ski or snowboard package $35, juniors $28 INSTRUCTION private lessons $75/ first hour Jay Peak 4850 VT Route 242, North Troy, VT | 617.629.5383 | jaypeakresort.com | Less than seven miles from the Canadian border, Jay Peak offers more than 100 acres of off-piste terrain, the most in New England. An average annual snowfall of 379 inches makes a true backcountry riding experience possible, and it will only take one run bombing through the trees to understand why it’s far superior to carving S’s among the masses on any trail. Another defining feature: Jay Peak has Vermont’s only aerial tramway. Absolutely worth the drive, and easy to roll into a road trip to Montreal. The projected opening date is Nov 26. VERTICAL DROP 2153 feet TRAILS 76 trails, glades, and chutes; 20 percent novice, 40 percent intermediate, 40 percent expert SNOWBOARDING four terrain parks and a half-pipe SNOWMAKING 80 percent LIFTS one 60-passenger tram, three quad chairs, one triple chair, one double chair, one T-bar, one moving carpet for beginners HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES adults $75, juniors $55, senior $35, toddler $16 RENTALS ski or snowboard packages $45 for adults, $35 for juniors INSTRUCTION private lessons $75 per hour; call for details about group lessons killington 4763 Killington Rd, Killington, VT | 802.422.6200 | killington.com | Killington Mountain Resort and Ski Area, the largest winter-sports complex on the East Coast, boasts more than 87 miles of trails serviced by the region’s highest-capacity lift system, so you’ll spend more time on the slopes than in line for the gondola. With five ski and snowboard terrain parks — one of which is the largest snowboard park in the northeast — and double black diamonds including the steepest mogul run in New England, Killington is a proving ground, as the annual rotation of contests the mountain hosts attests. One of them, the Winter Dew Tour, stops by on January 20–23. It’s usually the first mountain open in the fall and the last one to close in the spring. VERTICAL DROP 3050 feet TRAILS 140 total; 28 percent novice, 33 percent intermediate, 39 percent expert SNOWBOARDING three terrain parks and a 430-foot superpipe SNOWMAKING 80 percent LIFTS nine quads (five are highspeed), two gondolas, six surface lifts, three triple chairs, two double chairs HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends 8 am to 4 pm (subject to change) RATES adults $86 on peak days and weekend, $79 midweek; young adults/seniors $73, $67; juniors/super seniors (70+) $60, $55 RENTALS skis or board $39, $43 peak days; juniors/seniors
L AND EN ARCHIBA LD MOT YK A
thephoenix.com/ski | supplement to the boston phoenix | ski + snowboard guide | november 11, 2011 23
$26; $29 peak days INSTRUCTION private and group lessons available; cost varies on time of day and season Mad RiveR glen 62 Mad River Resort Rd, Waitsfield, VT | 802.496.3551 | madriverglen.com | This ski area at General Stark Mountain offers varied terrain and the country’s last surviving single chairlift. VERTICAL DROP 2037 feet TRAILS 45 total: 30% novice, 30% intermediate, 40% expert SNOWBOARDING no snowboarders allowed SNOWMAKING 15 percent, but the area gets plenty of natural snow LIFTS three double chairs, one single chair, one handle tow HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES midweek $45; weekends adults $66, juniors and seniors $50; holidays adults $70, juniors and seniors $57 RENTALS ski packages $30, juniors $25 INSTRUCTION private lessons $65, semi-private lessons (four people) $160 for two hours Magic Mountain 495 Magic Mountain Access Rd, Londonderry, VT | 802.824.5645 | magicmtn.com | This area is known for its steep and challenging terrain, but beginners will find easier slopes on the mountain’s east side. VERTICAL DROP 1700 feet TRAILS 40 total; 33 percent beginner, 30 percent intermediate, 37 percent expert SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 70 percent LIFTS two double chair, two surface lifts HOURS Fri and Mon 9 am to 4 pm,
Sat and Sun 8 am to 4 pm RATES weekday lifts, $39 adults, $35 teens, $25 juniors/seniors; weekends and holidays, $59 adults, $51 teens, $39 juniors/seniors RENTALS ski or snowboard package $35, $25 juniors INSTRUCTION private lesson $105 for two hour lesson, group lessons $40 for two hours Mount snoW 39 Mount Snow Rd, West Dover, VT | 800.245.SNOW | mountsnow.com | Mount Snow includes four mountain areas: Main Mountain, North Face, Carinthia, and Sunbrook. VERTICAL DROP 1700 feet TRAILS 80 total, including tree terrain: 15 percent novice, 70 percent intermediate, 15 percent expert SNOWBOARDING 12 terrain parks, one superpipe, one mini-pipe SNOWMAKING 80 percent LIFTS 20 total, including three high-speed quad chairs, one fixed quad chair, seven triple chairs, four double chairs, one rope tow, four magic carpets HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends 8 am to 4 pm RATES weekends and holidays, adults $83, youth and seniors $65; weekdays $75 and $58 RENTALS adults $39, juniors $30 INSTRUCTION group lessons $48, private lessons $105 per hour okeMo 77 Okemo Ridge Rd, Ludlow, VT | 802.228.4041 | okemo.com | Family ski area with day care and extensive children’s ski programs. Season begins in mid November. VERTICAL DROP 2200 feet TRAILS 119 total; 32 percent novice, 36 percent intermediate, 32 percent expert SNOWBOARDING six terrain parks,
one super-pipe, and one minihalf-pipe SNOWMAKING 96 percent LIFTS nine quad chairs (five highspeed detachables), three triple chairs, seven surface lifts HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, and weekends 8 am to 4 pm RATES weekdays adults $77, teens and seniors $67, juniors and super seniors $52; weekends $84, $74, $57 RENTALS ski or board package $40 for adults, $29 juniors INSTRUCTION group lessons $55, private lessons $110 Pico 73 Alpine Dr, Killington, VT | 802.422.6200 | picomountain.com | Also offers explorer and mountaineer programs. Season opens December 16 and runs through late March. VERTICAL DROP 1967 feet TRAILS 52 total: 19 percent novice, 46 percent intermediate, 35 percent expert SNOWBOARDING half-pipe and alpine park SNOWMAKING 75 percent LIFTS two quads, two triple chairs, two double chairs, one rope tow HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, and weekends 8 am to 4 pm RATES midweek adults $49, teens and seniors $42, juniors $34; weekends $62, $53; peak period $65, $55 RENTALS adults $35, teens and seniors $28, juniors and super seniors $24 INSTRUCTION half day group lesson $44, peak $49; one-hour private lesson $94 Quechee ski hill 3268 Quechee Main St, Quechee, VT | 802.295.9356 | quecheeclub.com | Set to open on Dec 17, weather permitting. VERTICAL DROP 650 feet
TRAILS 12 trails; 40 percent novice, 50 percent intermediate, 10 percent expert SNOWBOARDING none, but snowboarders are welcome to use downhill trails and terrain park SNOWMAKING 100 percent LIFTS one chair, one T-bar, one handle tow, one double chair HOURS daily 9 am to 4 pm RATES adults $40, children $34; Sun mornings, $34, $28 RENTALS skis or snowboards $32.95, children $24.95 INSTRUCTION group lessons $69, private lessons $94 sMuggleRs’ notch 4323 Vermont Route 108 South, Jeffersonville, VT | 802.644.8851 | smuggs.com | The trail system extends over Morse, Madonna, and Sterling Mountains. Telemarking and snowshoe tours and rentals available. VERTICAL DROP 2610 feet TRAILS 78 total; 19 percent novice, 50 percent intermediate, 31 percent expert SNOWBOARDING four terrain parks, for skiers too SNOWMAKING 62 percent LIFTS six double chairs, two surface lifts HOURS weekdays 8:30 am to 4 pm, weekends 8 am to 4 pm RATES adults $66, juniors and seniors $52; under five and super seniors free RENTALS adults $46, juniors $37 INSTRUCTION group lessons $45 for afternoons and $65 for mornings, private lessons $95 for peak times, $75 for off-peak times stoWe Mountain ResoRt 5781 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT | 800.253.4754 | stowe.com | The resort boasts 485 skiable acres and 39 total miles of skiing, as well as resort vacation packages and dog-sledding tours. And its lodge was recently named by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the ten best hotels in the world. VERTICAL DROP 2160 feet TRAILS 116 total; 16 percent novice, 59 percent intermediate, 25 percent expert SNOWBOARDING beginner park, mini-park, advanced-terrain park, and super-pipe SNOWMAKING 80 percent LIFTS 13 total: one 10-person highspeed gondola, one eight-passenger gondola, three highspeed quad chairs, two triple chairs, four double chairs, and two surface lifts HOURS daily 8 am to 4 pm RATES during prime season adults $84, seniors $73, juniors $63; during peak season $89, $77, $66; early/late season $59, $58, $48 RENTALS adults $43, children $34 INSTRUCTION group lessons $46 for weekdays, $64 for weekends and holidays, private lessons $105/hour weekdays, $145 weekends and holidays stRatton ski and suMMeR ResoRt Rte 30, Bondville, VT | 800.787.2886 | stratton.com | This family-friendly resort boasts nearly 600 acres of skiing and riding with a sports center, spa, and slopeside village. Seasons opens late November. VERTICAL DROP 2003 feet TRAILS 92 total; 42 percent novice, 31 percent intermediate, 27 percent expert SNOWBOARDING four terrain parks and a half-pipe SNOWMAKING 90 percent LIFTS one gondola, four high-speed six-passenger lifts, three quad chairs, one triple chair, one double chair, two surface lifts, four magic carpets HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, and weekends 8:30 am to 4 pm RATES midweek adults $72, teens and seniors $63, juniors and super seniors $56; weekends $82, $69, $59 RENTALS midweek $34; weekends $40 INSTRUCTION group lessons $49-59, private lessons $89 to $109 per hour, depending on day sugaRbush ResoRt 64 Gate House Ln, Warren, VT | 800.53.SUGAR | sugarbush.com | Skiing on six mountain peaks, all within Sugarbush North
Continued on p 24
24 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
Eastern Inter-Club Ski League
Do you love to ski & board? Join one of our 23 clubs to receive all of our benefits. • Recreational skiing and boarding for all abilities • Racing for all abilities of skiers and boarders • Reasonably priced year-round lodging at ski club facilities • Memberships available for singles, couples and families • Discount lift tickets at many NH, ME and VT areas. • Low cost ski trip packages for different resorts every year • Member discounts on food, clothing and equipment • Year-round sports and social activities • Non-profit Organization Contact us to schedule a visit to a club and ski and board with us. Membership events held in the Boston area. Fill out the membership inquiry form on our web site and our clubs will be in touch with you.
and South. VERTICAL DROP 2600 feet TRAILS 111 total; 20 novice, 45 intermediate, 35 expert SNOWBOARDING three terrain parks and a regulation half-pipe SNOWMAKING 70 percent LIFTS seven quad chairs, two triple chairs, four double chairs, three surface lifts HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, and weekends 8 am to 4 pm RATES call for details RENTALS call for details INSTRUCTION rates vary by time of day, date, hours of lessons, and age suicide six 247 Stage Rd, South Pomfret, VT | 802.457.6661 | suicide6.com | Includes a cross-country ski area and sports center with pool, indoor tennis, squash courts, and Swedish massage. Suicide Six and the Woodstock Ski Touring Center are both part of the Woodstock Inn and Resort. VERTICAL DROP 650 feet TRAILS 23 total; 30 percent beginner, 40 percent intermediate, 30 percent advanced SNOWBOARDING terrain park SNOWMAKING 50 percent LIFTS two double chairs, one J-bar HOURS daily 9 am to 4 pm RATES call for details RENTALS call for details INSTRUCTION call for details
crosscountry
for more information:
massachusetts
www.SkiClubsNH.org www.eicsl.org Phoenix Ad - 2011.indd 1
Continued from p 23
9/12/11 5:48 PM
noRthfield Mountain cRoss-countRy ski aRea Rte 63 , Northfield, MA | 800.859.2960 | firstlightpower.com/northfield/ccski.asp | Trails for both classical and freestyle Nordic skiing, ranging from beginner level to a challenging 800-foot vertical climb. HOURS Wed through Sun, 9 am to 4:30 pm; weather permitting INSTRUCTION available in group or private setting; reservations required. Combo packages and season passes available TRAILS 25+ miles of groomed and tracked carriage trails RATES daily trail fees $12 adults, $11 seniors, $6 juniors, free for those under seven and over 70; after 1:30 pm, $10 adults, $9 seniors, $4 juniors RENTALS $14 for adults, $9 for juniors; after 1:30, $12, $7 for juniors
maine
sugaRloaf outdooR centeR | 207.237.2000 | sugarloaf.com | In addition to skiing, there’s an Olympicsize skating rink, a barbecue, and a sun deck. HOURS Sun through Fri 9 am to 5 pm, Sat and holidays 9 am to 8 pm INSTRUCTION check online or call for details TRAILS 90 km of marked, maintained and patrolled trails RATES check online or call for details RENTALS check online or call for details sunday RiveR xc ski centeR 23 Skiway Rd, Newry, ME | 207.824.3000 | sundayriver.com | Features a 40 kilometer network trails for beginner to experienced skiers that wind through the woods, past picnic sites and a covered bridge. Also offers night skiing and snowshoeing for groups of eight or more, by reservation. HOURS weekdays 9 am to 5 pm, weekends 8 am to 5 pm INSTRUCTION 1.5 hr group clinic $30 adult/teen, $25 junior/senior; 1 hr private clinic $50 TRAILS 40 km, all groomed with tracks, some have skating lanes RATES full day adults $16, teens $12, juniors/seniors $8; half day $12, $10, $6 RENTALS full day adults/teens $20, juniors/seniors $14 titcoMb Mountain 180 Ski Slope Rd,
Farmington, ME | 207.778.9031 | titcombmountain.com | Cross-country trails for all levels of expertise on 16 kilometers of trails and alpine skiing with night skiing available on some days. HOURS Mon, Tues, Thurs, and Fri 3 to 6 pm; Wed 3 to 8 pm; Sat 9 am to 6 pm; Sun 9 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION call for details TRAILS 18 trails: 44 percent novice, 28 percent intermediate, 28 percent expert RATES weekdays, adults $9, teens $7, juniors $6; weekends $12, $10, $9 RENTALS adults $15, juniors and seniors $11
new hampshire
balsaMs WildeRness ski aRea 1000 Cold Spring Rd, Colebrook, NH | 800.255.0600 | thebalsams.com/skiing | Cross-country skiers traverse through the grounds of the resort’s 15,000-acre private estate, which offers both challenging, steep terrain and trails marked specifically for learners. Voted “one of the top cross-country ski resorts in North America” by Snow Country magazine. HOURS 9 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION group lessons $28; private $48, $25 per additional person TRAILS 95+ km of trails; 35 percent novice, 48 percent intermediate, 17 percent expert. Telemark and backcountry skiing daily RATES $20 weekends and holidays; $15 weekdays RENTALS full day $25, half day $20 beaR notch ski touRing centeR Rte 302, Bartlett, NH | 603.374.2277 | bearnotchskitouring.com | The scenic trails at Bear Notch offer riverside views, flat meadows, and more challenging hills. Also offers guided nature tours. HOURS 8 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION group lessons $20, private lessons $35, $20 per additional person; family lessons $50 TRAILS 65+ km RATES weekdays adults $12, juniors/seniors $8; weekends adults $15, juniors/seniors $10; over 70 and under seven free RENTALS skis or snowshoes $15 bRetton Woods Rte 302, Bretton Woods, NH | 800.314.1752 | brettonwoods.com | Nestled among the White Mountains along New Hampshire’s scenic Kancamagus Highway, the Bretton Woods Nordic Center offers 60 miles of trails, the vast majority of which are groomed and tracked. This includes approximately seven miles of dog-friendly routes, so you don’t have to leave Fido in the car or in your roommate’s care while you’re out enjoying the view. The adjacent, historic Mount Washington Hotel makes for an excellent après-ski stop or weekend getaway. If this place doesn’t
DAN IELLE MEDICO
Ski Clubs of New Hampshire
wow you, a trip to the Rockies is in order. HOURS 8:30 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION group lessons adults $18, juniors/seniors $15; private $30; semi-private $40 TRAILS 100 km ranging from novice to expert RATES adults $19, teens 13 through 17 $17, children under 13 and seniors $12; tickets two for $19 on Wed RENTALS ski packages adults $18, all other ages $12 cRanMoRe Mountain lodge 859 Kearsarge Rd, North Conway, NH | 603.356.2044 | cml1.com/freenordic.html | A bed-and-breakfast member of the Mount Washington Valley Ski Touring Association. Guests of the lodge can enjoy free Nordic skiing at nearby Great Glen Trails in Pinkham Notch. HOURS call for info INSTRUCTION $15 per lesson TRAILS 40+ miles of groomed trails RATES Free for Mountain lodge guests RENTALS available at nearby locations, ask for details gReat glen tRails at Mount Washington | 603.466.2333 | mt-washington. com | Winter season begins in late Nov or early Dec, depending on snow conditions. Snowshoeing, climbing wall, and tubing also available. Prices subject to change, check website. HOURS 8:30 am to 4:30 pm INSTRUCTION adult and senior lessons $45, juniors $30 TRAILS 40 km of trails, groomed with both double tracks and a skating lane. RATES adults $19, juniors/seniors $12; half day $15, $10 RENTALS skis adults/seniors $20, juniors $14 gunstock 719 Cherry Valley Rd, Gilford, NH | 603.293.4341 | gunstock.com | Located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Gunstock has scenic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the third-longest lift in the state. The Panorama High Speed Quad takes skiers over a mile to 1400 vertical feet in only six minutes. Tubing park has five chutes and is serviced by a hand tow lift. Backcountry cross-country ski tours and clinics offered throughout the season, as well as skijoring (cross-country skiing with your dog). The tentative opening date is Dec 3. HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm; weekends 8:30 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION private lessons $40/ hour and a half; TRAILS 50 km RATES Tues through Sun adults/ teens $17, children/seniors $14; Magic Mondays 2 for $17, $14 RENTALS adult/teens $17, children/ seniors $16; children 5 and under $10; call for snowshoe and other equipment rental loon Mountain 60 Loon Mountain Rd, Lincoln, NH | 603.745.8111 | loonmtn. com |
Call 603.745.8100 for snow conditions. The resort is located in the White Mountain National Forest. Season scheduled to begin on Nov 19.Loon’s Nordic and Adventure Center also hosts snowshoeing, ice-skating, indoor climbing, workshops, and Nordic rental/ trail/lesson packages. HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends 8 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION check website or call for details TRAILS 20 km; all except steeps are groomed and tracked for skating and classic skiing RATES check website or call for details RENTALS check website or call for details noRdic centeR at WateRville valley Rte 49, Waterville Valley, NH | 603.236.8311 | waterville.com/ski-ride/ nordic-center.html | In addition to skiing, the Base Camp Adventure Area offers snowshoeing, winter hiking, skating, and sleigh rides. HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm; weekends 8 am to 4 pm (subject to change) INSTRUCTION private lessons $48/ hour; PSIA-certified group lessons offered, call for details TRAILS 70 km RATES full day adults $19, youth/ senior $14; afternoon (12:30- 4pm) adults $17, youth/seniors $12 RENTALS adults $19, juniors/seniors $16; afternoon and ski or boots only rentals available
Vermont
bolton noRdic centeR 4302 Bolton Access Rd, Bolton, VT | 802.434.3444 | boltonvalley.com | This full-service resort offers child care, dining, a sports center, a spa, and evening activities. HOURS 8 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION call for details TRAILS 100 km RATES trail pass $17 RENTALS Nordic packages adults $20, youth $10; backcountry
equipment $25; snowshoes and skates available the heRMitage 25 Handle Rd, West Dover, VT | 877.464.3511 | hermitageinn. com | The inn is a converted 18thcentury estate and is located between the downhill ski areas of Haystack and Mount Snow. HOURS 9 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION no instruction available TRAILS 9 miles of trails RATES trail fees full-day adults $18, children $8; half-day adults $15, children $6 RENTALS adults $18 full-day, $15 half-day; children $8 full-day, $6 half-day okeMo valley noRdic centeR 77 Okemo Ridge Rd, Ludlow, VT | 802.228.1396 | okemo.com/okemowinter/ourmountain/nordic.asp | The cross-country trails at Okemo feature the varied terrain of the Black River Valley. On-site amenities include a Nordic shop and a full-service restaurant and pub. HOURS weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, weekends and holidays 8:30 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION group lessons are $30, private lessons $60/hour; $30 per additional person TRAILS 22 km for cross-country, 13 km for snowshoeing, and 8 km of skating lanes RATES adults $24, seniors/young adults ages 13 through 18 $20, juniors ages seven through 12 $18 RENTALS $20, equipment/trail pass combos available sMuggleRs’ notch 4323 Vermont Route 108 South, Jeffersonville, VT | 802.644.8851 | smuggs.com | The trail system extends over Morse, Madonna, and Sterling Mountains. Telemarking and snowshoe tours and rentals available. HOURS 8 am to 4 pm; conditions permitting INSTRUCTION group lessons $45/90
C ALE B OLS ON
thephoenix.com/ski | supplement to the boston phoenix | ski+ snowboard guide | november 11, 2011 25
min, private lessons $60/ hour, $30 per additional person TRAILS 30 km total cross-country; all groomed and tracked, and 24 km of dedicated snowshoe trails
RATES adults $14, youths ages six through 17 $8 RENTALS ski packages $19; snowshoes $19; skates $5 stoWe Mountain ResoRt cRosscountRy touRing centeR 5781 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT | 802.253.3000
| stowe.com/activities/nordic | Offers 45 km of groomed trails and 30 km of backcountry terrain, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Alpine ski tickets honored. HOURS 8:30 am to 4 pm
INSTRUCTION weekdays and nonpeak times: group $30, private $72; weekends and peak times: group $41, private $97 TRAILS 45 km of groomed trails, 30 km of backcountry trails; two novice, three intermediate, and five advanced RATES weekdays and non-peak times: adults $18, half day $15; juniors/seniors $10, $7; weekends and peak times: adults $24, half day $20; juniors and seniors $14, $9 RENTALS weekdays and non-peak times: adults $25, juniors $16; weekends and peak times: $34, $22 stRatton cRoss-countRy centeR Route 30, Stratton, VT | 800.787.2886 | stratton.com | Season opens late Dec, weather permitting, and runs through early April. The center also offers snowshoe tours. HOURS 9 am to 4 pm INSTRUCTION none; guided tours available TRAILS 70 km total; 30 km groomed, 20 km woodlands in the Sunbowl wilderness area RATES adults $15, juniors $10; subject to change RENTALS adults $18, juniors $15 Woodstock ski touRing aRea 14 The Green, Woodstock, VT | 802.457.6674 | woodstockinn.com | Part of the Suicide Six downhill area, which includes a sports center with pool, indoor tennis courts, squash courts, and Swedish massage. Suicide Six and the Woodstock Ski Touring Center are both part of the Woodstock Inn and Resort. Guests ski free Sun-Fri. HOURS 8 am to 5 pm INSTRUCTION private lessons $50, semi-private $40 TRAILS 60 km total, groomed for both traditional and skate RATES adults $18, juniors $12 RENTALS $20 adults, $15 juniors; $15 Inn guests
26 november 11, 2011 | ski + snowboard guide | supplement to the boston phoenix | thephoenix.com/ski
Don’t SleD on Me _ by br i a n M C Fa d d en
Spent the day on the mountain. Spent the night in a castle. IT'S MORE THAN A VACATION. IT'S A GRAND ADVENTURE. Discover world-class skiing at Bretton Woods, voted New Hampshire’s #1 ski area by SKI Magazine readers. After a glorious day on the mountain, experience the perfect mix of luxury, history and adventure at the newly renovated Omni Mount Washington Resort, named one of the world’s 10 best mountain hotels by Forbestraveler.com. All just 2.5 hours from Boston.
800-843-6664
omnimountwashingtonresort.com
Alpine & Nordic Skiing • Canopy Tour • Spa • Snowmobiling • Dog Sledding • Sleigh Rides • Casual & Fine Dining
Stay Here. Ski Free. from
$
99
*
Stay at the Omni Mount Washington Resort or Omni Bretton Arms Inn and ski or ride for free at Bretton Woods, New Hampshire’s largest ski area.
*Rate is per person, per night based on double occupancy. Some restrictions and blackout dates apply. Valid through the 11/12 ski season. Subject to tax and resort amenity fee. Two complimentary tickets per room. Subject to availability. Cannot be combined with any packages or additional discounted offers. ©2011 Omni Hotels & Resorts
OMWR_PHX_fullpg_skifree_103111.indd 1
11/1/2011 7:08:56 PM
More New Terrain & Double the Snow!
You take your skiing and riding seriously. and at Loon Mountain, we take your skiing and riding seriously, too. That’s why we’ve invested $20 million in the past five years to add more terrain, more uphill capacity and more than double our snow making output with the biggest installation of the most efficient tower snow guns going. That’s why Loon promises Superior Snow. plus, we guarantee it, so you know you’ll have a great day!
Scan for details and the latest conditions.
Take advantage of Loon’s easy accessibility; discover four new trails and experience Loon’s 2,100’ vertical, terrain variety, and Superior Snow for yourself. Ski & Stay packages start at just $89.* or save up to $25/day on lift tickets with a Frequent Skier Card.
Superior SNow. GuaraNTeeD.
For details, visit:
LooNMTN.CoM/phoeNix *per person, per night, based on double occupancy