Author: ml242

SANY’s Union Square Snow Jam

Posted on by ml242

I wasn’t sure what to expect at the SANY-sponsored Union Square Snow Jam, but snow has been so scarce this season that I ran to the park with my camera gear and a prayer that it wouldn’t be tracked out before I got there. What I found was fun to see — a big pile of snow sponsored by Whiteface, Gore, Windham, Hunter, Belleayre and Mountain Creek.

Union Square Snow Jam

Normally, this event includes a snowmaking demonstration, but this week’s mild temps required a different approach. The participating NY ski areas blew snow at home, loaded piles into dump trucks and drove it down the New York Thruway into the city.

The snow was slick and fun to play on. It was surrounded by an array of tents and displays featuring some of New York State’s biggest areas giving away deals and trail maps. From what I saw, the kids really liked the ski area swag.

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Tagged: NYC3 Comments

Mad River Glen: Turn Back the Clock

Posted on by ml242

This winter it’s especially important to make your ski days memorable. Fortunately, Mad River Glen always saves a day each year that is special no matter what: its “Turn Back the Clock Day” and Anniversary Party. This year, it even snowed a bit for old time’s sake. I was happy to get a front-row seat, just as the single chair started to spin.

The snow gods laid down four inches of fresh snow overnight, and in the morning I plunked down $3.50 for a lift ticket. I knew that it was going to be a good day. Without wasting any time, I began to show my buddy RipVanWinter some of my favorite routes on the mountain. It was his first day on natural snow, so we started with some easier descents before taking on some of those narrower Mad River lines.

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Tagged: Mad River Glen, Powder, VT5 Comments

Guided Winter Hike on Mount Washington

Posted on by ml242

Mount Washington is a long way from New York City in more ways than one. The gulf between the two landmarks is greater than the 380 miles that separates them: the northern Appalachians tallest peak has one of the most challenging environments in the east. The drive feels especially long if you’re a young guide entrusted with a group of city dwellers who’ve never faced the challenges of an alpine zone.

Recently, I made the journey with a group of inexperienced adventurers from the city. I tried some bad snowboarder jokes to try to lighten the mood and help speed the trip; but the only true cure for lingering anxiety is diligent preparation. Once you’ve prepared, success hinges on determination and knowing when to abandon a summit bid. If you do make it, the reward is significant. Nothing beats the feeling of standing on top of Mount Washington in the dead of winter surrounded by teammates.

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Tagged: Hiking, Mt Washington, NH15 Comments