Section Contents - Quick Links to Articles

• 1 - WINDHAM HAS MORE NEW SNOW and A NEW "K" CHAIR

• 2 - HUNTER OPENS KAATSKILL CLUB, and IMPROVES for FAMILIES

• 3 - MOUNT PETER CELEBRATES 70 YEARS of FRIENDLY FUN

• 4 - GORE CONTINUES TO IMPROVE for the 2006 SEASON

• 5 - ELK MOUNTAIN CONTINUES PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES

• 6 - BLUE MOUNTAIN IS FULL OF BIG TIME SKIING and IMPROVEMENTS

• 7 - CAMELBACK SKI AREA ADDS MORE FOR THE 2006 SEASON

• 8 - SHAWNEE MOUNTAIN IMPROVEMENTS for 2005-06 ANNOUNCED

• 9 - SNOWDRIFT - THE CHALLENGE CONTINUES AT BIG BOULDER

• 10 - GREEK PEAK SKI and STAY PACKAGES & LOVES KIDS

• 11 - HIDDEN VALLEY RESORT HEADS TOWARD A NEW ERA

• 12 - SEVEN SPRINGS ENHANCEMENTS ARE MUCH TO YODEL ABOUT

WINDHAM HAS MORE NEW SNOW and A NEW "K" CHAIR

WINDHAM, NY — Instead of just praying for more snow, Windham Mountain has gone out and done something about it. The mountain was busy this past summer, with many improvements taking place that make it a better place to ski and ride this winter. Extensive excavation work expanded the mountain’s holding pond and increased storage capability by 50 percent. A new pump increased pumping capacity significantly too, so now they can make more snow, faster. This will make better use of water resources, reducing reliance on streams. Several new snow guns are being added this year along with 7,000 feet of replacement pipe. These 20 new marginal temperature guns are portable and provide high-efficiency output, which means more snow can be produced. This also promises faster recovery time from poor weather conditions.

New “K” Lift and Learning Area

Another year at Windham means another new lift. This year a triple high-speed chairlift, - the “K” lift - is being added, bringing the total number of lifts on the mountain to eight. The Adaptive Sports Foundation (ASF) is purchasing the new lift, and Windham Mountain will install and operate it. The K lift is 400 feet long and serves the new expanded learning area, which is just above the east wing of the Mountain Lodge. The addition of this new teaching area will double the space available for beginners. This project involved much earth moving and reshaping the hill slightly to level it. This will make it easily accessible to new skiers and riders. Everyone will be pleased by the additional space and better beginner trails.

Parks, Pipes and Tubes

The jib park is being moved to the other side of White Way. It is now more riderfriendly, closer to the pipe area and will have light and sound for night riding. This move will correct the double fall line issue that existed in the park’s old location and will really improve the overall jib park experience for riders and skiers. At the tubing park, new tubes are added and a “lane master” attachment to the grooming tractor will shape the dividers between lanes. Now going into its eighth season, the tubing park is always a popular place to play in the snow.

Windham Mountain is New York State’s premier ski and snowboarding resort. Set atop the Catskill Mountain High Peaks, it offers a 1,600-foot vertical drop from a 3,100-foot summit elevation.

Located 25 miles from the New York State Thruway Exit 21, Windham Mountain is in its 45th year of operation. The resort’s 42 ski/snowboard trails encompass 245 skiable acres. Night skiing and riding are featured Thursday through Saturday and on holidays.

Windham offers snow tubing Thursday evenings, Fridays, weekends and holidays at the Mountain Top Adventure Park. The resort also owns and operates The Winwood Inn, located on Main Street in the town of Windham.

For more information, please call 1-800-754-9463, or log on to www.windhammountain.com which you can easily link from the right side of the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

HUNTER OPENS KAATSKILL CLUB, and IMPROVES for FAMILIES

HUNTER, NY — Parents know that pleasing every member of the family can be difficult. Family-owned and operated, Hunter Mountain has a number of large improvements, making it easier than ever to make every second of a family outing enjoyable. Hunter has never been more committed to “making mountain memories, one smile at a time.”

Hunter Mountain’s new four-season slopeside resort, the Kaatskill Mountain Club, is now open for business. Rising from the base of Hunter, this luxury facility is the Catskill’s premier slopeside resort, fulfilling any and all mountain vacation desires with an impressive list of amenities and services available to suit the guest year round.

Raising the standard of overnight accommodations in the Catskill region, the Kaatskill Mountain Club is Hunter Mountain Resort’s largest improvement to date, complete with 109 guest rooms, Van Winkle’s Bistro and lounge, an outdoor heated pool, fitness center, health club, Mountain Spa, and a number of other special amenities. An around-the-clock staff tending to your bell service, concierge, business services and valet parking are all standard amenities at the Club. Setting the Kaatskill Mountain Club apart from similar slopeside resorts in the East is an unparalleled level of quality, which emanates from every room at the Club.

Each guest unit is outfitted with a full kitchen finished with granite countertops, a gas fireplace and private terrace. In addition there are mission-style furnishings, elegant wood trim, cathedral ceilings and regional artwork. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Guests are also entitled to the convenience of direct ski-in, ski-out access during the winter season, which easily doubles as an easy entrance to the grassy slopes in the summer months.

Van Winkle’s Bistro has also made its grand debut, offering dinner in a casually elegant atmosphere perfect for couples, families, and other hungry adventurers. Van Winkle’s features an array of lite fare, dinner entrees and other specialties prepared by longtime regional Chef Shamus Butler, formally trained at the Culinary Institute of America. Van Winkle’s is located on the Main Level of the Kaatskill Mountain Club, and serves dinner seven days a week. Both hotel and non-hotel guests are welcome.

Winter ski and stay packages start at just $99 per person, per night, with a two night minimum.

It is easy to trust the beginners in your family to Hunter’s nationally recognized, award winning Snow Sports School. It features a number of unique programs geared towards every ability and age. The Snowsports School utilizes Hunter’s award winning, nationally recognized Learning Center. Additionally, the fifteen trails of Hunter One are specifically designated for those learning to turn. Offering both group and private instruction, Hunter also offers a variety of specialized adult workshops for intermediate and advanced skiers, each geared to achieve maximum improvement in minimal time.

Also offered are seasonal children’s programs; Hunter’s competitive Junior Alpine, Freestyle and Snowboard clubs, and PlayCare for youngsters ages 6 and under. No matter which program, all children can join Hunter’s Kids Club, a kids only, exclusive club offering fun benefits for kids, and deals for parents. Family-friendly Hunter also offers NASTAR racing, snow tubing and snowshoeing.

For more information, please call 1-800-HUNTERMTN or visit their web site www.huntermtn.com or link to it from the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

MOUNT PETER CELEBRATES 70 YEARS of FRIENDLY FUN

WARWICK, NY -- Welcome to Mount Peter’s 70th Anniversary Season. Since 1936, people have been turning to Mount Peter for winter fun. With more than 50 ski-able acres, Mount Peter, “The Friendly One,” is the oldest operating ski area in New York State. With 90 percent snowmaking and 70 years of experience, they are always developing new ways to make winter everyone’s favorite season.

There is always something going on at Mount Peter. Events such as their New Year’s Eve Party for families, Firefighters’ Family Day, Women’s Weekend and Spring Rally really bring some excitement into the season.

If you would rather enjoy the slopes when there is less action, visit Mount Peter for mid-week solitude. Take in the views from the top of the mountain, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and carve some leisurely turns. (They promise not to call your boss.)

Mount Peter has all the amenities necessary for a great day on the slopes, with a full service cafeteria and tavern, and a beautiful pavilion that sits on the base of the hill with the new “Hot Spot Grill.” You can get your shaped skis or snowboard in the rental shop, pick up the hat you forgot in the retail shop, and you are on your way. If your skis are not as fast or sharp as they should be, bring them into Mount Peter’s Kwik Tunes Shop.

For beginners, Mount Peter offers free Beginner Ski and Snowboard Lessons on Weekends and Holidays, and both children and adults can enroll in the eightweek learn-to-ski or snowboard program. Mount Peter’s Mountain School is a highly professional PSIA (Professional Ski Instructors of America) and AASI (American Association of Snowboard Instructors) Certified Program. Instructors are trained by a Level III Director and Level III Technical Director and by other various PSIA certified trainers. This means Mount Peter’s instructors are always on the cutting edge of teaching, and they offer all levels of ski and snowboarding instruction. For the advanced skier or snowboarder, upper level group lessons or private lessons are a great way to learn and perfect new skills. They offer many clinics throughout the season that specialize in balance, edging and rotating, and carving gorgeous turns. Check out a Pro-Trainers Clinic or the “Ski Dynamite” program. Mount Peter’s Race Center is considered one of the best in the region. Have your child join the race program and watch him or her develop skills you never thought possible. Their race staff is fun, fast and friendly.

For those who like a challenge, trails like Dynamite and The Wild West can keep even the accomplished skier or snowboarder on their toes. And for those who like to catch a little air, the new and improved Terrain Park is made complete with rails and jumps, with plenty of room to practice or a place to hang out with friends.

Mount Peter - with history, and professionalism at its best - they have what it takes to make you a winter enthusiast.

Contact Mt. Peter by calling (845) 986- 4940 or log on to their web site, www.mtpeter.com via an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

IT’S EASY TO GET TO MT. PETER

From NYS Thruway - Take exit 15A, To Rt 17N to Rt 17A.

From Other Highways – take Rt. 17N to Rt. 17A

Mt. Peter is located between Greenwood Lake and Warwick, NY.

GORE CONTINUES TO IMPROVE for the 2006 SEASON

NORTH CREEK, NY — Four new trails will offer more fun and variety to Gore Mountain’s terrain this season. “Woodchuck” is a new intermediate on the High Peaks Side, offering a narrow, winding adventure from the “Wood Lot” trail. “Darby’s Woods” for experts is accessible from Lower Cloud near the Lower Darby entrance.

Two new glades accessible from the Bear Mountain summit will include “Pinebrook Glades” and “The Cave Glades.” The latter does feature a real cave along the trail. With these newest terrain additions, Gore Mountain will be offering 344 acres of skiing in 2005-06, the most in New York State.

Gore Mountain expanded its grooming fleet this fall, and has added 70 new tower guns, four new fan guns, and a new pump for snowmaking during the last twelve months. The new pump has provided an additional 800 gallons per minute of pumping capacity.

Behind-the-scenes work can make all the difference to a skier’s experience. Infrastructure improvements for more efficient grooming and snowmaking, particularly on the newer Bear Mountain terrain, will pay off significantly for guests during the 2005- 06 season.

Since the beginning of ski season always puts snowmakers to the test, last season Gore made significant snowmaking improvements will continue to have more Gore Mountain trails open earlier.

Tower guns use one-fifth of the air and the same amount of water as traditional ground guns, making them a more efficient snowmaking resource under appropriate weather conditions. Gore Mountain, last season, increased its fleet of 120 tower guns by almost 60 percent. Currently Gore Mountain uses tower guns on seven trails. Four new fan guns were also added to the snowmaking fleet.

Using a virtually endless source of water from the Hudson River, Gore Mountain has had a pumping capacity of 4,800 gallons of water per minute (GPM). Another pump was added, increasing the draw by 800 GPM to a total of 5,600 GPM.

Skiers last season enjoyed the new tower guns that were installed top-to-bottom on Twister, Gore Mountain’s race trail. Trail crews widened Twister from 60 to 80 feet wide to 120 feet wide in some areas. That allowed more high-profile racing events to be hosted.

Last year also saw improvements to the base lodge cafeteria and Saddle Lodge. A modernization of the food service area to a food court layout provided a nicer dining ambience and enhanced guest experience. The complete renovation of the Saddle Lodge featured new tables and chairs, a new fireplace, and full food and beverage service.

For more information, log on to their web site via an easily found link on www.skiernews.com.

Or call Gore at (518) 251-2411, or their snow phone at 1-800-342-1234.

Check out the “More Gore Giveaway” at www.goremountain.com.

ELK MOUNTAIN CONTINUES PROGRAMS FOR ALL AGES

UNION DALE, PA — First-time skiers, established skiers, or snowboarders looking to learn or fine-tune their skills can do so with a lesson from a member of the Elk Mountain Ski School.

The school is a member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and utilizes the American Teaching System. With a staff of over seventy-five trained instructors, Elk has a program and the staff to meet your individual needs.

Elk Mountain takes great pride in its ski school programs and lessons. Class sizes are limited to provide a quality experience. Lessons may be sold out during busy periods. Details are available at the ski school desk.

The perfect time to learn to ski is while you are young, and the staff wants to make your child’s skiing experience fun. They offer programs that allow parents to enjoy themselves while children learn to ski with confidence.

BABY-SITTING SERVICE

Baby-sitting services are offered at Elk Mountain on a hourly basis. Because availability is limited reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance. Children must be at least two years old and toilet trained.

PRE-SCOUTS, SCOUTS and RANGERS

Elk Mountain offers a “Scouts” program for children ages 3-12. Scouts enables children to learn to ski with emphasis on fun. Scouts is available through the Ski School. Categories are broken into: Pre-Scouts (Ages 3-4), Scouts (Ages 5-7), and Elk Mountain Rangers (Ages 7-12).

Elk Mountain also offers a racing program, mogul clinics and special Women’s Day programs for first-time through expert. Seasonal programs are offered for Freestyle, Adult Ski Improvement and Junior Racing. A Holiday Camp will be held in late December. Additional information is available by calling the Elk Mountain Ski School.

The Junior Racing and Cruisers programs are under the supervision of Elk’s experienced staff. As a group, the staff brings years of coaching and racing experience to Elk Mountain. Most of the coaching staff have USSCA levels I, II or III, PSIA certification levels I, II or III equivalent. The Elk Mountain Junior Racing Program has produced racers who have excelled at Eastern regional races. The Cruisers Program has produced many excellent young skiers and most continue through to the Junior Racing Program.

JUNIOR RACING

Elk Mountain’s Junior Racing is a program geared for young skiers (8-19) who can comfortably ski the entire mountain, including all black diamond trails. Offered during Christmas Camp, weekends or as a full season program, this program allows the participants to ski/train with the same coaches over the duration of the program. This format assures continuity and allows progress to be monitored closely. Training will be available at the recreational and competitive levels.

For program participants, additional gate training will be available on Tuesday and Thursday nights at an added charge. In addition to skiing skills development, agility drills, racing techniques and course tactics, participants will learn ski tuning, equipment maintenance and take part in various camp activities. Video sessions with critique by the coaches will be integrated into the training.

CRUISERS (JUNIOR RACING DEVELOPMENT)

Elk Mountain Cruisers is a program geared for youngsters ages 6 through 12. Offered as a Christmas Camp, weekend training or full season program, children who ski blue square trails can enjoy a challenging ski experience, improve their technique and build self-confidence. Five hours of supervised skiing and coaching instruction daily promotes learning in an exciting and unhurried environment. Skiing with the same instructors the entire season on a variety of trails allows children to develop their skills while making new friends who share their same interest in skiing.

ADULT SKIING IMPROVEMENT

Adult Skiing Improvement is a learning experience for strong adult skiers. The program is offered on Saturdays and Sundays, from January - through February (excluding holidays); 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m (2-1/2 hours per day). This will allow the participants to ski and train with the same coaches over the duration of the entire program, providing continuity and learning in a relaxed, unhurried environment. There are a minimum number of participants required for this program. If minimums are not met, the program may be cancelled.

FREESTYLE PROGRAM

Elk Mountain’s Freestyle Program will be offered under the supervision of Stephen Wagner through the Ski School. The program is for participants ages 8 - 19 who can ski advanced intermediate terrrain comfortably. The curriculum will include ski improvement, mogul skiing, park tricks, bumps, jumps and video training. The program is being offered on Saturdays and Sundays starting late January - through the end of February (excluding holidays).

For more information, please call Elk at (570) 679-4400 or find them on line via an easily found link on the home page of www.skiernews.com. You can log on directly to www.elkskier.com.

BLUE MOUNTAIN IS FULL OF BIG TIME SKIING and IMPROVEMENTS

PALMERTON, PA – Last season Mother Nature treated Blue Mountain with kindness to make for one of our best seasons in the history of Blue Mountain Ski Area. Of course, they attribute much of our success to our superior snowmaking capabilities plus the diligence and skill of their snowmaking & grooming crews.

Despite this memorable season, Blue Mountain has not been resting on its laurels. Over the summer they have taken the time to improve on what they feel is already the best, concentrating on snowmaking and trail maintenance.

Their two terrain parks have been completely redesigned to provide skiers and riders with two of the most thrilling parks in the area.

Here is a short list of other upgrades for 2005-06.

• Lower Sidewinder will become a snow cross trail, connecting Sidewinder Park and Terrain Run.

• They have added a Zaugg Pipe Groomer to the fleet to shape the halfpipe to be the best ever.

• Valley School West teaching hill, with its own triple chairlift, will also have a Conveyor Lift this coming season, making your learning experience more enjoyable.

• Both the Valley Lodge and Summit Lodge will be “wireless” for you to stay connected while enjoying the winter fun on the mountain.

• Nastar Races will be held Thursday nights and Sunday afternoons throughout the season.

The Valley Lodge, at the base of the mountain, contains a rental shop that is a one-stop location where lift tickets, rentals and lesson can all be purchased. Snowtubing tickets are purchased in the Valley Lodge at any of the eight ticket windows. You will find a very scenic view of the mountain in the cafeteria in the Valley Lodge.

Many race events are planned for the season. Coupled with last year’s enhancements, which included a new building for snowboard school, new tubing slides and a new snow groomer, Blue Mountain is always ready to provide you with a fun experience.

Last year another Piston Bully snow groomer was added to the existing fleet of four machines. This makes the fleet one of the largest in Eastern Pennsylvania.

Blue Mountain has gained recognition for having the longest terrain park in the Pocono region. Terrain Run is 1,200 feet of awesome hits that prepare boarders for an assault on Sidewinder Park. Sidewinder Park is a 3,500-foot run of full-blown hits, containing mega rails, jumps with step-downs, hips, a rainbow rail and a great wall.

Blue Mountain encourages all skiers and boarders to lock their equipment when not in use. As a special service, Blue Mountain will now watch your skis, poles or snowboard for you free. Ski/Board Checks are located in the courtyards by Summit Lodge and Valley Lodge. In addition, ski and board locks, which require quarters to operate, are also provided outside the lodges. And areas are provided for customers to secure their equipment using their personal locks. Personal locks can be purchased in the Skiers Stores.

The popular downhill mountain bike race is back for a fifth season. Equipped with spiked tires, competing cyclists negotiate slalom gates similar to conventional downhill ski races. For the racer’s uphill ascents, special bike hooks are installed on the Vista lift. This new form of snow racing draws racers from surrounding states and has a large following of skiing and non-skiing fans. It is possible that Blue Mountain is the only Pocono ski area offering this unique snow sport.

The BikerCross event will be held on Jan. 7. It is a downhill on the snow event with four bicycle racers competing at the same time. The racers will have to negotiate obstacles such as bank turns, drop-offs and table-top hits. The race takes place on Raceway trail, which is accessible to non-skiers who would like to watch. Entrance for this event is through the Summit Lodge. Racers 17 and under must have a parent sign the Race Release Form. Helmets are required. Check with Blue Mountain for more details.

On Jan. 28, WAEB, Nestor’s and Ed’s House will sponsor the Super Saturday Boardercross and Skiercross. The event is open to all boarders and skiers who are looking for the challenge of head-to-head competition on a race course built in Blue Mountain’s Terrain Park. Racers will compete in elimination heats until only the best boarder or skier in each category remains undefeated. Racers 17 and under must have a parent sign the Race Release Form. Helmets are required.

There are several other local ski shop customer appreciation days scheduled throughout the season. NASTAR races are popular on Thursday nights and on Mondays in January, beginning with Jan. 9 is the Challenge Race Series.

Subaru’s popular Master the Mountain event returns to Blue on Feb. 4 and 5. Get some great ski info and check out the latest Subaru vehicles.

For more info, please call Blue Mountain at 1-877-SKI BLUE toll-free, or 610-826-7700.

CAMELBACK SKI AREA ADDS MORE FOR THE 2006 SEASON

TANNERSVILLE, PA- Continuing a longstanding tradition of reinvestment in the overall mountain experience for its guests, Camelback Ski Area announced several improvements for the 2005-06 season. Among the additions are a new, state-of-the-art groomer, new terrain elements in Camelback’s terrain parks, plus over 600 new sets of skis and snowboards in the Rental shop.

Highlighting the improvements is Camelback’s new Camoplast BR350 winch cat groomer. This new machine allows Camelback to groom any trail uphill, including the steeps. The result will be more, even snow coverage from tree line to tree line, and the ability to maintain bumps on some slopes. With this addition, Camelback becomes the only Pocono Mountain ski area to feature winchcat grooming.

In the terrain parks, Camelback will install a variety of new rails of various shapes and sizes. Headlining the lineup of new rails will be the C-Bow box and the Rainbow-to-Kicker box. In addition, the design and layout of snow-based elements will be revised for 2005-06. These new improvements will be found this winter in both the Laurel Glade and the Rhododendron Glen terrain parks.

Rounding out the list of Camelback improvements is a major purchase of new equipment for the rental shop. Included are 525 pairs of Elan XRC Skis with Salomon Bindings, 300 pairs of new Leki poles, 925 new pairs of Salomon front-buckle ski boots, 145 new Burton snowboards, 120 new pairs of Vans step-in boots, 20 pairs of Burton Progression boots and 725 new helmets.

Tuesdays this season have been designated “Introduce a Friend to Skiing” days. If you bring a first-time skier, 13-years or older, when you purchase your ticket, your friend will get a free beginner package. The package consists of a restricted use lift ticket, a beginner lesson and rental equipment. It is restricted for space reasons and also not valid on Feb. 21 and after March 1. You must sign up before 9:30 a.m. for the day session and 1:00 p.m. for the twilight session.

Find out why they say that families and first timers enjoy the mountain in no time. Camelback’s instructors offer classes for all ability levels from beginners to experts.

Last season Camelback added 40 new high efficiency tower and sled-mounted snowgun. They upgraded lights on Lower Cleopatra, and built new slopeside rest rooms adjacent to the Children’s Learning Center.

The additional snowguns complemented back-to-back snowmaking upgrades undertaken over the past three years that have transformed Camelback’s snowmaking system with cutting-edge technology. The additions allow Camelback to make more snow than ever before, while offering the ability to rebound from adverse weather more quickly than ever.

While Camelback has offered 100 percent night skiing across all 33 slopes and trails for the past several seasons, the ski area continued an upgrade of older lighting with the installation of brighter, more energy-efficient lights on Lower Cleopatra. Considered by many as one of the best “cruising” trails on the mountain, Lower Cleopatra is a popular route from mid mountain to the Sunbowl.

Winter guests last season noticed a new building in Camelback’s Main Base Area. Located adjacent to the Children’s Learning Center, a new two-story slopeside rest room building was constructed, nearly doubling rest room capacity in the base area. The facility provides ski-up access, and features energyefficient fixtures, and a bright, welcoming interior.

Experience the joy of winter this season at Camelback. Their 33 trails promise a full day of fun. The 13 lifts, including their two high-speed quads, get you back to the top quickly. At Camelback they know that when the fun keeps going, your smiles keep growing.

Camelback Ski Area opens for the season in early December, weather permitting.

Snow Conditions Report: 1-800-233-8100

Location: Northeast Pennsylvania, in the heart of the Pocono Mountains. 3-1/2 miles from Exit 299 off Interstate 80 in Tannersville, PA.

Vertical: 800 feet Trails: 33 total; all are lighted for night skiing.

For more information, call (570) 629-1661 or visit Camelback’s website, www.skicamelback.com, via an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

SHAWNEE MOUNTAIN IMPROVEMENTS for 2005-06 ANNOUNCED

Bushkill Lift rebuilt, More Rentals, New Seven-foot Wall Ride,and New Pipe Magician Groomer add to last season’s upgrades

SHAWNEE-ON-DELAWARE, PA — Coming off one of the greatest ski seasons in its 30-year history that saw the debut of its 3,000-foot Super Park and Automated Snowmaking System, Shawnee Mountain is pleased to announce the following enhancements for the coming 2005-06 ski season.

NEW Pipe Magician Grooming Device

Showing its commitment to the Park and Pipe progression, Shawnee purchased a new Piston Bully Pipe Magician to better build and maintain its 400-foot halfpipe. Unique in form, the Magician ensures uniformity in the halfpipe walls and promises skiers and boarders a quality ride.

NEW Seven-foot Wall Ride

This year Shawnee’s Super Park will be bigger and better then ever and promises some new features, including a new seven-foot Wall Ride, as well as all kinds of kickers and tabletops. Skiers and boarders can go big on the massive kickers or learn to slide on the new low flat boxes.

Bushkill Lift Upgrades

The 3,400-foot Bushkill Double Chairlift, Shawnee’s longest lift, has been rebuilt for 2005-06, complete with a new drive and new sheave assemblies. The Bushkill Double operates day and night all season and services the Bennekill and Kittatinny Trails as well as the 3,000-foot Super Park & Pipe.

More Rentals

As part of a multi-year program to upgrade its massive rental shop, Shawnee Mountain has purchased 550 new Elan Shaped Skis, 125 new Elan Snowboards, 200 new Ovo Helmets and 25 new Salomon Ski Boards. The Shawnee Mountain Rental Shop, which is the largest of its kind under one roof, is able to outfit over 4,000 skiers and riders.

Last year, Shawnee invested $2 million in improvements. They included a new automated snowmaking system, a new terrain park and halfpipe, and a new NASTAR course.

A massive undertaking, 450 new tower mounted York Snow Guns were installed, throughout the entire mountain, lining all of Shawnee’s 23 slopes & trails. Many of these snow guns are fully automated, computer controlled and self-adjusting delivering optimum snowmaking efficiency. This system allows for snowmaking on multiple trails at one time and gives Shawnee Mountain the ability to open more trails early in the season and maintain dependable snow depth and surface conditions throughout the winter season. A snowmaking giant for years, Shawnee Mountain has always been one of the first to open and the last to close in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The wide fall line Bushkill Trail became home to Shawnee’s new Park. The new Park stretched nearly 3,000 feet with multiple rails and snow features. The park appeals to a wide range of ages and skill levels. It offers a small rail garden to full-on Super Park features.

Shawnee Mountain’s popular NASTAR recreational racing program was moved to the upper Tomahawk Trail. The course is fun, competitive, easily accessible and viewable from the Tomahawk Quad Lift. NASTAR racing is offered weekends during prime ski season in conjunction with the Shawnee Junior Race Program.

Base area improvements were many. Skiers and riders are welcome to bring along their laptop computers as complimentary wireless internet access is available in both base lodges.

Shawnee Mountain is located in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania just off Exit 309 of Interstate 80.

For general information, call (570) 421-7231.

For lodging information, call 1-888-VILLA4U for townhomes and chateaus, 1-800-SHAWNEE for the Shawnee Inn, or 1-800-POCONOS for the regional vacation bureau.

You can link directly to Shawnee’s web site from an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

SNOWDRIFT - THE CHALLENGE CONTINUES AT BIG BOULDER

BLAKESLEE, PA — Advanced skiers and boarders who opt for runs at Jack Frost’s well-known East Mountain will be interested to know that last season Big Boulder added a challenging new slope named Snowdrift. It had been long-favored by locals only, who discovered and relished this once secret, untamed slope. Snowdrift is aptly named because snow naturally drifts to this section of the mountain, providing fresh powder and a challenging run. A quick vertical drop, a narrow chute and intermittent pine trees create the landscape for this new run. The slope bumps-up according to the whims of Mother Nature and will test skier’s abilities all season long. Big Boulder offers the seasoned skier demanding runs at Draufganer, Upper Sitzmark and the slope at Big Boulder.

Both Jack Frost and Big Boulder are renowned for their excellent snow due to their high elevations, and they provide some of the best tree skiing in the area. These facts coupled with the challenging new Snowdrift slope will certainly present skiing experiences to remember as well as adventures for the intermediate and advanced skier or snowboarder.

Call 1-800-468-2442 or visit on-line at www.jfbb.com for additional information on the free rider and ski clinics at Big Boulder. Families, skiers and boarders who want to save time and money can visit Ticket and Rental Express which offers discounted, lift tickets and seasonal packages.

GREEK PEAK SKI and STAY PACKAGES & LOVES KIDS

CORTLAND, NY – When you make one call to Greek Peak’s toll-free 800 number they will take care of all of your lodging needs. From convenient on-site townhouses located at the resort, to accommodations at one of the nearby hotels, motels or bed and breakfasts.

Greek Peak lodging includes privately owned townhouses and single-family homes, each with a spectacular view of the slopes. All units are fully equipped with linens, towels, televisions, and modern kitchens. Most units have two full baths, washer and dryer, loft and fireplace.

For extra value, consider the multi-day lift tickets options. Not only are they discounted, they are the most flexible ticket that is offered. Each ticket is good all day and night, perfect for the varied needs and schedules of your family or group. You will be able to ski a few hours and return to your townhouse via the convenient shuttle bus (check schedule daily) to relax and re-group. Then, later on that day or night, you can ski again at no additional cost. Now that’s a vacation.

For the greatest selection, Greek Peak recommends that you make your reservation early.

Call their Central Lodging service and they will be happy to make a reservation for you at either at Greek Peak or at a nearby hotel or bed and breakfast. One toll-free call does it all, 1-800-955-2SKI (1-800-955-2754) for reservations at Greek Peak, Comfort Inn, Econolodge and others in the area.

Visit Greek Peak’s web site from an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

CORTLAND, NY — At Greek Peak, they know that quality family ski time means more fun for the kids and less hassle for you. That’s just what the three supervised children’s programs are designed to do.

Children (ages 2-1/2 to 14) learn skier safety and real ski technique through games played on skis, imitation, natural movements, and fun! Your kids will be having the time of their lives, and you’ll be free to explore the rest of the resort, confident that your little ones are getting the right mix of instruction, supervision and good times. Soon, the whole family will ski together!

The key to Greek Peak’s success with kids starts with the CHILDREN’S LEARNING CENTER. Drop off your infants in the upstairs nursery and your skiers in the downstairs meeting room. The center has its own food service and is strategically located convenient to the rental shop, chair lifts and all resort facilities. Pee Wee’s (age 2-1/2 to 4), SKIwee’s (age 4-8) and Mini Rider start in “Magicland”, a specially designed ski “bowl” which makes learning easier and more fun. A child-friendly “Magic Carpet” uses a flat conveyer belt to gently glide the new skiers to the top. Some children like riding up as much as skiing down! (Lift ticket required for Magic Carpet.)

Once the kids have mastered the ski bowl, they’re off with their instructor to the Alpha Slope, the Castor and then the rest of the resort. The MOUNTAINEERS’ Program (ages 9-14) teaches more difficult maneuvers, including race training and moguls.

Each of Greek Peak’s children’s programs mean more fun for the kids and less hassle for you, and it all starts at the Children’s Learning Center.

Greek Peak’s web site from an easily found link on the home page of www.skiernews.com to find out more about renting or owning real estate at Greek Peak or call 1-800-955-2754.

HIDDEN VALLEY RESORT HEADS TOWARD A NEW ERA

HIDDEN VALLEY, PA – Special value for fun on the snow will once again be offered to winter guests arriving at Hidden Valley Four Seasons Resort for this season.

Beginning in January, lift tickets for only $15 leads the parade of savings, with Super Value Tuesdays. Every lift ticket will be priced only $15. No coupons or discounts will be accepted with this program. (See note below.) Also a mid-week Season Pass brings value pricing for the skier who can get away Monday through Friday.

As an invitation for first timers to enjoy the entire Hidden Valley experience and save, a unique value is offered with the Beginner Bonus Book. This special package contains two lift passes, two sets of equipment rental and two group lessons at the Hidden Valley Ski & Board School – all for only $79. The savings compared to individual pricing ($166) is as much as $87. Plus the new Hidden Valley Beginner Bonus Book is valid any day of the week.

Overnight guests will be rewarded with more value and free skiing included in the revised Midweek Madness lodging package. Designed for any Sunday night through Thursday (excluding all holiday periods), Midweek Madness is even lower than last winter at $62 per person, and includes: one night of lodging at the Inn at Hidden Valley, a free lift pass, and a five dollar dining coupon for Dundee’s Restaurant. Lodging information and reservations are available toll free at 1-800-458-0175.

On the slopes, Hidden Valley Resort will serve up more snow and fun in the Jaguar Terrain Park with additional snowmaking capabilities that will allow snowboarders and skiers alike to enjoy the enhanced park challenge of jumps and tricks

NOTE: As Hidden Valley is beginning a new era, please check for updates, cancellations or improvements to all of the programs mentioned in this article.

Teens can have more fun. The Hidden Valley Ski & Board School has added a Mountain Explorer Ski & Board Program. Youngster between 13 and 16 can discover new techniques and explore new terrain at Hidden Valley. With lunch included, the Mountain Explorer is only $55. The PSIA certified instructors at Hidden Valley will still offer top rated ski and snowboard lessons. The price structure for these ski school improvements will remain the same as last season.

Hidden Valley continues to offer some of the best values on the snow. Despite increased costs, there are no rate increases for weekday, night session and all day lift tickets, equipment rentals, ski and board lessons, sleigh rides and cross country trail use fees. Only two lift ticket price adjustments will be in effect for the winter. Weekend raters for adult and junior lift tickets have increased to $45 and $35, respectively, for two sessions (weekend day session 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekend twilight session noon to 10 p.m.)

Hidden Valley Resort offers 28 slopes and trails over 140 acres, with a top elevation of 3,000 feet and a vertical drop of 700 feet. The longest run is 1? miles. There are a total of 12 lifts, with one quad, two triples, three doubles, three handle tows and three surface carpets.

Hidden Valley lifts operate daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., with a total uphill capacity of 12,500 people per hour.

A wide variety of lodging options are available at Hidden Valley Resort. Lodging reservations can be made by calling 1-800-458-0175.

Snow reports are available in season at 1-800-443-SKII.

The web site is located on the Internet at www.hiddenvalleyresort.com.

Reservations are available toll free at 1-800-458-0175.

You can also log on to Hidden Valley’s web site via an easily found link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

SEVEN SPRINGS ENHANCEMENTS ARE MUCH TO YODEL ABOUT

New Expert Ski Run, Terrain Park and Snowmaking

CHAMPION, PA — It will be snowing more of what skiers love at Seven Springs Mountain Resort this winter. A challenging new black diamond ski run, a new terrain park and the addition of state-of-theart snowmaking equipment will have skiers yodeling for the first snow.

Can You Yodel?

Yodeler is the new expert run on the North Face of the mountain between Gunnar slope and Turtleneck Glades. It merges into the narrower Turtleneck Trail. “Yodeler duplicates Turtleneck Trail’s challenging, winding and steep terrain,” said Dick Barron, director of ski operations, Seven Springs. He noted that Yodeler offers spectacular views, allowing skiers and boarders to see as far away as the Pittsburgh skyline. Skiers can exit or enter the more challenging Turtleneck Glades run at several points.

Thrills, Chills Added to Terrain Parks

New equipment, a new park and better conditions are coming to the terrain park experience at Seven Springs to accommodate the hundreds of skiers and snowboarders using the parks on weekends.

The new intermediate to advanced park is located on the skiers’ right of Giant Steps slope. It joins Arctic Blast for ages 4 to 7, Santa’s Beard for intermediates and Sunset Park for the advanced.

All four of the terrain parks will have dedicated staff to maintain, build and improve the experience.

“We’re adding some exciting features to help reinvent the challenges every few weeks and keep the parks continually fresh and thrilling at each level of difficulty,” Barron said. The resort is working with consultants in the terrain park industry to help guide the enhancements.

Added to Sunset Park are more advanced features, including a curved “C” rail and a state-of-the-art Zaugg half-pipe groomer. Popular in Western resorts, the Zaugg helps create a half-pipe that is 40 feet to 50 feet wide with sloped sides that skiers can go up, over and back across.

More Snowmaking More of the Time

Skiers on every slope will experience the benefits of extensive upgrades to Seven Springs’ snowmaking equipment. With the touch of a button, new radio-controlled automatic snowmaking equipment will blast snow onto the Stowe, Avalanche and Goosebumps slopes. The automated equipment, with manual over-ride, has a continuous string of snow guns from the top to the bottom of the mountain.

“We can make greater amounts of snow in less time since the automated equipment eliminates the need to manually turn each snow gun on and off,” Barron said. He added that the state-of-the-art equipment would free up manpower. This will permit the staff to concentrate on grooming other slopes, bringing the entire snowmaking capability to a new level.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort, located in Champion, Pa., is Pennsylvania’s largest ski and year-round resort, and was recently rated No. 1 in the mid-Atlantic region by readers of SKI magazine. Located within 200 miles of the major metropolitan areas of Baltimore, Cleveland, Columbus, Pittsburgh and Washington D.C., Seven Springs is easily accessible from either exit 91 or 110 of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

For more information on Seven Springs, visit www.7springs.com or call 800-452-2223.