Snow Ridge: Sap Line Saturday

I spent last week traveling for work. After 4 am wake ups, economy class seating and stuffy hotel rooms I wanted to stretch my legs and get some fresh air. When I left New York on Monday, another round of lake effect was rolling in off Ontario and the inches were stacking up on Tug Hill. I knew there was a place where the stashes would be deep and untouched come Saturday; the Snow Pocket.

snow-ridge-tbar

On weekends the old t-bar spins at 11, which gives me time to sleep in and still make it to the mountain for a few warm up laps. I made my way up the Ridge Runner chair a little after 10, time enough to take Keursteiner to The Pocket.

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Snow Ridge Opens North Slope

I spend a lot of time at work setting expectations. It’s important stakeholders know what they are getting to avoid disappointment. Skiing and riding in New York can be the same. Set your expectations modestly and winter will never let you down. It can magnify the fun you are having on the slopes. It does for me.

North Slope
North Slope

Last Saturday I geared up late in the morning and headed to Snow Ridge without expectations. On the way up Route 26, the resort comes into sight. From there you can see the face of the mountain. This view always gives me an clue about what to expect.

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Flower Skate Shop Rail Jam 2024

For me the Flower Skate Shop Rail Jam is now a must send event. For the 4th year in a row, the Jam at Snow Ridge closed the season down on the Tug Hill. It has become the embodiment of NY park. A carnival of riding, it’s sheer pandemonium as bodies get tossed. 55 riders come from across the state, some driving hours, to ride a 100’ magic carpet and slide on rails. It almost seemed wrong to be riding rails on a powder day but deep down it felt so right.

Route 26

Along with the contestants, Mother Nature has been in regular attendance for each Flower Jam. The last three years have been beautiful bluebird spring days. This year with significantly less snow on the ground, she delivered a foot of fresh snow to soften the course.

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