New England Ski Resort Getting Dumped On

New England is receiving a blast of snow. Predictions are 1 to 2 feet of snow up the spine of the Green Mountains and the same in Northern New Hampshire and Maine. Sunday River is reporting 6 to 8 inch's as of this morning.

Photos from Sunday River site

Should be a great week to ski and ride in New England

On Sunday, Sunday River hosted the annual Santa ski day for charity. 220 skiers and riders participated this year.

Check out the video from NECN

Check out these videos from Warren Miller and TGR

Lincoln New Hampshire Loon Mountain

Loon mountain has gone through many changes over the last 41years or so. Finally the long awaited South Peak lift and trails will open in December 2007. A little history of loon Mountain NH. Loon Mountain is located on the south side of the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River and on the Kancamagus Higway Rt.112 Exit 32 off of US RT 93 in Lincoln New Hampshire in the White Mountains. Loon Mountain opened for business on December 27, 1966. The founder of Loon Mountain was Sherman Adams, former New Hampshire governor and chief of staff to President Eisenhower. Adams was hired in the early 1900s as Director of Lumber Operations for the Parker-Young Company in Lincoln. He was responsible for maintaining a steady flow of wood for the mill in Lincoln, which meant spending a lot of time outdoors. Needless to say this man spent many days in the woods. He was said to have once walked the 75 miles from Littleton to Hanover NH.. Adams knew that with fairly gentle inclines suitable for the intermediate skier, Loon Mountain was a well-sheltered, northeast-facing slope, with only scattered glacial boulders was perfect for a ski mountain. Close to town and the soon-to-be-built interstate highway Adams knew that Loon Mountain would be a success. The first season of 1966-1967 Loon Mountain saw 30.000 plus visitors. Adams friends and the locals had there doubts about future success. In 1967 Loon had there own chair lift and could provide access to terrain even expert skiers could appreciate
In the early 1980s Loon mountain all most doubled in size with it first major renovation. Adding a gondola at the Octagon Lodge and The renovating the Govenors Lodge while expanding the terrain to include the North Peak and Camp 3. As part of what was advertised as SKI 93 ( Interstate Highway) Loon was lumped up with Waterville Valley and Cannon Mountain. Waterville Valley was privately owned and Canon Mountain was and still is owned by the state of New Hampshire.
In 1998, Booth Creek Resorts purchased Loon Mountain. Booth Creek owns and operates resorts across the United States including Waterville Valley and Cranmore Mountain in New Hampshire. Most recently Boyne has purchases Sunday River and Sugarloaf USA in Maine. On September 19 2007 it was announce that Boyne USA has signed a contract with Booth Creek which at closing will transfer the management of Loon Mountain. In New Hampshire, Booth Creek retains its ownership and management of Cranmore Mountain Resort and Waterville Valley. Both resorts have real estate and mountain expansion opportunities that Booth Creek will continue to explore. With this arrangement skiers and Snowboarders will be able to purchase the New England Ski Pass for the 2007 2008 season. The New England Pass will be a tiered season pass with three levels that will be valid at Sunday River and Sugarloaf in Maine and Loon Mountain in New Hampshire. The Bronze Pass will be $369 and will be an all ages pass valid midweek non-holiday. The Silver New England Pass will be $699 and will be an all ages pass valid seven days a week with 12 blackout dates on holidays and select Saturdays. The Gold New England Pass will be valid every day of the season and will range from $499 for seniors to $899 for adults.
Back to the topic of loon's newest expansion. For the last 20 years or so loon Mountain has been clearing trails along the South Peak. Most of us who ski Loon has passed by the area wondering when some one was going to do something with the area. The expansion has been many years in the making. In 2005 the expansion was finally approved and work moved forward in 2006. Condominiums and resort homes have been built. Starting October 28th 2007 the resort flew and installed by helicopter 32 lift towers. These towers make up the Lincoln Express high-speed quad and the Tote Road Connector quad chairlifts. Twenty-one towers sit on the face of South Peak, comprising the lift line for the Lincoln Express. The new lift can now be seen from nearby downtown Lincoln. Eleven towers are in place along the Tote Road, which connects the existing terrain on Loon Mountain to the summit of South Peak. The Tote Road Quad will take skiers and snowboarders in both directions, to and from the summit of South Peak. With three new trails and about 50 acres of terrain on South Peak for the upcoming ski season. These trails are only 35% of the total planned South Peak expansion to take place over the next 3 years. The next announcment will probably be the construction of Exit 31A on Route 93 North. If this happens we can look forwrd to loon exspanding even more.
Loon Mountain will begin making snow November 1, and plans to open for skiing and snowboarding Wednesday, November 21. The new lifts and trails of South Peak are scheduled to open in mid-December. South Peak's official opening celebration is Thursday, December 21
The expansion should help Loon Mountain with its famous crowds on weekends and School Holiday Weeks. I ski at Loon Mountain on average of 25 days a year and have been doing this for 26 years. The area is also famous for its extensive White Mountain hiking trail system connected to the Appalachian trail.
South Peak at Loon will be the first and only resort in New England with a trail that leads to the town it is based in.
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Ski and Snowboard Okemo for $25.00 11/25/07

The annual food drive at Okemo Mountain in Ludlow Vermont is this weekend 11/25/07.
Bring 3 non perishable food items or a new unwrapped toy to the main base area and receive a all day pass for $25.00. Give and Ski what a concept.
New England has had cold enough temps to make snow for the last two weeks and mother nature has provided a serious boost. Resorts from Snoshoe West Virgina to Jay Peak Vermont have received snow. Snow Reports
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Snow Skiing Reports, Ski Trips, Skiing Reviews: OnTheSnow.com

Check out the Boston area’s greatest snowsports season kickoff event, the Boston Globe Ski & Snowboard Expo at the Bayside Expo Center, November 15-18, 2007. Exhibitors from mountain resorts from near and far will be on hand, as well as tour operators and snowsports equipment manufacturers with the latest info on this year’s best gear.
There will be high flying action in the Honda Action Sports Zone, a Kids Snow-Play area where the youngsters can actually try skiing or snowboarding, and much more for all ages. Topping it all off is Ski Market’s multi-million dollar ski and snowboard sale.Check out the Boston area’s greatest snowsports season kickoff event, the Boston Globe Ski & Snowboard Expo at the Bayside Expo Center, November 15-18, 2007. Exhibitors from mountain resorts from near and far will be on hand, as well as tour operators and snowsports equipment manufacturers with the latest info on this year’s best gear.
There will be high flying action in the Honda Action Sports Zone, a Kids Snow-Play area where the youngsters can actually try skiing or snowboarding, and much more for all ages. Topping it all off is Ski Market’s multi-million dollar ski and snowboard sale.
Snow Skiing Reports, Ski Trips, Skiing Reviews: OnTheSnow.com

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Ski Resorts From Jimmny To Jay Peak Open For Ski Season

What a great start to the 2007/2008 ski and snowboard season. Resorts from Jimmny Peak in Hancock MA to Sunday River and on up to Jay Peak Vermont have received natural snow this week. Along with snow making the snow bases are building.
With cold temp forecasted for a couple more days and some small weather systems moving through New England more Ski areas and Resorts will be open for Thanksgiving Skiing and Riding.

Conditions
Open --------Trials------ New Snow
Sugarloaf-------5------------ 9"
Sugarbush-----4----------- 10"
Killington -----17------------ 2"
Mount Snow---12----------- 1"
Stowe----------6------------6"
Bretton Wood--8------------ 6 "
Sunday River--8------------ 6"
Jay Peak-------1------------- 20"
Jimmny----- ?--------- 6"-20" Base

From Jay
"WELCOME TO OPENING WEEKEND and in true Jay Peak form we're doing it with 16"+ of new snow. We picked up 4-6" Thursday and another 6-10" throughout the day yesterday. Forecasts are calling for flurries today so be sure to check the Snow Report for updated totals. Temps will be 18-22ºF at the summit today and 28-32ºF at the base. Looks like it'll be pretty much the same tomorrow with sunny skies.We'll open today with the Jet Triple turning from 9am to 4pm accessing the Jet trail (advanced intermediate/expert terrain only) and conditions should be pretty phenomenal for opening day given the snow we've got over the past couple of days. We'll be making snow on the Haynes & Chalet Meadows today and hope to get them open for tomorrow. Jay Peak be closed Monday-Wednesday of this week and plan to re-open Thursday for the season. Stay tuned to for updates. "
The great thing about Jay Peak is the Tree Skiing in the Glades. Jay has such a extensive Glades System one can Ski and Snowboard all day and never ski a cut trail.

It's time to put the Ski/Snowboard Rack on your car.

Northpeak Triple Killington

Big Weekend For New Englands Ski Resorts

With Sunday River opening November 8 for the season and being open Halloween day looks like Sunday River is the winner for the 2007-2008 Eastern Resorts run to be the first to have Skiing and Snowboarding.

Until 2 or 3 years ago Killington was always the first. Opening day varied anywhere from October 21st and on. Wasn't always pretty but it was skiing.
Skiers and snow boarders should have more to choose from this weekend 11/17/2007.

Vermont:
Okemo
Sugarbush
Killington

Maine:
Sugarloaf USA
Sunday River

Attitash in New Hampshire is trying to open the 18th

Okemo Vermont
"We’ve got great news here at Okemo – Opening Day has been moved UP to THIS FRIDAY, November 16! The 2007-2008 season will officially begin at 9 a.m. as we drop the ropes on 11 trails, including Upper World Cup, Defiance, Sapphire, Timberline, and several other trails. We’ll have 5 lifts running to ensure you can make the most of your first day back on snow. Please note that skiing and riding will be on the Upper Mountain only, and is recommended for Intermediate and Advanced riders only.
Early season ticket prices will be in effect on Opening Day, with Adult tickets priced at $45, Young Adults and Seniors at $38, and Juniors and Super Seniors at $29. Half day rates will also be available.

Don’t forget about Okemo’s upcoming Ski Swap and Sale, which will begin this Friday and run through Sunday afternoon. If you’d like to sell your used gear, there’s still time to drop it off! Drop-offs will be accepted today from 10 to 3 at the Ski Patrol Building in the Main Base Area. Make sure to stop by the Swap this weekend for great deals on new and pre-owned equipment! "
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"Winter Arrives Early to Sugarbush"
"Sugarbush Resort Plans a Special Sneak Preview this Weekend
Warren, VT (November 14, 2007)- It’s time to get the gear out; winter is here. Sugarbush Resort announced today that it plans to spin the lifts at Lincoln Peak for skiers and riders this Saturday and Sunday for a special “Sneak Preview” weekend. The official opening of the 2007-08 winter season is still slated for Thanksgiving, but in the words of one resort official, “It’s just too nice up there not to have it open this weekend.”
While the quality of the snow played a part in the Resort’s decision to open early, the return of a ski legend was also a factor. Stein Eriksen, who ran Sugarbush’s ski and ride school in the mid 1960s and won an Olympic gold medal, will be returning to the Resort this weekend. The New England Ski Museum will present the icon with their Spirit of Skiing award Saturday night during the Museum’s 30th birthday celebration in the Gate House Lodge. As of press time, only seven tickets remained for the special event. Tickets can be purchased by calling the New England Ski Museum at 800-639-4181.
Contingent upon a standard state inspection of Resort lifts scheduled for this Friday, Sugarbush plans to run the Super Bravo and Heaven’s Gate chair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday with skiing and riding on Upper Jester, Downspout and Organgrinder. Resort officials expect to be downloading on the Super Bravo chair, but if conditions permit, crews will attempt to lay down enough snow for top-to-bottom skiing.
“Our snowmaking crews have put down a great base from the top (of Lincoln Peak) to the bottom of Heaven’s Gate,” said Sugarbush’s Director of Communications JJ Toland. “Nighttime temperatures should be back in the teens come Thursday night and we will make every effort to have top-to-bottom skiing and riding come Saturday. We just ask that folks check the website for the latest info before coming up to the hill Saturday morning.”
Lift tickets will be $40 for all adults, $36 for SugarCard holders and $30 for juniors. Because the Stein Eriksen event will be taking place in the Gate House, the lodge’s food court will not be open. Food and drink will be served in the Castlerock Pub and Timbers restaurant. After this Sunday, the lifts will not spin again until the official start of the winter season: Thursday, November 22nd. Visit sugarbush.com for the latest information on the start of winter operations." From Sugarbush.com

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Killington Opens for season
We kick off the 2007-08 ski and snowboard season Friday at 9 a.m. with up to 19 trails served by three lifts off Killington Peak and Snowdon Mountain. For the latest lift and trail offerings, check out the Snow Report! For the past two weeks we have had hundreds of snowguns producing a massive amount of snow. In fact, we’ve been able to produce almost twice as much snow this year as we’ve produced for opening day the prior three years. And over the next 36 hours snowcats will be working the snow surface to provide you the best possible opening day conditions.The K-1 Express Gondola, Northridge Triple and Snowdon Poma will operate on Friday, with the addition of the Snowdon Triple and Snowdon Quad on Saturday. The Reason Terrain Park at Killington Peak will also open on Friday with nine features, including a 28-foot down bar, 28-foot round bar and a hip/table jump. Featured trails include Downdraft Headwall, Rime, Reason, Upper East Fall, Chute and Bunny Buster.All skier/rider services will be available at the K-1 Lodge. The Killington Ski and Snowboard School will offer private lessons at the K-1 Lodge for adults and children who are Blue Square and Black Diamond level skiers and riders. Opening day lift tickets are $60 for Adults (19-64); $48 for Young Adult (13-18) and Senior (65-69); and $42 for Junior (6-12) and Super Senior (70+). Lift hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and holidays.Loaded Turkey 4 2/3Sunday we kick off the events season here at Killington with the Loaded Turkey Rail Jam at the Reason Terrain Park at Killington Peak. Prizes include a ton of cool gear from our sponsors, plus a turkey for first place, stuffing for second place and cranberry sauce for third place. Winners will also qualify for the $15,000 Mountain Dew Rails to Riches Rail Jam on Dec. 8.

Sunday River Report
"I've been chatting with our snowmaking team and all they can talk about is how badly they want to get you out on more terrain. Today was great but it's nothing compared to what they have in mind.
This weekend they'll have the chance to work towards that goal as cold temps return late Thursday into Friday. They have their eyes on expanding towards Spruce and South Ridge as temps allow so stay tuned here for the most up to date info.

For Thursday we're looking to have 9 trails open serviced by the Locke Mountain Triple and Sunday River Express, starting at 9am. All services will be out of the Barker Lodge and open terrain is for intermediate to advanced abilities only. Early season ticket prices are $35 for Adults/Young Adults, $25 for Seniors/Juniors, and $20 for an Afternoon Half-Day ticket." From SR Website
Temp in New England are expected to fall and snow is in the forcast for the weekend in the mountains. Further north the betterm My call is Sunday River

Get Outside and enjoy
The Northeast Ski Zone Store

Killington Vermont Receives 6 inchs of Natural Snow

Natural Snow WoHo

Reports from Ski Resorts in the Northeast are on a roll. When most of New England was receiving heavy rain the upper elevations were receiving snow. Killington has reported 6 inch's on top. Enough snow for them to send out emails asking people not to hike the mountain to sneak in some turns

"Kiliington snowmaking crews are working around the clock to build base depths on the upper sections of Killington Peak as they prepare for opening day on Friday, November 16. Currently, there making snow on Rime, Reason, Double Dipper, Rim Run and Great Northern as we are working our way down to the K-1 base. With hundreds of snow guns, high-pressure hoses, snowmobiles, snowcats and heavy equipment moving about the mountain, maintaining a safe working environment for the staff is the number one priority. As a result, Killington respectfully ask that those seeking to “earn their turns” refrain from doing so until opening day. We’re planning on offering Blue Square and Black Diamond terrain for opening day accessible by the K-1 Gondola. No Green Circle terrain will be available. All skier/rider services will be available at the K-1 Lodge.(Source KillingtonTheDrift) The verdict is still out if Killington can even stop skiers from hiking up and using the mountain. There use of the property is a lease and from reports we have heard control dose not start until the lifts start to turn. We will search for information on the subject. One can always hike up the backside via the Long Trail located a mile or so west of the Killington Access Road past Pico. Good research a map and Compass are must have for anyone attempting to assend any back country areas. Never depend on a Cell Phone as a bailout. Bring a whistle and food. Unlimited access to topo maps. Try it Free!

Telemark Equipment and knowing how to use it is how most backcountry Skiers access such areas.

Don't forget your Helmet and Goggles. Early season skiing can get a little scary with a rush of skiers and Snowboarders. If You think about it resorts tend to open one or two a week until Thanksgiving. Between the onslaught of skiers and Snowboarders and limited terrain one should exercise extreme caution and be prepared physically. Having been to many opening days at Killington when they were the first to open for many years is testimony. Normally it would consist of a ride up the K1 Gondola and even skiing or a short hike over to the North Ridge. Once over there you are in an area known as the Glades though the name has been changing. Rime and East Fall Trails are the first to open with the North Ridge Triple Chair Lift and Great Northern as the escape to the Killington Base Area.

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Higher elevations of New England Receive Snow

" From NECN-11/6/07 12:29 p.m.) NECN Cable News meteorologist Matt Noyes is calling for a breezy day with periodic rain, highs in the 40s and 50s. Tonight there will be gradual clearing, cool, with scattered mountain snow showers in the Green Mountains, lows in the 30s."
The higher Elevations above 2000 feet of new England have received 1 to 5 inch's of Snow so far today. Sugarloaf USA in Maine has 5 Itch's on top The rumors of of New England Ski Resorts opening by this weekend. New England is also looking at 2 to 3 storms moving in from the west and from the ocean over the next week. A mass opening of resorts could happen if conditions are right There is a cold from coming in with the storms from the west. I have heard a prediction of 10 inch's plus in the mountains. Along with the snow making that most northern resorts have been doing should make openings possible at places like Okemo and Killington in Vermont Bretton Woods in New Hampshire along with Sugarloaf USA and Sunday River in Maine.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner and so far so good for skiing and Snowboarding before Then. Keep your eye on the resort Web Sites . Cape Cod and the South Shore sure took a beating in the last storm. To bad that wasn't snow in the mountains. It would have been between 3 and 4 feet. After all parts of Maine received 5 inch's of rain.
From Sunday River Maine : "Current forecasts say that snowmaking temps return either tonight or Wednesday night and that means the snowmaking team will be back out wielding their guns on T2, Cascades, Sunday Punch, Jungle Punch and possibly others. We're still on track for an opening day of Nov. 9th. If the weather and temps cooperate it could be even earlier." COOL
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Another big development in New England is The Boston Red Sox's have re-signed Curt Schilling for one more year. It looks like Schilling will get his wish to finish his career in Boston

Learn to Ski or Snowboard for FREE at Okemo

Today I get a phone call from family who had to do training at Okemo this weekend. The newest deal they have going is Newbies get Free Ski Rentals, Free lift Ticket and Free lessens. What a deal for regular skiers and Snowboarders. Get A buddy hooked on skiing and Snowboarding and you have a Ski buddy for life.
Not only will this deal create new skiers and boarders but will help keep people employed during the first part of the ski season.
First-time or beginner skiers and snowboarders visiting Okemo Mountain Resort early in the 2007/2008 season are invited to participate in our Learn to Ski or Snowboard program - absolutely free!
The beginner package includes a combination lower-mountain lift ticket, a level 1 or 2 beginner group lesson at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. and introductory level rental equipment (skis, boots, poles, or boots and snowboard).
This program is available for ages 7 and up at no charge every day, Monday, Nov. 26 through Friday, Dec. 21, 2007. Beginners should arrive at the Okemo Express Rental Shop located in the Okemo Clock Tower base area about an hour before lesson time to register and be fitted for equipment. As an added bonus, participants also qualify for a free First Tracks Plus card entitling them to continued discounts and benefits all season long on group lessons, lift tickets and rental equipment or purchase a full adult ski or snowboard package for $379 (inquire at Snowsports Center).
Tell a friend! The more the merrier. If you have any questions, feel free to call the Learning Center at (802) 228-1600.
Ski Zone Store

Bretton Woods is Making Snow

Bretton Woods in New Hampshire is making snow.

"Powder Alert!
October 31, 2007
The guns are cranking at Bretton Woods in anticipation of opening day... coming soon! Over a foot has already piled up near the Top o' Quad restaurant!, The Bretton Woods guns are firing all the way to the top of the Bethlehem high-speed quad - won't be long now!"
Yet another resort cranks up the snow guns. Located accross from The Mount Washington Rosort and Hotel on Rt 302 just west of Bartlett NH. The Bretton Woods Ski Area has had many updates over the last few years. Bretton Woods, New Hampshire's largest ski area with 434 acres of ski and snowboard terrain, 101 trails and glades, as well as four terrain parks! Nine lifts, including four high-speed quads, make your ride up the mountain almost as fun as the ride down. Voted "Best in the East for Weather" by SKI magazine, if there's snow falling, chances are they've got it - or we can make it with snowmaking on 92% of the trails. And, because you'll want to stay on our slopes until after dark, they also offer night skiing and riding
As grand as the history behind it, The Mount Washington Hotel is gracious in ambiance and generous in amenities. A favorite retreat of presidents, poets and celebrities, the hotel delights every sense with enchanting music, refined dining and luxurious décor.
Northeast Ski Zone Gear Shop

Sunday River in Maine To Open for Halloween

Sunday River in Newry Maine Announced they will be opening for Halloween. The announcement board had went down when I went to write this article so a phone call would be advised before heading to the mountain. 1-800-543-2ski.
This would be the earliest opening for Sunday River in 10 years. Sunday River is by far one of the best resorts in New England.
The Accommodation at The River are as far ranging as the terrain. Beginning with the Jordon Grand. Amenities are plentiful here, including kitchenettes in select units and a heated outdoor pool. Accommodations range from standard hotel rooms to two-bedroom suites. In addition to slope side access to Jordan Bowl, guests can enjoy a health club, valet parking, day care, ski check, and concierge.
They also have 700 condominiums, The Grand Summit Resort Hotel , and the The Snow Cap Inn. A great place to plan your next ski vacation. One of the best times to ski or snowboard at Sunday River is Collage week. Normally the first week of January collage week has been moved to 1/6/2008 this year. You can stay for as little as $55.00 per person including lift ticket. Best deal on the planet if you know someone with or have a collage ID. It used to be that you only needed one person with a ID for a the group, but with new owners running the show I would confirm.
We've had a large group there that week for 6 years strait. Shout out if your there.
Northeast Ski Zone Gear Store

Confirmed From Sunday River Web Site " The Halloween skiing is still on the way. NEWRY, Maine -- Thanks to a string of cold nights allowing for intensive snowmaking, Sunday River ski resort in Maine will be the first ski area to offer lift serviced skiing and riding in eastern North America for the 2007-2008 ski season.The resort plans to offer early season skiing and riding on Wednesday only. Lift access on Halloween will likely begin between 10 a.m. and noon and continue until 3 p.m. The Halloween start to the season is the earliest skiing offered at Sunday River in 11 years. Snowmaking operations will continue as temperatures allow throughout the coming weeks. Updates about Halloween skiing will be posted at www.sundayriver.com.Open terrain will be for advanced skiers and riders only with downloading on the Locke Mountain Triple. The Sunday River terrain parks crew will be installing two small elements for the Halloween ski day. Sunday River is projected to open for the season on Friday, Nov. 9.“We’re proud to able offer skiing on Halloween. Sunday River is incorporating new technologies like fan guns and low energy equipment, but in the end, it’s our commitment that keeps us at the top,” said Dana Bullen, Sunday River General Manager.Lift tickets on Halloween will be $25 for all ages. Skiers and riders who bring 3 cans of food will receive a $15 lift ticket as part of the Tin Mountain Round-Up to support local food banks. Costumes are encouraged and a best costume contest will be held.“We’re skiers too,” said Bullen. “We’ve made plenty of snow to give eastern skiers and riders an early season treat. Hopefully this will hold them over for a little while. It also gives us a good kick start on the season.”Snowmaking operations took place on trails including T2, Cascades, Sunday Punch and Jim’s Whim. Open terrain will consist of the length of T2 with uploading and downloading at the midstation of the Locke Mountain Triple.The early start is thanks in large part to the nearly $1 million spent this summer to upgrade the Resort’s already expansive snowmaking system. The investment was part of a $4.8 million resort wide upgrade that was the largest in a decade. The T2 trail was outfitted with tower guns over the summer to help it offer early season high elevation terrain.The Oct. 31 date is nearly a month ahead of last year’s opening date of Nov. 21. Season passes valid at Sunday River and Sugarloaf are available starting at $349. The passes offer discounts at other Boyne USA Resorts including Loon Mountain in New Hampshire and Big Sky in Montana. The coming season will be Sunday River’s first as a member of the Boyne USA Resorts family." From Sunday River forum
Northeast Ski Zone Gear Store

The Snow Guns Are Fired Up At New England Ski Resorts

Photo from Sunday River.com

Killington Vermont, Sunday River and Sugarloaf USA in Maine have started up the snow guns. Reports are pouring in of resorts taking advantage of lower temperatures.

Sunday River says currently, there "projected opening day is set for Friday, November 9th. Of course Mother Nature holds the cards on that one, meaning it could be earlier or later depending on how cold she's feeling".

Killington is the barometer for opening day in these parts.

From Killington.com

KILLINGTON RESORT BEGINS SNOWMAKING OPERATIONS IN PREPARATION FOR OPENING DAY
10/29/2007
KILLINGTON, Vt. – Killington Resort has begun snowmaking operations in preparation for the 2007-08 ski and snowboard season.
Snowmakers fired up the first guns of the season Sunday afternoon on Rime, Reason and Double Dipper trails on the upper sections of Killington Peak. Snowmaking will continue as conditions permit in preparation for opening day, tentatively scheduled for Friday, Nov. 16.
“Right now we’re just blowing piles of snow and stockpiling,” said Dave Lacombe, snow surfaces manager for Killington Resort. “The forecast this week is looking favorable for snowmaking, especially the latter part of the week and throughout the coming weekend.”
When the season opens, Killington Resort will offer more difficult and most difficult terrain and an expanded early-season terrain park. All skier/rider services will be available from the K-1 Lodge.

Killington, which covers more than 50 of its 87 miles of terrain with snowmaking, increased its Low Energy snow gun arsenal another 10 percent for the 2007-08 season. Additional snowmaking upgrades for the coming season include rebuilt pump houses, hydrants, pipe replacement and computer hardware and software upgrades to snowmaking control to improve overall system efficiency.
In addition, this past summer crews also increased trail mowing, clearing and vegetation cutbacks on more than 600 acres of skiing and riding terrain. These improvements, combined with a fleet of 20 state-of-the-art snowcats, will offer Killington guests a high quality snow surface with improved snowmaking coverage and machine groomed terrain.
About Killington Resort - The largest ski and snowboard resort in eastern North America, Killington features diverse terrain, an expansive lift network, the most extensive snowmaking system in the world and numerous off-mountain activities, including après, dining, shopping and lodging options. http://www.killington.com/.

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Killington The Beast of The East

Fall Photos By North East Ski Zone

KILLINGTON, Vt. (Winter 2007-08) – Killington Resort enters the 2007-08 ski and snowboard season with more than $5.3 million in resort improvements and new programs to enhance the overall guest experience. In addition, Killington is implementing new environmental initiatives in an effort to reduce the resort’s overall carbon footprint.

“This will be our first season as a new company and we’re focusing on improving our overall product and the guest experience. And that means focusing on every detail from snowmaking and grooming, to our ski and snowboard school programs, to food and beverage quality and value,” said Chris Nyberg, Killington Resort and Pico Mountain president and general manager. “Moving forward our mission is to exceed customer expectations, be innovative, profitable and environmentally responsible.”

Leading the list of improvements include upgrades to the world’s most extensive snowmaking system; remodeled Long Trail Pub at the Snowshed Lodge; a fresh look for select lifts and lodges with new paint, furnishings and carpet; $2 million in upgrades to the Killington Grand Resort Hotel and Spa; new kid’s Ski and Snowboard School programs; new Burton Learn to Ride program and two new lift access products, the Killington Countdown Card and the Killington/Pico Express Card.
“Guests will notice a difference in the overall look and feel of the resort this season,” Nyberg added.
From new awnings over the Magic Carpets at the Ramshead Family Center, to new loading and unloading decks and lift house refurbishments, freshly painted lifts, new lift information signs, and new Cooper’s Coffee outlets serving Starbucks products at K-1, Snowshed, Bear Mountain and Ramshead Lodges, guests will enjoy many changes throughout the resort this season.

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Less energy and improved snowmaking firepower :
Killington continues to improve snowmaking operations and lower its overall carbon footprint by increasing its Low Energy snow gun arsenal another 10 percent for the 2007-08 season. Additional electric outlets have also been installed on-mountain for increased use of energy-efficient fan guns throughout base and hi-traffic areas. The increased use of Low Energy snow guns has reduced Killington’s diesel consumption by more than 30 percent and electricity by 25 percent over the past three years.

The additional Low Energy snow guns will be installed on the upper sections of Killington Peak, where these technologically-advanced guns offer the most operational efficiency -especially during the early season - by producing the same amount of snow as conventional guns while utilizing up to 75 percent less energy. Additional snowmaking upgrades include rebuilt pump houses, hydrants, pipe replacement and computer hardware and software upgrades to snowmaking control to improve overall system efficiency. Combined with a fleet of 20 state-of-the-art snowcats, which have been completely refurbished including tillers and tracks, Killington will again offer guests a high quality snow surface with more snowmaking coverage and groomed terrain that any other resort in the east.

To improve access and flow from Lower Ovation and Flume to the Superstar Express Quad, the water slide adjacent to the Superstar Trail was removed over the summer. In addition, the former ice skating rink in front of the K-1 Lodge was removed to improve flow around the K-1 Lodge and access to the K-1 Gondola and Superstar Express Quad. Other improvements include increased trail mowing, clearing and vegetation cutbacks on more than 600 acres of terrain.

The remodeled Long Trail Pub at the Snowshed Lodge features new furnishings, food and beverage menu items, flat panel TVs and live après entertainment Monday through Saturday. Other improvements include new carpet and paint throughout the Snowshed Lodge; new cafeteria furnishings and remodeled restroom facilities at the Ramshead Lodge. Lifts receiving a fresh look for the season include the Snowdon, Canyon and Northbrook Quads, Needle’s Eye and Superstar Express chairs, Southridge Triple and K-1 Gondola. New webcams at Bear Mountain and Pico Mountain will allow on-line users a fresh look at real-time conditions.

Owner improvements to Killington Grand Resort Hotel and Spa
The Killington Grand Resort Hotel and Spa has recently undergone a $2 million renovation, including newly-renovated guest rooms with new carpet, trim, furnishings and paint. These improvements complement the full-service spa opened during the summer of 2006. The Grand Hotel also features new carpet throughout the lobby, hallways and Grand Ballroom. Guests will also notice a new ski and snowboard check room and newly remodeled locker rooms in the health club.

Max 3/Max 5 and Burton Learn to Ride
This season, Killington provides skiers and snowboarders industry-leading learning opportunities that focus on innovative and cutting-edge teaching techniques with new Max 3 and Max 5 children’s programs and the Burton Learn to Ride program. These new programs will provide participants with an opportunity to learn and improve their skills as they explore Killington’s expansive terrain.

“In the tradition of Killington's heritage as an innovator in ski and snowboard school teaching technique, we will deliver an entirely new children's program experience with the new Max 3/Max 5 programs,” said Joe Wood director of the Killington Ski and Snowboard School. “By guaranteeing a maximum of three or five students per instructor, combined with the experience of our teaching professionals, Max 3/Max 5 will increase the overall value of our children’s programs in both the enjoyment they have on the slopes and the quality of the learning experience.”

With Killington’s new partnership with Burton Snowboards, Killington will offer a Burton Learn to Ride program for the upcoming season for new riders ages 13 and older. Burton Learn to Ride incorporates the right Burton equipment with proven teaching methods and small class sizes to make learning to snowboard easy and fun for those trying the sport for the first time. The goal of the Burton Learn to Ride program is for participants to link turns after only one lesson.

New Ticket Card Programs
The new Killington/Pico Express Card offers skiers and riders opportunities to save up to $20 per day throughout the season. The Killington/Pico Express Card provides “pay-as-you-go” flexibility and the convenience of skipping the ticket windows and going directly to the lift. The Express Card is valid at both Killington Resort and Pico Mountain.

The Killington Countdown Card, offered in pre-paid six and 10-day increments, offers guests savings up to 20 percent throughout the season over regular window ticket prices. The non-transferable Countdown Card works by presenting the card and a photo ID at any Killington ticket window. Skiers will then be issued a ticket for the day and the visit will be deducted from the card’s balance. Also, the dollar-value of any unused days at the end of the season may be applied to the purchase of next year’s Countdown Card.

Environmental initiatives
As a company, Killington has a renewed commitment to environmental responsibility for the 2007-08 season and beyond. In addition to new Low Energy Snowguns, Killington is investing more than $100,000 into the following initiatives:

• Co-mingle recycling program throughout all our facilities, including all six base area lodges
• New “Free Aire” refrigeration energy saving project on 10 of our 18 walk-in coolers and freezers that will save a combined 86,389 kilowatt hours of electricity consumption and 31 tons of CO2 emissions per year
• Environmental assessment of Killington’s overall carbon footprint to establish priorities for future energy conservation and CO2 emission reduction projects.

About Killington Resort - The largest ski and snowboard resort in eastern North America, Killington features diverse terrain, an expansive lift network, the most extensive snowmaking system in the world and numerous off-mountain activities, including après, dining, shopping and lodging options.

North East Ski Zone

Resorts Opening Throughout the West

From Loveland Ski Area Site

Resorts across the west are beginning to open. The weather patterns are beginning to change in the west as well as the east coast. Sugarloaf Mountain in Maine received snow last week. Start looking for early season skiers hiking to their favorite summits over the next couple weeks. Watch Mad River Glen and killington for these hard core early season skiers. If the predictions are correct, we are in for a record season in New England. Its time to gear up and start training.



From Colorado:
Loveland Ski Area is getting ready to open any day now and Arapahoe Basin Colorado opened October 9, 2007 – "Arapahoe Basin ski area officials announce that its opening day for the 2007-2008 ski season will be Wednesday, October 10, 2007. This marks Arapahoe Basin’s earliest opening in its 61 years of operation. Last year the ski area was the first to open in the nation and this year A-Basin continues that trend.

The Exhibition chair will open to the public at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday. Skiers and riders can look forward to an 18-inch base on the intermediate High Noon run and some features in the High Divide terrain park. The will be no beginner skiing at this time. "(press release)"

It's Fall Fair Season In New England

On top Mount Washington NH/Photo from MWO site

As skiers and snowboarders await the season to start here in New England why not check out some cool Fairs and Fall Foliage.

The The Big E in West Springfield Massachusetts runs from Sept. 14th thru the 30th. The The Big E or The Eastern States Exposition is one of the oldest and biggest fairs in New England. The Big E has grown from a agriculture get together for farmers into a good time for the whole family. Some of the highlights are WebKinz ,and Montgomery and Gentry Sept. 28th.

A hint about parking at The Big E is that the locals turn their land into parking areas. You can save money for the fair itself by using these alternate parking areas. You can take The shuttle and put some cash in the hosts pockets.

Also when your in the area you can also check out the
Basketball Hall of Fame , or Six Flags New England .

While your in the area we recommend checking out White Hut Hotdogs on Memorial Ave. (Same Street as The Big E).Our family has enjoyed White Hut since they opened. The White Hut restaurant has been providing the highest quality hamburgs and hot dogs to the greater Springfield area for 67 years. Throughout those years, its humble 600 square feet of space and twelve stools have served millions with consistency and simplicity. In its third generation of ownership, the business continues to grow offering longtime loyal customers as well as new customers the opportunity to "relish the White Hut experience."

Another Famous restaurant that got it's start in the area is Friendly's Ice Cream the first Friendly's Ice Cream shop opened in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1935, they created a place where family, friends and neighbors could enjoy delicious food and ice cream, friendly service and reasonable prices. My dad put himself through school working at this restaurant. Lots of history in the area.

There is also another fair. The Bolton Fair is Massachusetts' best two-day fair, an old fashioned country fair in a great setting, on 35 acres of woods and fields along the Nashua River on the Lancaster/Bolton line, four miles west of exit 27, Interstate Route 495 on Route 117 in Central Massachusetts.
Fall begins Sunday September 21 st. Keep your eyes on the Killington Web Site for signs of opening day. Killington is a great barometer for opening day even if they are not the first you will find hints of what happening with the upcoming season.

King Richards Faire is another great experience during the fall. King Richard's Faire is a vivid recreation of a 16th century English marketplace at festival time. Actors, dancers, puppeteers, jugglers, minstrels, mimes, magicians and musicians perform each weekend for the favor of his Royal Highness King Richard.

Getting Outside In New England This Fall

So skiers and snowboarders are chomping at the bit to get into the mountains. Living or visiting New England in September and October means the best back country hiking and camping of the year. The bugs are dieing the crowds have subsided on the trails and your ready to get outside and train for the up coming season.

My personal favorite trails are in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. I call Lincoln NH my hiking base camp. You can basically access the hole WMNF from Lincoln. Once you are in the National Forest the choices abound.

Great day hikes are lonesome Lake or The Old Bridle Path. Both starting in Franconia Notch. Their are so many to choose from it is highly recommended you have access to good maps.

Access thousands of hiking trails and unlimited topo maps. Try it free! Topo maps are the best. They not only show you ware you are going but also help you determine the difficulty level of your hike. Hiking in the WMNF can be dangerous if you are not prepared. Even a day hike. Snow is not unheard of in August. The first thing anyone hiking the WMNF should do is pick up a copy of the Appalachian Mountain Clubs White Mountain Guide

After arming yourself with information and decide what type of hikes you will want to take you will need gear. The type of equipment varies with each type and difficulty of a hike. A day, a over night or a multi day hike.
For a day hike with a good weather forecast you can get away with a Daypack , preferably a Filtering Water Bottle or a couple quarts of bottled water per person, a couple Power Bars or candy bars a Compass and a good rain coat. Potable water is very hard to find in National Forest or State Parks.



For a over night or a multi day trips you will need a large backpack all the above plus a Sleeping Bag , Tent , Light Weight Stove and Freeze Dried Food . You can find a complete list in the White Mountain Guide Book .

Getting out on the trail will get the skiing legs in shape. Do some research and get out their.


Don't forget to check the links for season pass deadlines

Getting Ready for 2007-2008 Ski Season and Bode Miller Interview

Thanks for checking in on the North East Ski Zone Blog.

September is here school has started and the ski resort Emails start poring in from the ski resorts. Offers of reduced season tickets lodging deals abound. My favorite deal of the season is college week at Sunday River in Maine starting New Years. Not sure what this season costs, but past seasons have been $55.00 for lift tickets and lodging per person per night. Awesome deal. I have been going with basically the same group for the last five seasons and will be going again this season.

The Ski Magazine 2008 buyer guide has also arrived in the week. As usually it is filled with latest and greatest gear for the 2007 / 2008 ski season.

What cought my eye first was the new Fischer Watea 84 ski. " The Absolute Weapon" with carbon fiber I-Beam construction this ski is on the cutting edge of technology. Basically a all mountain ski but shaped in a way to descend bumps, hard pack or deep powder aggressively.

Another article called RoomKey focuses on Okemo Mt Vermont's new Jackson Gore. Okemo has a special place in my heart seeing I have family that work and live their. The Mueller Family is truly the future of family owned ski resorts And probably one of the last. These people basically took failing ski hill and turned into a high end resort. They also have begun working their magic at Crested Butte in Colorado and Mt Sunapee in New Hampshire.

It's amazing what Okemo has done at Jackson Gore. After they built the first building which includes all the services you could want they started adding more and more. The most recent is two more Condo buildings and a health club. Even a skating rink. So now they have two outdoor pools and a indoor pool with plenty of hot tubs, Steam Rooms and saunas. It's like a completely different resort. As a matter of fact last time I was their I only saw the old base area once in 6 days of skiing. Simply the best.

Funny last season I was hanging around the lobby bar waiting for someone and a waitress walked by with a HIBACHI GRILL PU PU PLATTER PARTY TRAY with all the fixings for smores. That's a first.

In other stories from across the area. Bode Miller appeared on NECN talking about his home town Franconia NH and the Turtle Ridge Foundation. The foundation has events Like a golf tournament and so on to raise money. With all the controversy around Bode Miller he truly is a grounded person and it shows in the NECN video interview. He also talks about being a independent ski racer and Bode Fest

Last but not least we are proud to announce the The North East Ski Zone Discount Gear Store.

Take this chance to check it out. Pre-season pricing and last years close outs by the 10s of 1000s. Pick up a pair of Oakley goggles for under $50.00. Check it out and bookmark it. Best deals on the Internet

2007 Cape Cod Air Show Featuring the USAF Thunderbirds

So as I'm sitting in my lazy summer home on Cape Cod trying to think up my next blog and reading 10's of Emails the resorts started sending and the F15 and F16's started buzzing my house. So I crank up The Grateful Dead show from Foxboro. 1991 (eyes estimated) to drowned them out. Just like that, theirs my topic right their. The Otis Air Show is this Weekend. The last couple years the air show hasn't been that great, but with the weather report for one of the last big weekends of summer is good for the Cape. So this year should be awesome. It is a free event and you can walk through the big transports and sit in a F15. http://www.capecodairshow2007.org/ Getting to Cape Cod for this event can be easy if you come over the Bourne bridge. You will avoid that traffic everyone hates so much. It's truly one one of the coolest things to do on the Cape. Sitting on the beach or the bars frying can get old fast. Check it out. See your tax dollars at work.

Summer In New England

When most people think of summer in New England they think of the Sea Shore or the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Well some like to get away from the crowded beaches of Cape Cod and hit the woods. Camping and Hiking can be more enjoyable when you have the right gear. Long over night or multi night Camping and Hiking trip require much different equipment.
For a one night Camping and Hiking trips you can get away with just the basic Camping and Hiking gear like a tent. sleeping bag, water, and non perishable food. For multi-day Camping and Hiking you will need to gear up with a Camping and Hiking stove, more food and a water purification system of some sort. Above all you need a good map and compass, as well as knowing how to use them. Get away from the crowds and grab a friend and do some back country Camping and Hiking . http://outdoors.org/ is a great place to start for planning a Camping and Hiking trip in New England or for that matter any ware on the East Coast of the US. And don't forget the map and compass. And when your on the coast you can find many good day hikes. Yes even on Cape Cod. Check out the Mashpee Woodlands in Mashpee MA.

American Skiing Company is out of Business for Good

ASC sells last of it's resorts lets employee's go. RSN.com reports.

"ASC is done
American Skiing Co. said Monday it was selling its last ski area and going out of business.
ASC, which owned 10 ski areas as recently as 2001, said it would sell its flagship The Canyons, a 3,700-acre resort in Park City, for $100 million to an affiliate of Toronto-based Talisker Corp., a luxury resort club operator that has invested heavily in lodging at Deer Valley, another Park City resort.
Talisker became owner of land and mineral rights at Deer Valley and Park City Mountain Resort, which are operated by separate companies, when it bought United Park City Mines in 2003.
American Skiing began operating The Canyons in 1997, taking over a tiny ski area called Wolf Mountain. Over the years it invested heavily in mountain and base lodge amenities, adding terrain and lifts as recently as last winter.
It previously announced the sale of Maine's two largest ski areas - Sunday River and Sugarloaf/USA - leaving The Canyons as its last resort.
Common stockholders will get nothing as American Skiing dissolves and lets corporate employees go. "
So you have the summer time skiing blues. If you can't make it to Chili you can get ready with some great deals on EBay. Check it out

Sugarbush is still open

Last call for last turns. Try sugarbush or Killington this weekend. Thats it folks. Take some turns for me. Thanks

More Snow in New England

It's started. The weather reports are calling for this Nor-Easter to stick around, and I mean around and around for 2 to 3 day's. We will certainly be setting a record after this storm. Remember to put a hop in your turn's
Peace Out

Best Spring Skiing In 30 Years

I know I never post, but the end of this season in the north east some areas have received 100 inch's of new snow. I started this blog to show off skiing New England. The season started so slow I just lost interest. Even tonight new s casters are repoting another foot could be on it's way. Everyone is watching a huge storm moving through the mid west. If we get hit it may turn out to be the longest ski season in New Englands ski history.

18 inch's so far today in Vermont

We have recieved 18 inch's on lite fluffy snow in Ludlow Vermont today. It look's like the season has been saved for NEW ENGLAND.