Section Contents - Quick Links to Articles

• 1 - at OKEMO, ART & INNOVATION ARE WHAT'S NEW for WINTER 2008-09

• 2 - at ELK - A HISTORY of GREAT SKIING

• 3 - OKEMO HAS A DEAL FOR YOU

• 4 - SHAWNEE MAKES IMPROVEMENTS for the 2008-09 SEASON

• 5 - CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN RESORT UNVEILS UPGRADES for the 2008-09 WINTER

• 6 - BLUE MOUNTAIN BUILDS ON IT FOUNDER'S DREAM

• 7 - HUNTER CELEBRATES 50 YEARS with MORE SNOW GUNS, DEALS & THE eSTORE

• 8 - MT. PETER GUARANTEES TO TEACH YOU HOW TO SKI

• 9 - SEVEN SPRINGS MAKES MANY IMPROVEMENTS for 2008-09

• 10 - FIND A WINTER WONDERLAND in the POCONO MOUNTAINS

• 11 - WHAT'S NEW at the POCONO SKI RESORTS

• 12 - (future articles will reside here & below)

• 13 -

• 14 -

• 15 -

at OKEMO, ART & INNOVATION ARE WHAT'S NEW for WINTER 2008-09

LUDLOW, VT – Art and innovation combine to address the challenges of creating a better resort experience at Okemo – all with an eye toward efficiency and sustainability. Laserguided superpipe cutting, first-in-the-East lift loading and grooming technologies, plus energy efficiencies in snowmaking and other operations, these are just some of the innovations that comprise the art of Okemo.

NEW TERRAIN

Okemo has saved the best for last. The final two trails of the original Jackson Gore layout are completed in time for this winter’s ski season. For years, skiers and riders traveling to the Jackson Gore summit on the Jackson Gore Express Quad have looked longingly upon the partially cleared trails located on skier’s right halfway down Quantum Leap.

“These are not your typical Okemo trails,” says Okemo Mountain Resort Vice-President of Operations Barry Tucker. “Offering some of the steepest pitch at Jackson Gore, they have lots of character with natural outcroppings and contours to enhance the way these trails will ski.”

Looking a little like a scene from the History Channel’s Ax Men, the summertime trail clearing at Jackson Gore took on an innovative approach to some timber removal challenges. To avoid a wetlands area located downhill from the trail-clearing operation, felled trees had to be hauled with a winch, uphill to a point where they could be loaded onto trucks and removed via Mountain Road.

Although they have not yet been named or officially ranked, Tucker thinks the new trails will be rated double black diamond. One of the new trails will measure about 1,000 feet long and the other will be about 2,600 feet long. The latter will have a vertical drop of 850 feet. Together, the new trails will add about eight acres to Okemo’s skiable acreage total – now 632 acres.

MORE SNOWMAKING

In addition to the 96 percent of Okemo’s trails that are equipped with snowmaking capabilities, 80 new snowmaking guns have been added to the arsenal this year. Okemo’s operational focus this winter is on energy-efficient, early-season snowmaking. With the help of HKD’s economic solutions and innovative technology, Okemo will continue to offer an outstanding snow surface at reduced energy consumption. Last winter, Okemo tested some new energy-efficient HKD guns. Featuring adjustable water flow levers, nozzle versatility and new valving technology, the HKD SV-10s and Genesis tower guns were a huge success. Due to the snow guns’ ability to make snow more efficiently at closer-to-freezing temperatures, Okemo was able to make the same amount of snow as in previous years using a reduced amount of energy and a fuel-cost savings of $140,000.

In addition, Okemo is upgrading its snowmaking systems on some of its most-skied trails and those that are traditionally the earliest to open. These infrastructure efficiencies are being done at minimal cost by re-using a large amount of previously discarded materials.

GROOMING

Okemo’s grooming fleet is the first in the East to include the new Prinoth BR500 grooming machine, affectionately referred to as “The Beast” by Resort operations staff. The 500- horsepower dual turbocharged behemoth is about eight feet wider and ten feet longer than the next largest model, the BR350. The Beast sports a 24-foot-wide tiller and a 20-footwide blade. With engineered efficiencies, additional width and an ability to travel at the same speed uphill and downhill, the newest machine in Okemo’s grooming fleet will bring the art of grooming to a new level.

In addition, Okemo is replacing three other machines with Prinoth BR350s, one of which will be outfitted as a park cat for grooming the terrain features in Okemo’s five ski and snowboard terrain parks.

LASER-GUIDED PIPE MONSTER

Okemo Vice-President of Operations Barry Tucker looks nothing like Buzz Lightyear of Star Command, but one thing the two have in common is laser technology. When Tucker and his crew were tasked with finding a more precise way to cut Okemo’s massive SoBe Superpipe, they found a technological solution that cost $50,000. “It simply wasn’t a $50,000 problem,” said Tucker. So with a heaping dose of Yankee ingenuity and a dash of frugality, the operations crew came up with a solution using the same laser technology they use in summertime construction-site grading projects. By affixing adjustable laser units with a vertical orientation to a stationary base at the bottom of the superpipe, and attaching a receptor device to the arm of the Zaug Pipe Monster, Okemo’s groomer operators can monitor superpipe shaping for better construction, upkeep and optimal vert. To infinity and beyond!

OKEMO’S “RED CARPET TREATMENT” LIFT LOADING AND UNLOADING CARPETS

Everyone loves the section of Warren Miller’s films when the camera positioned at the top of a chairlift catches the crashes of skiers trying to disembark. The more tangled the carnage, the louder the laughs. For beginner skiers and snowboarders, riding the lift can be a stressful part of the learning experience. Seasoned veterans grow increasingly impatient with each delay of elevation gain. Lift operators loading the uninitiated must be ever vigilant to maintain safety. As a way to make that first lift ride of the day less stressful and safer, Okemo is installing mechanized loading and unloading carpets on one of its base area South Ridge fixed-grip quad chairs. Although familiar to European skiers, the loading carpet is a rarity in North America. Okemo’s loading carpet will be the first one in the East and the unloading carpet will be the first of its kind in the U.S. A conveyor belt, marked with lanes and moving in sync with the chairlift, will make loading and unloading easier and safer. It will reduce lift-line lengths, minimize starts and stops, reduce ride time and improve overall lift capacity.

SKI AND SNOWBOARD RENTAL FLEET UPGRADE

A total of 30 percent of the Okemo’s rental fleet is being upgraded this winter with the newest skis from Atomic and Salomon. With its designation as an official Burton Learn-to- Ride Center, Okemo offers only the best rental snowboards Burton has to offer. All of the hottest new Atomic and Salomon skis will be available to demo for performance enthusiasts. The Tornado, Fury and Opal are sure to be this year’s most popular boards from Salomon and Atomic’s top-of-the-line demos will include Metron, Deviant, Stomp and Izor.

EPIC ART Skiers enjoying lunch at one of Okemo’s most popular and eclectic on-mountain restaurants will also enjoy the whimsical canvases of Vermont artist Donald Saaf. Hailing from Saxtons River, Saaf is a graduate of the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.

A painter, sculptor, musician and children’s book illustrator, Saaf creates lively textural fields that complement the detailed imagery in his compositions. His recent work has focused on the tree, and the abstracted spaces between the branches expand across his canvases. The resulting patterns span the gap between his subjects, drawn from every day life, and a realm of historical fable. Saaf has shown his work extensively in the Boston area and elsewhere in the United States. He has illustrated eight children’s books and has been reviewed in The Boston Herald and Art New England. Five paintings were commissioned and will adorn the walls at Epic starting this winter.

For more information, please visit www.okemo.com directly via this link or log on to their website via an easily found link in the New England section of the home page of www.skiernews.com or please call 1-866-74-OKEMO (1-866-746-5366).

ELK - A HISTORY of GREAT SKIING

UNION DALE, PA — It all started in 1959, when a mountain became a new recreation complex for skiing. Elk Mountain, as it was named, started out with only a handful of trails. Today Elk Mountain Ski Resort has evolved into a sprawling 27 trails and some of the most challenging terrain in Pennsylvania. During its opening year, Elk featured a small base lodge (now the picnic lodge), a 2,200-foot T-bar and several slopes. There were also some rope tows and a small warming hut built a few years earlier by the Scranton Ski Club.

The first Hall Double chairlift was installed in 1961, heralding the development of five expert trails and various intermediate trails from the top. Elk’s first expert trail, completed before the chairlift itself, was host to the 1960 Pennsylvania State Championships. Enthusiastic competitors and gatekeepers actually walked to the summit from the top of the T-bar to run the race.

A year later in 1962, snowmaking was installed and a new A-frame base lodge was built. Skiing at Elk got a lift - quite literally - with the installation of a beginners J-bar in 1964 and a dåouble chairlift from the lower parking lot to the top of the mountain in 1965. The original T-bar was replaced with a chairlift in 1969, and the J-bar was retired for a double chairlift in 1973. Skiers saw Elk in a whole new light when, in 1966, lighting was installed on the East and West slopes for night skiing. Lighting was installed along three summit trails in 1972. Now a number of trails are lit for night skiing, including the entire beginner area.

Elk Mountain continued to build on that legacy of great skiing when last season it upgraded its snowmaking ability by adding tower mount snow guns on the Tecumseh trail. Additional guns were also placed on Stomping Grounds Terrain Park. These guns helped to ensure better coverage in the challenging 2007 ski season.

From the upgraded and resurfaced parking lots to the more than 1,000 Norway and White Spruce trees that were planted slopeside, your Elk experience is always a pleasant and environmentally friendly one from arrival to departure.

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.

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 Baby-sitting services are offered at Elk Mountain on an 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 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. Most of the coaching staff have USSCA levels I, II or III, PSIA certification levels I, II or III equivalent.

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 is available at 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.

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

OKEMO HAS A DEAL FOR YOU

LUDLOW, VT – There are many ways to save on skiing and riding at Okemo Mountain Resort. From daily offerings, to special events, to season-long savings, Okemo has a great deal designed to fit every ski trip budget.

AGAIN THIS YEAR, LEARN TO SKI OR SNOWBOARD FREE

First-time or beginner skiers and snowboarders visiting Okemo Mountain Resort early in the season are welcome to take part in a complimentary learn-to-ski or learn-tosnowboard program at no cost. Okemo’s beginner package includes a free combination lower-mountain lift ticket, a free level 1 or 2 beginner group lesson at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m., and free special introductory-level rental of skis, boots, poles, or boots and snowboards. The Learn to Ski or Snowboard FREE program is available for ages 7 and up, at no charge every day, Monday, Dec. 1 through Friday, Dec. 19, 2008.

Reservations are encouraged and may be made by calling (802) 228-1600. Those without reservations may participate on a space-available basis. There are several restrictions, steps to complete and rewards including a free First Tracks Plus Card. Please call 1-866-76-OKEMO.

OKEMO.COM WEBSITE BANNER SPECIALS

Skiers and riders can get the inside scoop on specials at okemo.com all winter long. Value-packed coupon specials and otherwise-unadvertised deals are just a click away. Website banner specials are available only for a limited time or may rotate throughout the season. Restrictions may apply. Users must “accept coupon rules” prior to registering for the coupon and an ID must be presented at the ticket window at the time of coupon redemption.

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

Okemo’s snowmakers and groomers have the mountain covered and every morning the first hour of lift service is FREE, so Okemo skiers and riders can sample the conditions before they purchase a lift ticket. Try Before You Buy is valid midweek, non-holiday from 9 until 10 a.m., and on weekends and holiday periods from 8 until 9 a.m. Convenient base area ticketing locations are located at the Okemo Clock Tower base and Jackson Gore base areas.

OKEMO’S FREQUENT SKIER FLEX CARD

Okemo has flexible savings all season long for frequent skiers. When skiers and snowboarders purchase an Okemo Flex Card, they save 50 percent on weekday, non-holiday (Monday through Friday), single-day lift ticket rates; 25 percent on weekend and holiday single-day lift ticket rates; and 50 percent on single-day lift ticket rates every day in November, and from March 16 through closing day in April. They also will save 50 percent on Jan. 4, 10, 11, 24 and 25, 2009. Discounts apply to single-day, full day, afternoon halfday and Sunday Solution morning lift tickets. Flex Card holders receive e-mail notification of special deals throughout the season. As an added bonus, Okemo Flex card benefits are available at Mount Sunapee Resort, and Flex Card holders can present their card at the Crested Butte, Colo., lift ticket office to receive 20 percent off multi-day lift tickets all season long. The Flex Card is $99 for adults, $89 for young adults and seniors, and $79 for juniors and super seniors.

OKEMO 8-PACK

The Okemo 8-Pack is a pre-purchase of eight unrestricted, single, full-day lift tickets for the price of seven. The 8-Pack is valid every day of the 2008-09 season with no restrictions, and it is transferable between family and friends. It may be applied toward the purchase of one or two tickets per day.

OKEMO 12-PACK

The Okemo 12-Pack is a pre-purchase of 12 unrestricted, single, full-day lift tickets for the price of 10. The 12-Pack is valid every day of the 2008-09 season, with no restrictions and it is transferable between family and friends. It may be applied toward the purchase of up to three tickets per day.

THE COLLEGE CARD

Full-time and part-time college students can save 50 percent on the price of a full-day adult lift ticket during weekdays and $15 on weekends and holidays. By presenting a valid college I.D. from an accredited college, community college, or university at the Okemo Mountain Services Center, students can save all season long. Best of all, the College Card is valid at both Okemo and Mount Sunapee. The College Card is the same price as an adult, one-day lift ticket and includes FREE skiing or riding on the day of purchase. That means that, since the price is based on a given day’s lift ticket price, the best time to purchase a college card is early in the season when tickets are offered at a rate according to available terrain.

THREE GREAT MOUNTAINS AND ONE GREAT TICKET

When skiers and riders purchase a minimum three-day lift ticket or lodging/ticket package, they can ski one day during the life of the lift ticket at either Mount Sunapee or Stratton Mountain. By presenting a valid three-day (or longer) Okemo lift ticket to Guest Services at either Mount Sunapee, N.H., or Stratton, Vt., they receive one complimentary lift ticket for that day.

THEY DON’T CALL IT “ULTRA” FOR NOTHING.

When it comes to season passes, Okemo’s Ultra Pass covers it all – including this winter’s Colorado ski trip. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the slopes every day at Okemo, Mount Sunapee, Stratton and even Crested Butte in Colorado, with no restrictions for only $1,469 for adults. It is like getting four season passes for the price of one, with added benefits at Okemo. Additional Ultra Pass privileges include $15 off group lessons, morning specialty clinics and full-day highperformance rentals and ski/snowboard demo packages. Firsttrack fanatics will especially enjoy early access benefits that include 7:45 a.m. lift access on weekends and holidays at Okemo and Stratton.

OKEMO SKIER AND RIDER APPRECIATION DAYS - JUST $39.

Skiers and riders of all ages can enjoy an entire day on the slopes at a special discounted lift ticket rate on select Thursdays in November, December and March for just $39 and in April for just $29. Appreciation Days are Dec. 4, 11, 18; March 12, 19, 26, April 2, 9 and 16.

ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY DISCOUNT

Okemo offers a military discount for United States military personnel who are on active duty. When active members of the armed services show their active duty ID at the Mountain Services Center they, and their immediate family members, receive 50 percent off full-day lift tickets, Monday through Friday, non-holiday, and $15 off full-day lift tickets, weekends and holidays.

JANUARY TRIBUTE TO U.S. MILITARY VETERANS, FIRE, POLICE AND AMBULANCE PERSONNEL.

Okemo pays tribute to the United States Military veterans, police officers, firefighters and ambulance personnel every Tuesday and Thursday during the month of January 2009, with a special half-price discount on lift tickets. When they show their ID card/badge and a photo ID at the Mountain Services Center at the Okemo Clock Tower base area or the Jackson Gore base area, qualified personnel will receive 50 percent off the price of an adult, full-day, full price lift ticket. It is Okemo’s way of saying “thank you” for all that our civil servants do.

LADIES’ DAYS – CALLING ALL OKEMOMMAS.

Tuesdays are officially Ladies’ Days at Okemo. All ladies can ski and ride all day on select Tuesdays for just $39. Moreover, the savings continue with a group lesson for just $25. Girl friends, sisters, mothers and grandmothers will enjoy a ladies’ day out on the slopes Dec. 2, 9 and 16; Jan, 6, 13, 20 and 27; March 3, 10, 17 24 and 31.

SUNDAY SOLUTION MORNING HALF-DAY LIFT TICKET – VERMONT’S ORIGINAL MORNING TICKET.

Okemo’s popular Sunday Solution (valid from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) is for weekend warriors who want to head for home early, but still want to ski without paying for a full-day lift ticket. Adults (ages 19-64) pay $68; Young Adults/Seniors (ages 13-18 and 65-69), $58; Juniors/Super Seniors (ages 7- 12 and 70+), $45; Children 6 and under ski/ride for FREE every day. As a bonus, Monday Solution Lift Tickets will be offered on select Mondays: Jan. 19, 2009, and Feb. 16, 2009.

For more information, use this link to visit www.okemo.com or use an easily found link in the New England section of the homepage of www.skiernews.com or please call 1-800-78-OKEMO (786-5366).

SHAWNEE MAKES IMPROVEMENTS for the 2008-09 SEASON

SHAWNEE-ON-DELAWARE, PA – Shawnee Mountain is going “winter green” as energy efficiency, sustainability and innovation combine, demonstrating the long-term commitment of the area to its customer base and the environment.

NEW HIGH TECH FAN GUNS

Shawnee’s multi-year, multi-million dollar snowmaking expansion and efficiency project continues with the addition of 10 new electric fan snow guns on the Little Chief Beginners Area and in the Learning Center. The tower mounted, oscillating, energy efficient snow machines employ the latest technology, producing more snow in less time while eliminating the need to pipe in air from diesel-powered compressors. With the new fan guns and the improvements already made, Shawnee Mountain will burn 67,000 fewer gallons of diesel fuel this winter, greatly reducing its overall diesel exhaust emissions.

ADDITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES

A new recycling program has been adopted with a corporate commitment to recycle all glass, paper, aluminum and cardboard waste. This initiative should reduce the garbage tonnage of the ski area by four to seven tons annually. Wind turbines on Shawnee Mountain? The resort has formally applied with the Saint Francis University Renewable Energy Center to conduct a study of the feasibility of installing wind turbines on the summit of Shawnee Mountain. The aim of this study is to produce wind driven on-site renewable electric energy in the future.

MORE SKI AND SNOWBOARD RENTALS

As part of a multi year program to upgrade its massive rental shop, Shawnee Mountain has purchased 500 pairs of new Elan shaped skis, 150 new Rossignol snowboards and 200 pairs of new Dalbello ski boots. The Shawnee Mountain Rental Shop, which is the largest of its kind under one roof, is able to outfit 4,000 skiers and riders.

TERRAIN PARK CONTINUES TO EVOLVE

Look for new snow features, more innovative rails and improved jump lines in both the novice Incubator Park and the advanced Bushkill Park for winter 2008-09.

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 1-800-SHAWNEE (Shawnee Inn).

Or visit Shawnee Mountain on-line at www.shawneemt.com or the regional site www.poconoski.com, where on-line booking links are available.

You may also log on to Shawnee’s website via an easily found link on the right side of the home page of www.skiernews.com.

CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN RESORT UNVEILS UPGRADES for the 2008-09 WINTER

TANNERSVILLE, PA – Camelback Ski Area is excited to announce a full compliment of upgrades and improvements for the 2008-09 winter sports season. Of all the new services and products that have been added, the most exciting news concerns something that has been eliminated: 50,000 gallons of diesel fuel. This season, Camelback Mountain Resort will install 110 low energy snow guns. The addition of these guns will reduce the ski area’s energy consumption and absolutely eliminate the use of 50,000 gallons of diesel fuel.

This winter, Camelback is also extending its partnership with Burton Snowboards and Salomon Skis; becoming the only resort in Pennsylvania to be considered a Burton Women’s, Adult, Youth and Freestyle Learn to Ride Center. To fortify this accreditation, Camelback has purchased over 150 women specific Burton LTR boards with proprietary Stiletto bindings and will provide women and freestyle specific instruction. To round-out its rental arsenal, Camelback is also bringing in over 2,000 pairs of front entry Salomon ski boots that include women, men and toddler sizes and nearly 700 pairs of X-Wing 500 series skis.

On the mountain, Camelback is continuing its tradition of providing the best in grooming and terrain with the addition of a new Prinoth Bison X Terrain Park Groomer, new and additional lighting on the Oak Grove Halfpipe and dedicating over 20 acres and 500 feet of vertical to Terrain Parks and Pipes.

To bring it all back to the snow sports enthusiast, Camelback is offering three great new lift access options.

The Super Pass, Value Pass and Triple ticket cards are new this winter.

All of these products provide the consumer with exceptional value and tremendous flexibility. As an added value to the Super Pass, skiers and riders will be eligible for First Trax from 7:30 until 8:30 Saturday and Sunday mornings.Only Super Pass holders will be able to savor this rare privilege.

For more information, please visit the revamped www.skicamelback.com You may also log on to Camelback’s website via an easily found link on www.skiernews.com

BLUE MOUNTAIN BUILDS ON IT FOUNDER'S DREAM

PALMERTON, PA – Blue Mountain emerged 31 years ago from a dream of Ray Tuthill. In 1962 Ray and his wife Diane bought 50 acres of land on the top of Blue Mountain. Ten years later they purchased 223 more acres. This additional acreage made it possible for Ray to realize the dream of his ski resort. In 1977 Blue Mountain, then know as Little Gap, opened.

Not only has the name changed but many improvements were made each year to enhance the experience of all their guests. In 1994 a high-speed quad was installed and then, for the 2006-07 season, a high-speed six-passenger lift was installed. The resort once known as Little Gap was, and is, by no means little.

Sadly, in May 2007, founder Ray Tuthill passed away, but his legacy continues through the dedication and hard work of Barb Green, his daughter. Barb speaks proudly of the new trail Dreamweaver, expansion of the tubing runs from 14 to 19 and a new tubing carpet lift with an uphill capacity of 1,200 passengers per hour.

An 11,000-square-foot Sprung Structure has been erected to serve the tubing area. It has seating for 250 people, a cafeteria and live entertainment every Thursday night. The building will also be used in April to kick-off summer activities at Blue.

This spring, using the new structure as a base, Blue will look to accommodate groups for birthday parties, company picnics and nature hikes. Eventually hiking and mountain biking will be available as well as many other activities. With 30 percent of their available land developed, 300 acres of the 1,000 acres, there are many possibilities for Blue to become more than a winter only resort.

As for this winter, guests will notice improved snowmaking due to added, new cooling towers to make more snow quicker. More snow guns have been added on Chute and Connector trails. Guest will also find more lockers and an upgraded rental fleet with new snowboards and skis.

The new trail Dreamweaver, located between the Paradise trail and the double-diamond Razor’s Edge trail, is rated intermediate and has been outfitted with an automated snowmaking system and lights installed throughout. The trail will be wide and spacious at more than 100 feet in width its entire length.

Part of their upgraded Guest Services Department is a program called “E-Z Slope Pass.” Skiers will get to the new trails quicker with the new pass system. This program allows guests to buy their lift tickets through shops or clubs, bypass the ticket windows and go directly to the lifts. This will lessen the number of people at the ticket window and get those taking advantage of the system on the snow quicker.

Blue is also considering the feasibility of erecting a wind tower to help offset rising energy costs. Due to regulatory changes at the end of 2009, rates may double. Study plans are beginning and Barb Green has accepted an invitation from Saint Francis University to erect a net test tower. The “net test” will determine if there is enough consistent wind to sustain the generation of as much electricity needed to make a wind mill a project successful.

Barb is concerned for the eagles and hawks that use the area near Blue as a flyway, so all plans are being developed with the utmost concern for nature. Blue has recycled the water from their compressors and used it to heat the lodge, so from their inception the economics of smart environmentalism have been practiced.

What began as Ray Tuthill’s dream 30 years ago has become a dynamic and modern ski area. Perhaps it is no coincidence that the new trail is aptly named “Dreamweaver.”

For more information please log on to Blue’s website, www.skibluemtn.com or call them at (610) 826-7700.

You also can easily find a link to Blue on the right side of the homepage of www.skiernews.com.

HUNTER CELEBRATES 50 YEARS with MORE SNOW GUNS, DEALS & THE eSTORE

HUNTER, NY – This winter, Hunter Mountain Ski Bowl will proudly celebrate its 50th season in operation. The celebration will officially begin on January 10, 2009, with the year culminating on January 9, 2010. The celebration will continue throughout the winter season with a variety of parties, events, contests, competitions and more.

The Slutzky Family, who built the mountain’s trails, has owned Hunter from the beginning. The resort’s owner and head of the family, Orville Slutzky, has spent these 50 years mastering snowmaking to enhance conditions during Catskills winters. Hunter has evolved in prominence and skier visits into the renowned ski resort that it is today.

For a half century, Hunter has catered to the New York metro population with its first trails named after New York City streets and locations. It has been known as the largest singles‘ location between New York and Montreal and the “Snowmaking Capitol of the World.” Since Hunter’s snowmaking capabilities and recovery rates are extraordinary, Hunter’s snowmaking team has been called upon many times to assist other mountains and events.

“The 50th Anniversary celebration is a one of past, present and future,” says Russ Coloton, president of Hunter Mountain. “It is rare to find a family-owned and operated business that has remained as such since its opening. We hope to bring in new guests, new skiers and riders, and grace our regulars with the nostalgia. Fifty years of successful operation is something to be proud of in any and all industries, and we would never be here without our guests.”

MORE SNOWMAKING

Hunter will have 45 new snow guns and a new compressor this season. Both upgrades are suited to increase output and efficiency. Of the new guns, 21 will be laid to the right of Park Avenue to blanket Hunter’s second terrain park with additional snow. The terrain park area of the resort will also receive its own air and water lines. The remaining 24 guns will be dispersed throughout the mountain.

PLAY AND STAY PACKAGES

Hunter’s Kaatskill Mountain Club will be offering a number of Play & Stay Packages for the 2008-09 season. Play & Stay, which offers guests accommodations at the Kaatskill Mountain Club, Trailside, Liftside or the Pinnacle Condominiums, includes specific products for skiers and riders: lift tickets, lessons, rentals and more. These packages begin midweek as low as $89 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. Guests can stay from January 5 through March 15 for as low as $119. Packages are available for studio suites and can accommodate two guests or up to eight with three-bedroom suites.

Play & Stay packages include a variety of ski- and snowboard-related amenities, based on guests’ ability levels. These packages can include an all-mountain lift ticket, or a combination of rental, lower-mountain lift ticket and lesson for beginners. Hotel amenities included with your stay include the use of the Kaatskill Mountain Club’s heated outdoor pool and Jacuzzis, a state of the art fitness room, sauna, and steam room.

The Mountain Spa at the Kaatskill Mountain Club will open for the 2008-09 season with a brand new, state-of-the-art couples massage room. Guests who take advantage of the Play & Stay specials at Hunter Mountain are offered 10 percent off a couple’s massage or green coffee body wrap when added to their package.

HUNTER MOUNTAIN eSTORE

Hunter’s new and improved online storefront, eSki, saves valuable time and money every day for thousands of customers throughout the season. It allows you to shop from the comfort of your home, and save both time and money at Hunter. Customers can save 15 percent or more on rentals, lessons, tickets, seasonal programs, children’s programs, season passes and discount cards. Time you save booking with eSki is time saved to be spent on the slopes. Book online, and save time and money.

Hunter’s eSki customers even have their own designated rental area, where rentals can be picked up, pre-tuned and fitted. The storefront also offers a variety of special deals throughout the season, including savings of up to 30 percent near season’s end.

“eSki is the perfect tool for visitors,” says John Iannelli, VP of sales and revenue management at Hunter. “The program has received unprecedented attention this year because of the ease involved. Our guests can save time and money before they even arrive at our resort.”

To learn more about eSki or to visit the storefront, go to www.HunterMtn.com and click the “Buy Online” button located on the resort’s homepage.

For more info about Hunter’s history, directly visit www.HunterMtn.com or from a link on the homepage of www.skiernews.com or call 1-800- HunterMtn (1-800-486-8376)

For further information on these programs and products, please visit the website at www.HunterMtn.com or call 800-HunterMtn.

MT. PETER GUARANTEES TO TEACH YOU HOW TO SKI

HAVE YOUR FRIENDS - OR - LEARN YOURSELF - to SKI for FREE

For years, Mount Peter has offered FREE ski and snowboard lessons for beginners on weekends and holidays. New for this season, they now guarantee to teach a beginner how to ski in just one day. Simply call and make a reservation for any weekend or holiday, follow their easy program, and you or your friends are on way to being a skier in just a day. The first lesson is free.

WARWICK, NY — Since 1936, people interested in winter fun have been turning to Mount Peter, the oldest operating ski area in New York State. With more than 73-years of experience, the resort is always coming up with new ways to make winter everyone’s favorite season. It has 95 percent snowmaking and more than 50 skiable acres.

In the past few years, Mount Peter has quadrupled the snowmaking, added a new chairlift and more hill space, and renovated the lodge and customer service. New for the 2008-09 season, is the Sunrise Lodge. Beautifully enclosed in glass, it sits on the bottom of the mountain. All of this means better snow, less wait, and less hassle when you get there.

There is always something going on at Mount Peter. Events such as Firefighters’ Family Day, Women’s Weekend, the Pig Roast and Spring Rally bring some excitement into the season.

For years, Mount Peter has offered free ski and snowboard lessons for beginners on weekends and holidays. New for this season, they now guarantee to teach a beginner how to ski in just one day. Simply call and make a reservation for any weekend or holiday, follow their easy program, and you are on your way to being a skier in just a day. Of course, the first lesson is free.

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. 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.

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 want to learn how to catch a little air, there is a terrain park just for you. It is a great place to learn some tricks, and hang out with friends.

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, the Sunrise Lodge, and the best burgers around from the 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’re on your way.

Mount Peter is easy to get to and hard to leave. With history, perfect grooming, and the best snow anywhere, they have what it takes to make you love winter.

Please visit www.mtpeter.com directly or via an easily found link in the New York section of the homepage of www.skiernews.com or call (845) 986-4940.

SEVEN SPRINGS MAKES MANY IMPROVEMENTS for 2008-09

CHAMPION, PA – Seven Springs Mountain Resort continues its transformation this season with the most aggressive package of new and enhanced amenities ever introduced in the 75-year history of the resort. These enhancements will have a positive impact on the guest experience and the environment. As the Number One resort in the mid-Atlantic region, Seven Springs continually strives to provide guests with exciting attractions, outstanding accommodations, superior snowmaking, a wonderful variety of menu selections and amenities. Here is what is new for 2008-09.

SNOWMAKING

Seven Springs is renowned for its snowmaking capability, and this season the resort will focus on reducing the property’s carbon footprint while providing more pristine and whiter snow. To do this, Seven Springs is installing a new highly efficient all-electric snowmaking compressor system to replace the old compressor that historically consumed nearly 100,000 gallons of diesel fuel. Additional grooming equipment and resources have been added, as well as significant snowmaking volume enhancement through additional towers, fanjets and higher temperature snow guns.

RENTAL SHOP

To further provide superior customer service and reduce the resort’s dependency on paper products, a complete automation of Seven Springs Mountain Resort’s Rental Shop has been implemented. Now ski and snowboard rental customers will have the ability to fill out rental information forms electronically before their arrival either in the comfort of their homes or at kiosks located throughout the property.

Additionally, an entirely new rental fleet of Burton snowboards and premium skis have been added to enhance your snow sports experience at Seven Springs. Guests will be able to select from a variety of skis, boards and boots designed to complement all riding abilities and levels, and make every turn, jib and grab a wonderful memory.

E-TICKET SALES AND E-RENTALS

What is better than shopping online from the comfort of your own home? New this year is the introduction of e-ticket sales and e-rentals. This convenient amenity will allow guests to purchase and print their lift tickets and select their rental gear with just a few clicks of a mouse. Upon arrival at Seven Springs, guests will bypass the lift ticket window, ease through the express checkout where they can pick up their rental gear and then hit the slopes.

WAGNER RE-GRADING

The Seven Springs’ Mountain Crew focused on re-grading the Wagner Slope this summer, nearly doubling the amount of terrain on the slope. A large span of terrain was redistributed to provide skiers and riders with a continuous straight run entrance, which will ease congestion and make it easier for skiers of all abilities to master Wagner. Additionally, to provide a better and more consistent snow cover, the snow guns for that area were moved farther out, which will make snowmaking easier and provide a more consistent snow cover. The relocation of the snow guns also allowed the Mountain Crew to create a beginners’ glade skiing area on the skiers’ left side of Wagner.

SNOW TUBING

The downhill thrills of snow tubing at Seven Springs are also enhanced. The Snow Tubing Park received another Magic Carpet uphill lift to help guests enjoy the runs down the 12 tubing chute in the largest tubing park in the area.

SEVEN SPRINGS SPA

One of the resort’s most exciting enhancements for the coming season is the development of the new Spa at Seven Springs. This full-service, eight-treatment-room spa is adjacent to the high-rise Main Lodge Hotel. When complete, this sanctuary will boast treatment rooms designed to provide guests with an indulgent spa menu featuring rejuvenating services in a relaxing and therapeutic environment.

HOTEL RENOVATIONS PHASE II

With the renovation of all 416 hotel rooms complete, the resort is focusing on finalizing the property’s totally new and exciting look with the continued enhancement of the hotel’s lobby, corridors and suites. Guests will be greeted by the warmth and openness of the newly designed hotel lobby, as well as the inviting intimacy its fireplace and overstuffed furniture create. Whether one is seeking a quiet corner to read or a small gathering area for friends and family, the new lobby décor and furnishing will welcome even the most seasoned traveler to their new mountain retreat.

OUTDOOR POOL

The new outdoor pool, located adjacent to the Bavarian Beach, will be the place for fun in the sun. It features a large lagoon-like heated pool, fire pits, lush landscaping and a kids’ area, complete with splash garden and wading pool.

MAIN LODGE & DINING RENOVATIONS

Seven Springs is consistently rated in the Top 10 for dining and service by the readers of SKI magazine. With that in mind, the food and beverage department has been kicked up a notch with the revitalization of the Slopeside Dining Room and the construction of a new café.

Specializing in American fare with an artistic flair, the new café will replace the Coffee Shop and will feature a warm, inviting atmosphere and delicious dining at reasonable prices.

The Slopeside Dining Room is also undergoing renovations, including an innovative menu in a relaxed environment that is uniquely Seven Springs.

Everyone has a pleasant memory of where they went as a child to get their favorite candy – whether it was the corner store or their grandma’s candy dish. Now Seven Springs Mountain Resort is constructing its very sweet shop. The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked cookies, cakes and breads wafting through the Main Lodge will guide you to the gingerbread house where your trip down memory lane begins. Peruse the glass cases of delectable treats including melt-inyour- mouth fudge, tortes, pastries and handmade candies, as the chefs create a variety of fresh confections made of the finest quality ingredients right before your eyes.

BURTON LEARN TO RIDE PROGRAM

Seven Springs offers the new Burton Learn to Ride snowboard program. This progressive program provides students ages 13 and up with gear designed to enhance their experience and teaching methods that guarantee an enjoyable and successful first day. The equipment is specifically designed to be forgiving and to perform harmoniously with the way novices are taught, making learning easy. They are so confident in this program they know you will at least master a beginner slope by the end of your first class.

TERRAIN PARK

The Terrain Park Crew has been busy. The resort has added more area to the terrain park this year with a huge expansion for all your jib addiction needs. The bulldozers regraded the area between Sunset and Lost Boy with an additional terrain park in mind. The new area will be more than half a mile long with more jibs and jumps than your legs can handle. The area will be serviced by the North Pole or North Face chairlift.

They purchased a new snowcat with a winch on it to make the Superpipe even more super. This cat will enable the grooming staff to cut both of the pipes more often and make the walls laser straight with a perfect tranny.

The Park Crew has been welding, cutting, grinding and painting up a ton of steel to give you more reasons to file down the edges on your skis or board and learn those back flips you have been thinking about all summer.

Keep your eyes open for the new terrain park website, www.Ride7Springs.com, for a peek at all the improvements. Additionally you can watch videos, find photos and much more.

Be sure you have your 2008-09 season pass because you will not want to miss a day at Seven Springs this winter.

For more info, use this link to log on to www.7springs.com or via an easily found link in the Pa. section of the homepage of www.skiernews.com or please call 1-800-452-2223.

FIND A WINTER WONDERLAND in the POCONO MOUNTAINS

POCONO MOUNTAINS, PA -- With average winter temperatures ranging from highs of 31 degrees to lows of 16 and a winning combination of natural and man made snow, the Pocono Mountains are a winter wonderland. It is complete with winter sports, family activities, festivals, romantic getaways and cozy nights by the fire at area lodging facilities. It is no wonder that a resident of the Poconos, Dick Smith, penned the classic song, “Winter Wonderland.”

Enjoying winter sports is among the many ways to spend a day in the Pocono Mountains. Seven major ski areas are located in the region. For fantastic downhill and crosscountry skiing and snowboarding, the Pocono Mountains are among the best in the East. From upgrades and new facilities to technologically advanced grooming equipment, fully-stocked rental shops and better trails, the Pocono Mountains’ ski areas are offering winter visitors a new and thrilling winter recreational experience.

More than 165 slopes and trails beckon, from steep expert slopes with challenging moguls, moderate trails for intermediates to cruise and gentle confidence building beginner hills for learning, to awesome terrain parks and half-pipes for snowboarders. Other popular winter activities in the region include dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice skating, sleigh riding, tobogganing and more. If you would rather cozy up by the fireplace, you can enjoy this winter wonderland from indoors.

When it is time to warm up, visitors can enjoy a bevy of indoor entertainment. Choices include dining at one of the unique restaurants; cozying up by the fire at one of the many resorts, inns or bed and breakfasts; shopping for bargains at outlet malls; or taking a visit to one of the region’s cultural and historical attractions.

The Pocono Mountains have long been known as a lovers’ paradise, and a flurry of warm and cozy moments perfect for romantic getaways await couples during the winter months. Couples looking to escape their everyday routine can spend a few romantic days cuddling by a fireplace, relaxing in a private Jacuzzi or bundled up on a winter carriage ride through scenic countryside.

Part of the Pocono Mountains appeal is the large variety of lodging facilities the region has to offer, from large luxurious family and couples resorts to intimate country inns and bed and breakfasts. Choices abound at Pocono Mountains accommodations, where couples can choose antique or contemporary, quaint or sophisticated, completely secluded or close to town and many more options. Fun-loving couples may want to climb into a heart-shaped tub or a sevenfoot- tall champagne glass whirlpool bathtub at one of the famous couples’ resorts that are synonymous with the Pocono Mountains.

Visitors to the region can also enjoy a number of winter events and festivals in all four counties of the Pocono Mountains – holiday celebrations, tree lightings, ice festivals, even an Iced Tee Golf Tournament of frozen Lake Wallenpaupack. A complete calendar of events for the Pocono Mountains region is available on 800poconos.com.

Snow lovers can be sure to have the latest information about the ski areas, ski-and-stay packages, ski conditions, snowboarding, snow tubing, cross-country skiing and events, by visiting Poconoski.com or calling the Pocono Mountains’ 24-hour snow info hotline at 570-421-5565 for an area winter update from mid-November until the end of the 2008-09 winter ski season.

ABOUT THE POCONO MOUNTAINS

With 2,400 square miles encompassing Pennsylvania’s Carbon, Monroe, Pike and Wayne counties, the Pocono Mountains region is home to rolling mountain terrain, breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls, thriving woodlands and 170 miles of winding rivers. Winters offer guests the opportunity to ski, snowboard, snow tube and even snowshoe their way through snowy wonderlands encompassing over 163 ski trails, while summers also cater to the active traveler allowing exploration of 261 miles of hiking and biking trails, over 35 golf courses, whitewater rafting, boating, fishing and open access to nine state and two national parks.

Any time of year is a good time to visit the Pocono Mountains, located within driving distance of most major East Coast cities. This region teeming with history offers yearround cultural tours and art exhibitions, abundant antiquing and brand name shopping and a full calendar of festivals highlighting the heritage, music and food of the Pocono Mountains.

Even the most discerning traveler will find comfortable accommodations in the Pocono Mountains, which offer an eclectic mix of resorts, distinctive properties and quaint, country inns and bed and breakfasts.

The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau is the official destination marketing organization for the four counties of Carbon, Monroe, Pike and Wayne in northeastern Pennsylvania. Their phone number is their web address.

Comprehensive Pocono Mountains visitor info is available online via an easily found link in the Pa. section of the homepage of www.skiernews.com or directly at www.800poconos.com or please call 1-800-POCONOS (1-800-762-6667).

WHAT'S NEW at the POCONO SKI RESORTS

POCONOMOUNTAINS, PA—The PoconoMountains are prepared for a successful 2008-09 ski season with a number of top ski areas completing improvements and upgrades.Agreenfriendly movement headlines the new changes, as the region’s ski areas look to improve their recycling initiatives, efficient snow making techniques and reduction of energy use. With hundreds of ski trails over seven exhilarating mountains, the region provides heart-thumping adventures to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Below are upgrades that you can expect at some of your favorite Pocono Resorts.

ALPINE MOUNTAIN SKI & RIDE CENTER IN ANALOMINK (alpinemountain.com)

The terrain park and half-pipe have been redesigned and offer new and exciting rails and boxes. If you need to rent equipment, Alpine’s rental shop will once again be re-stocked and upgraded with equipment from Elan, Salomon and Vans, with an emphasis on the ‘Lids on Kids’ program.

The surface condition will be more consistent as Alpine’s snowmaking system was upgraded to insure the production of snow throughout the season. The base of the snow tubing park was redone with additions to Penguin Play Park, keeping young children as entertained as the big kids. Expanded party rooms and arrangements allow for more options and entertainment.

BLUE MOUNTAIN SKI AREA IN PALMERTON (skibluemt.com)

Anew trail ‘Dreamweaver’ is set to open. This half-mile intermediate level trail will be 100 feet wide in its entirety, and have automated snowmaking and lights installed throughout.

The snow tubing park has a new conveyor lift, which doubles the uphill capacity, allowing for more tubes and tubing lanes. The snow tubing area will have a new building with seating for up to 250 people, a cafeteria with great food and live entertainment every Thursday night. Now parents can drop the kids off for a night of tubing fun while relaxing indoors and enjoying the entertainment.

BlueMountain also added more lockers, upgraded their fleet of rental equipment and a created a new guest services department to make sure customers are fully satisfied. They added a ticketing system, named the E-Z Slope Pass, which gives guests the option of pre-purchasing their tickets through clubs and shops and going directly to the lifts, avoiding lines at the ticket windows. Please check www.skibluemt.com for details.

CAMELBACK IN TANNERSVILLE (skicamelback.com)

Camelback Mountain Resort installed 110 low energy snow guns. The addition of these guns will reduce the ski area’s energy consumption and eliminate the use of 50,000 gallons of diesel fuel. By extending its partnership with Burton and Salomon, Camelback becomes the only resort in Pennsylvania to be considered a Burton women’s, youth and Freestyle Learn-to- Ride Center. They have also added more than 150 women specific Burton LTR boards and 2,000 pairs of front entry Salomon ski boots that include women, men and toddler specific sizes.

Camelback also added the a new Prinoth Bison X Terrain Park Groomer, new lighting and 500 feet of vertical to terrain parks and pipes.

JACK FROST MOUNTAIN IN BLAKESLEE AND BIG BOULDER SKI AREA IN LAKE HARMONY (jfbb.com)

JFBB continued to increase and improve snowmaking abilities by installing new snow guns that reduce energy costs and assure the production of an abundance of snow early and late in the season.

Big Boulder’s Tannenbaum slope has been converted to a new terrain park snow lovers will enjoy. All buildings and guest areas have been improved to reflect the color scheme of their brand. JFBB also upgraded their fleet of rental equipment including Burton snowboard boots, new boards, skis and boots.

SHAWNEE MOUNTAIN IN SHAWNEE ON DELAWARE (shawneemt.com)

Shawnee was busy this past summer installing 10 new electric- fan snow guns on the Little Chief Beginners’ Area and in the Learning Center.

ShawneeMountain has formally applied with the Saint Francis University Renewable Energy Center to conduct a study as to the feasibility of installing wind turbines to eventually produce renewable electric energy.

Shawnee Mountain has also purchased 500 pairs of new Elan Shaped Skis, 150 new Rossignol Snowboards and 200 pairs of new Dalbello Ski Boots.

Shawnee added snow features, more innovative rails and improved jump lines in both the novice Incubator Park and the advanced Bushkill Park.

SKI BIG BEAR AT MASTHOPE MOUNTAIN, LACKAWAXEN (ski-bigbear.com)

Ski Big Bear installed an additionalMagic Carpet lift on the beginner hill; this will help new skiers to improve their skills at a quicker pace. Highlighting other key improvements to the mountain, they have also increased and improved snowmaking abilities, updated and expanded their terrain park, and installed snow guns that reduce energy costs.

ABOUT THE POCONO MOUNTAINS

With 2,400 square miles encompassing Pennsylvania’s Carbon, Monroe, Pike andWayne counties, the PoconoMountains region is home to rolling mountain terrain, breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls, thriving woodlands and 170 miles of winding rivers. Winters offer guests the opportunity to ski, snowboard, snow tube and even snowshoe their way through snowy wonderlands encompassing over 163 ski trails, while summers also cater to the active traveler allowing exploration of 261 miles of hiking and biking trails, more than 35 golf courses, whitewater rafting, boating, fishing and open access to nine state parks and two national parks.

Any time of year is a good time to visit the Pocono Mountains, located within driving distance of most major East Coast cities. This region, teeming with history, offers year-round cultural tours and art exhibitions, abundant antiquing and brandname shopping and a full calendar of festivals that showcase the heritage, music and food of the Pocono Mountains.

Even the most discerning traveler will find comfortable accommodations in the PoconoMountains, which offers an eclectic mix of resorts, distinctive properties and quaint, country inns and bed and breakfasts.

The Pocono Mountains Convention and Visitors Bureau is the official destination marketing organization for the four counties of Carbon, Monroe, Pike and Wayne in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Their web address is their phone number 800poconos (1-800-762-6667).

Pocono Mountains visitor information is available online at www.poconoski.com or www.800poconos.com either directly or via a link in the Pa. section of the homepage of www.skiernews.com or by phone at 1-800-POCONOS (1-800-762-6667).

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