New England's Favorite Resorts Feature Stories

• Attitash Celebrates 40 Years of Fun

• Mount Sunapee is for Families

• At Mount Sunapee, Families Enjoy Cutting Edge Programs & Facilities

• Sunday River has Terrain for Everyone and Dependable Snow

• Sugarloaf Gets New Superpipe, Restaurant and Snowmaking

• Wachusett Mountain is Ideal for Families

• Wachusett Mountain Offers an "Eight-Hour" Vacation

• Wachusett's Unique Mountain Suites Offer Slopeside Living Rooms

• Wachusett Mountain Offers Season Pass Deal of the Century

• What's New in Vermont?

ATTITASH CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF FUN

MOUNTWASHINGTON VALLEY, NH - Attitash, Mount Washington Valley's largest four-season resort, expected to open for the 2004-05 season in November for the mountain's 40th season.

Attitash continues to offer a number of ways to save money on skiing and riding. Here are a few examples.

All For One Pass

Building on the popular $299/$599 season pass offered last season that offered skiing at Attitash and Sunday River, Attitash and their eastern American Skiing Company resort counterparts unveiled the All For One Pass. This pass offers skiing and riding at all six eastern ASC mountains: Attitash in New Hampshire, Sunday River and Sugarloaf in Maine, Mount Snow, Pico, and Killington in Vermont. The pass was launched at four levels, the most popular being the Bronze level with 14 blackout dates had an early season price of just $349, time to buy at that price has passed. Complete information and current pricing and availability can be found at www.allforonepass.com.

"This pricing move is designed to encourage both our loyal guests and infrequent skiers and riders to get in more days on the slopes this season," said John Urdi, vice-president of brand management for Attitash.

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Last minute ski and stay lodging deals and ticket packages are often communicated solely, through the Attitash E-Newsletter, e-mail snow report or Hot Deals. Consumers can sign up for these reports at www.attitash.com.

Reduced Junior Pricing

Last season Attitash dropped their junior and young adult ticket prices, a move that proved popular and has continued into this season. Junior tickets remain $19 everyday, non-holiday and $35 during holiday.

Etickets

This season, skiers and riders can save even more money when buying multi-day tickets. Purchase two-or-more consecutive-day lift tickets on line, seven days in advance, and save 10 percent off the already low window price. Purchasing on line is fast, easy and secure. Etickets can only be purchased on the Internet. Etickets, like all multi-day lift tickets, are interchangeable at any American Skiing Company resort, including Sunday River and Sugarloaf/USA, Maine; and Killington and Mount Snow, Vt. Check out www.attitash.com for complete details and to purchase.

Attitash Edge® Cards

Attitash's frequent skier card. With The Edge Card, people ski more and ski free - when six days of lift tickets are purchased, the seventh day is free. Multi-day tickets are also included in this program, so purchase two three-day tickets and get the seventh ticket free. Tickets purchased must be full-priced and for the cardholder's use only. Edge Cards can be obtained simply by requesting one at the ticket window.

Fourth Annual Founder's Day Celebration - Celebrating 40 Years of Operation

The resort will host its fourth annual Founder's Day celebration on Friday, January 28, 2005. Founder's Day honors Phil Robertson who opened Attitash for business in January 1965. In those days ticket sales were limited to 400 a day on a reservation basis and cost just $7.50.

“Phil was known as the skier's friend. To honor him, we brought back the special he initiated in 1965 and named it Founder's Day," said Tom Chasse, managing director of Attitash. The first 400 people to purchase one-day lift tickets on January, 28 will pay only $7.50. Chasse continues, "Last year was our second Founder's Day and eager skiers and riders showed up as early as 5 a.m. to be sure they did not miss out.

Bring a Friend Program

Back by popular demand, Attitash offers the Bring a Friend program designed to reward current skiers and riders for getting their friends out to learn the sport they love. The bonus for introducing a friend to a Level 1 Learn to Ski or Ride program (they pay full price; $70 includes equipment, clinic and limited lift ticket) is a free lift ticket for the same day. Register online at www.attitash.com for the Bring a Friend program.

For more information on Attitash and all of the resort's products visit www.attitash.com or call 1–877-677-SNOW.

Attitash is part of American Skiing Company (OTCB: AESK), one of the largest four-season mountain resort operators in the United States. The resorts include The Canyons, Utah; Killington and Mount Snow, Vt; Steamboat, Colo; and Sugarloaf/USA and Sunday River, Maine.

MOUNT SUNAPEE IS FOR FAMILIES

NEWBURY, NH - Mount Sunapee Resort has earned the reputation over the past fifty-five years as one of New England's top family resorts. They provide a wide variety of innovative programs, incentives and special rates that make planning a family getaway easier than ever. Mount Sunapee's layout and trail network is family friendly - all trails lead to one central base area. Families can ski and ride together from virtually any lift or go their separate ways to explore varied terrain.

With a new Children's Learning Center facility opening last season, families have more amenities and a larger area for their children to learn and grow in an extremely user friendly and comfortable environment.

With Mount Sunapee's close proximity to major metropolitan areas, it provides the perfect opportunity for a quick one-day getaway. Check out the Mount Sunapee website at www.mountsunapee.com for the Ski & Stay package that fits your needs.

Why Families Love Mount Sunapee

Free skiing for all children ages five and under.

A state-of-the-art Children's Learning Center building that supports and enhances all children related programs.

A special beginner's area (South Peak), which caters to families and beginners who are just starting out or who want to improve their skills in an isolated area. The South Peak area has five lifts including a quad chairlift along with thirteen beginner trails and one novice trail.

Young adult lift ticket category for ages 13-18 (offers significant savings compared to adult ticket pricing at other resorts).

State-approved Mother Goose Childcare Center conveniently located in the new Children's Learning Center.

Wide variety of customized instructional programs that include Snow Stars (ages 4-7) and Mountain Explorers (ages 8-12) in addition to many specific learning and recreational programs run through Mount Sunapee's Cutting Edge Learning Center.

For more info about all of Mount Sunapee's programs visit their website - www.mountsunapee.com.

AT MOUNT SUNAPEE, CUTTING EDGE PROGRAMS & FACILITIES

NEWBURY, NH - Mount Sunapee's Learning Center will continue to offer new and innovative teaching programs designed to show skiers and snowboarders of all ages and ability levels just how much fun learning and turning can be. In an ever-changing sport, Mount Sunapee's unique and personal teaching approach is combined with the latest in equipment technology and taught by highly qualified teaching professionals.

Mount Sunapee opened its new Children's Learning Center last season with rave reviews from parents and kids alike. This beautiful new facility is architecturally similar to the Sunapee Lodge, which was constructed a few years back. The facility is 5,315 square feet and is located next to the South Peak novice slopes for quick and easy accessibility to the slopes. The Leaning Center building accommodates 130 children for the Snow Stars Program (ages 4-7) and 32 children for the childcare program (ages 1-5).

Mount Sunapee's "GET INTO SKIING/SNOWBOARDING" program includes everything a beginner needs to get started on the slopes. The "Get Into…" program includes an introductory ski or snowboard lesson, complete with the new short-shaped learning skis or snowboard, and unlimited use of Mount Sunapee's "South Peak Area" for the entire day. The "Get Into…" program is designed in stages to allow for guaranteed success. The initial cost for the first lesson is $69. Once the learner is qualified as a "beginner," the individual has the opportunity to purchase another two lesson packages for only $60, creating an outstanding three-day lesson, lifts and rental package for only $129. This special beginner package offers a great way to experience the thrill of downhill and get started on a lifetime of fun and enjoyment on the slopes.

Due to popular demand from families a new "FAMILIES FIRST" program has been put in place allowing families to learn to ski and ride together. This program is available for families (ages 8+) to learn a lifestyle together all under the tutelage of the same instructor at the same time in the same area. Prices begin at $69 per person for this unique experience. Mount Sunapee continues to offer comprehensive programs for youngsters, whether it is for skiing or snowboarding. With ski and snowboard programs such as Snow Stars (ages 4-7) and Mountain Explorers (ages 8-12), children can enjoy alpine sports on one board or two while improving their skills with others of similar age and ability.

Seniors and women skiers and riders have an opportunity to take advantage of extended mid-week programs that allow for social interaction with their peers while exploring the mountain and improving their skills. The Women's Clinic is offered on eight individual Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout the season and concentrates on the physical and mental aspects of the sport. Ladies are offered a special ticket on Tuesdays (holiday periods excluded) that includes their lift ticket along with a full buffet lunch. Childcare is available at half-price. Seniors looking to enjoy the company of others can get together with those who enjoy the sport of skiing as much as they do. This program is offered on ten individual Wednesdays from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm.

Specialty clinics are available through our PSIA certified instructors. Whether you want to learn to carve with the new shaped skis, bash the bumps on Flying Goose, ride the corduroy on a snowboard, or brush up on a few pointers, then the Mount Sunapee Cutting Edge Learning Center is for you.

The Mount Sunapee Race Program has been a family affair at Mount Sunapee for over forty years. The race program has developed some of the premier skiers in North America with participants on the U.S. National, Olympic, and Disabled teams. This diverse program offers competitive and recreational programs in alpine, snowboard, and freestyle. The Mount Sunapee Area Ski Club holds family socials every month along with a variety of special events throughout the season. On Friday afternoons, Mount Sunapee serves as host to the TGIF Race League when the locals come out to show their skiing and riding skills all in the flavor of competitive fun with an aprés-ski party to follow.

The New England Handicapped Sports Association (NEHSA) is based out of Mount Sunapee. NEHSA is the region's premier ski program provider for skiers with physical and mental challenges. For more information on NEHSA and their programs, please call 603-763-9158 or visit their website at www.nehsa.org.

For more info about all of Mount Sunapee's programs visit their website - www.mountsunapee.com.

SUNDAY RIVER HAS TERRAIN FOR EVERYONE AND DEPENDABLE SNOW

BETHEL ME -- Sunday River is where skiers and riders will find vast terrain covered with the most dependable snow in New England, thanks to abundant natural snowfall combined with the largest and most technically advanced snowmaking system in the east. A state-of-the-art grooming fleet also ensures fresh corduroy blanketing the slopes each morning.

Each year, the resort scores among the top five in the East among SKI Magazine readers for snow quality, grooming and lifts. The resorts scored in the top ten in the east for terrain, challenge and weather and ranks consistently high in value and family programs.

Over three miles wide from end to end, Sunday River has 128 trails and 663 skiable acres, serviced by 18 lifts spread across eight interconnected mountains. With everything from steeps and glades to wide-open cruisers and gentle learning areas, Sunday River has something to offer everyone.

Sunday River is also home to some of the best terrain parks in the East. Both skiers and riders will find a halfpipe, minipipe, quarterpipe and five terrain parks including a minipark for children that is equally popular with parents.

Each season, Sunday River hosts a variety of regional freestyle events. The resort has also hosted World Cup Freestyle and a USASA National in addition to NorAm GS and Slalom events for the U. S. Ski Team. The resort this season hosts the Sports Illustrated Next X Snow Search Qualifier, the Forum Youngblood Snowboard event, the 3Some Freeskier event and a variety of regional qualifiers and other freestyle events.

The Perfect Turn® Ski and Snowboard School at Sunday River has programs for all ages and all abilities. First-timers can learn the sport through renowned Learn-to programs that include rental equipment, specialty clinics and a dedicated learning area. Adult Perfect Turn clinics are the perfect way for intermediate and advanced skiers to improve. The Perfect Kids® programs are a great way to introduce kids to skiing and help them learn and grow.

Sunday River also offers plenty to do off the slope as well. There are several on-mountain and local restaurants that serve a variety of fare from steak and lobster to pub fare and locally brewed beer. The White Cap Fun Center features a lighted ice skating rink, arcade, tubing park open day and night, family restaurant and pub with live entertainment. White Cap is also the best spot to view weekly fireworks displays. All on-mountain facilities, including lodging properties, restaurants, activities and base lodges, are serviced by a complimentary trolley service.

Guests of the resort can choose from among a variety of lodging options, most of which are slopeside. There are two full-service hotels, the Jordan Grand and the Grand Summit Resort hotels, the Snow Cap Inn, and numerous condominium choices. Accommodations range from studios to three-bedroom units and many have full kitchens.

The resort has invested more than $1 million in capital improvements for the 2004-2005 season. Among the capital projects are upgrades to the Grand Hotels, the Barker and South Ridge base lodges and various other improvements throughout the resort.

Projects at the Jordan Grand include the installation of wireless Internet, expansion of the health facilities with two new massage rooms and a spa room, expansion and renovation of the café, pool and hot tub area and enhanced landscaping and gardens, and at the Grand Summit the lobby and public spaces at the Grand Summit have been renovated.

The cafeteria at the Barker Base Lodge will be expanded by 700 feet to improve traffic flow, create an inviting dining experience, and to enable a wider menu selection that will include gourmet sandwiches and salads in addition to its traditional grill items. The cafeteria at the South Ridge Base Lodge will be renovated for improved traffic flow and atmosphere. The slope side area at South Ridge, including the children’s learning area, will also be renovated to improve the guest experience. The entrance tunnel to the slope side area will also be rebuilt and the guest restroom on the first floor will be completely renovated.

Various other cosmetic improvements will be implemented across the resort including architectural and landscape upgrades to the South Ridge and Barker Base Lodges, more investment will be made in the snowmaking system and four new high-end Bombardier grooming machines will add to the already large fleet of snow surfaces equipment.

Guests of Sunday River also enjoy the nearby quintessential New England mountain village of Bethel, which offers many dining options, shops, a four-screen movie theater and an adventure center with laser tag, rock climbing and candlepin bowling. The Mountain Explorer provides free public transportation between the resort and Bethel. Outlet shopping at North Conway is a little more than an hour away.

Find updated ski and ride conditions, the trail map, events and competitions and special deals at www.sundayriver.com.

SUGARLOAF GETS NEW SUPERPIPE, RESTAURANT and SNOWMAKING

CARRABASSETT VALLEY, ME -- Sugarloaf/USA is poised to propel the Freeride movement to new heights with a new Superpipe and rail park called The Pipeline.

The new Superpipe will meet or exceed all United States Snowboard Association (USSA) standards to accommodate competition at the highest professional and amateur levels. The pipe will be 400 feet long with an 18-degree continuous pitch and 16-foot high walls. The Pipeline will also host a new rail park that has been specifically designed to meet the growing demand for freestyle terrain.

The Pipeline is located low on the mountain between Lower Winter’s Way and the former gondola lift line to provide greater visibility and allow access for spectators. An estimated 30,000-40,000 cubic yards of earth were moved to create the required pitch of the pipe.

The evolution and growth of half pipe and terrain park use prompted the construction of the new pipe. Sugarloaf’s current Superpipe was considered to be an industry leader when it was built in the mid-1990s. “That standard has changed to meet the expectations of more highly skilled freestyle skiers and riders,” said Rich Wilkinson, Sugarloaf’s vice-president of operations. “This will establish Sugarloaf as the premiere halfpipe venue and training facility in the east.”

The Superpipe and terrain park are being built in cooperation with Carrabassett Valley Academy (CVA). CVA, a world premier ski and snowboard college-preparatory academy located at the base of Sugarloaf, is contributing financial and technical resources to the project. “This will be a high end training ground to cultivate future Olympians and champions,” Wilkinson said. Sugarloaf-sponsored professional rider Seth Wescott is serving as a technical consultant on the project. Wescott, a graduate of CVA, competes on the FIS World Cup circuit and is currently the top-ranked American in the discipline of snowboard cross.

In addition to training future athletes, this new facility will allow Sugarloaf to attract competitions at the highest levels. “Sugarloaf has a proud tradition of hosting events on the national and world levels and training some of the world’s top athletes,” said Sugarloaf’s Competition Manager Jim McCormack. “The new Superpipe will allow us to showcase the top riders in the world and provide a training facility for the next generation.”

Sugarloaf will continue to offer freestyle terrain at the current Superpipe and the Stomping Grounds and Quarantine Zone terrain parks. The existing halfpipe will be built with 10-12 foot walls to offer less experienced pipe riders a place to learn before they step up to the Superpipe. Park features will also be graduated in size to allow free riders to work up to the biggest hits in the showcase park.

The Shipyard Brewhaus at the Sugarloaf Inn is under new management and will be an excellent addition to Sugarloaf’s family of eateries when it opens in early November. The restaurant will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and will offer one of the finest ski-in, ski-out locations on the mountain. Similar to Shipyard’s other restaurants throughout Maine such as Federal Jacks in Kennebunkport and the Sea Dog Brew Pubs in Bangor and Topsham, the Brewhaus will offer a casual yet sophisticated menu offering something for every palate.

Nearly a mile and a half of new snowmaking lines have been installed to guarantee adequate coverage in The Pipeline. Those same lines will also serve Lower Winter’s Way, which is a popular learning and teaching area. In addition, upgraded lines have been installed on The Birches and The Landing to enhance the learning experience for new skiers and riders. Higher on the mountain, skiers and riders will welcome new snowmaking capacity on Lombard Cross Cut and Slasher. This summer’s improvements to the snowmaking system bring the total amount of covered terrain to 94 percent of the resort’s developed trails.

Once the snow is made, it’s up to the groomers to create the signature corduroy that Sugarloafers of all abilities have come to expect. Three new Bombardier snow cats will join Sugarloaf’s grooming fleet, including a state-of-the-art winch cat to smooth snow surfaces on Sugarloaf’s legendary steep terrain.

Guests will also see numerous upgrades throughout the resort that add polish to the Sugarloaf experience. For example, the public areas in the Grand Summit Resort Hotel have been fully renovated and The Beach in front of the Base Lodge has been paved and regraded to provide a better venue for the ever-popular rite of spring – The Sugarloaf Reggae Festival each April.

About Sugarloaf/USA Ski Resort - Located in Carrabassett Valley, Maine, Sugarloaf/USA is recognized among the top ski and golf resorts in the world. Sugarloaf/USA is part of the American Skiing Company family of resorts. Its resorts include; Killington and Mount Snow in Vermont; Sunday River and Sugarloaf/USA in Maine; Attitash Bear Peak in New Hampshire; Steamboat in Colorado and The Canyons in Utah.

WACHUSETT MOUNTAIN IS IDEAL FOR FAMILIES

PRINCETON, MA -- Wachusett Mountain is a great place for families and it shows. In addition to great on-mountain programs, Wachusett is a natural for families for a host of other reasons, as well.

Here are some of those extras that make Wachusett special.

The base lodge is on the same level as the parking lot offering easy access for kids to maneuver from the car.

The terrain is perfectly suited for families with all of the terrain meeting at the base area. The trail and lift configuration is also great for families with the Monadnock triple perfect for beginners, the Minuteman Quad ideal for intermediates, and the Polar Express Quad fun for advanced skiers.

Wachusett’s convenient location in central Massachusetts ensures a short trip in the car with a minimum of “Are we there, yet?” questions. Wachusett has been recognized in the past by Ski Magazine as the most accessible ski area in the East.

It takes a “friendly family” to make Wachusett Mountain “family friendly.” Wachusett is operated by the Crowley family who grew up on the mountain and now enjoys the mountain with their own kids.

Kids and parents can ski, snowboard or take lessons. Mom and Dad can feel safe knowing that the younger children, who are not quite ready to hit the slopes, can stay supervised in the “Polar Cub Nursery”.

The “Polar Kids Sled” is a beautiful hand-made wooden sled is used to pull kids from the Polar Den to the teaching area helping them have fun before they’ve even started skiing.

The “Polar Kids Area” features a slow-moving carpet lift to give young skiers and chance to get the feel of moving around on the snow before riding the larger lifts. There are also two other easy-to-ride carpet lifts on the Ollie’s and Easy Rider beginner areas.

Wachusett’s on-mountain food service has been ranked by Ski Magazine readers as No. 1 in the East.

The “Science on the Slopes Program” helps to educate kids about the environment and the science around the mountain.

Wachusett even has its own mascot: “Orson the Polar Bear.”

The October 2003 issue of “Ski Magazine” ranked Wachusett Mountain among the top ski areas in the East for family programs.

Incredible “family season pass” programs that includes a parents’ pass where Mom and Dad can share one pass and all children 15 years or younger take $100 off their pass price. Other values include; children 5 or younger receive a free unlimited season pass when a parent purchases an unlimited pass: with the purchase of four unlimited or seven-day season passes, families will receive the fifth pass free.

Here is a summary of some other of Wachusett’s great children’s programs and facilities:

Polar Kids Children’s Ski School – This has specially trained, kid-friendly instructors who will help your children learn and have fun, too. Half-day and full-day sessions are available. Also, there are “The Polar Playground” and “Polar Cub Den” which features its own carpet lift especially for the kids.

The Polar Cub Nursery – This has warm and friendly childcare for youngsters from three-months to four-years.

DEV Team - Wachusett’s Development Team helps children learn proper skills and technique. It is designed for kids ages 6-13, and is offered weekends with half- or full-day sessions.

Holiday Ski Camps – All day instructional programs available during three-day camps over Christmas and February school vacations.

Wachusett Mountain Race Team – This is a parent-run race team program featuring Level I-V competition and coaching.

For up-to-date information, visit www.wachusett.com.

WACHUSETT MOUNTAIN OFFERS AN “EIGHT-HOUR” VACATION

PRINCETON, MA -- “Wachusett has the heart and soul of a big mountain – it just comes in a little package,” according to the October 2003 issue of Ski Magazine which ranks the central Massachusetts ski area among the Top 10 ski resorts in the Eastern USA.

Whether they are skiing for a day or an evening, Wachusett Mountain Ski Area wants its customers to feel like they are on vacation, even if they are only there a few hours.

“Being located so close to Worcester, Boston and Providence, we are a popular day ski area,” said General Manager David Crowley, “but that doesn’t mean people do not want to be treated like they are on vacation. They are sharing their precious leisure time with us and we want them to know how much we appreciate it. Our staff tries to make sure our skiers and riders feel like they’re on vacation right in their own backyard no matter when or how long our guests are here.”

Located in the heart of southern New England, Wachusett is within an hour’s drive from a population base of more than seven million people. Already known for its outstanding customer service, Wachusett’s concentration on making its guests feel like they are on vacation was verified in the same issue of Ski Magazine when the resort also ranked among the East’s best ski resorts in 10 different categories in addition its No. 10 ranking overall. Those other ranking include: Access No. 1; Weather No. 1; Service No. 2; On-Mountain Food No. 2; Family Programs No. 3; Terrain Parks No. 4; Lifts No. 6; Grooming No. 6; Snow No. 7; and Value No. 9.Wachusett’s rankings placed it well ahead of many larger competitors in northern New England.

“These rankings are a reflection of our staff’s dedication of providing a first-class experience for all our guests,” added Crowley. “After extensive capital improvements the past few years -- including two new trails and triple chairlift in the Vickery Bowl this year -- we continue to focus on less tangible but equally important elements of our guest experience. We want our guest for know they don’t have to go far from home to feel like they’re on vacation.”

WACHUSETT’S UNIQUE MOUNTAIN SUITES OFFER SLOPESIDE LIVING ROOMS

PRINCETON, MA -- While many resorts offer slopeside lodging, Wachusett Mountain Ski Area is one of the only ski areas in the country to offer slopeside “living rooms.”

Located on the second floor of Wachusett’s base lodge addition, Wachusett’s unique “Mountain Suites” are private living room suites offering a unique alternative for small groups up to 15 people looking to make their mountain experience even more fun. There are five mountain suites available. Two of the suites – the Elm and Fir – can be combined to offer a larger space for groups up to 30 and the larger Spruce Room is also available for groups up to 80.

“The suites give businesses, companies or private parties an opportunity to bring their ski group’s experience on the mountain to a whole new level,” said David Crowley, Wachusett Mountain General Manager.

“They are ideal for customer appreciation, employee benefits, team building, small meetings or family gatherings.” Guests often compare the Wachusett Mountain Suites to Sky Boxes or Luxury Boxes found at professional sports arenas.

Each suite features commanding views of the mountain, including some with outdoor decks overlooking all the action on the slopes. The suites are appointed with ski-lodge décor, soft cushioned chairs and couches, and a meeting/dinning table area for eight people. In-suite services include satellite television, high-speed Internet access, local and long-distance telephone service, climate control and private restrooms. The suites also offer full-time concierge service for lift tickets, ski or snowboard lessons, rentals and demo equipment. Each suite also offers gourmet catering service with options of a variety of specialty menus or menu service from Wachusett’s Black Diamond Restaurant. Each unit also features an in-suite wet bar which can be stocked with a choice of beverages.

The suites are available to rent for the day skiing from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or for night skiing sessions from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Suite rentals begin at $350 per session (not including skiing or food and beverage services). Multiple suite rental packages are available. For more information or to arrange a private showing, please call 978-464-2300 or visit www.wachusett.com.

WACHUSETT MOUNTAIN OFFERS SEASON PASS DEAL OF THE CENTURY

New “Super Century Pass” Available for 2004-2005

PRINCETON, MA -- Compared to the cost of any other leisure-time activity, skiing and snowboarding offer a great value and nowhere is that value greater than at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area in Princeton, Mass.

With Wachusett Mountain’s incredibly priced “CENTURY PASS,” skiers and riders can use the mountain midweek day or night or weekend/holiday nights for only $429.

New for this season, skiers and riders also have the option to purchase a “SUPER CENTURY PASS.” The Super Century includes all the benefits of the Century Pass plus weekend days before 12/24/04 and after 3/6/05. The “Super Century” is available for $429.

The only time the regular “CENTURY PASS” is not valid is days during weekends and holiday periods. Even during those times, “CENTURY PASS” and “SUPER CENTURY PASS” holders can receive $10 off the cost of a regular lift ticket. New this year, CENTURY AND SUPER CENTURY PASS holders can also receive extra benefits with the new Century Pass Sweepstakes. Pass holders can visit www.wachusett.com for added discounts, upgrades and prizes.

Century Passholders only need to use their pass as few as 6 times before it pays for itself. If this pass holder skied an average of three times per week during Wachusett’s season (usually from late November to early April), each visit would cost less than $4.

Located only 1 hour from Boston, Wachusett offers skiing and riding midweek days from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and nights from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Order on-line at www.wachusett.com or by phone at 978-464-2300, ext. 3200.

WHAT'S NEW IN VERMONT

MONTPELIER, VT -- The advent of a new ski season brings with it excitement and anticipation for all that was epic during past winters and all that is to come. This season, Vermont resorts are opening even more terrain and making upgrades and renovations. Along with Vermont’s unique charm and hospitality, guests will continue to enjoy up-to-date facilities, conveniences, services and amenities. In ski language that means, great skiing, great snow, tasty food and new terrain.

ASCUTNEY MOUNTAIN RESORT –

Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoe Trails: Take your fitness regimen outdoors with two of skiing’s best cross-training alternatives: cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are both a low-impact total body workout. If you’re looking for a change of pace, or if you’re not a skier or snowboarder, and want an outdoor activity, Ascutney Mountain Resort has developed 20 km of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails. Consisting of five separate loops, these trails offer a diversity of terrain for beginners and advanced abilities. Trails allow you to take in the natural beauty that Ascutney has to offer, with pristine meadows and beautiful wooded trails. Trails are located west of the Ascutney Mountain Resort Hotel. Cross-country skis and snowshoe rentals are available at Cunningham’s Ski Barn.

Ascutney Mountain’s Alpine Cinema: Another new added attraction to Ascutney’s high altitude entertainment is our own movie theatre. Alpine Cinema features current films every Saturday night throughout the season and select days during holidays. The cinema is located on the ground level of the Hotel. Guests can inquire at the Hotel front desk for ticket and showtime information.

BOLTON VALLEY RESORT –

4-Hour Daily Lift Ticket: Bolton Valley Resort announces a new 4-hour daily lift ticket. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday we will offer 4-hour tickets starting at only $20. Come ski and ride at the resort that offers you the most flexibility, allowing you to get on the mountain at a time that’s convenient for you.

Back by popular demand is our Vermonter Day ticket, available both Monday and Tuesday all season for only $25 all day, all ages (ID required).

BROMLEY MOUNTAIN –

Snow Surface is Priority Number 1: Vermont’s Sun Mountain continues to improve its product by investing in what skiers and boarders value most, snow. For the 2004-05 ski and board season, Bromley will invest in more snowmaking that will include a number of 162 HKD Spectrum Tower Snow Guns. These guns are much more efficient than their ground-hugging counterparts, allowing Bromley’s crews to cover more acreage with light, fluffy snow in less time than ever before. Most of the guns will be focused on the Halo Terrain Park, so that there are always reliable conditions for our free-ride loving skiers and boarders. These Tower Guns will allow Bromley to offer amazing skiing conditions even if Mother Nature lets us down.

Bromley’s grooming fleet includes a brand new, state-of-the-art Bombardier BR350 Snow Cat. This new cat will allow the Bromley crew to prepare more acreage in less time, translating into better skiing conditions for guests. This snow cat, coupled with new tower snow guns, represents Bromley’s continual effort to provide skiers and boarders with the best possible snow surface.

Food for Thought: The main cafeteria in Bromley’s Base Lodge will be vastly updated for the 2004-05 season. This will be both a reinvention and modernization of the Bromley Food Service area. The brand new, scramble-type food service area will improve service and provide customers with an inviting array of choices – a terrific addition to an already fantastic base lodge.

BURKE MOUNTAIN SKI AREA –

More Terrain: Last year, Burke doubled its gladed terrain on the upper mountain. This year, we’re opening up the woods on the lower mountain. We’re excited about the opportunity to introduce the thrill of woods skiing/riding to novice level skiers/riders using the Sherburne Chair region of our ski area. Also new on the lower mountain will be a Children’s Terrain Park, complimenting The Gap, our expert level park. The Children’s Terrain Park will give young and less experienced skiers/riders the chance to emulate their older brothers and sisters, without the level of difficulty found in The Gap.

JAY PEAK RESORT – Jay Peak will be celebrating its 50th anniversary this 2004-05 season and they are busily preparing for 50 more years of great skiing and, soon, year round operations.

This past summer, Jay worked on the construction of their 18-hole championship golf course and golf academy and will complete construction of the front nine by the end of summer 2005.

Crews are also working on 56 new slopeside condominiums and townhouses. The project includes the addition of the new Grammy Jay trail on Stateside, which will bring skiers down to our existing Village Chair.

On-Mountain Upgrades: Other on-mountain construction includes general glade work, trail maintenance and work on the Sky Haus, which is located in the Tram facility at the top of the mountain. The interior of the Sky Haus will be renovated this summer and the new, cozy cafeteria will open this winter.

Future Expansion: Long-term plans include the West Bowl Expansion project. This summer marks the completion of the permitting process with the aim of beginning construction in the spring of 2005 or 2006. The West Bowl will include 250 acres of wind-protected, sun-drenched glades and intermediate terrain. This is a project that will be introduced in multiple phases with the anticipation to open at least a portion of the terrain for the 2006-07 season.

KILLINGTON/PICO RESORT –

Land Transaction Clears Way For Development of Resort Village at Killington: In May 2004, the owners of Killington entered into a partnership with a Texas-based company, Eiger, a critical step in the development of the resort’s slope-side real estate and base area village. The partnership allows Killington to retain a substantial interest in the new company, SP Land Company, LLC. The new company has the real estate expertise and financial resources necessary to take the Village from the planning stage to fruition.

In the upcoming months SP Land will open an office in Killington and begin its own assessment of existing plans as well as its own feasibility studies. No timeframe has been given yet as to when the “first shovel” will go into the ground. See enclosed press release for details.

Parks and Superpipe Expansion at Bear Mountain: Bear’s 25th Anniversary: Due to the increased popularity of Killington’s terrain park, The Beach, and the growth of the freeski/freeride culture, Killington will move The Beach to Bear Mountain for the ’04-’05 season. Outgrowing The Beach indicated the need for a parks and pipe expansion, and this season skiers and riders will find one entire mountain with more acreage dedicated to terrain parks featuring more rails, tabletops and hits, signature giant jumps, and a new Superpipe, which will be maintained by the resort’s new Zaugg pipe groomer. Those looking for insane air or to land a styled-out trick can hang in the parks, the pipe or take to the steeps of Outer Limits, the steepest mogul slope in the East and home to the 25th Annual Budweiser Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge. Bear Mountain’s hidden extreme gem is Devil’s Fiddle, a double black diamond trail with rocks, cliffs and its own natural terrain features. In addition, new tree skiing will be added at Bear Mountain and existing gladed areas, known to by many locals, will now be denoted as designated tree skiing areas on the trail map. The Timberline terrain park at Rams Head will also receive upgrades, tripling in length and a quarter-pipe will be added.

Anniversary of the Legendary Budweiser Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge: Inaugurated in March 1981, the annual Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge has attracted Olympians and world-class skiers from across the country for 25 years. Outer Limits, the steepest mogul slope in eastern North America, covering 1,200 feet of vertical in a half a mile, has been the training ground for 1992 Olympic Freestyle Champion Donna Weinbrecht, and 2002 Olympic team members Hannah Hardaway and Evan Dybvig.

Each year 200 amateur bumpers line up to show their stuff in this spring event, while spectators relax in the sun at the bottom of the trail on lawn chairs and sofas with barbecue grills and coolers in tow, ready to officially celebrate the rites of spring skiing. (Yes, there’s even a cook-off in the crowd too, complete with trophies.) More than 5,000 spectators attend as well. Special events and guest appearances are planned for this year’s silver anniversary event, slated for April 2-3, 2005.

Snowmaking Upgrades, New Trail Signage for Better Mountain Navigation: This summer Killington continues with its major on-mountain projects, including a snowmaking system upgrade. When complete, the upgrades will provide increased efficiency and effectiveness of the resort’s snowmaking system, the most extensive system in North America. In addition, this season skiers and snowboarders will notice this first phase in changes to signage throughout the resort as well as a refurbishment program for the resort’s lifts and base lodges.

Freeski/Freeride Camp for Ages 7-18, Kid’s First Day On Snow Program: The Perfect Turn Ski and Snowboard School will introduce two new programs this season. A freeski/freeride camp for kids who want to learn to ride in the parks and pipe, and a first day on snow program, similar to the Adult Learn to Ski Program but geared toward those ages 7-18. The camp will be offered daily and include freeskiing and riding on Easy Street, Killington’s entry-level park. As students progress, coaches will teach more difficult tricks and maneuvers in a more difficult park, Timberline. For those seeking the ultimate in air, pros will utilize the new terrain features at Bear Mountain plus the Superpipe with the students. Parks include rails, boxes, spines, hips, mini-pipes, and more, and are built at varying degrees of difficulty.

Kid’s First Day On Snow is geared for those ages 7-18 who have never skied or snowboarded. Similar to the adult learn to ski/ride program at the Sprint Perfect Turn Discovery Center, the new program simplifies the learning process by using indoor instruction, videos, and Q & A prior to hitting the slopes. Cost was not available for either of these programs at press time.

MAD RIVER GLEN –

Improvements: At Mad River Glen, do not expect a new high-speed quad, a massive snowmaking system or valet parking. Unlike other areas Mad River’s goal is to enhance the experience rather than change it. The skier-owners and management of the ski area understand that skiers come to Mad River for the legendary ski terrain, the sense of community and the unique atmosphere. Over the past nine years, Mad River Glen has invested more than $2 million in capital improvements to the area. President Jamey Wimble explains, “Our capital plan is designed to maintain the existing infrastructure properly and to make small changes that will improve the overall experience for our skiers.”

Mad River Glen's long-term capital plan calls for spending about $120,000 on capital projects in 2005. While most of the projects are relatively small and will not be obvious to many skiers, they are nonetheless very important to Mad River’s goal of keeping the buildings, lifts, and mountains in good shape and enhancing the overall experience for the skiers. Perhaps, not surprisingly, the largest line item of $21,500 is earmarked for trail work. This includes the on-going replacement of many on-mountain culverts and bridges as well as the re-working of some of the water bars on the trails. This effort has been crucial in improving drainage, limiting erosion and improving the skiing. The legendary Single Chair will begin its 56th year of operation with new lift booths at both the base and summit stations. The novice chair, Birdland, gets a new unloading ramp along with a new lift booth this season. The balance of the budget was spent on a good deal of maintenance of the lifts, vehicles, and buildings. “Nothing fancy,” admits Mountain Manager Nate Martin, “Our skiers just want to come and have a great ski experience. Our job is to make sure everything is safe and it works, from the bathrooms to the Single Chair.”

The ability of Mad River Glen to consistently reinvest in the mountain’s infrastructure is a testament to the success of the Cooperative. “Most of the conventional wisdom in the industry didn’t give us much of a chance when we got started,” said Mad River’s Marketing Director Eric Friedman. “Now, after nine years, we have paid off our mortgage and have been able to invest in the ski area’s infrastructure each year.” Capital projects are funded by a combination of operating income and Co-op share sales. Each year, the Co-op’s capital funding is calculated by adding the five-year average operating income and share sales. From this, each year the Co-op puts aside $75,000 for eventual renovations to the Single Chair, and the remainder is available for capital projects.

MOUNT SNOW RESORT –

Snowmaking System Upgrades at Mount Snow: New for the upcoming 2004-05-winter season, guests can expect several upgrades in our snowmaking and grooming capabilities. Mountain Operations will be taking advantage of the summer months to replace several components of Mount Snow's intricate snowmaking system. Numerous pipes and valves will be upgraded in order to increase the efficiency of the computer controlled process. Look for three new grooming machines to be laying down that signature Mount Snow corduroy on your favorite trails as well.

Mount Snow’s 50th Anniversary: Mount Snow Resort will celebrate its 50th birthday on Sunday, December 12, 2004. The celebration will continue all season long with special events and promotions. We’ll pay tribute to Mount Snow’s storied and often quirky history while looking towards the future. We will celebrate the vision of founder Walter Schoenknecht, the success of US Olympic Gold Medallist Kelly Clark, and everything in between. Promotions will include special lift ticket offerings and special giveaways. For more information on Mount Snow’s 50th Anniversary, please visit www.mountsnow.com.

OKEMO MOUNTAIN RESORT – New trails, an increase in snowmaking, a variety of season pass options, innovative instructional programs and Jackson Gore – it's all happening at Okemo Mountain Resort this season.

The Magic Continues: The Jackson Gore area has fast become a favorite among skiers and riders and it is no wonder why. New terrain, an assortment of culinary options and the fully open, fully functional Jackson Gore Inn and base facility have made Okemo a bigger version of the place everyone has come to know and love. The core has changed, but not Okemo’s core values.

The new Jackson Gore Inn and base facility combines the warmth and allure of the Vermont countryside, with the ambiance of a fine hotel. Inn rooms range in size from artfully appointed standard guestrooms to 3-bedroom suites and most are fully equipped with all of the amenities of home and more. This season, when guests arrive at the Jackson Gore Inn, they can drive up to the Lobby entrance to unload, then proceed to the underground parking garage that accesses the main lobby by elevator. No more brushing the snow off the car or scraping the windshield.

New Terrain: Going from peak to peak is now easier than ever with more trails, an expanded beginner area and a newly paved road connecting the Okemo base to the Jackson Gore base. Two new gladed trails have been added at Jackson Gore. Steep, undulating and loaded with excitement, the new glades will provide nearly 10 acres of "au natural" tree skiing to challenge any expert. The new glades are located off Tuckered Out and Upper Limelight.

Providing the finest quality snow experience possible is a top priority. To insure consistently good snow conditions all season long, Okemo has increased its snowmaking firepower again this season. Various pipe replacements and system enhancements will result in more energy-efficient and dependable snowmaking. A brand-new Bombardier BR grooming machine has been added to the fleet.

"Try Before You Buy": Skiers and riders have been asking for it, and this season it is back. Every morning the first hour (60 minutes) of lift operation is free so Okemo skiers and riders can "check out" the snow conditions before they purchase a lift ticket. Try Before You Buy first hour free is only valid midweek (non-holiday) from 9:00 am until 10:00 am, and on weekends and holiday periods from 8:00 am until 9:00 am.

New Season Pass Options: Singles, families, seniors and students – no matter what the age, Okemo has the season pass program. Introducing the all-new Okemo Family Plan 7-Day Season Pass designed specifically for families, and the new 6-Day Season Pass (valid Sunday through Friday, non-holiday) for avid snow enthusiasts. As an added bonus, many of Okemo's season passes include benefits with sister resorts Mount Sunapee (NH) and Crested Butte (CO) and a continued alliance with Stratton Mountain (VT). Visit www.okemo.com for a complete listing of season pass values.

Expansion at Okemo Valley Nordic Center: It is new and bursting with options. Guests visiting the Okemo Valley Nordic Center will notice a newly expanded Rental/Repair area with a full line of Rossignol cross-country equipment and Atlas snowshoes. Rentals are offered half-day, full day and multi-day. Mix and match cross-country skis and snowshoes for the same low price. Cross-country skis and snowshoe equipment demos are also available through the Nordic Shop.

Three Great Mountains To Choose From: Tim and Diane Mueller are the owners of the highly successful Okemo Mountain Resort in Ludlow, Vt., and Mount Sunapee Resort in Newbury, N.H., and owners of Crested Butte Mountain Resort in Mt Crested Butte, Colo. By reinvesting a major portion of the revenue each year back into mountain operations and by placing the quality of the product and guest service as a priority, Okemo, Mount Sunapee and Crested Butte continue to receive national acclaim in the snowsport and golf industries.

SMUGGLERS’ NOTCH RESORT –

Gladed Trails: Smuggs is adding over half a mile of gladed terrain this winter. On Sterling Mountain, to the west of the steep Smugglers' Alley, the woods will be selectively cut so experts can enjoy the terrain. On either side of Bootlegger, skiers and riders will find airy woods of pitch and difficulty matching the Alley's expansion, creating a trio of glades from this summit. On Madonna, a 1,500-foot stretch of tree skiing will start at the mid-way point of the Drifter Trail and follow a steady line down to Lower Rum Runner, thus connecting the two mountains. When added to last year's impressive 40 new acres the total amount of Smuggs gladed areas now makes up 22 percent of the total skiable acres.

New Learn-to-ski Program for Two-Year Olds: Little Rascals on Snow is Smugglers' newest program in a lineup of innovative teaching programs at the Resort. Two and three year olds not yet potty trained presented a special challenge for teaching outdoors until Smugglers' TREASURES day care center staff and the Snow Sports University guides teamed up. Based from the nursery, and co-managed by these professionals, a specially trained staff will lead these youngsters through gentle skiing routines for their mornings on the slopes. Lunch, afternoon naps and playtime at TREASURES round out their complete Little Rascals program.

Big Kids' Ski Camp: Smugglers’ turns its attention to adults to offer them a new kind of skiing adventure. They no longer must pine after the fun and attention their children enjoy in Smugglers’ renown all day on-mountain camp experiences. The expert guides of Snow Sport University mix compatible level enthusiasts together and take them out on the slopes to try new things. They help participants open up and move away from comfortable trails and old habits. With a low ratio of 5 to1, by the end of the week each has accomplished the unexpected. (Available each week, this is a four-day program with lunch daily, and one day of demo ski trial or a tune/wax.)

New Vacation Package: Smugglers’ Notch Resort leads the winter vacation industry with an innovative family package for the 2004-05 seasons. The new design includes ski or snowboard lessons for all children in the family between the ages of 3 and 17. Lessons for adults who are first time skiers or riders are also part of the package. The Club Smugglers’ Package also features condominium lodging, daily lift tickets on all three mountains, after ski activities such as welcome parties and hot cocoa by the bonfire, use of cross country ski and snowshoe trails and a free Smugglers’ Notch 2004-05 season lift pass.

STOWE MOUNTAIN RESORT –

Spruced Up – Stowe’s Revitalization Projects Start with a Bang: There is a big buzz in Stowe these days. It centers on the greatly anticipated revitalization of the ski resort that dominates this charming New England town. The excited chatter around town grew this summer, when construction teams began what will be a ten-year, $250 million series of projects that will transform the Spruce Peak base area into a dynamic alpine village with world-class amenities. Of course, a host of mountain improvements are at the center of that development, and skiers and riders will immediately notice the improvements this winter.

The first impression will be a more wide-open base area. A number of small, old buildings have been eliminated, allowing guests to better enjoy the sunny southern exposure that drew skiers to Spruce Peak in the first place so many decades ago. Also keeping the base area clear will be the absence of lift lines, with the addition of two new chair lifts.

New Lifts: The Little Spruce Double, built in 1963, has been replaced with a new, high-speed, detachable quad that will double the hourly lift volume from 1,200 to 2,400 passengers per hour. In addition, a new triple chair will offer rides to another 1,400 passengers per hour. “The new chair lifts are really important because they will allow our guests to spend more time on the mountain,” says resort spokesman Michael Colbourn. “They are fast, new and bring skiers and riders to terrain that has never before been accessible.”

New Trail: The new triple chair at Spruce Peak will bring guests to the new pride and joy of the Stowe Ski and Snowboard School, a beginner’s trail with a perfect 8-10 percent pitch and single fall line. “That trail is killer.” says Ski School Director Dave Merriam with his trademark enthusiasm. “For many of our guests, it will be their first ride to the top of a mountain, and their first sight will be an amazing view of Mt. Mansfield. Then, as they make their way down, the terrain is consistent and just perfect for learning to ski or ride.”

New Snowmaking: Some of the construction crews this summer were not offended in the least when their work was described as a real hole in the ground. It was. In fact, it was a 117 million gallon snowmaking pond. Just take a moment to visualize that magnitude of water. Then imagine it transformed into snow on the slopes of Spruce Peak and Mt. Mansfield. Stowe Mountain Resort now boasts a 40 percent increase in snowmaking capacity over last season. “When we have the right temperatures, we’ll be able to just cover this place in no time,” says Colbourn. “For beginners and intermediates especially, snow surfaces are key to having a quality experience, and in that area Stowe will definitely deliver.”

Next summer, the fun continues with a new high-speed quad set to replace the Big Spruce Double (circa 1954), and all new snowmaking to serve that area for the first time. A number of other projects, including a stunning new base lodge, are also being planned. For more information about Stowe’s revival, visit www.sprucepeak.com.

Skiers and Riders Asked for It – More Glades: This year Stratton expands its tree skiing and riding by 30 percent with a new trail through the woods that combines the best in old-fashioned New England Skiing with the best features of today’s terrain park. This hand-cut trail follows mountain contours and accentuates the natural features to create jumps, banked turns and more. This cutting-edge glade course is designed for the whole family, with different routes for different abilities.

Smart Passes: Stratton launches a new family of Smart Passes designed to make skiing and snowboarding convenient and affordable. Selection doubles with 13 passes ranging from Sunday Only for $199 to the Fully Transferable pass that is valid every day offers early lift access and can be shared among friends and family for $1,799.

The Village Common: A classic Vermont landscape of great lawns, ponds for fishing or ice skating and meandering paths, The Village Common, takes shape as construction is completed for Rising Bear, Stratton’s latest lodge and most recent real estate success story. Designed with spacious floor plans and the ambience of historic American lodges, 34 of the 38 available homes sold for a total of more than $20 million in a single-day Sales Grand Opening. One homeowner purchased a larger Rising Bear home because his family was spending much more time at Stratton than he had expected.

SUGARBUSH RESORT –

Sugarbush Partners with Burton to Bring a Learn-to-Ride Center to the Resort: The Burton-supported learning facility believes learning should be painless and fun. The techniques used in the LTR program are tested and developed by members of snowboard instructor associations worldwide. All elements of the LTR Center are designed by riders for riders - from equipment setup to instruction to appropriate learning terrain. Burton has evaluated the entire program from start to finish to ensure success. Qualified instructors who keep riders learning, linking turns and having fun result in a positive experience. The new program is part of Sugarbush's efforts to offer more to riders. A new Progression Park and two new yurts will be also open for park and pipe lovers.

A New Mount Ellen Pass: Sugarbush Resort will be offering a season's pass to its highest peak, Mount Ellen, for 2004-05. The pass is designed for people who want access to big-mountain skiing and riding at very affordable rates and will give holders access to over 2,600 vertical feet of terrain, 42 trails, 6 lifts and new gladed trails. Sugarbush also plans to offer Ski+Ride School lessons at Mount Ellen this year, which previously had only been available at Lincoln Peak.

Kids 12 & Under Can Ski for Free: You can't put a price on family bonding and that is why Sugarbush is offering it for free. Kids 12 and under can ski and ride for free at Sugarbush. The program is simple: for every All-Mountain or Mt. Ellen - valid every day of the season - adult season pass a family purchases, they will receive one free kid's season pass of the same type.

Over the River and through the Woods, Woods, Woods, and More Woods: Owning up to its reputation of being the eastern hub for adventure skiing, Sugarbush Resort is adding almost 40 new acres of gladed terrain on Mount Ellen. The expanded terrain is designed to bring the excitement and serenity of tree skiing/riding to skiers and riders of all abilities.