On Wednesday, November 25, the day before Thanksgiving, Stratton Mountain resort will officially begin its 2009-10 ski and snowboard season. The first snowfall fell on the summit in mid-October and the snow guns began operating on Tuesday.
According to Stratton Slopes and Trails Manager Al Desroches “We typically choose the day before Thanksgiving to open because not only is it a festive time, but it will allow us ample opportunity to make enough snow, groom it out, and present the best possible conditions to our guests.”
As temperatures begin to fall over the next few weeks, Stratton’s mountain snowmaking team will work to cover over 90 percent of the mountain’s terrain in high quality man-made snow. In fact, Stratton is so confident in the quality of their snow, it’s guaranteed! Guests may ski or ride for an hour any time, any day, and if they’re not happy, they can exchange their ticket for another day.
“In our ever changing world there is a constant, November is the time to make the snow,” said Stratton President and Chief Operating Officer Sky Foulkes. “Our snow team has begun to lay down the snow that we are famous for and you expect.”
“All of us here at Stratton are extremely excited about the upcoming season and we look forward to seeing you all on the mountain soon. Our team is committed to ensuring that your trip is filled with extraordinary memories.”
The resort has been bustling in preparation for the much anticipated season tuning up the snow cats, running the lifts, hiring new employees, sprucing up the lodges, renovating lodging properties, priming the snow guns, and taking care of the rest of the business as usual.
One of Stratton’s distinguishing assets is its location. Residents in Boston, New York and other locations all over the northeast are less than a tank of gas away from first class skiing and riding, making for an easy weekend escape or vacation destination without the hassle of flying. Also, an impressive array of affordable ski and ski packages makes a Stratton getaway more fun, not to mention affordable than ever. Visit www.stratton.com for more information on Season Passes, the X2 cards and lift and lodging packages.
And just in case the pure joy of getting back out on the hill isn’t enough, Stratton’s activities and events team plans to hit the ground running with a full slate of fun activities that will run through the weekend…
Thanksgiving Day
The following day, Thanksgiving Day, is day number two on the hill AND the fourth annual Stratton Gobble Gobble Wobble 5K. The pre-Thanksgiving meal road race is a popular tradition that allows participants to get a little exercise and work up a good appetite before gorging themselves on all of the Thanksgiving fixings. This family friendly event welcomes runners and walkers of all ages, starting at the flags by the Welcome Center, making a round trip journey to the Sun Bowl. The run starts at 9:15 am and registration is from 8:00-9:00 am at the Mill House on the Village Common, giving runners ample time to take a few runs before heading home to feast.
Pre-registration can be done online at www.active.com. Registration fee is $20. Commemorative T-Shirts for pre-registered participants, along with prizes for winners!
After the race is over, save the stress and the hassle associated with cooking the massive feast and come to Bentley’s for a Thanksgiving Buffet with turkey, stuffing and all of the delicious trimmings. There are two seating’s: 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm and the cost is $28 for adults and $14 for children.
The Weekend
The catwalk makes a Stratton debut on Friday as New York City runway models will showcase the latest in 2009-10 ski and snowboard apparel, followed by the premier of Level 1’s ‘Refresh at 5:30. Saturday marks the return of the ‘Fire and Lights’ series, complete with a Village Rail Jam, late night shopping in the slope side village, a torchlight parade, hot chocolate and of course, fireworks. Other ‘Fire and Lights’ nights will take place on Dec. 31, Jan. 17, and on Feb. 13.
Source: Stratton. Stratton Mountain, VT 11.5.2009