Ski and Ride, March 2015

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Who OWNS our ski mountains?

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March - April 2015

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Enjoy the best weather, most sun and fantastic spring conditions at the Snow Bowl — with more than 500 acres of trails, glades and wooded terrain!

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End of the Season Sales at the Snow Bowl Ski Shop

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Growler fills of our house brewed beers are now available!

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Brewery opens at 11:30AM everyday for lunch + supper.

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VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

Vermont’s most expansive night skiing operation resides at Bolton Valley, and the scene is one not to miss!

10-11 Our mountains?

Who owns Vermont’s ski mountains came under review when the state auditor inspected the land leases seven ski areas have with the state. Who does and how it evolved is the part and parcel of the history of the state’s ski areas.

Cover Photo: Riding the corduroy at Mount Snow.

Photo courtesy of Mount Snow Resort.

14-15 Top 8 Events

From brewing festivals to pond-skimming to mogul challenges, races and sugar-onsnow, spring means warm sun, fun parties and tailgating after a day on the slopes.

Here’s our top picks!

20-21 50 Great Deals!

It’s spring! It’s warm. There’s tons of snow and terrific skiing everywhere in Vermont — and there are deals from savings on ski tickets to discounts on lodging. Check it out.

24-25 Special Olympics What makes these events so special? It’s the athletes and their families, and the Winter Special Olympics at Suicide Six had several stories worth sharing.

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Editor/Publisher, Angelo Lynn angelo@vtskiandride.com

Advertising Sales Christy Lynn

Assistant Editor Evan Johnson

Contributing writers Gregory Dennis, Karen Lorentz, Joe Cordello Graphic Artist/Production Stephanie Manning/Sue Leggett For news tips or to advertise call 802-388-4944 or email: info@vtskiandride.com Advertising & Editorial Office: Vermont Ski & Ride Magazine 58 Maple Street, Middlebury, Vt. 05753 802-388-4944 (also offices of the Addison Independent)

Vermont Ski & Ride Magazine is owned and operated by Addison Press Inc., a Vermont company locally owned since 1946. Vermont Ski and Ride Magazine is published monthly November through March.

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Publisher’s Desk

By Angelo Lynn

Know how to stir up the dander of any ski corporation? Tell them they’re not paying enough taxes, or that their leases with the state forestlands aren’t generating a fair return and they ought to pay a lot more.

Yep, those are fighting words. And Vermont’s State Auditor Doug Hoffer knew he’d be stepping into the middle of a pile of trouble when he released his 29-page report in late January saying just that.

But Hoffer wasn’t worried. He also knew the report had no teeth, no call to action to make substantial changes — at least not for a while, a long-while.

The state’s seven ski areas that have leases within the state forests — Jay Peak, Q Burke, Smugglers’ Notch, Stowe Mountain Resort (the Mansfield side, but not Spruce Peak), Killington, Okemo and Bromley — all have existing contracts with renewable terms that are in effect for another 17 to 45 years. The nearest renewal date is 2032, with the others coming between 2053 and 2060. Unless the ski companies want to voluntarily revamp their leases and give the state more money, nothing is likely to change.

But Hoffer did get their attention, as well as the attention of the skiing and riding community, as well as the towns directly involved.

And that’s not a bad thing. It prompts interest and focus, and if nothing else makes residents think about how the state could perhaps help the resorts be even stronger. And why not? It was state action that helped launch Vermont’s ski industry in the first place.

The report also stirred a renewed interest in how those land leases to the ski areas came about in the first place — most back in the 1950s and early ’60s — and how they have since evolved.

That story, while maybe not a gripping psycho-thriller to the layman, was nonetheless fascinating.

Perry H. Merrill, the unassuming state Commissioner of Forests, Park and Recreation back in the 1930s-60s, had been to Sweden and witnessed their skiing culture.

Back home in Vermont, he had a vision to create a similar alpine ski scene to spur a tourist-based winter economy. He spent more than 35 years making that vision come to life, and by his career’s end he had overseen the purchase of 170,000 acres of forestland in 27 state forests. He had estab-

lished 32 state parks and negotiated dozens of long-term leases with ski areas. By 1966, the state had 81 ski areas, compared to the 18 the state has today.

That’s making government work for the people. It’s government helping create an industry, create thousands of jobs, and bring to the state hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

That’s activism, and it was during an era in which Vermont was staunchly Republican. Imagine.

Merrill’s vision, said Vermont Ski Area Association President Parker Riehle, was “the catalyst” to the Vermont ski industry.

Echoing that same theme, U.S. Sen. George Aiken said of Merrill’s accomplishments: “It was in no small way due to his aiding and abetting, cajoling and urging, that Vermont is now noted for its excellent ski areas.”

And that was a time when Vermont led the nation in skier day visits, significantly ahead of up-and-coming rivals Colorado and California.

It’s also a story about who owns Vermont’s ski mountains, and how those arrangements have evolved. That’s less personal and dramatic, but interesting in a get-down-into-the-details, nitty-gritty kind of way. We summarize a whole lot of detail into two pages to provide an overview. For those interested in more, go to the Audi-

tor’s report at http://legislature.vermont. gov/assets/Legislative-Reports/Final-SAOReport-on-Ski-Resort-Leases.pdf.

•••••••••• It’s spring. It’s warm and sunnier and the days are longer, and that means it’s one of our favorite times of the year to be on the slopes — to ski, but also to play. There are festivals, dual giant slalom races, bump contests in the moguls, pond-skimming, beer and wine festivals and, of course, Vermont’s specialty — sugar on snow. We pick eight of the top events that you shouldn’t miss, but we just scratched the surface.

Pick eight of your own (from our four pages of calendar events) and enjoy.

We also profile several families and contestants in the Winter Special Olympics held in early March at Suicide Six ski area, getting at the heart of why these events are so special and important (Pages 24-25).

And we turn the spotlight on Bolton Valley Resort’s night skiing and its After Dark scene each Friday and Saturday nights.

When it’s warm and lighter in the longer days of spring, the sunsets over Lake Champlain are stunning, the music is rocking and the scene is something you just have to experience. And with Vermont’s record snowfall, the skiing will be great to boot.

Get outside, enjoy, be with friends.

By Gregory Dennis There’s an old story about the Vermont farmer who had his farm in the Connecticut River Valley.

Over the years, the river had changed course several times and eventually, out-of-state surveyors were hired to determine exactly where the state line was.

When their work was completed, it fell to one of the surveyors to tell the old Vermont farmer that his land was in fact not in Vermont, but was actually in New Hampshire.

“I’m mighty glad to hear that!” the farmer said.

Even though the surveyor was a flatlander, he recognized this was quite an unusual show of ebullience from the normally taciturn farmer.

“Why is that?” he asked the farmer.

“Well,” the farmer replied, “I don’t think I coulda stood another one of them Vermont winters.”

Recalling that story got me wondering: Are we having another one of them Vermont winters? Is this actually– despite climate change on our warming planet – an old-fashioned testicle freezer?

For perspective on the icy whiteness that has enveloped us, I turned to Mark Breen. He’s been doing the Fairbanks Museum’s “Eye on the Sky” weather reports on Vermont Public radio for the past 33 years.

That in turn carries on a tradition started by VPR’s original president, Ray Dilley.

Dilley wanted VPR to have its own Vermont weather report, so he retained Fred Mold, who was the director of the museum. Mold had been doing weather on what was then WTWN, the St. Johnsbury radio station.

His reports were the continuation of a long Fairbanks Museum tradition dating to its founder, Franklin Fairbanks, whose personal weather records extended back to the 1850s.

Breen and his “Eye on the Sky” cohorts

Steve Maleski and Lawrence Hayes provide not Valley misses much of the snowfall. When just forecasts, but also background on what’s storms come off the Adirondacks, the air drops influencing Vermont’s ever-changing weather. down into the valley. Sinking air tends to dry “There is a tendency among some media out and therefore deliver less precipitation. outlets to just go bonkers about events that are Rising back up the Green Mountains, the well within the range of normal weather,” Breen winds drop more snow on places like Lincoln told me. “Fortunately, VPR gives us time to put and Hancock. things in perspective.”

But when the wind turns to the north, I remarked to him that this winter reminds winter weather from Canada tends to bring me of the storied more snow to our winters of my valley.

“There were four winters in a row adolescence and I mused to Mark that were well above average in young adulthood Breen that trying in Vermont. Back snowfall and cold, between 1968 and to predict the then, winter was direction of the 1972. There’s been no other four-year wind in specific consistently cold and white (and period like that in the past 100 years. parts of the state we had to walk to must be pretty That has definitely colored people’s school uphill both challenging. “It’s perceptions of what winter is like in what makes it fun,” ways).

It turns out, he replied.

Vermont.” though, that’s just What about Mark Breen, of Fairbank Museum’s ‘Eye on the an accident of Sky’ weather reports climate change, I timing. asked him. Hasn’t Many Vermont that made our winters in the 1960s and 1970s were, in Breen’s winters much less snowy? words, “exceptional. There were four winters in “There is no question that our temperatures a row that were well above average in snowfall have warmed up,” he said. “But most of that and cold, between 1968 and 1972. There’s been warming took place before 1950. Since 1950, no other four-year period like that in the past the temperatures have continued to rise in 100 years. That has definitely colored people’s Vermont, but not as quickly.” perceptions of what winter is like in Vermont.”

Ski areas these days rightly worry that the Even talking about “Vermont weather” as a Green Mountains are less likely to be white whole can be misleading. That’s because much in winter. But historically, at least, snowfall in of it has a distinctly local factor.

Vermont has generally been on the rise.

Southern Vermont is greatly influenced In 1950, Breen notes, the average annual by storms off the Atlantic – the monsters snowfall in St. Johnsbury was 78 inches. Now it that have been pounding Boston for the past averages 94 inches a year. month, for example. The Champlain Valley, So what’s going on? on the other hand, draws much of its snowfall “A lot of things are cyclical in terms of from weather off the Great Lakes, blown here climate,” he said. “Climate has a tendency to go by the prevailing westerly winds. back and forth.” Plus warming prompts more Those westerlies often mean the Champlain precipitation.

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

It’s anybody’s guess what winter will be like in the next few years. But Breen says the weather pattern of the next few decades is as likely to be influenced by the oceans and sun cycles as they are by human activity linked to climate change.

He notes, for example, that “the sun has been unusually inactive” in recent years and therefore less of an influence than it typically is.

And even with the climate getting warmer, the skiing has been absolutely stupendous for the past month.

So is this winter a throwback to the old cold snowy days?

While this has not been unusually snowy winter, it has in fact been a chillier one.

Cornwall, which lies in the heart of Addison County’s apple orchards and farm country in the Champlain Valley, has been 15° colder than normal this month – a statistic drawn in part from Cornwall weather records that date back to the 1890s.

Breen says this has been one of the coldest Vermont February’s on record – nowhere near as cold as the nadir of February 1934, but certainly the coldest since 1994.

So what’s a Vermonter to do in the face of all this cold?

Nature lovers will tell you there’s no such thing as bad weather – only poor choice of clothing.

Charles Dudley Warner famously remarked that everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it.

So I guess we’ll just have to bundle up, and wait until it warms up. Or, if you’re lucky enough to be a skier, get out there and enjoy it.

– Gregory Dennis’s column appears regularly in the Addison County Independent, and is archived on his blog, at www.GregoryDennis.

WordPress.com. Email: gregdennisvt@yahoo. com. Twitter: @greengregdennis.

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This year is ‘one of them’ Vermont winters... or was it?

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Ski areas set initial closing dates

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VERMONT— It’s been a great season so far, but like so many other things it can’t last.

Initial closing dates for some Vermont resorts have been announced, while other areas are holding off until they determine how long the snow will provide for good times and excellent skiing.

Those areas that have set firm closing dates are: • Bromley Mountain, Sunday, April 12, (closed midweek 4/6-10); • Bolton Valley Resort, Sunday, April 12; • Middlebury College Snow Bowl, Sunday, March 29; • Okemo Mountain Resort, Sunday, April 26; • Q Burke: Sunday, April 5;

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LUDLOW, VT. – Based on the overwhelming success of its three-day summer beer festival, Okemo Mountain Resort is introducing its inaugural one-day winter beer celebration. Hops on the Snow will take place in the Jackson Gore Inn courtyard from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 28.

“Vermont is a Mecca for skiing and snowboarding beer aficionados,” said Okemo Mountain Resort Events Manager Dennis Brady.

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• Stowe Mountain Resort, Saturday, April 18; • Smugglers’ Notch, Sunday, April 19; Other ski areas in the state, according to the Vermont Ski Areas Association, have yet to announce their closing dates, largely dependent on snow pack and quality of skiing. Those resorts include: Killington Resort, which has announced it is planning on staying open until June, weather depending, but no firm date is set; Cochran’s Ski Area; Hermitage Club; Jay Peak Resort; Mad River Glen; Magic Mountain; Mount Snow Resort; Northeast Slopes; Quechee Ski Area; Pico Mountain; Stratton Mountain Resort; Suicide Six Ski Area; and Sugarbush Resort, which often stays open until early May, if possible.

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Sugarbush donors raise $117,000 for High Fives at Fat Ski-a-Thon

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WARREN, VT — The Lake Tahoe-based As the High Fives Foundation continues to High Fives Nonprofit Foundation joined grow as an organization, events like the Fat Skihundreds of supporters at Sugarbush Resort a-Thon are bringing closer the eventual goal to in Warren, Vt. on March 1st for its 4th annual construct an official High Fives Foundation Fat Ski-a-Thon. The event raises money for Healing Center in the Mad River Valley where mountain and winter action sports athletes High Fives Athletes and community members who have suffered a life-altering injury. can recover from life-altering or mountain “The 2015 Fat Ski-a-Thon was a huge action sports related injuries. success,” said High Fives Co-Founder and “The people here really care about skiing, Executive Director, Roy Tuscany. “This year and they really care about each other, so participants contributed more than 800 it makes sense that we can make an event individual donations and exceeded the like the Ski-a-Thon as successful as it is year fundraising goal of $100,000 to raise more after year,” said Jesse Murphy, High Fives than $117,000 for the Foundation. This is an Foundation Board of Director member and extraordinary increase from last year’s event owner of Vermont North Ski Shop, which was that raised roughly $88,000.” a title sponsor for the event.

The Fat Ski-a In addition to Thon name comes raising funds from from the stipulation In one day, 150 skiers skied a flat donations and that all of the skis in pledges during use during the day combined 1,386 laps beneath the the event on must be built for Summit Chairlift at Sugarbush Sunday, the High powder conditions totaling 1,442,826 vertical feet Fives Foundation with a waist of also raised money 70 millimeters or in the name of fundraising. at their official wider.

Normally, Thirteen-year-old participant pre-party hosted this would be an Thomas Sullivan took home the at the Localfolk ironic stipulation Smokehouse in in icy Vermont Tom Thumb Endurance Belt Waitsfield on conditions, but not award for being able to ski a Saturday night, this year, thanks to a record 28 laps on the grueling February 28. Ski-aseason total of 194 Thon participants inches of snow at trail “Black Diamond.” were able to preSugarbush Resort. register for Sunday’s In one day, 150 event while entering skiers skied a combined 1,386 laps beneath raffles, bidding on live and silent auction items the Summit Chairlift totaling approximately and feasting on Tex-Mex cuisine. Legendary 1,442,826 vertical feet in the name of Vermont bluegrass band The Mad Mountain fundraising. Thirteen-year-old participant Scramblers lead the jamboree.

Thomas Sullivan took home the Tom Thumb About High Fives Endurance Belt award for being able to ski The High Fives Foundation is a Tahoe-based, a record 28 laps on the grueling trail “Black national 501.c.3 non-profit organization that Diamond” in the allotted time. supports the dreams of mountain action “I love skiing at Sugarbush anyway, and this sports athletes by raising injury prevention was a really cool way to raise money for an awareness while providing resources and organization that I love,” Sullivan said after the inspiration to those who suffer life-altering award ceremony. injuries. Formed as a way to “pay-it-forward” The funds raised at the Fat Ski-a-Thon are a from his own life-altering injury and recovery demonstration of the heartfelt support for the process, founder Roy Tuscany, along with the High Fives Foundation shared by the extended foundation’s staff and board of directors, are community of the Mad River Valley. A special dedicated to helping athletes who suffer lifemovie was viewed at the awards ceremony altering injuries. The Foundation has helped that included personal “thank-you” messages 70 athletes in 19 states to date since its from five High Fives Empowerment Athletes inception in 2009. For more information visit: who will benefit from the funds raised by this www.highfivesfoundation.org event.

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Tubb’s Romp to Stomp adds $41K to help breast cancer at Stratton STRATTON — Pink-clad individuals and teams, including breast cancer survivors, strapped on their snowshoes and raised $41,000 for breast cancer research and awareness at the Tubb’s Romp to Stomp annual event held in Stratton on Feb. 28.

Participation was about even with last year’s Romp, but fundraising was down a bit this year, organizers said, although they were

hopeful more donations will flow in through the March 31 deadline.

Tubbs Romp to Stomp event has grown across the country and has raised over $2.8 million for the Susan G. Komen foundation since 2003. Stratton is dubbed the original location of what is now the largest snowshoe series in the world.

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

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AS THE SUN sets over Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks, the lights on Bolton Valley’s Vista Peak warm up for nighttime skiing and riding.

Photo by Josh Arneson

By EVAN JOHNSON BOLTON — It feels very strange to turn up the access road to a ski area just as darkness is falling. Skiing is, for the most part, a daytime activity. But one of Vermont’s 19 ski areas keeps the chairs turning well after the sun has set across Lake Champlain. Vermont’s most expansive night skiing operation at Bolton Valley Resort has kept hundreds of enthusiastic skiers enjoying Friday and Saturday nights on open trails since 1966.

While the weekend crowd is still making their way north this Friday night, the night skiing at Bolton makes it possible to get a few runs in ahead of the weekend crowd on the ski resort’s 900 vertical feet.

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“We’re 30 minutes from Burlington and 30 minutes from Barre and Montpelier – two of the state’s biggest population centers,” says Josh Arneson, director of sales and marketing at Bolton Valley. “It works for people to get out of work or class and come ski until eight or ten on Fridays. It’s certainly a locals scene. Some of our destination travelers on the weekends will come and ski on Saturday night, but the core is the locals that come and ski when they otherwise couldn’t.”

On a clear and cold Friday evening, the view is pristinely clear. The lights of Burlington and even Plattsburgh, N.Y. are visible and the parking lot and base area of Bolton Valley is hopping with Bolton’s famed After Dark scene — largely of locals and college students

from the Burlington area or Norwich.

Inside the base lodge, Diane Ingham of Georgia (the small town in Vermont) is warming her toes after a few runs. While she’s an experienced skier, she’s skied under the lights at Bolton only twice.

“It was on my bucket list,” she says, with a grin of approval.

Lynn Johnston came with her family from Burlington. For a busy family with other commitments, skiing under the lights is a great way to spend a Friday night.

“We do a lot of sports so we can’t get out on the slopes during the day because of basketball, skating or other events,” she says. “So the night becomes our opportunity to ski.”

Plus, there are never any lift lines, the food

is good and the lift tickets are cheap – just $19 for access to four lifts and 10 trails on Bolton’s Vista Peak. Johnson says they don’t buy season’s passes, so they appreciate a bargain when they head to Bolton.

For Johnston, skiing at night is a special experience.

“I think there’s something about the nighttime that gives you a little more confidence,” she says. “It’s you and the trail, and you just don’t worry about the ice.”

Outside on the hill, the lift lines are nonexistent and the packed powder trails are peaceful and wide open for the skiers and riders gliding down under the lights. Even a handful of jackjumpers make skidding turns on their way down.

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

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SKIERS AND BOARDERS make their way to the Vista Quad, one of three lifts running at night at Bolton Valley.

A SKIER CATCHES some nighttime powder on Upper Show Off. In the evenings, 10 trails remain open.

One of these skiers, Keith Lance, grew up in Northfield and says he has been skiing at Bolton Valley for at least 15 years. As a kid, every Friday and Saturday night, he’d head to Bolton to ski with his parents, brothers and cousins. At 29, he’s introduced his two daughters to the sport and they try to ski as much as they can at Bolton or Northeast Slopes in East Corinth. Tonight, they braved the temperatures to ski from 7 to 9 p.m.

“Some people have never been (night skiing) and it’s something they definitely should try. If you like skiing, then you’ll like this as well.”

Bolton Valley is one of only a handful of resorts around the region that offers skiing under lights. Cochran’s Ski Area, located just minutes away, opened night skiing in 2010, but draws more of a racing crowd.

Families and college students aren’t the only ones that enjoy the Friday night scene at Bolton. Johnny Pagoda and Joe Ferlazzo are two tattoo artists from Burlington. After

Photo by Josh Arneson

Photo by Mike Wood

a full day in their respective studios, they hop in the car for the 30-minute drive down the interstate for an evening of riding.

“It’s fun, riding in the dark,” Pagoda says.

“There are some spots that push your riding to the next level by making you more sensitive on your feet. If you can’t see the elevation change as well as you typically can during the day, you learn to just go with it.”

But even the darkness becomes less of an issue as winter turns to spring.

For Bolton Valley’s Arneson spring is when night skiing comes into its own. As people set their clocks ahead an hour and the temperatures warm, the mountain’s night skiing grows and develops a loyal following.

“We’re in my favorite part of night skiing with the clocks going forward,” he says. “It’ll be light until seven o’clock and we’ll keep the main peak open until eight. That means skiing in direct sunlight with views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. It’s going to be awesome.”

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

SNOWBOARDER AIRS over a rail in the Moonlight Park, one of two terrain parks open for skiing and riding.

Photo by Mike McDonald

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Who owns Vermont’s ski hills?

State auditor’s inspection of state forest leases to ski areas prompts a review

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BY KAREN LORENTZ and ANGELO LYNN MONTPELIER, VT. — When State Auditor Doug Hoffer revived introspection earlier this year of the state forestland leased by seven of Vermont’s largest ski areas, his intent was to draw legislative scrutiny to determine whether the public was getting a fair market return on those lease agreements.

The immediate controversy the Jan. 28 report stirred was predictable: the seven ski areas responded that they were paying enough, some progressive lawmakers jumped at the bait in a desperate reach for more state revenue, while perceptive skiers and riders might have been mildly irked that ticket prices and season passes could go up even more if leasing costs jumped higher.

But it was all to no avail. The 29-page report is a non-audit tool “to inform citizens and management of issues that may need attention.” Period. The seven ski areas that lease land from the State Forest, which are Jay Peak, Burke Mountain, Smugglers’ Notch, Stowe, Killington, Okemo and Bromley, have existing contracts — most for the next 20 to 50 years — and there is no reason to expect those contracts would be amended.

Parker Riehle, president of Vermont Ski Areas Association, maintains the leases are “beneficial to both the state and ski area operators, and there is no interest in renegotiating long-term, good faith contracts before their expirations.” Of the seven leases, one expires in 2032 and six between 2053 and 2060.

He noted the growth of leasehold payments to around $3 million annually and increases in various taxes paid have occurred “due to development on private lands that ski areas have had to purchase because their leases prohibit such development on leasehold land.”

Additionally, he said studies suggest that on a comparable basis (to other states and the federal government’s U.S. Forest Service permits with three other Vermont ski areas), “Vermont’s lease terms have been found favorable to the state and even in many instances produce higher revenues for the use of public lands.”

That doesn’t mean the auditor’s research was for naught. As well as catching a few minor details that the state and respective towns need to address, it identifies important talking points the next time the leases come up for renewal — assuming, of course, things haven’t changed drastically over the next 20-50 years.

But what Hoffer might not have anticipated when tackling this land-lease issue was the role Vermont played in creating a land-lease model for ski areas that became the national standard for many of the 500-plus ski areas located on forest service lands throughout the country.

That research has also led to another interesting question: Just who owns the land on which we ski?

SKIING’S EARLY YEARS As Vermont skiing evolved in the early 1930s with the advent of the rope tow, Perry H. Merrill, the Vermont State Forester who became the Commissioner of Forests, PA G E 1 0

Parks and Recreation, had a vision to grow a tourist-based industry. He had observed the development of skiing in Sweden and envisioned similar recreational and economic possibilities for Vermont.

In addition to being instrumental in the purchase of land for state forests and parks, Merrill employed the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to help build roads and ski trails at Mt. Mansfield in 1933. It was a precedentsetting move followed by the construction of a State Ski Shelter (what is now Stowe’s historic base load at the foot of Mount Mansfield and the Forerunner Quad) and leasing state lands to the mountain company. He would repeat that move with other private parties and community groups on state lands throughout Vermont, thus creating the framework for Vermont’s skiing industry.

But first he had to find the operators to build the areas.

When a Ludlow group urged the development of Okemo Mountain, Merrill helped them acquire 4,000 acres on the upper half of the mountain in 1935 for “yearround outdoor recreation.” Merrill made plans for the development of ski trails, bridle under $7 an acre (less than $1,942 or $25,541 trails, picnic areas and camping grounds in in today’s dollars). But Merrill still couldn’t get cooperation with the National Park Service anyone to develop Killington. (to obtain federal funds).

In 1951, Killington was surveyed and However, there were objections to his pronounced “fit for skiing.” Again, no luck. purchases of land there and elsewhere, and Actively looking to bring development into his support of skiing by those who felt funds Vermont, the state formally adopted a policy could be ‘better used’ during the Great of building access roads and base lodges for Depression (1929-1939). In the end, politics ski areas in the mid-1950s, even extending (or maybe pragmatic thinking) killed “a winter appropriations to include access roads to ski paradise.” It would be 1955/56 before Okemo areas located on national forest land — Mount would get its start.

Snow (1954), Sugarbush (1958) — and private Merrill did lease an 800-acre tract to the land (Stratton, 1961). Merrill finally realized his Rutland Ski Club for a ski area at Shrewsbury dream for leasing the in 1935-36 and the state’s second highest CCC helped build the mountain and for area, which operated the development of a to 1941. Before then, robust ski industry as Suicide Six and the Vermont’s ski boom Middlebury Snow got under way toward Bowl were established the end of the 1950s. in 1934.

During 37 years Meanwhile, on the job, Merrill Mortimer R. Proctor, oversaw the purchase who supported the of 170,000 acres of development of Pico forestland in 27 state in 1937, deeded his forests and 32 state 324-acre Killington parks and negotiated Peak tract to the state many long-term in December 1938 leases with ski areas with the stipulation — Bromley, Mount that it “be used as a Mansfield, Burke forest and recreational Mountain, Jay Peak, area and for other Okemo, Killington, public purposes and Smuggler’s Notch, incidental thereto.” Perry H. Merrill, in his role as Commissioner to name today’s seven Merrill promoted of Forests, Parks and Recreation could well be leasehold areas as the development of considered the father of Vermont’s ski areas well as others that are Killington to Rutland and ski industry. since defunct. businessmen in “It was in no 1941, but aware of small way due to challenges facing Pico and lack of access to his aiding and abetting, cajoling and urging, Killington, they were not interested. that Vermont is now noted for its excellent In 1945, the year the war ended, about ski areas,” noted one-time governor and U.S. 2,776 acres of “Killington lands” were sold Senator George Aiken. to the state. Together with Proctor’s gift, the Merrill’s vision was “the catalyst” to the state gained 3,100 acres at a cost of a little Vermont ski industry, Riehle noted, adding

that developing ski areas on leaseholds helped propel the development of many other areas in the 1950s and 1960s, further benefiting Vermont’s image as the number one state in the nation in terms of skier visits.

ATTRACTIVE LEASE TERMS Some ski areas on state land began with initial leases drawn up prior to their existence.

They were later redrawn and addressed payments for leaseholds, which contained lifts, trails and ski shelters (or lodges). Where areas like Okemo were developed with lifts also located on private land, a ratio for linear footage of lift lines located on state lands was applied to the total ticket sales percentage an area paid. Initial percentages varied widely from resort to resort, but were later changed to 5 percent flat rate, which remains in effect today.

Leases also called for payments on goods sold (skis, repairs, food and beverage, other retail) in ski shelters or lodges, which today are based on a 3 percent fee for sales in state-built lodges and 2.5 percent fee in operator-built buildings on leaseholds. These fees were a significant part of revenues from day one and continue to be included in ski area payments.

In a late 1980s interview, Rod Barber, assistant director of state lands who had worked in State Forests and Parks in the 1950s, explained the state’s thinking: “One of the reasons the state gave good lease terms to ski areas was to induce developers to build the areas. Skiing was a risky business, but the state wanted to utilize the mountains to bring in some opportunity and revenues, so we deliberately made the terms as attractive as possible.”

That included “long-term leases so the areas could get the loans needed for development,” Barber said, noting that the state initially chose to own the lifts and buildings built by operators “so that the ski areas would not have to pay property taxes on them.” That provision still applies to a couple of the seven ski areas operating on state land.

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Just who controls the state’s forests?

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

Vermont’s outstanding system of state parks.

Vermont is recognized as having one of the best state park systems in the country — a major accomplishment for such a small state,” Fraysier says, adding the annual economic impact is estimated at “over $85 million,” a direct outcome of the ski lease payments arranged

by Merrill 50 years earlier.

Note: Karen Lorentz is a ski historian who has followed and written about the ski industry since 1979. She has produced several ski history books on Vermont. A version of this story first appeared in the Mountain Times of Killington, a sister-paper with Vermont Ski & Ride Magazine.

Ski areas faced tough sledding in the 1970s-80s Beginning in the 1970s, Vermont ski areas faced huge challenges — several years of no snow, a gasoline crisis, and the Sunday v. Stratton case, which saw liability insurance rates escalate and cause many areas to close and all but a handful to change owners by 1980.

The 1979-80 season brought a truly horrendous start to the new decade. Vermont ski areas experienced an unprecedented snow drought and an average drop in sales of 40 percent. The state’s skier visits fell to 2.1 million from the prior year’s 3.2 million and the state qualified for Federal [Economic] Disaster Assistance.

For those areas struggling to catch up with snowmaking installations or to pay for increasing liability insurance premiums, bankruptcy and/or closures followed. Vermont lost 30 areas from 1970 to 1985 and another 9 to 1990. Hogback closed in 1984 (it leased some state land) due to its insurance premiums being greater than the prior year’s revenues.

Environmental regulations changed and raised costs at the same time; “no-growthers” objected to ski-area development and cost areas millions in permit battles. The environment vs. the economy debate raged in Vermont during the late 1980s and was exacerbated by a Vermont recession that extended beyond the 1990-91 national recession.

While the 1987 and 1988 seasons saw a near perfect storm of good snow combined with increased skier visits, due in large part to the condo boom of 1984-1986, the 1986 IRS tax law changes on real estate deductions ground such development to a halt. With unsold inventory, Ascutney, which had put in a $50 million village, filed for bankruptcy and closed in 1991 (sold at auction for $1.1 million in 1993). Pico eventually declared bankruptcy and was sold in 1996, while Bolton also temporarily closed that year.

Killington had benefited with its snowmaking prowess, commitment, and fame giving the area a competitive edge. Yet, its Village Center was stalled during the 1980s no-growth era and never got built as the recession hit in 1990. Recovery followed in the 1990s, along with sales of Bolton Valley, Burke, Haystack, Magic, Mount Snow, Killington, Stratton and Sugarbush.

More challenges followed with both the dot.com bust in 2000 and the attack on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001, contributing to a national recession that, although short lived, helped to eventually sink American Skiing Company, Killington’s corporate parent from 1996-2008.

ASC had aggressively bought more areas and developed major real estate projects just as the 2000 recession and poor snow seasons struck.

More ski area sales followed in the 2000s and the Great Recession (2007—2009) combined with difficult snow years caused Ascutney and Bear Creek Mountain Club to throw in the towel after the 2010 season.

Okemo had changed owners in 1982 and flourished, but in 2008, its owner-operators sold to CNL Lifestyle Properties, LLC (a REIT) under a leaseback arrangement to obtain better access to financing. Jay Peak turned to EB-5 funding and made huge strides thanks to its 2010 leasehold exchange that enabled its hotels and amenities to be built.

More challenges followed in the way of climate change and huge investments in snowmaking efficiency as well as the issue of the aging of the baby-boomer population, which had spurred skiing’s growth in the 1960s.

From 81 ski areas operating in 1966, Vermont declined to 70 in 1970, 49 in 1978, 39 in 1989, 33 in 1991, and 24 for the 2008 season, including private and municipal surface lift areas. Today it hovers around 18 or 19, depending on one’s definition of a full-blown ski area.

Vermont lost its number-one ranking as a ski state by the 1980s to Colorado, which had boomed during the destination movement and airline deregulation, and now does about 12 million annual skier days.

California climbed to the number two spot in that same time period with visits typically around 7 million annually, compared to Vermont’s 4.1 million, which puts it third in the nation, just ahead of Utah.

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Another reason was that in the event a villages to be competitive in changing times. ski area went under, the state as the owner In 1968, for example, Killington spent of the property could dismantle the lifts $200,000 (inflation-adjusted $1.4 million) to and return the mountains to their original buy 1,480 acres on Camel’s Hump to trade condition, Barber said, noting just how risky to the state for land contiguous to its private the development of a ski area was perceived land and Snowshed. This was done to increase to be. a 44-acre village site to 400 acres.

For example, the initial lease given for Jay Peak is a more recent example. Their Killington, which was substantially the same lease was amended in 2010 to allow for a as that given to Mount Mansfield, was granted release of 418 leasehold acres back to the state to the Sherburne Corporation in November for the preservation and protection of the 1957. It provided for a “leasehold” arrangement fabled Long Trail in exchange for being given of: initial terms of 10 years 59.8 acres in its base area to with successive options allow for a village, amenities “There’s no question and growth. to renew; a payment to the state of 10 percent of that the leases have had annual gross receipts above RETURN ON INVESTMENT the first $40,000 on lift the economic benefit “The return on the 8,500 operations; the equipment that they were meant to acres of forest land under and buildings installed on generate.” lease to ski areas has been lease land would become – VSAA President Parker Riehle very good,” Riehle agreed, and remain the property of noting that there weren’t the state; the state would many other profitable allow no other similar uses for steep, rocky and development on its land within 10 miles of the mountainous terrain. area; the initial agreement would be amended “The creation of these leases by Perry from time to time to include land on which Merrill,” Riehle said, was the catalyst for more additional facilities were installed. than $100 million paid in tax revenues from all A November 1960 lease, which occurred expenditures and economic activity generated after Killington’s first profitable season, by ski areas annually, including: sales, followed. It changed the terms to 5 percent property, gasoline, alcohol, rooms, meals, real of revenues derived from lift-ticket sales and estate property transfer, real-estate gains, and 5 percent of sales made in the state-built corporate and personal income taxes. shelter (later changed to aforementioned “In 1999, the rooms and meals tax generated 2.5 and 3 percentages). That lease also gave $90 million, and today it is approaching the lessee the right to remove all equipment $150 million. It grew even during the Great and property installed on the leasehold upon Recession,” Riehle noted. termination of its lease.

“In 2005, the leases generated $1.2 million, Most of the other six leases were similar, now it’s around $3 million. We see fluctuations and many leases were later amended to as some areas like Jay increase their payments provide for land swaps, which saw areas pay and others decline as the market shifts,” Riehle millions of dollars to purchase parcels the stated. state wanted and trade them for some of their “The ski industry has grown to one-third leasehold land, usually to build base facilities/ of the tourism economy — the other two segments are summer and foliage.

“There’s no question that the leases have had the economic benefit that they were meant to generate,” Riehle added. By spurring the development of other ski areas on private land, they have contributed to overall economic impacts to the state of: $700

By EVAN JOHNSON Of Vermont’s 19 ski areas, seven lease million in direct skier spending, $250 million public land from the state; others lease in resort expenditures for goods and services, federal land or own it privately. The seven and 12,000 direct jobs, with an estimated resorts that have state leases are Jay Peak, Q 22,000 indirect jobs in today’s economy.

Burke, Smugglers’ Notch, Stowe, Killington, STATE PARKS BENEFIT Okemo and Bromley.

One of Merrill’s reasons for leasing rather Three state ski areas — Sugarbush, Bromley and Mount Snow — reside within than selling state land to ski operators was to provide income for operating Vermont’s the Green Mountain National Forest.

Mount Snow Resort in West Dover is State Parks. Leasehold payments kept fees for located on 588 acres. Bromley lies about 20 day and overnight camping uses low at the state parks and contributed to the growth of miles north of Mount Snow.

Sugarbush Resort in Warren is located in summer tourism.

A commissioned study done in 2007 for the the northern region of the National Forest State Parks and Forest Department shows an and is comprised of six peaks with 578 acres average of 40 percent (1989 to 2006) of the of maintained skiing and 2,000 acres in the state parks’ annual operating budget came Slide Brook Basin. from leasehold payments.

Privately owned ski areas include Stratton Today, 60 percent comes from user fees and Mountain Resort, Cochran’s Ski Area, the seven leaseholds account for half that, Middlebury College Snow Bowl, Bolton notes ANR Lands Director Mike Fraysier.

Valley, Mad River Glen, Magic Mountain, While leasehold payments are declining as a Suicide Six, the Quechee Ski Club and the percentage of the state park’s revenue stream, Hermitage Club. dropping from 41 percent to 32 percent in Vermont has 453,871 acres of federal land the past dozen years, it is also true that actual within the state, or 7.6 percent of the total dollars contributed from the ski areas has 5,936,640 acres. The state owns 11.4 percent increased and that the state has significantly of the forestland within its borders. increased its holdings to owning about Individuals and families own more than 343,000 acres of public land that include 52 80 percent of the forest. Only 1 percent of state parks and 37 state forests.

Vermont’s forest is owned by businesses.

In Fraysier’s estimate, the ski lease revenues have played a “significant role in developing

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LOCAL

Breweries & Wineries 2

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VBA and Vermont Grape & Wine Council initiate Passport programs for guests who visit Vermont’s breweries and wineries.

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If you’re a lover of micro-brews and wines, the Vermont Brewers Association and Vermont Wine and Grape Council have developed Vermont Passport Challenge programs for guests who visit breweries and wineries in 17 the state.

Those who visit four breweries, get a “Drink Vermont Beer” bottle opener; those who visit 10 breweries earn a “Drink Vermont Beer” t-shirt; and those who visit all the breweries get the grand prize: a “Collectors Set of Vermont Beer Gear.”

The rules are simple: Visit a brewery or brewpub that is part of the challenge (listed on the Vermont Brewer’s Association website (www. vermontbrewers.com); enjoy a glass or pint and get your “passport” stamped at that brewery with their official VBA symbol. (The passport card is available on the VBA website or at most of the breweries.)

Prizes are given out when the passport is mailed into the Vermont Brewers Association, 142 Kirk Meadow Rd., Springfield, Vt. 05156. (Be sure to indicate your shirt size if you qualify. The offer is valid while supplies last and is good only for breweries & brewpubs, not at wineries or cideries.)

A similar program is being run through the Vermont Grape & Wine Council. For info on rules go to www.

VermontGrapeandWineCouncil. com.

4. Boyden Valley Winery & Spirits

1. Lawson’s Finest The Warren Store

284 Main St. Warren, Vt 05674 802-496-3864 www.warrenstore.com Lawson’s Finest Liquids Warren, VT 05674 802-272-8436 www.lawsonsfinest.com The Warren Store is open 7 days/week, 8 a.m.

– 6 p.m, bringing in a rotating line-up of bottles delivered every Friday.

“Straight from the Green Mountains to your head!” The Warren Store is the best location to find Lawson’s beer, a small batch artisanal microbrewery. Lawson’s goal is to provide local brews of the highest quality and freshness, while crafting unique new recipes and emulating the best of widely appreciated styles.

2.

Kingdom Brewing

353 Coburn Hill Road Newport, Vt 05855 Tel: 802-334-7096 w w w.King d omBrewingVT.com Tasting Room Hours: Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 3:30- 6:30.

We are the northernmost brewery in Vermont. This working farm has a sustainable ecosystem from a greenhouse for food production to a Black Angus beef herd for spent grain and trub recycling. Geothermal cooled and wood-fired hot water... we are Vermont Green.

3. Harpoon Brewery

336 Ruth Carney Drive Windsor, Vt 05089 802-6475491 www.harpoonbrewery.com Open daily, Sun-Weds 10am-6pm, Thurs-Sat 10am-9pm. We started the Harpoon Brewery in 1986 because—like today—we loved beer and wanted more quality choices, and we have spent as much time spreading the joy of beer drinking as we have focusing on recipes, ingredients, and brewing equipment.

Hopefully our sense of gratitude is reflected in both the quality of the beer and the spirit of fun and enjoyment surrounding our beer and breweries. We invite all of you to visit our beautiful brewery in Windsor, Vermont.

64 Vt Route 104 Cambridge, Vt 05444 802-644-8151 www.boydenvalley.com Open daily, year round, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Ten Dollars per person includes a taste of six different types of wine, plus one cream liqueur and you receive a local chocolate truffle and a logo Boyden Valley Winery glass to keep. Tours (FREE) 11:30am & 1:00pm, “French Gourmet” Cheese Plates ($19.95+tax) seasonally 10am4pm.

Boyden Valley Winery, a fourth generation family farm, produces international award-winning Vermont wines; bold red wines, elegant white wines, light and flavorful rose and fruit wines, “Vermont Ice”: the premier line of Vermont ice wines, and the Vermont Ice Apple Crème and Vermont Ice Maple Crème liqueurs.

5. Drop In Brewing/American Brewer’s Guild

610 Route 7 South Middlebury, Vt www.dropinbrewing.com and on Facebook as Drop-In Brewing Company Open daily 11-7, Sundays 12-5. Steve Parkes and Christine McKeever, owners of Drop-In Brewing and the American Brewers guild pride themselves on educating brewers and creating worldly beers with Vermont Character with a focus on drinkability.

Running a Newlands 15-barrel brewing system with a capacity of 750 barrels a year, Drop-In distributes to establishments all throughout Vermont. In a small but fun atmosphere tasting room customers can try our 6 beers on tap and take home any of three different sized growlers.

6. Switchback Brewing Company 160 Flynn Avenue Burlington, Vt 05406 802-651-4114 www.switchbackvt. com Tap room and retail shop hours change seasonally.

Please check the website for most current info.

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Switchback Brewing Company has been locally owned and operated in Burlington’s South End since 2002. Visit our brewery on Flynn Ave to learn about our unique brewing process! Join us in the Tap Room and check out the bottling line while enjoying a refreshing pint or sample of our flagship Switchback Ale, one of our Rotating Specials or a Tap Room exclusive beer.

7. Long Trail Brewing Company

5520 US Route 4 Bridgewater Corners, VT 05035 802-672-5011 www.longtrail.com Open 7 days/week, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sales and sampling and self-guided tours at the visitor center.

Enjoy Vermont’s #1 selling craft beer at one of the most popular destinations in the state, the Long Trail Visitors Center. Whether you are interested in enjoying some of our yearround, seasonal, cask-conditioned or limited “pilot brew” releases, you will find there is a flavor for everyone!

8. Rock Art Brewery

9. Zero Gravity

American Flatbread 115 St. Paul St. Burlington, VT 05401 802-861-2999 www.zerogravitybeer. com Zero Gravity Craft Brewery is located inside American Flatbread Burlington Hearth where you will find 10-15 house brews on tap all year long. Beers that are brewed for food are our main focus and German and Czechstyle lagers and a variety of Belgian styles are usually well represented. Our TLA I.P.A. is a crowd favorite as is our medieval style Gruit

10. WhistlePig Whiskey

2139 Quiet Valley Farm Shoreham, Vt 05753 802-897-7700 www.whistlepigrye.com WhistlePig produces a straight rye whiskey, aged for at least ten years through a unique double-barrel process. Their three products available have each won accolades and great critical acclaim from reputable spirit journals and tasters around the world.

WhistlePig embodies the perfect combination of proof, purity, and age — hitting “the sweet spot” in all three categories.

11. Magic Hat Brewery and Artifactory

5 Bartlett Bay Road South Burlington, Vt 05403 802-658-BREW MagicHat.Net Winter Hours: MonThurs 10-6, Fri-Sat 10-7, Sun 12-5 Winter Tours: Thurs-Fri 3,4,5 Sat 1,2,3,4,5 Sun 1,2 NOTE: We have changed our winter tour times on Sunday to be 1:00 & 2:00 PM Where ancient alchemy meets modern-day science to create the best tasting beer on the planet. Come watch our spores dance and play! Visit the Artifactory for FREE samples, FREE Tours and the most unusual shopping experience!

12. Woodchuck Cidery

1321 Exchange Street, Middlebury VT 05753 802-385-3656 www.woodchuck.com Come check out our new cidery in Middlebury, Vermont! The Cider House welcomes visitors with a tour center, gift shop, and of course, Woodchuck© Hard Cider on tap.

The Cider House is now open and we are so pleased to finally be able to invite you over for a cider!

13. Fresh Tracks Farm Vineyard & Winery

4373 VT Route 12 Berlin, VT 05602 802-223-1151 www.freshtracksfarm. com

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Taste internationally award-winning Vermont wines made from grapes grown right here in our Central Vermont vineyard! Visit our renewably powered tasting room, picnic under the pergola, wander through our vineyards, and take home a free souvenir wine glass with your wine tasting. Try our unique dessert wine made entirely from our own maple sap. Visit our website for upcoming events, specials and update to date hours.

We’re just 3.2 miles south of Montpelier!

14. Lincoln Peak Vineyard

142 River Rd New Haven VT 05472 802-388-7368 www.lincolnpeakvineyard.com Winter Hours: Open Wed-Sun 11-5 Jan-May: Sat 11-5, M-F by chance or appt Jun-Oct: Daily 11-5 Tastings; wine by the glass We—the Granstrom family—grow 12 acres of grapevines, make wine right here from our own grapes, and love to share how grapes grow in Vermont. Come taste our wines, enjoy a glass by the cozy wood stove or on the winery porch, and walk around the vineyard. Our wines have won three best-in-show awards at the Intl Cold Climate Wine Comp in recent years. 3 miles north of Middlebury, just off Rte 7.

15. Champlain Orchards

3597 Route 74 West Shoreham, VT 05770 802-897-2777 w w w. c h a m plainorchards.com Open daily 10-4 November-June Open daily 9-6 July-September Please call ahead if possible. We offer guided tastings of our Pruners Pride, Pruners Promise, Semi-Dry, and Cranberry Hard Ciders, as well as our Sparkling and Honeycrisp Ice Ciders - all made onsite with our ecologically grown apples. Picnic or take a short walk for stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.

16. Appalachian Gap Distillery

88 Mainelli Road Middlebury, VT 05753 802-989-7359 www.appalachiangap.com Tasting room hours: 1-5 Daily.

Visit our tasting rom to sample our fine spirits, made right here in our solar-powered distillery. Our spirits are balanced, rich in flavor, and utterly unique.

17. Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse at The Norwich Inn

325 Main Street Norwich, VT 05055 (802) 649-1143 w w w. n o r w i c h i n n . com Yearly Hours: Monday 5pm-9pm Tuesday - Thursday 11:30am - 9pm Friday & Saturday 11:30am - 9:30pm Sunday 12pm - 9pm Jasper Murdock’s Ales are crafted from fine English malts, with hops grown in England, locally, and in our own hop garden at the Inn. Our beer is pumped underground from the beer cellars to our pub at the Inn. Our brewery is not open for tours but the Alehouse is open for you to wet your whistle during the above hours.

Our ales have won 4 silver medals and 1 gold medal in the last three years at the Great International Beer Competition and are sold only at The Norwich Inn.

18. East Shore Vineyard

Sugarbush - Lincoln Peak Sugarbush Access Rd. Warren, VT 05674 and 28 Church St Burlington, VT 05401 877-ESV-VINO www.eastshorevineyard.com Sugarbush Tasting Room: Open Friday-Sunday – Noon to 6PM. Burlington Tasting Room: Open Everyday except Tuesday - Noon to 6PM, open later weekends – Call for details.

Wine tasting ($7+tax) receive complimentary glass. Join us at our two premier tasting rooms for tastings and pairings with some of Vermont’s finest chocolates and cheeses. East Shore Vineyard produces a variety of international award-winning Vermont made wines including: Traminette, Summer Snow, Cab Franc, Marquette, and Vidal Ice Wine.

19. Trapp Lager Brewery

700 Trapp Hill Road Stowe, Vermont 05672 802-253-5705 • www. trappfamily.com The Trapp Lager Brewery offers a selection of authentic Austrian lagers. Stop by for a pint and enjoy our mountaintop views in our DeliBakery, lounge, or dining room. The Trapp Family Lodge is a mountain resort in the European tradition by the family that inspired “The Sound of Music”.

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632 Laporte Rd./Rt. 100 Morrisville, Vt 05661 802-888-9400 www.rockartbrewery.com Open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Tasting daily until 5:30 p.m.

Tours run at 2 & 4 daily and you are welcome to see the brewery from the viewing window on your own ANYTIME! We are celebrating 15 years! Enjoy samples of our beers during your visit and have a growler filled to take home and enjoy later. We have the best selection of our bottled beers and we also have several local Vermont foods and cheeses to pair nicely with the beers.

ale, released twice a year on the summer and winter solstices.

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A SKIER ENJOYS the soft snow at Killington while keeping cool in t-shirt and sunglasses.

8 festive spring events

Come to ski – stay to party:

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By EVAN JOHNSON All this snow isn’t going away anytime soon.

While daytime temperatures reach into the high thirties and forties, they quickly drop again at night, stretching out the season until at least late March.

With clear blue skies, plenty of snow and lots of deals to get you out there, the marvel of spring skiing is made only better by the full calendar of fun, wacky and sometimes soaking wet events.

When you’re not skiing in t-shirts and sunglasses, here’s what not to miss this spring at the mountains nearest you:

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pring Fling Weekend MARCH 21 – 22

Bromley bids winter a fond farewell and welcomes in the spring with their own a springtime festival dedicated to warmer days with live music and fun family events including pond skimming and a duct tape derby. All the events are in the base area and are open to the public. www.bromley.com

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ud Light Reggaefest MARCH 27 – 29

An annual Mount Snow tradition, Vermont’s southernmost resort hosts a full weekend of Reggae music including Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad and the Alchemystics. If that’s not enough, sign up for or simply watch popular events including pond skimming and the duct tape derby in the base area. www.mountsnow.com PA G E 1 4

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arch Di Gras at Stratton MARCH 28

Bourbon Street comes to Southern Vermont with a village block party featuring live music, street performers, food and drink and plenty of good times for people of all ages. Dance to New Orleans jazz & swing from the High & Mighty Brass Band and Groove 'n Dukes. Retailers also join in the fun with discounts and sales throughout the village. All the fun in the village happens from 3-6pm. www.stratton.com

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ond Skimming: Annual Rite of Spring at Sugarbush

MARCH 28

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mugglers’ Notch BrewFest MARCH 28

Photo by Chandler Burgess/Killington Resort

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ugar Slalom at Stowe APRIL 4 - 5

This classic race, organized by the Mount Mansfield Ski Club combines top-level racing action and a fun springtime celebration. The Sugar Slalom is held in a Mardi Gras atmosphere with on-slope barbeque, and costumes while licensed USSA racers ages 10 and up compete for points. Sugar on snow awaits the racers at the finish line. www.teammmsc.org

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ear Mountain Mogul Challenge APRIL 11 – 12

Smuggs' popular BrewFests bookend the ski and ride season in the winter and the spring, with local and regional beers for sampling, live music, food and prizes. Enjoy samples from Vermont’s Long Trail, Fiddlehead, Zero Gravity, Kingdom, Queen City, Northshire, 14th Star, Switchback and Drop-In breweries, plus Sam Adams, Shock Top, Blue Point, Goose Island, and Harpoon, and delicious hard ciders from Vermont’s Citizen Cider and Ohio’s Angry Orchard Cider! More breweries are being added; stay tuned at www.smugglersnotch.com

The Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge is a spring rite of passage at Killington. Over 200 amateur mumpers take to the slope to battle for a place in the finals. The top men and women return on Sunday in a head-to-head competition for the mogul challenge cup. The bump and jump venue rises from Outer Limits, one of Killington’s toughest runs, in plain view of the Bear Mountain Quad and the party at the lodge below. www.killington.com

Home of the original pond skim, Lincoln Peak at Sugarbush hosts the oldest continually running pond skimming event in the country. Costumes are encouraged and if you’re under the height of five feet tall, consider a lifejacket so you can get out of the pond. Prize will go to best skier, best rider and best costume. www.sugarbush.com

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6th Annual Beach Party at Jay Peak MARCH 28

This year’s Beach Party will be one for the books, celebrating 36 years of fun in the sun (and snow). The party will feature live music by the High Breaks, Long Trail Brewing giveaways and enough waterslides to entertain any child, big or small at the Hotel Jay Courtyard & Pump House Indoor Waterpark. www.jaypeak.com

Skiers enjoy après brews in the sun at Stratton’s Grizzly’s Bar and Restaurant.

Photo by Stratton Mountain Resort VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

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SKIERS COMPETE at Killington’s Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge, top photo, while a skier goes heads over heels, at left, trying to cross the pond at Okemo. Above, a snowboarder sails through the air in competitions similar to what’s scheduled at Mount Snow on March 21 for the C.O.M.P., and at Stratton in the Vermont Open on March 13-15.

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SPRING EVENTS | 2015 MARCH: TH - FRI | 12-15 Vermont Open Stratton’s freestyle series hosts competitions in rail jams, slopestyle, big air and banked slalom divisions – all with $20,000 in prize money up for grabs. www.stratton.com FRI - SAT |

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Carinthia Freeski Open The Carinthia terrain parks at Mount Snow host the annual AFP-certified event with a cash purse for the pros and prizes for skiers in the amateur divisions. www.mountsnow.com Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

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13-15

Slash and Berm Banked Slalom Killington hosts a banked slalom race in The Stash terrain park. Riders will be rewarded for picking the best lines and nailing the best tricks on rock jibs, log rides, rainbow trees and miniature buildings. The action continues on Sunday with a Shop Team Invite only banked slalom event. www.killington.com SAT |

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Ian Muller Rail Jam Q Burke Mountain Resort and the Lyndon State College Ski & Ride and Veteran’s clubs present the Ian Muller Memorial Rail Jam, planned in conjunction with the second annual Northeast Kingdom’s Veterans Summit at Lyndon State College. www.skiburke.com

35th Annual George Syrovatka Downhill Race Jay Peak hosts their annual ski race to benefit Leukemia research open to the public. In addition to being on a timed course, a speed trap is placed at the fastest part of the course.

A $500 cash prize goes to the fastest racer.

Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. and the race starts at 10. www.jaydownhill.com

A SNOWBOARDER GETS deep in the still-abundant snow at Jay Peak.

Sugaring Time Festival at Sugarbush Resort Sugarbush welcomes spring with events including a maple syrup scavenger hunt, donut-eating contest, maple inspired cuisine and more. www.sugarbush.com

Get at Taste of the Mountain at Killington Stop by the Mountain Dew Dome at Bear Mountain for some Mountain Dew samples, t-shirt press, games and autographs from professional snowboarder, Scotty Lago. www.killington.com

Skier and rider appreciation day at Bolton Valley Skiers and riders sample food from specialty food vendors from around Vermont as well as family oriented events and activities. www.boltonvalley.com

Sugar Daze Concert Okemo hosts a free concert series that culminates with a huge outdoor concert extravaganza in the Jackson Gore courtyard. www.okemo.com

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Photo by Andrew Lanoue

Shop Demo Potter Brothers Ski and Snowboard Shop host a free on-snow demo of skis and snowboards all day at the Roaring Brook Umbrella Bars. www.killington.com

available. Cost is $25 for ten tokens, good for either wine or food samples. Funds raised will support Stark Mountain summer crew work. www.madriverglen.com

Womens’-Only Telemark Clinic

RAMP Demo Day Mad River Glen hosts an on-snow demo of from American ski manufacturer RAMP skis from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the mountain base area. www.madriverglen.com

This ladies’-only clinic uses positive attitude, tactics and techniques to help you achieve your skiing goals. These clinics include: all day coaching and lunch. www.madriverglen.com

Triple Crown Mogul Challenge The third and final leg of MRG’s Triple Crown series is the mogul challenge, with skiers tallying as many laps as they can on the bumps of Chute, under the highly opinionated gaze of the audience on the single chair. www.madriverglen.com

Stark Mountain Food and Wine Fest Mad River Glen hosts a evening of wine, food, and fun, while raising money for the Stark Mountain Foundation. Sample a dozen different wines from all over the world, including Vermont’s Boyden Valley Winery. Food created by Chef Michael Witzel will also be

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Night Riders at Bolton Valley Skiers and riders compete under the lights for prizes in a nighttime park series. www.boltonvalley.com

Catamount Trail Classic Fun-raising Tour A classic tour designed for the experienced skier with a sense of adventure prepared for the unexpected runs from Bolton Valley Resort to the Trapp Family Lodge. This event

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SPRING EVENTS | 2015 raises funds for the CTA’s Ski Cubs Youth Ski Program. www.catamounttrail.org

Start Fun, Start Free: Intro to Skiing and Snowboarding The Bromley Ski and Snowboard School offers three free days of introductory skiing and riding lessons this season. Available for ages six and older, the package includes rental equipment, lift access and instruction. Must call to register at (802) 824-5522 x301, space is limited. www.bromley.com

Mountain Dew Vertical Challenge

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Banked Slalom at Bolton Valley Riders flow over rollers and lean into a banked turns at Bolton Valley in this banked slalom competition. www.boltonvalley.com

Green Mountain College – Killington School of Resort Management Open House The Killington School of Resort Management hosts an open house from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the High Ridge Classrooms with current students and professors. www.killington.com

Mad River Glen Backcountry Challenge In this event your only opponent is the demanding Vermont backcountry. There are no winners or losers – just those that finish.

This event is open to all types of gear as you trek along the spine of the Green Mountains. www.madriverglen.com

Carinthia parks at Mount Snow host the third plaza-style snowboard competition. www.mountsnow.com

Spring Demo Day Okemo hosts a full day of demos from top ski and snowboard companies at the Okemo base area. . Participants can visit the demo tent area in the Jackson Gore Courtyard to test-drive the latest in equipment at no charge. A credit card imprint and signed waiver is required. www.okemo.com

Silly Slalom Bolton Valley hosts a springtime event that combines competition with springtime fun. Racers take on a combined slalom and boarder-cross course while spectators enjoy the sun. Costumes are encouraged. www.boltonvalley.com

Bromley Rando Race Using climbing “skins” with alpine touring or telemark bindings (or even splitboards),

YOUNG SKIERS WITH the Stowe Ski School enjoy the sun and the view with their instructor before another run to the bottom.

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

racers start at the base of the mountain, ascend, then descend (on marked in-bounds ski area trails), as fast as possible, over multiple laps. www.bromley.com

Mad River Glen Family Tournament Mad River founder, Roland Palmedo, began what was then called The Father/Son Race at Stowe with his colleagues in 1947. Since then, the event has expanded to Today this event, Mad River’s most popular, goes far beyond the original Father/Son format. Categories include, Mother/Daughter, Mother/Father, Mother/Son, Father/Daughter, Grandmother/ Grandson, Grandmother/Granddaughter, Grandfather/Grandson, Brother/Sister, Brother/Brother, Sister/Sister and of course the overall Family Winner. www.madriverglen.com

Kingdom Plaza Rail Jam The Q Burke park staff creates a plaza-style setup for competition from 1 – 4 p.m. Prizes and awards go to the top finishers. www.skiburke.com

Photo by Stowe Mountain Resort

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Bromley hosts a free ski race open to the public. Skiers and snowboarders are divided by gender and age group to compete for medals in each category. In addition to the race, prizes are given away throughout the day. www.bromley.com

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The C.O.M.P

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SPRING EVENTS | 2015 SAT - SUN |

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Sunday down The Face Chutes, where overall standings are judged based off of two runs. www.skitheeast.net

24 Hours of Stratton

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Participate as an individual, or as a team of up to 12 friends, family, colleagues or neighbors in a 24 hour fundraiser for the Stratton Mountain Foundation. Sign up for free and raise your minimum requirement to enjoy skiing and boarding from dusk to dawn, live bands, event swag, fireworks and more. Please contact with questions or about sponsorship opportunities: Tammy Mosher at 802.297.2096 or strattonfndn@yahoo.com

Spring Fling Weekend

Ski the East Freeride Tour Championships

Mount Snow holds their last day of tubing operations with a benefit event for local schools. Between 1 and 4 p.m. the park will be open by donation to the Deerfield Valley Rotary Club. www.mountsnow.com

Jay Peak hosts the final round of the Ski the East Freeride Tour over two days. The preliminary runs will be on Saturday on Green Beret or Upper River Quai trail (depending on conditions) where the competitors will get a chance for 1 run to win over the judges. The finals will be on

Bromley hosts a springtime festival dedicated to warmer days with live music and fun family events including pond skimming and a duct tape derby. www.bromley.com SUN |

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Rotary Tube A-Thon

Mad River Valley Ski Mountaineering Race This event tests the competitor’s endurance,

equipment and skiing skills while skinning up and skiing down some of the toughest terrain the Mad River Valley has to offer. Join us as competitors make the trek from Mad River Glen to Sugarbush along the Long Trail. www.madriverglen.com FRI - SAT - SUN |

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Bud Light Reggaefest Mount Snow hosts a weekend of Reggae music and events including pond skimming and the duct tape derby. www.mountsnow.com SAT |

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Nor’Beaster: The Hibernation Park Jam Killington hosts a final rail jam in the Dream Maker Terrain Park with a prizes to the top finishers and a barbeque at the bottom of the

Bear Mountain halfpipe. www.killington.com

Spring Fling Race & Party Magic Mountain hosts a celebration of spring with its annual race, BBQ, live music and dancing on the deck après ski. www.magicmtn.com

Pond skim 2015 at Q Burke Q Burke builds their annual pond skimming competition on Lower Warren’s Way with a barbeque and beer garden located directly on the hill. Prizes will be awarded to the last man and woman standing, best costume and best splash. www.skiburke.com

March Di Gras at Stratton Stratton celebrates the rites of spring with a village block party featuring live music, street performers, food and drink and good times. www.stratton.com Pond Skimming: Annual Rite

of Spring at Sugarbush Lincoln Peak at Sugarbush hosts the oldest continually running pond skimming event in the country. Costumes are encouraged in this event limited to the first 100 competitors. www.sugarbush.com

Nor’Beaster: The Hibernation Park Jam Before the metal goes back in the shop, skiers and riders make one last spring rail jam with soft landings, good vibes, goggle tans and a BBQ are all on the agenda. www.killington.com

36th Annual Beach Party at Jay Peak Jay Peak hosts live music, Long Trail giveaways and enough waterslides to entertain any child, big or small, in this springtime tradition. www.jaypeak.com

Smugglers’ Notch BrewFest Smuggs’ popular BrewFests bookend the ski and ride season in the winter and the spring, with local and regional beers for sampling, live music, food and prizes. www.smugglersnotch.com

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Sugar Slalom at Stowe A FEMALE SNOWBOARDER flashes a smile after some heavy snowfall at Sugarbush.

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Photo by John Atkinson

This classic race, organized by the Mount Mansfield Ski Club combines top-level racing action and a fun springtime celebration.

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

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SPRING EVENTS | 2015 The Sugar Slalom is held in a Mardi Gras atmosphere with on-slope barbeque, and costumes while licensed USSA racers ages 10 and up compete for points. Sugar on snow awaits the racers at the finish line. www.teammmsc.org.

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Pond Skimming at Killington Killington hosts a pond skimming competition at the bottom of the Superstar trail at the K-1 lodge. The event is open to the first 100 skiers and riders and no preregistration is required. www.killington.com

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Easter Service and Egg Hunt at Killington Killington holds an Easter Sunday Service at the summit of Killington. Guests board the K-1 Express Gondola at 5:30 a.m. with services starting at 6:30. The service is free and open to all, but space is limited to 275 guests and will be offered on a first-come, first-served

Easter Service at Sugarbush Sugarbush hosts an Easter service at Allyn’s Lodge, followed by a visit from the Easter Bunny, egg hunt and brunch at Timbers Restaurant. www.sugarbush.com

Easter Festivities at Mad River Glen Mad River Glen holds Easter services at the top of the mountain at 8 a.m. Easter egg hunt, chicken barbeque and costume parade will follow in the afternoon. www.madriverglen.com

Bud Light Glade-iator Mount Snow holds their annual spring mogul skiing challenge on the bumps of Ripcord.

Competitors will be judged by a combination of time, form, line and aerial maneuvers. The event also includes a barbeque and Bud Light Cash Bar. www.mountsnow.com SAT |

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Spring Fling and Pond Skim at Stratton Stratton’s pond skimming event and party

REVELERS ENJOY THE springtime sun on the porch in the Bear Mountain Base area at Killington.

Photo by Killington Resort

is open to the first 125 participants and includes complimentary goggle tan and t-shirt. Registration starts at 9 a.m. in the West Wing of the Base Lodge and the event starts at noon. www.stratton.com

Pond Skimming at Jay Peak Jay Peak skiers and riders take the plunge on the pond located on the Interstate Trail. Registration is $10 and starts at noon.

Participants will be judged on best run, costume, splash and bail. www.jaypeakresort.com SAT - SUN |

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Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge The Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge is a spring rite of passage at Killington. The bump and jump venue rises from Outer Limits, one of Killington’s toughest runs, in plain view of the Bear Mountain Quad and the party at the lodge below. www.killington.com SAT |

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Green Mountain College – Killington School of Resort Management Open House A TUBER TAKES a ride down Okemo’s tubing park.

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

Photo by Okemo Resort

The Killington School of Resort Management hosts an open house from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the High Ridge Classrooms with current students and professors. www.killington.com

Dazed and Defrosted spring concert at Killington Skiers and riders enjoy the warm days and soft bumps at Killington with the Dazed and Defrosted spring concert, from noon until 6 p.m. at the Roaring Brook Umbrella Bars in the K-1 Base Area. www.killington.com

The Kingdom Thaw Rail Jam Jay Peak hosts the final freestyle event for the 2014 - 2015 season from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Stateside Carpet. Prizes will go to the winners. www.jaypeakresort.com

Sixth Annual Tailgate Party Jay Peak hosts a tailgating competition in the Stateside parking lot and Bull Wheel Bar. Judges will evaluate categories are on presentation, dish and drink. Judges will also select an overall tailgate champion. www.jaypeakresort.com

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May Day Slalom Killington hosts a final springtime slalom race on the Superstar trail. www.killington.com SAT |

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Killington Triathlon Killington hosts a skiing, biking and running race starting near the top of the Superstar trail. The final course layout and distances will be determined based on conditions leading up to the event. www.killington.com PA G E 1 9

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basis. Afterwards, ski down for a community breakfast and Easter egg hunt. www.killington.com

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By EVAN JOHNSON

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SKIERS AND RIDERS soak up the sun under the Superstar trail at the K-1 base area.

MONTPELIER — It’s been a great winter so far and all that snow’s bound to last for a good long while this spring. While spring is when you’ll see the most comfortable weather (keep the neck gators and toe warmers at home) and soft snow, it’s also when you’ll see some of the best deals for skiing and riding around the state.

Here are some of the top ticket deals designed to save you money and keep you out on the hill.

Bromley Resort

Bolton Valley

Lodging rates at Jay Peak drop in April, giving guests an extra 15 percent off midweek and 10 percent off weekend vacations. In late March, a family of four can ski and stay at the Stateside Hotel and get access to the Pump House Water Park, starting at $315. Starting in April, nights in a one-bedroom cottage start at $224 per night. 2015 Pump House Season Passes are also available, starting May 1st through Sunday, November 22nd, 2015.

Purchase a single pass for $99 or a 4-pack for $259 (that’s less than $65 per person).

This spring, Bolton Valley rolls out a number of late-season deals. Every Monday folks age 50 and over get 50 percent off lift tickets, lessons, rentals and lunch. Every Wednesday college students pay just $19 for lift tickets staring at noon. Pizza slices, hot dogs and sodas are just $2 for college students on Wednesdays.

On Fridays the lifts spin until 10 p.m. and lift tickets are just $19 starting at 7 p.m. Cap the night off with nightly drink specials, late night food and live entertainment in the James Moore Tavern. On Saturdays, night skiing is just $19 starting at 4 p.m. and flatbread slices and sodas are $2 from 4 - 8 p.m.

Season’s passes for next winter at Bolton Valley are now on sale. When bought before April 7, skiers and riders can ski for the remainder of this winter and can save up to $100 when buying before September.

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This spring, Bromley returns the Spring Loaded Card a pack of four tickets available for $119 without blackout dates Tickets are valid through Dec. 18, 2015. Also available is the Kidsrule 3-pack, a bundle of three lessons for $299 (a savings of $188) valid through December 23, 2015. www.bromley.com

Jay Peak

Killington For the spring, Killington offers the 2015 Nor’Beaster Spring Pass. For $199, skiers and riders of all ages can enjoy unlimited skiing and riding at Killington until the end of the season and at Pico from March 14 - 29, live music and a 20 percent discount on lodging.

Beginning March 1, guests may apply up to two unused K-Tickets towards the purchase of a Nor’Beaster Spring Pass. www.killington.com

Smugglers’ Notch In early March, lodging and lift packages at Smugglers’ start at $115 per youth (ages 3-17) and $145 per adult per night. Vacation packages include condominium lodging, daily lift tickets, use of the indoor pool and hot tubs, snow tubing, and bouncing fun in the indoor FunZone with its climbing inflatables and games.

From March 20 – April 12, families can enjoy activities and programs at the season’s lowest rates, with ski and stay packages starting at $95 per youth and $125 per adult per night.

Vacation packages include condominium lodging, daily lift tickets, use of the indoor pool and hot tubs, snow tubing, and bouncing fun in the indoor FunZone with its climbing inflatables and games.

After March 30, half day lift tickets cost $38 for a half day and $50 for full day. Tickets for youth (6 – 18) and seniors (65 and older) are reduced to $28 for half day and 38 for a full day. www.smuggs.com

Mount Snow

All varieties of season passes for the 2015 –

Photo by Killington Resort

2016 winter at Mount Snow are now available.

When purchased before April 30, skiers and riders can get discounts on all seven varieties of Mount Snow passes, including the Double Down pass, valid at both Mount Snow and Stratton.

For the rest of the spring, Mount Snow is offering discounted tickets on Sunday afternoons from noon until 4 p.m. for $29.

Four-packs for Sunday afternoons are available for $99. Skiing and riding on Saint Patrick’s Day is also available for $1, but quantities are limited. The full selection of season passes for 2015 - 2016 are expected to go on sale in the next few weeks. www.mountsnow.com

Mad River Glen Mad River Glen continues to offer skiing and riding deals for the rest of the winter season. Ongoing specials include skiing on Monday or Friday for $1 when you buy a two-day weekend ticket; Sunday afternoon tickets are $49, with the exception of holiday weeks; and AARP members get $10 off a full day ticket every Sunday. Upcoming special discount days include Saint Patrick’s day, where green-dressed skiers get $17 lift tickets and April Fools Day, where two skiers can ski for the price of one, provided they act like a fool in the ticket booth. www.madriverglen.com

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Middlebury College Stratton All varieties of season passes for the 2015 – Snow Bowl 2016 winter at Stratton are now on sale. For an The Snow Bowl is also offering free skiing throughout the month of March and into April (snow permitting) for anyone who purchases next year’s season pass before March 31. The Snow Bowl has been opening 100s of acres of woods skiing over the past few years and now boasts untracked skiing several days after each snow storm because of two factors: ample terrain and few people on the slopes. It’s a hidden jewel in the center of the state. www.middleburysnowbowl.com

Okemo Resort

Spring marks the return of the Spring Skiesta Card, a $99 pass that gives the holder unrestricted skiing and riding from March 20 until the end of the season. Plus, holders can apply the cost of the card toward the purchase of at 2015-2016 season’s pass.

Every day is Spring Break at Okemo with discounts for currently enrolled college students. Simply show your college ID and one additional form of identification at the ticket window and receive discounted lift ticket rates: Midweek/Non-Holiday, $54; Weekend/ Non-Holiday, $74; Holiday Periods, $79. www.okemo.com

Bring-A-Friend Friday: Grab a friend and Ski Quechee for just $30.00 for TWO lift tickets PLUS a $10.00 food voucher for Base Lodge eats with no blackout dates.

Mid-Week March Madness: Ski & Stay Quechee for just $325.00 for a two-night stay at the beautiful Quechee Inn and four full-day lifts tickets to Ski or Ride Quechee. Check out other Ski & Stay options on our website and learn more about why they call us Vermont’s Best Learn to Ski & Ride Destination www.quecheeclub.com

Q Burke On NEK Sundays at Q Burke Mountain Resort skiers and riders can enjoy $25.00 half-day tickets on Sundays. On Tuesday & Thursdays persons ages 55 and older can ski or ride at Q Burke Mountain Resort and Tuesday or Thursday (non-holiday) for just $35.00. ID may be required for those with a youthful appearance. “Silver Streakers” may enjoy a free hot beverage and/or a half of sandwich and soup for just $7.00 in the Kingdom Cafeteria. www.skiburke.com

Stowe Resort The end of the season at Stowe includes a special rate on The ByPass at Stowe Mountain Resort allows you to register your Evolution Stowe Card online and go direct to the lift every day you ski or ride in Stowe. Add to that, instantaneous savings by automatically paying the discounted ByPass rate the first time you’re scanned at the lift each day. Starting April 6, ByPass rates are lowered to $72 for adults, $62 for children and $72 for seniors.

ByPass participants also receive exclusive lift access specials throughout the winter. www.stowe.com

Sugarbush Resort

Skiers and riders can enjoy Sugarbush for less when they buy early online. eTickets are available for one to seven days for youth, adult and senior, saving up to 30 percent. Sugarbush also offers $30 Thursdays at Mt. Ellen through March - Enjoy skiing and riding non-holiday Thursdays at Mt. Ellen for $30 full-day Mt. Ellen Lift Tickets. Afterwards, head to the Green Mountain Lounge from 3:00 – 6:00 PM for après live music, free appetizers from Cabot and Long Trail beer specials. www.sugarbush.com

Magic Mountain Magic’s spring discounts include discount cards and midweek deals. This spring, Magic brings back the Magic Card, giving skiers and riders a free ticket in March and April, $34 Friday lift tickets and $10 off weekend tickets all for $63. Every Sunday and Friday non-holiday is a local Vermont and New Hampshire ski day. Ski and ride Sundays full day at reduced weekday pricing ($49 adults, teens $44, Juniors/Seniors $36). On Fridays, ski and ride all at weekday half-day pricing of ($39 adults, $35 teens and $25 juniors/seniors).

On non-holiday Sundays Magic season pass holders can bring a friend for only $53. www.magicmtn.com

Suicide Six

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Queeche Ski Resort

extra $100, skiers and riders can ski this spring when they buy a Value, Midweek, Sunday, Strattitude or Double Down pass. Passes are available at a reduced rate until April 22.

Springtime at Stratton means Spring Lodging Sale, offering 15 percent off two nights of lodging and 30 percent off three nights or more Blackout dates are March 20 – 22 and April 2 – 4. Stratton rolls out the Spring Mania Ticket Sale, with packs of two anytime lift tickets available in tiered prices, the latest being $139. Tickets are valid from March 2 until the end of this winter. www.stratton.com

A PARTICIPANT BLASTS off across the pond at Okemo’s annual pond skim, scheduled this year for April 4.

Photo by Bonnie MacPherson

This winter, guests at the Woodstock Inn & Resort can ski free at Suicide Six Family Ski area of the Woodstock Nordic Nordic Center when they stay on any available package or rate. The area also extends discounts on lessons and rentals to first-timers when they reserve ahead of time. www.woodstockinn.com

Pico

Pico offers discounts for guys, girls and everyone ages 50 and up. On Mondays, lift tickets, rentals and morning or afternoon lessons are all $29 for skiers and riders age 50 and older. The same deal is available on Thursdays for the ladies and Fridays for the guys. For Vermont and New Hampshire residents, tickets are only $29 for a full-day midweek adult lift ticket. Offer valid Monday, Thursday and Fridays all season long. As always, kids under six ski free every day. www.picomountain.com

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

SNOWBOARDERS MAKE THEIR way through the backcountry near the summit of Mount Mansfield.

Photo by Angelo Lynn

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Looking Ahead

Summer at Vermont’s Resorts

Sun, shorts & fun

By EVAN JOHNSON Yes, Vermont is still buried under snow, but it won’t be long before winter loosens its icy grip and gives way to spring and then summer.

For the ski areas in Vermont, that means shifting gears to a wide range of warmer outdoor activities, including mountain biking, zip-lining, hiking, swimming, tennis, golf (frisbee variety too!) and a full calendar of concerts, festivals and parties.

So keep your skis and snowboard out for now, but find your shorts and get ready to reap all Vermont’s resorts have to offer:

Mount Snow

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This summer, Mount Snow returns its family summer program, Summer Camp, an allinclusive summer camp styled package with activities and lodging. With activities including canoeing, mountain biking and hiking, the goal of the program is to connect families more to the outdoors and each other than their phones and other distractions of the plugged-in world we live in. www.mountsnow.com

Stratton At Stratton, summer brings a variety of summer programs and offerings like tennis, golf and ATV tours to the summit of the tallest mountain in southern Vermont. For events, you can look forward to events like the summertime Wanderlust yoga festival scheduled for June 18 – 21, or challenging races like the Vermont Challenge on Aug. 12. www.stratton.com

Bromley Bromley is home to three adventure parks including the Mountain Adventure Park, which includes the alpine slide, trampolines, climbing wall, mini golf, space bikes, giant swings, waterslide, scenic chairlift rides and Kidzone fun park for smaller children. The Aerial Adventure Park sends visitors climbing and gliding through the canopy on five different courses of ropes, ziplines and bridges.

The Sun Mountain Flyer is a thrilling zip line five stories high, half a mile long and reaching speeds of up to 50 miles per hour. www.bromley.com

SUMMERTIME VISITORS AT Sugarbush enjoy the download on the Super Bravo Express Quad.

Photo by John Atkinson

18-hole Tater Hill Golf Club and indoor golfing facilities www.okemo.com

Killington While the skiing will likely go into June at the Beast of the East, a full line up of activities return to the slopes of Killington. Visitors can

enjoy a mile and a quarter ride up the K-1 Express Gondola, play a round of disc golf around a number of obstacles on the lower mountain, charge trails on a fleet of downhill and cross country bikes or go for an easy paddle on Snowshed pond. Plus there’s a full calendar of festivals and concerts to keep the nightlife humming. www.killington.com

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Summer in the Mad River Valley is full of ways to keep busy. At Sugarbush, those looking for challenge and adventure can take to the mountain biking trails at the resort and the surrounding Mad River Valley or hike the Long Trail, which connects the Lincoln and Ellen peaks. For more leisurely pursuits, take a lift ride on the Super Bravo Express Quad to the top of Gadd Peak or play a round of golf either on the 18-hole, par-71 course designed

by Robert Trent Jones Sr., or the 18-hole disc golf course that has been challenging visitors since 2007. www.sugarbush.com

Smugglers’ Notch One of the most family-friendly resorts in the country moves into summer with options including hiking in and around the historic Smugglers’ Notch adventures on the Zip Line Canopy Tour and Aerial Adventure Park, mountain biking, tennis, geocaching and tours on Segway scooters or the back of a llama. The resort also offers teen and adaptive programs as well as childcare and babysitting. www.smuggs.com

Okemo Summertime at Okemo means the return of Okemo’s Advventure Zone. With the purchase of a wristband, families can access the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster, bungee trampoline, disc/mini golf, climbing wall, AMP Energy Air Big Bag and Spring House Pool and Fitness Center. For the adults, Okemo maintains the Okemo Valley Golf Club, the newly-renovated

Sugarbush

RIDER BEN COLONA leans through a banked turn on one of Killington’s singletrack trails.

Photo by Evan Johnson

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Stowe Visitors can drive up the historic Toll Road or take the gondola to the summit ridge. Hikers can also explore the network of trails up to the 4,393 summit of Vermont’s highest mountain.

While adults can take on the challenging courses at the Stowe Mountain Club and the Stowe Country Club, the kids can explore the summer with Stowe’s Summer Camp, a fun and active camp for kids ages 3 - 12. Plus, the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center presents concerts and events all summer long. www.stowe.com

Q Burke

Jay Peak Things only slow down slightly at Jay Peak during the summer. In addition to hiking and tram rides to the summit, the mountain is home to an award-winning championship golf

YOUNGSTERS TRY THEIR hand at disc golf on the 18-hole course at Smugglers’ Notch.

Photo by Karen Boushie

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In Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, Q Burke operates the Q Burke Mountain Bike Park, with beginner through advanced trials covering the mountain. Opened in 2010, the park is accessed by the Sherburne Express High Speed Quad. Trails include fun, flowing singletrack and machine excavated flow and jump trails. The most challenging and technical trails descend from the summit.

If you’re new to the mountain or mountain biking, be sure to ask about the Burke Bike Park Gravity School, which offers lessons for all levels. www.skiburke.com

course and the Pump House Water Park. For the kids, Jay Peak offers the Raised Jay summer camps, a series of week-long camps that will keep youngsters between the ages of six and 12 busy with ice skating, surfing, hiking, golf, outdoor survival skills, fishing, kayaking and more. This summer, the Jay Peak Trail Running Festival will return with cross-country races from a beginners 5K to the 50K ultra trail race.

The Jeezum Crow Music Festival, featuring acts like Dark Star Orchestra, Anders Osborne and Hornbeam will be held at the Stateside Amphitheatre on July 24 and 25. www.jaypeakresort.com

A ZIP LINER sets off down the cable at the Arbor Trek Canopy Tour near Smugglers’ Notch Resort, while, below, a boy negotiates crossing a tire swing on the Obstacle Course.

Photos by Karen Boushie

A GIRL FLIES through a turn on Okemo’s Timber Ripper slide.

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Photo by Brian Mohr

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Special Olympians Camaraderie, good times and high athletic pursuits at Suicide Six

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BY EVAN JOHNSON POMFRET/WOODSTOCK — Tim Larsen stands at the top of the giant slalom course at Suicide Six and peers down at the red and blue flags with eager anticipation — eyes focused, heart pounding.

A member of the Upper Valley Hawks skiing team, he’s been running laps on gates since January in preparation for the annual event. Yesterday’s races went well enough he says, but today is the finals and this is the race that truly counts. When asked about his strategy for the day, he says his plan is simple: “The only goal I have is to be in first place,” he says. “I’m the fastest.”

The gatekeeper’s radio chirps, signaling the course is open.

A starter counts him down, cowbells clang behind him, and with a push of his poles, he is off and zooming down the hill, practically clipping each gate with turns as tight as those he often watches the pros make on television, where he studies their technique.

Larsen was one of roughly 350 skiers, snowboarders, crosscountry skiers and snowshoers to gather at Suicide Six in Pomfret, and the neighboring Woodstock Inn and Resort, for the annual Special Olympics, a wintertime series of 14 individual races over two days.

The weekend was a lighthearted affair, with blue skies during the day and activities in the evening. Even a Woodstock police officer was seen wearing a blue tutu over his pressed grey pants as he assisted with handing out medals at Sunday’s award ceremony. But more importantly, the stories the athletes and their supporters told described how winter sports provided these athletes with an outlet for athletic achievement, community engagement and individual empowerment.

Larsen, age 25, started skiing at the age of 10 and practices at Mount Sunapee and Whaleback resorts in New Hampshire. He trains under Brett Mayfield, head coach for the Upper Valley Hawks, who, Larsen is quick to proclaim, is the “best coach ever.”

Mayfield and his team of volunteer coaches came with a squad of 15 skiers and riders. As a developmental coach, Mayfield helped organize the first winter games in New Mexico in 1983. After moving to Vermont, he’s continued to be involved with the Special Olympics in his role as the head coach of the Upper Valley Hawks ski team and the executive director of the Spark! Community Center in Lebanon, N.H., an organization that helps adults with special needs to become more independent.

Mayfield says the Special Olympics provide the high standards and precision of high-level racing to athletes of all abilities. In training, racers follow the United States Skiing and Snowboarding teaching guidelines, adapted for the needs of each skier and rider. The international competitions for the Special Olympics follow much of the same guidelines as worldclass FIS racers. When racers miss a gate, they have to hike back up and complete it, or face a penalty.

“The thing about Special Olympics is they allow for somebody who has a lot of disabilities to be a highly tuned athlete,” Mayfield says. “Anybody of any ability can be competitive.”

Mayfield knows this firsthand. His daughter, Jennifer, grew up in Hartland, Vt., with a learning disability and learned to ski alongside her brothers and sisters by hiking to the top of a hill behind her house as a little girl. Jennifer, who is now 22, was the youngest person on the team when she joined at the age of 10.

Liz Barker, Jennifer’s mother has been watching her progress since the beginning.

“They’re more daring and braver than most people that get on the snow,” she says of Jennifer and her teammates and the PA G E 2 4

team dynamic. “They really fly and they’re generally very nice to each other. There’s none of the cattiness that comes with other events.”

When not training for her next competitions and generally just staying in top shape, Jennifer works four days every week at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. In the spring, summer and fall, she also competes in bowling, basketball, karate, track and field, and still finds time to catch Japanese beetles off of her mother’s plants and feeds them to the hens.

“There used to be nothing like this,” added Mayfield, “but people with disabilities these days are much more athletic, healthier and more active. Modern skiing equipment has made

it easier to learn as well. When I was coaching, the equipment held you back, but now you can put it on anyone and they can adapt quickly.” ********** Dustin and Danny Hollister are brothers who practice every week on the Bluebirds ski and snowboard team at Mount Snow’s Ability Plus program.

Danny, 17, has been skiing for the past eight years and took three medals at these Special Olympics in every division – slalom, giant slalom and super-G. While he’s raced with the Bluebirds for the past three years (and has stood on the podium at every one of his winter

TAMMY HOLLISTER STANDS between her two sons, Dustin and Danny, at the Special Olympics at Suicide Six.

Photo by Evan Johnson

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ATHLETES AND COACHING staff from Mount Snow’s Bluebirds team pose for a picture after an awards ceremony.

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understand what your life is like,” he says.

“When you hang out with parents here, you know before you even say anything that

they’re going to have a lot of the exact same issues. You actually don’t even have to talk about them, you just feel comfortable.”

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games appearances), Danny says he hopes to In the summer months, the family enjoys practice and compete in freestyle skiing in the camping and this summer the boys are future. He currently practices at the Carinthia planning on competing in the summer parks at Mount Snow on the easier jumps and Olympic games. rails. He enjoys this variety of skiing so much ********** he elected to ski on his twin tipped Atomic Andy Davis, whose daughter Emma took skis instead of his racing skis during the races home gold and bronze medals in slalom and this year, and finished near the top. giant slalom, says this and other events are Danny has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity more important than just an athletic outing.

Disorder and Tourette’s syndrome, which He says it’s an occasion for families and can cause unwanted, repetitive movements supporters of people with special needs to and sounds. But when he’s skiing, he says his gather, make friends and share their common Tourette’s doesn’t bother him. He forgets camaraderie. Emma, who is 20 and has about his tics and focuses instead on the snow Down’s syndrome, is a senior in high school in and his turns.

Brattleboro, Vt. “It’s a little bit of a challenge,” he says, “and it Emma is going to complete one more year lets me do what I love to do – skiing.” in high school and after that, he says, “the Dustin suffered a head injury in 2013, world is her oyster.” She’s competed in the resulting in some short-term memory loss Special Olympics for the past three years as in addition to his well as swimming ADHD. He took in the summer “When you come here it’s almost games. his first lesson at the end of last like you’re coming home to all these In addition to season and signed the support at the up for the Ability people that understand what your Special Olympics, Plus program. life is like.”

Davis says Emma For Dustin, 13, has also received Andy Davis, father of Emma the help and this was his first winter games on support from her a snowboard and school. Last year he managed to claim two gold medals in the she was elected prom queen by the student intermediate snowboard division. body.

“It was pretty fun,” he says, describing the But Davis also recognizes Emma’s races. “I met a lot of new people and made experiences aren’t universal and says the new friends. They’re all talented in their own opportunities for athletes and their families to way.” come together can be few and far between – “He’s just so happy, he’s another person on especially in a rural state like Vermont. That’s the hill,” his mother, Tammy Hollister, says. “He why he says events like the Special Olympics really feels the accomplishment and he’s very are so important. happy. And it makes me, as a mom, feel great “When you come here it’s almost like that they are able to do this.” you’re coming home to all these people that

Photo by Evan Johnson

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CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREAS N RTHERN VERM NT Bolton Valley XC Nordic and backcountry skiing are hallmarks of Bolton Valley Ski Resort. The highest elevation of Vermont’s cross-country ski areas ensures great snow, usually from early November well into April. With over 100 km of Nordic trails, Bolton is considered by many to be the ‘best backcountry in Vermont’. The Nordic Center offers both Classic and Skate skiing lessons as well as guided tours and ski clinics. Snowshoeing is another popular activity; the resort uses Tubbs Snowshoes as rentals. Nordic ski and snowshoe packages with lodging are available.

CONTACT: 4302 Bolton Valley Access Rd., Bolton Valley, VT 05477 Main phone: 802.434.3444 Phone 2: 877.9BOLTON • Fax: 802.329-6871 nordiccenter@boltonvalley.com STATS: Typical season:................................................ December - early April Total Terrain.........................................................................................88 km Machine-tracked................................................................................26 km Skating Terrain....................................................................................26 km

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Burke XC/Kingdom Trails Two centers located on Darlng Hill and near Burke Mountain offer something for everyone. At Kingdom Trails the atmosphere is noncompetitive, our focus is the quality of skiing and your awareness of the surrounding countryside. Eight main loops make up 50 km of trails to accommodate all skiing abilities. At the two Nordic centers on Darling Hill and Burke XC you can warm your feet and enjoy the splendid views.

CONTACT: PO Box 204, East Burke, VT 05872 Main phone: 802.626.0737 Phone 2: 802.535.5662 info@kingdomtrails.org STATS: Typical season:...............................................mid December - March Total Terrain.........................................................................................80 km Machine-tracked................................................................................50 km Skating Terrain....................................................................................35 km

Catamount Family Center All year long enjoy recreating on our trails as you discover the four corners of our beautiful family farm. Go at a leisurely pace, taking time to enjoy yourself and your family.

You can pull off the trails at scenic points to soak up memorable views of Mt. Mansfield or Camel’s hump to the east or Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks to the west. This farm is rich in history. The first governor of Vermont, Governor Chittenden, built the main house in 1798 for his son Giles.

It has since passed to our family and is in its 6th generation of ownership.

CONTACT: 592 Governor Chittenden Rd, Williston, VT 05495 Main phone: 802.879.6001 Phone 2: 888.680.1011• Fax: 802.879.6066 www.catamountoutdoor.com STATS: PA G E 2 6

Typical season................................................ mid December - March Total Terrain.........................................................................................35 km Machine-tracked ..............................................................................35 km Skating Terrain....................................................................................35 km

Craftsbury Outdoor Center For over 35 years, this year-round resort in the Northeast Kingdom on over 400 private acres has offered outdoor activities for the whole family. In 2008, it was re-organized as a non-profit entity whose mission focuses on lifelong sports, stewardship and sustainability. Members (both day or annual) and winter time guests can enjoy 85k of groomed nordic ski trails, snowshoeing, orienteering, ice-skating, backcountry tours, biathlon programming, and more. The Center has space for up to 90 houseguests in its variety of trailside accommodations. Choose from private cabins to comfortable lodges - all room prices include your meals in their Vermont Fresh Network Member dining hall. You’ll enjoy lots of fresh, local ingredients with every meal!

If you’re ready for some indoor time, guests have access to amenities such as free wifi, massage therapists, sauna and fitness room - plus homey public spaces. Babysitting can be arranged with advance notice.

CONTACT: 535 Lost Nation Rd, Craftsbury Common, VT 05827 Main phone: 802.586.7767 • Fax: 802.586.7768 www.craftsbury.com STATS: Typical season.................................................mid December - March Total Terrain ......................................................................................135 km Machine-tracked ...............................................................................85 km Skating Terrain ....................................................................................85 km

and sugar bushes, with stunning views over open pasture lands of Mount Mansfield to the west, Burke Mountain to the east, the Lowell Mountain Range to the north and Caspian Lake below. There is no finer place for spring skiing and picnics.

CONTACT: Caspian Lake, 1608 Craftsbury Rd., Greensboro, VT 05841 Main phone: 802.533.2647 • Fax: 802.533.7494 www.highlandlodge.com STATS: Typical season.......................................................... December - March Total Terrain ........................................................................................60 km Machine-tracked ..............................................................................60 km Skating Terrain ...................................................................................40 km

Jay Peak Nordic

and

Snowshoe Center

The Jay Peak Nordic and Snowshoe Center is located in the Golf Clubhouse and offers 20km of groomed and tracked terrain for beginners and experts alike. Pristine winding trails that amble through unspoiled wilderness coupled with unparalled mountain views are the hallmarks of our trail network. Snowshoers are welcome to experience the backcountry by day or be guided in the evenings on our fireside tours.

A true destination resort, Jay Peak also offers ice skating, curling, lodging , dining, an indoor water park and plenty of night life.

CONTACT: 830 Jay Peak Road, Jay, Vermont 05859.

Main Phone (802) 988-2611 x4653 Reservations 1-800-451-4449 • Fax (802) 988-4049 info@jaypeakresort.com.

STATS: Typical season..............................................Thanksgiving - mid-April Total Terrain..........................................................................................25 km Snowshoeing trails............................................................................... 5 km

Hazen’s Notch Located at the top of Vermont in the “Covered Bridge Town” of Montgomery near Jay Peak Resort, Hazen’s Notch is on the western edge of the snowy Northeast Kingdom. 70 Kilometers of groomed and marked trails pass through mixed maple, birch and evergreen forest and across gentle, open meadows. There are spectacular views of Hazen’s Notch and numerous peaks over 3,000 in elevation in the Jay Range and Cold Hollow Range of the Green Mountains, which completely encircle the trail system. 30 trails for all abilities provide loops of different lengths for classical cross-country skiing and or snowshoeing. Trail difficulty is evenly divided between easy, moderate and difficult.

CONTACT: P.O. Box 478, Montgomery Center, VT 05471 Main phone: 802.326.4799 • Fax: 802.326.4966 www.hazensnotch.org STATS: Typical season.............................................................. December - April Total Terrain .........................................................................................70 km Machine-tracked ...............................................................................60 km Skating Terrain ....................................................................................20 km

Highland Lodge & XC Center Ski through fields and valleys, delineated by rows of trees

Morse Farm Ski Center Visit Vermont’s newest, family friendly cross-country touring center, with views of Camel’s Hump and the Hunger Mountain range. Professionally designed scenic trails offer a diverse choice of terrain, through softwood forests, sugarbush and across gently rolling open pastures. Suitable for all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned experts, who will appreciate the banked turns on our many challenging downhill slopes.

CONTACT: PO Box 1200 • 1168 County Rd., Montpelier, VT 05601 Main phone: 800-223-0090 www.skimorsefarm.com STATS: Typical season...........................................................December - March Total Terrain .........................................................................................20 km Machine-tracked ...............................................................................20 km Skating Terrain ....................................................................................15 km

Sleepy Hollow Inn & Bike Center Come cross-country ski or mountain bike with us! Our trails are challenging and great fun. Visit Butternut Cabin, with a stunning view of Camel’s Hump and Vermont’s rolling Green VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

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CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREAS Mountains. Our eight bedroom newly renovated country inn is gaining a reputation for great service and hospitality.

We offer skiing, ice-skating, night skiing, snowshoeing, single-track mountain biking, and hiking. Our full line of rentals will surely make your visit hassle-free and memorable.

CONTACT: 1805 Sherman Hollow Rd, Huntington, VT 05462 Main phone: 802.434.2283 Phone 2: 866.254.1524 info@skisleepyhollow.com www.skisleepyhollow.com STATS: Typical season...........................................................December - March Total Terrain .........................................................................................40 km Machine-tracked ...............................................................................30 km Skating Terrain ....................................................................................25 km

Smugglers’ Notch Cross Country

Stowe XC Stowe Mountain Resort’s 35 kilometers of groomed and 40 kilometers of backcountry trails are the highest in Stowe.

Also available are 5 kilometers of trails specifically for snowshoeing. They’re all part of the largest connected crosscountry trail network in the East... a nordic skier’s dream, that also connects with the Trapp Family Lodge XC Center, Topnotch and Edson Hill ski touring centers.

CONTACT: 5781 Mountain Rd., Stowe, VT 05672 Main phone: 802.253.3688 Phone 2: 800.253.4754 * Fax: 802.253.3406 info@stowe.com • www.stowe.com STATS: Typical season.....................................................December - late April

GOSHEN GALLOP JULY 18, 2015 XXXVII

Total Terrain .........................................................................................70 km Machine-tracked ...............................................................................35 km Skating Terrain ....................................................................................35 km

Trapp Family Lodge Cross Country Center Located on the spine of the Green Mountains, they are blessed with good snow conditions all season long. The center offers 55 km of groomed trails that are interconnected to the Stowe Mountain Resort, Topnotch and Edson Hill ski touring centers, making a trail network of 120 km groomed trails and another 100 km of back country trails. The center has a complete retail store with accessories, clothing and equipment, a repair shop, a ski school and rentals of all kinds.

CONTACT: 700 Trapp Hill Rd, Stowe, VT 05672 Main phone: 802.253.8511 Phone 2: 800.826.7000 • Fax: 802.253.5757 info@trappfamily.com • www.trappfamily.com STATS: Typical season.............................................................December – April Total Terrain ......................................................................................100 km Machine-tracked ...............................................................................55 km Skating Terrain ....................................................................................55 km Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

Smugglers’ Notch Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Adventure Center is conveniently located at the center of this year-round resort, providing a host of exciting activities for every member of the family. PSIA-Certified instruction in both classical and skate skiing; daily guided snowshoe treks and night tours on 24 kilometers of dedicated snowshoe trails; ice skating on a natural outdoor rink. With over 100 pair of Red Feather Snowshoes and plenty of skis, boots, poles and ice skates, Smugglers’ can outfit age 5 and older.

CONTACT: 4323 VT Route 108 South, Smugglers’ Notch, VT 05464 Main phone: 802.644.1173 Phone 2: 800.451.8752 • Fax: 802.644.2713 smuggs@smuggs.com • www.smuggs.com STATS: Typical season.............................................................December – April Total Terrain .........................................................................................34 km Machine-tracked ...............................................................................23 km Skating Terrain ....................................................................................28 km

Warmer Weather!

Lots of Snow!

37 TH ANNUAL EVENT “The Toughest 10k in New England”

THE BEST SKIING IS NOW!

Early registration now open!

Runners enjoy scenic dirt roads and single-track Blueberry Hill trails climbing up to more than 1800 feet in the Moosalamoo Recreation Area of the Green Mountain National Forest.

For more info, email gallop@blueberryhillinn.com or register at www.blueberryhillinn.com.

Blueberry Hill Inn Your Inn for all Seasons

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

802-443-2744

Open Daily 8:30-4:30

rikertnordic.com

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CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREAS CENTRAL VERM NT Blueberry Hill Blueberry Hill Blueberry Hill is continually expanding its trail network and maintaining high grooming standards. The ski lodge sits at just over 1,600 feet, ensuring a fair dumping with any snowstorm. 65 kilometers of groomed and wilderness trails spread across the beautiful Vermont countryside, with connections to the Catamount Trail and Vermont’s Long Trail. The Halfdan Khlune Trail climbs to 2,800 feet, making it the highest maintained ski trail in Vermont. The rental shop offers a full line of touring, backcountry and skating skis on a fi rst come, first served basis. We also have 40+ pairs of snowshoes, for both adults and children.

CONTACT: RFD 3, Goshen, VT 05733 Main phone: 802.247.6735 Phone 2: 800.448.0707 • Fax: 802.247.3983 info@blueberryhillinn.com www.blueberryhillinn.com STATS: Typical season.......................................... December to mid-March Total Terrain ...................................................................................... 65 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................ 25 km Skating Terrain ................................................................................. 25 km Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

Blueberry Lake “The Snow Bowl of Sugarbush.” For the last two years, we have skied everyday of the season after opening. The ski area offers 31 km of trails all of which are groomed. Some of the trails are lit for night skiing.

CONTACT: 424 Robinson Road, Warren, VT 05674 Main phone: 802.496.6687 • Fax: 802.496.5198 STATS: Typical season..........................................December to mid-March Total Terrain ......................................................................................31 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................31 km Skating Terrain .................................................................................31 km

Catamount Trail Association The Catamount Trail is a 300-mile public cross country ski trail that spans the length of Vermont. It offers a mixture of ungroomed backcountry terrain and groomed trails - a ski experience for everyone. Guidebook available. Maintained by the member-supported nonprofit Catamount Trail Association.

CONTACT: Main phone: (802) 864-5794 info@catamounttrail.org www.catamounttrail.org

Mountain Meadows XC Area Located in the heart of the Green Mountains, Mountain Meadows cross-country ski area has been attracting skiers from all over the world for the past 35 years. Snowmaking, new trail marking system, improved trails through spectacular meadows and hard woods.

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CONTACT: 209 Thundering Brook Rd, Killington, VT 05751 Main phone: 802.775.7077 Phone 2: 800.221.0598 • Fax: 802.747.1929 www.xcskiing.net STATS: Typical season......................................................... November – April Total Terrain ...................................................................................... 57 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................ 57 km Skating Terrain.................................................................................. 57 km

Mountain Top Inn

and

Resort

Eleven miles from Killington, 60km trails (40km groomed) classic, skate and pristine backcountry for skiing or snowshoeing on 350 of acres at elevation up to 2,100 ft. Varied terrain for all skill and age levels. Private or group lessons, rentals, snowmaking, daily grooming, ski shop (Rossignol demo equipment & rentals, Tubbs snowshoe rentals), snack bar. Designated pet friendly trails. Nordic ski and other seasonal packages available.

CONTACT: 195 Mountain Top Rd, Chittenden, VT 05737 Main phone: (802) 483-2311 Phone 2: (802) 483-6089 Reservations: (802) 483-2311 • Fax: (802) 483-6373 stay@mountaintopinn.com STATS: Typical season................................................................. late Nov.-April Total Terrain ...................................................................................... 60 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................ 40 km Skating Terrain ................................................................................. 60 km

Okemo Valley Nordic Center Okemo Valley Nordic Center features 22 km of traditional Nordic track trails and skating lanes that wind their way through pristine meadows and Nordic hillsides and along the Black River. The Nordic Center also has an additional 13 km of dedicated snow-shoe trails. Okemo Valley features modern trail grooming and terrain ideally suited for all ability levels. Cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals are available, along with group and private lessons.

CONTACT: 77 Okemo Ridge Rd, Ludlow, VT 05149 Main phone: 802.228.1396 Phone 2: 800.78.OKEMO • Fax: 802.228.7095 info@okemo.com • www.nordic.okemo.com STATS: Typical season..........................................................December – April Total Terrain ...................................................................................... 22 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................ 22 km Skating Terrain ................................................................................. 22 km

Ole’s Cross Country Center The combination of snow and scenery at Ole’s Cross Country Center in the Mad River Valley is perfect for skiing and snowshoeing. Discover 30 miles (50K) of moderately rolling trails groomed for classic skiing and ski skating. All abilities can ski to panoramic views of Sugarbush or into the rare quiet of the deep woods. Rent cross country ski gear and

snowshoes at Ole’s, including skating skis. Learn to crosscountry ski better. We offer fun lessons for beginners to coaching for racers. We love to share our favorite sport. Adventure with us on a guided ski or snowshoe tour.

CONTACT: PO Box 1653, Waitsfield, VT 05673 Main phone: 802.496.3430 Phone 2: 877.863.3001 • Fax: 802.496.3089 www.olesxc.com STATS: Typical season........................................................November – April Total Terrain .....................................................................................50 km Machine-tracked ...........................................................................50 km Skating Terrain.................................................................................45 km

Rikert Nordic Center Located 12 miles east of Middlebury on Route 125 in Ripton, VT - 2 miles west of the Middlebury Snow Bowl. Situated on the Bread Loaf Campus of Middlebury College bordered by the Green Mountain National Forest and the Robert Frost Homestead, the center offers 50 km of carefully groomed trails for classic and skate skiing and snowshoeing for all abilities. Included in this terrain is a new world class 5km FIS sanctioned race course that was built this fall.

The newly renovated shop offers rental equipment, repairs and maintenance and is fully ADA accessible. A staff of instructors offer both private and group lessons.

CONTACT: Route 125 Middlebury College Bread Loaf Campus, Ripton,VT Phone: 802 - 443- 2744 mhussey@middlebury.edu • www.rikertnordic.com STATS: Typical Season: ................................................... December - March Total Terrain: ....................................................................................50 km Machine Tracked:...........................................................................50 Km Skating Terrain:.................................................................................40 km

Three Stallion Inn Touring Center Come and enjoy the “Sporting Life” on 35 km of x-c skiing and snowshoeing trails that criss-cross our 1,300 wooded acres and open pastures.

CONTACT: Three Stallion Inn, Randolph, VT 05060 Main phone: 802.728.5656 Phone 2: 802.728.5575 • www.3stallioninn.com STATS: Typical season......................................................December – March Total Terrain ......................................................................................50 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................35 km Skating Terrain .................................................................................17 km

Woodstock Nordic Center Just out from the ski center are 10 km of gentle “meadow” skiing that connect to our fitness center and the 20 km of woodland trails on Mt. Peg. There are also 30 km of trails located across the village green on Mt. Tom – and these quite often become the favorites of those who discover them.

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CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREAS Skiing or snowshoeing Mt. Tom puts you on century old carriage roads in the midst of Vermont’s first tree farm and Vermont’s first National Park site.

CONTACT: Route 106, Woodstock, VT 05091 Main phone: 802.457.6674 Phone 2: 800.448.7900 • Fax: 802.457.6699 email@woodstockinn.com • www.woodstockinn.com STATS: Typical season......................................................December – March Total Terrain ......................................................................................60 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................50 km Skating Terrain .................................................................................20 km SOUTHERNR EGION

S UTHERN VERM NT

Brattleboro Outing Club

Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center Grafton Ponds focuses on cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ice Skating (no ice skating) Biathlon, and tubing on a 600-foot hill. There are 15 km of Nordic trails groomed with a snow-cat and a tiller (which includes 5 km with snowmaking) and 15 km of back-country trails, along with another 10 km of snowshoe trails. They offer a wide variety of terrain and a full service cross country center including rental, retail and snacks. A series of winter activities, including family and kids programs, demos, clinics and races, take place throughout the season. Grafton Ponds is part of the Grafton Inn, which offers special ski & stay packages.

CONTACT: 783 Townshend Road, Grafton, VT 05146 Main phone: 802.843.2400 Reservations: 800.843.1801 • Fax: 802.843.2245 info@graftonponds.com • www.graftonponds.com STATS: Typical season........................................... December – Mid-March Total Terrain.......................................................................................45 km Machine-tracked.............................................................................15 km Skating Terrain..................................................................................15 km VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home Hildene is a historic house built by Robert Todd Lincoln primarily as a summer home. It is open year-round and includes the mansion and gardens, farm and restored Pullman palace car. In the winter months, we offer ski and snowshoe rentals for children and adults, and lessons by appointment.

CONTACT: 1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester, VT 05254 Main phone: 802.362.1788 • Fax: 802.362.1564 www.hildene.org STATS: Typical season......................................................December – March Total Terrain.......................................................................................14 km Machine-tracked.............................................................................14 km Skating Terrain.................................................................................... 0 km

Prospect Mountain Cross Country Ski Center Prospect Mountain Cross-Country Ski Center is located on Route 9 in Woodford, Vermont, just 7 miles east of Bennington. At the highest base elevation of any ski area in the state, Prospect Mountain has earned its reputation of being the “snow magnet”. Prospect has over 35 km of expertly groomed ski trails, and offers excellent skiing to everyone from racers to families. The full service ski shop includes a heated waxing room and a professional waxing service.

Adult and children’s skis, snowshoes and baby sleds are available for rent. The spacious Base Lodge Restaurant is open 7 days/week. Open everyday from 9 am to 5 pm.

CONTACT: Route 9, Woodford, VT 05201 Main phone: 802.442.2575 STATS: Typical season........................................................November – April Total Terrain .....................................................................................35 km Machine-tracked ...........................................................................35 km Skating Terrain ................................................................................30 km

Stratton Mountain Nordic Center Stratton Mountain Nordic Center is located out of the Sunbowl Lodge at Stratton Mountain Resort. We offer 10 km for cross country skiing and for snowshoeing. The beautiful wooded trails are groomed for both classical and skate skiing. The terrain offers something for novice to advanced skiers. Inside the base lodge we have a full service rental and retail shop. Open daily from 8-5. Lessons available.

CONTACT: RR 1 Box 145, Stratton Mountain, VT 05155 Main phone: 802.297.4114 Phone 2: 800.STRATTON • www.stratton.com STATS: Typical season......................................................December – March Total Terrain ......................................................................................10 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................10 km Skating Terrain .................................................................................10 km

Across from Mount Snow, cradled by the Green Mountains, is Timber Creek… a very high quality cross country ski area.

With a dependable mountain climate and a high elevation, an abundance of snow becomes a way of life at Timber Creek. The skier has a choice of adventures on a trail system that meanders and explores where you can ski the forested hills or reach up to the high Green Mountain ridges.

CONTACTS: Route 100 North, West Dover, VT 05356 Main phone: 802.464.0999 Fax: 802.464.8308 www.timbercreekxc.com STATS: Typical season......................................................December – March Total Terrain.......................................................................................14 km Machine-tracked.............................................................................14 km Skating Terrain .................................................................................14 km

Viking Nordic Center Viking Nordic Centre is one of the oldest cross-country ski centers in North America. With 40 kilometers of trails we offer something for every skier. From the rolling gentle terrain of our inner trail system to the long loops through the woods of our outer trail system, beginners and experts can find terrain that will both please and challenge them. After a long day of skiing you can enjoy a hearty cup of soup in our Olympic Café; or bring your own lunch for a picnic at our warming hut overlooking Vermont’s Stratton Mountain.

CONTACT: 615 Little Pond Rd, Londonderry, VT 05148 Main phone: 802.824.3933 Fax: 802.824.4574 www.vikingnordic.com STATS: Typical season......................................................December – March Total Terrain ......................................................................................40 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................35 km Skating Terrain .................................................................................30 km

Wild Wings Ski Touring Center Classic skiing at its best. Family skiing or ski to train. Tracks set with Piston Bully — they last longer. Ski through the woods or along the brook. The animal tracks we see regularly include bobcat, rabbit and deer. Rental and lessons available.

CONTACT: Box 132, Peru, VT 05152 Main phone: 802.824.6793 wwxcski@sover.net • www.wildwingsski.com STATS: Typical season...................................................... December – March Total Terrain ...................................................................................... 25 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................ 25 km Skating Terrain ....................................................................................0 km

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The BOC Ski Hut is the place to cross-country ski in Brattleboro. It’s so close and convenient, it’s practically XC in your backyard! Just two miles from town, the Ski Hut is where friends and family gather to make the most of winter. Learnto-ski programs after school, ski and snowshoe rentals on weekends, special events that celebrate the gift of winter.

We maintain trails for all tastes- — Classic-only trails meander through the woods, while our fairway trails are groomed wide with both skating lanes and stride & glide tracks. In fields adjacent to the fairways, our Hunde-loipes (Hound loops) for dog-lovers and their pets are groomed regularly.

CONTACT: 348 Upper Dummerston Rd. • PO Box 335 Brattleboro, VT 05302 Main phone: 802.254.4081 Contact our web page at BrattleboroOutingClub.org xc@brattleborooutingclub.org STATS: Typical season............................................mid December – March Total Terrain ......................................................................................33 km Machine-tracked ............................................................................25 km Skating Terrain .................................................................................20 km

Timber Creek Cross Country Ski Area

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More than six feet of snow falls on southern Vermont in February WEST DOVER, VT. – By the end of February southern Vermont’s Mount Snow ticked off yet another highlight for its 60th Anniversary Season: a new snowfall record.

“With 76 inches of snow in February alone, it’s safe to say that this is the year,” said Kelly Pawlak, Mount Snow General Manager. “We had fresh snow almost every day in February.

We – and our guests – couldn’t be happier.

This is a real Vermont winter.”

Since the beginning of January through February, Mount Snow logged 10 feet of snow, and more snow days than clear; natural snow has blanketed the slopes more than half the days in February. The storm pacing is not only the most snow recorded in February since 1977, but ranks as one of the highest totals for a single month in the mountain’s history. As the rest of the East Coast continues to dig out, the resort readies

for a spring to remember.

“There’s so much amazing snow that we can’t help but celebrate,” said Dave Meeker, Mount Snow’s marketing manager. “March will be full of live music, competitions and events – everyone is ready to make the most of warm, spring sunshine. This incredible base means we’re set for some great parties, not to mention the best skiing and riding of the season.”

Mount Snow has had 100 percent of its skiable terrain open since the middle of January thanks to this consistent natural snowfall and ideal snowmaking conditions that began in the middle of November. A deep snowpack and the prospect of more natural snow have resort officials looking to the next six weeks as one of the best spring seasons in years.

Sugarbush earns Wellness award for safety and fitness initiatives Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

RUN THE KINGDOM A premier series of dirt road & trail runs throughout the season from May through December. Spectacular, scenic venues.

Run one. Run them all with a Season Pass for only $135.

May 23, 2015 - Dandelion Run: 13.1 Miles and 10K Dirt Roads, Dandelion Fields, Bluegrass July 4, 2015 - Freedom Run: 10 Mile, 10K, 5K, 1 Mile Newport-Derby Bike Path and MSTF Trails August 22-23, 2015 - Echo Lake Road Race & Swim: 10 and 5 Mile Dirt Roads

WARREN, VT. – Sugarbush Resort will receive a Governor’s Excellence in Worksite Wellness award at the 2015 Worksite Wellness conference at the Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center in Burlington, Vt. on March 25.

The resort is receiving the award thanks to its safety and wellness initiatives over the past year, including offering tobacco cessation on site twice a year, creating a tobacco free environment, providing discounted or free membership for employees to the on-site Health and Racquet Club, and creating flexible work schedules to enable employee participation in wellness activities.

The initiatives have contributed to a decrease in lost time due to injury or illness, as well as increased participation of workplace contests, outings and activity attendance.

“We’ve made great strides in our wellness program over the last year”, said Kathy Brooks, VP of Support Services for Sugarbush. “We’re honored to receive this award and look forward to continuing to expand our initiatives.”

The award also recognizes the resort’s Safety Environment Wellness Committee, specifically highlighting Amber Broadaway, Eric Hanson, Kathy Brooks, Steve Suter, Carla Virgilio, Gerry Nooney, Tamar Gutterson, Audrey Huffman, Bill Jandl, Thomas Pianka, Mark Stevko, Ron Guenard, Ed Schoenaggel and Chris Rambone. The committee, established in June of 2014, helps foster employee involvement, ownership and participation in SEW issues and is comprised of mixed levels of staff and management.

HAWK ROCK CABINS www.hawkrockcabins.com • hawkrockcabins@gmail.com • (802) 745 8944

Five fully furnished cabins in the heart of the Northeast Kingdom.

Enjoy snowmobiling, mountain biking and hiking right from the front door.

Just nine miles from Burke Mountain.

Direct access to the VAST trail network.

Email, call or visit our website to reserve a cabin

October 4, 2015 - Kingdom Marathon – Doin’ the Dirt: 26.2, 17.5 and 13.5 Mile Run, Bike or Hike October 31, 2015 - Halloween Hustle: 10K, 5K, & 1 Mile Costume Run Newport-Derby Bike Path December 5, 2015 - Newport Santa Run: 5K and 1 Mile Run and Walk Newport Bike Path

www.kingdomgames.co “Spectacular!” “Most Scenic” “Fun” “Challenging” PA G E 3 0

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Knight riders

BY JOE CARDELLO COLCHESTER ­­— Next winter skiers and riders could be spotted shredding the freshest powder on even fresher skis and snowboards designed by St. Michael’s College student Nate Taylor.

The ShredMC – St. Michael’s ski and snowboard club – has created a ski and snowboard design in collaboration with JSkis owner Jason Levinthal.

The image rendered by Taylor, of Farmington, Conn., a business and art major at the Catholic liberal arts college was favored by Levinthal as a standout submission.

President of the ShredMC Phil Holton explained that the original idea for the ski and snowboard decals was to use images of students as a more personalized design.

“We held some information sessions and we tried to brainstorm an idea. We were considering a ‘collab-design’ of student’s pictures or a collage of images that represent St. Mike’s,” Holton said. “But we were tight on time and when Nate told us he had a design ready to go we decided to use that. What Nate had turned out to be totally righteous.”

Taylor didn’t delay once the opportunity had been announced and immediately took to the computer lab. His skills in Photoshop helped him to blueprint a final creation, which helped the group to speed up the process and start marketing the equipment.

St. Mike’s students create ‘totally righteous’ ski, snowboard designs

Timing for this project was crucial and the majority of the labor – save physically making the skis – was in the students’ hands.

Holton noted that Levinthal had left everything up to them in terms of financing, marketing and design.

Word travelled around campus and eventually the school’s marketing department was offering assistance towards the project’s endeavor.

Taylor and Holton have both been snowboarding since they were in middle school and have grown more passionate about the sport through their college career.

“This is something that I’m very interested in,” Taylor said. “I’m gravitating towards the graphic design community and this is definitely right up that alley… This project just came so easily to me.

VERMONT SKI & RIDE MAGAZINE, MARCH/APRIL

Photo by Joe Cardello

It felt so natural and I didn’t feel like I had to stress too much. To be able to look down at your feet and see something that you’ve made yourself — I love the feeling that comes with that.”

Holton is a senior at St. Michael’s College and said his future plans are still uncertain, but he has a lot of aspirations.

He is currently engaged in an internship with the organic garden on campus working on sustainability.

“I’m going to be looking around at some environmental companies,” Holton said. “But I’m also trying to stay in town and do some snowboarding. Get out on Sugarbush and hopefully get a job with Rome or Burton. That’s kind of farfetched, but I’m just going to see where life takes me. For now I’m just trying to shred, not worry about the future and just live.”

Both students have more current goals of enjoying the fruits of their labor and are going to be purchasing their own archangel snowboards.

“Not only are we helping the quota along, but we’re definitely trying to get one for ourselves,” Holton said. “I’m graduating this year so whether I’m just putting this on the wall as a decoration as something that I can remember by or actually just go shred it next year and not have to buy a new board again it’s worth it. It’s going to be exclusive so we might as well make it worth our while.”

The pair admitted that if they could change one thing about their first trial they would have finalized a product during the summer months.

“There’s a lot to be learned from this time around,” Holton said. “Jason has admitted that he wished we had started working on it during the summer, but no one had known about it then. So I can only hope they can keep this going next year. I’d be stoked if they made it a kind of tradition.”

Taylor said that he has plans to attempt a similar project in the future.

“We absolutely want to do this again,” Taylor said. “We may look to do it again with Jason, but we also had another company in mind.

Either way we want to do another project like this. After working out all the kinks this year we’ll really know how to run it next time.”

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MEMBERS OF SHRED MC designed Saint Michael-themed snowboard and ski graphics in collaboration with JSkis owner Jason Levinthal.

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upcoming EVENTS Sugaring Time FeSTival Sat, Mar 14

Tour De moon Sat, Mar 14

Tour de poinT caSTlerock muSic SerieS Sat, Mar 14, Main Street Syndicate Castlerock Pub, 9 PM – 12 AM Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

$17 ST. paTrick’S DaY mT. ellen liFT TickeT Tue, Mar 17, Mt. Ellen

Women’S park aFFair Fri – Sun, Mar 20 – 22, Mt. Ellen

caSTlerock beer Dinner W/ ciSco breWerY Sat, Mar 21, Castlerock Pub

mrv mounTaineering race

Sun, Mar 22, Mad River Glen to Sugarbush

cHeZ Henri 50 anniverSarY TH

Thu – Sat, Mar 26 – 28

$199 SPRING PASS

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OR

SKI FREE THIS SPRING WITH A 2015/16 SEASON PASS2 kiDS Ski Free $99 $529

ponD Skimming Sat, Mar 28, Lincoln Peak

breW-graSS FeSTival Sat, Jun 13, Lincoln Peak

$1099

Ongoing EVENTS

neW for 2015/16

$30 THurSDaYS at mT. ellen Thursdays, non-holiday, thru Apr 2

raW bar

Tuesdays & Wednesdays, Timbers Restaurant

ages 12 & under, when a parent purchases an adult 7 pass 2015/16 boomer midweek pass, ages 65+ 2015/16 adult mt. ellen 7 pass Family of four can ski & ride for $264 per person 2015/16 adult all mountain 7 pass Family of four can ski & ride for $549 per person 8 am mT. ellen miDWeek opening

Hurry, prices increase after May 6, 2015. Call 800.53.SUGAR or visit sugarbush.com and get yours today.

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Valid 3/23/15 through the end of the 2014/15 winter season.

Some restrictions apply.

liFT operaTionS: Midweek, 9 AM – 4 PM Weekends, 8 AM – 4 PM For more information on restaurants, activities and events call 800.53.Sugar or visit sugarbush.com.

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