Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Snowmaking Update!

Here we go again!

Starting the guns up once again. Shut down during the day to give a reprieve to the skiers and boarders out there... it was cold and windy enough without us. The east side of the mountain was calm, and like a different part of the country, so we will concentrate tonight on the east side. Making snow on K27, East Side Drive and Milky Way, along with The Cliff and just about everything else that we can. With tomorrow's forecast, it looks like a great day sunshine, warmer temps and the winds dying down... so let's get out here and enjoy.

Snowmaking Update!

Snowmaking is shutting down for the day, but will start up again this evening. Here's the plan:

Well we are once again making snow to once again improve whats under your skis and boards with the weather coming in, it looks like we can cover the slopes with all that man-made powder we are used to here at Hunter. We will be moving all over the Mtn so we can cover as much terrain as quickly as possible so I wont list where we will be because we will be everywhere.

Monday, December 28, 2009

Hunter Mountain to provide base for North America’s longest & highest Ziplines & Canopy Tour

Groundbreaking ceremony January 9, 2010; operation slated to open in spring of 2010

Hunter, NY – Hunter Mountain has teamed up with New York Zipline Adventure Tours (NYZAT) to provide the longest and highest ziplines and canopy tour in North America. Construction of the ziplines, towers and canopy tour will begin immediately; a groundbreaking ceremony will be held on January 9, 2010 to correspond with the culmination of Hunter’s 50th Anniversary. The ziplines, canopy tour and adventure tower are scheduled to open in spring of 2010.

“Greene County was the ideal location for this project,” said Jay Bialsky, owner of NYZAT, which also operates similar ziplines in New Hampshire and Jamaica. “The Catskills combine beautiful terrain and easy access from the NY metro area.”

NYZAT will build three (3) separate tours on Hunter Mountain, from mild to wild, providing fun for all ages. The longest tandem ziplines, extending from the summit, will be over 3000’ long and nearly 600’ off the ground. The three individual courses will total almost 5 miles of ziplines, sky bridges and challenge elements.

Guests will be accompanied on tours of up to 2.5 hours by professionally trained guides. The facilities will operate year-round, utilizing Hunter’s chairlifts, terrain and base lodge. All design and construction meets or exceeds the latest safety standards as outlined by the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) and Professional Ropes Course Association (PRCA).

Mr. Bialsky also noted the support he received from Hunter Mountain, the Town and Village of Hunter, Greene County Economic Development, Tourism & Planning, Greene County Industrial Development Agency, New York State Office of Community Renewal and numerous other organizations.

“New York Zipline Adventure Tours will be the biggest attraction to hit Greene County since our ski resorts opened. There’s nothing like it anywhere near the NY metro area,” said Warren Hart, Director of Greene County Economic Development, Tourism & Planning.

Noting that the zipline is expected to attract 30,000 people during its first year and double that amount by its third year of operation, Mr. Hart added: “We expect the attraction to have tremendous spin-off benefits for the tourism industry here. People will be drawn to the zipline, then discover the many other recreational, cultural, lodging and dining opportunities in Greene County.”

NYZAT received a $200,000 low-interest Quantum Fund loan from Greene County, as well as a $200,000 grant from the New York State Office of Community Renewal. Dennis Lucas, Supervisor of the Town of Hunter, is the municipal sponsor of the grant, which is being administered by Greene County Economic Development, Tourism & Planning.

Division of Housing and Community Renewal Commissioner Deborah VanAmerogen said, “The Division of Housing and Community Renewal is pleased to be able to provide the final piece of critical financing to make NYZAT a reality at Hunter Mountain. This is another example of a strong private/public partnership yielding benefits for the local economy, providing another incentive for tourists to visit Greene County and more importantly creating twenty-nine (29) new, permanent tourism-related jobs for the residents of the Hudson Valley.

Hunter Mountain will assist in handling NYZAT’s marketing, public relations, communications and sales functions. The operation will be conducted out of Hunter’s base lodge.

“The new ziplines and canopy tour will provide another hugely popular and distinct reason to visit the Catskills,” explains Brian Czarnecki, Director of Marketing & Sales for Hunter Mountain. “We’re glad to have NYZAT join our team, and believe these adventure elements will be as exciting as anything we ever could have imagined. We’re elated to be able to offer such a distinct experience, available throughout the seasons at Hunter Mountain.”

“This project is a perfect example of the type of tourism investment needed to strengthen Greene County’s appeal as a four-season destination,” said Assemblyman Pete Lopez. “The innovation and creativity of the management at Hunter Mountain, together with the support of our state and local development agencies can only lead to more good things in the future. We must continue to promote similar partnerships with other businesses across Greene County.”

The groundbreaking ceremony will take place at 2:30pm at Hunter’s base lodge, in conjunction with Hunter Mountain’s 50th Anniversary finale. All members of the press are invited to attend. For further information, logos, photos or marketing materials, please contact Jessica Pezak at jpezak@huntermtn.com or via phone at 800-486-8376 x2339.

Sunday, December 27, 2009

RideHunter.com!



Our terrain park is shaping up nicely. The pipe is in, our Nike 6.0 Frozen Seagle is up, and we have an assortment of jumps and rails. Don't forget to keep up with terrain park news via our park site at RideHunter.com!

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Snowmaking Update - Monday

Update yesterday afternoon from Bruce:

Another cold and blustery day and the snowmakers are still going all out to get the mountain... all opened other than 44 for Christmas. Today we are on Annapurna, and still building up on Clair's along with all over the mountain.


For those wondering about 44, yes, it is in the plan for the future IF the weather is favorable (no rain)... if we get 44 opened, the mtn will be 100%. Right now are conditions and amount of terrain opened is way better than the past few years. I just got in from a few runs and it may be a little chilly out but the skiing is great: Hellgate to Ike is WOW, with Racer's a close second.

With the forecast, it will only get better the next few days... oh and it is basically empty, up and down no waiting other than to take a needed break. Don't wait call in sick to work, school, whatever: get up here and take advantage of our long hard hours!

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Sunday Sunday Sunday! Annapurna or Westway!

Late Saturday evening snowmaking report from Bruce...

If you missed skiing today, it's to bad... let's not miss days like this again! Skiing was awesome, with new trails opening all day... Today we opened Clair's, White Cloud, Upper Xover and Colonel's Alternate.

The future for snowmaking, looking into that crystal snowball, will bring either Annapurna or 44 maybe Sunday or Monday... so look out! Along with those we will be hitting more in the beginners' area, up E-Lift.

So for your Christmas present, I expect to have at least 90-99% of the mountain opened, not only opened but with GREAT SNOW an Conditions.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Woooaaahhhhh Saturday!

Well, boys and girls, I for one have been here since 5:55am this morning, and I think it is beginning to catch up with me.

I just updated the Twitter feed: Clair's is open top-to-bottom today. There's snowmaking everywhere, and there are four 'check opening time' marks on the morning Ski Patrol report: including Colonel's Alternate and Taylor's Run. The West Side is moving along, snowmaking-wise. We could get a few inches of snow later today into tonight, too, so that would certainly sweeten the deal!

Snowtubing is going to be open from 1pm-9pm today and from 9am-5pm tomorrow. It's a mellow day today here, probably because NYC, North & Central Jersey are getting huge snow later today, so come on up and have some fun!!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Tracie "Max" Sachs Autograph Signing

Tomorrow, Saturday, Tracie "Max" Sachs, the 5x World Cup champion speed skier, will be conducting an autograph signing and race clinic here at Hunter Mountain! Tracie is a long-time Hunter skier and we are psyched she will be joining us for the day! Stay tuned as to times... she'll be up at the real estate booth in the base lodge on Saturday!

Visit QuickChick.com for more info about Tracie and her medals, trophies and world records!

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Snowmaking Update!!

Bruce sent me a quick snowmaking update today... here it is!

We're busy, so this will be short and quick. Snowmaking is in full force and we will be moving all around the mountain in hopes to have the whole mtn opened up for Christmas. Last night and today we did a bang up job covering things up so on Thursday we will be moving to some new terrain: that will be Clair's, Lower K27, Highlands... those will be our main trails along with the
others. Skiing this weekend and the hollidays will be great with the forecast of cold weather! Manmade powder: come on up and enjoy!

Opening Weekend Video!

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Snowmaking Update!

As promised...

Mother nature kept us honest and threw a little bad weather are way... no problem: we will come back and rally to get the mountain into great shape in no time. It's Tuesday morning, and the temps are predicted to start falling today... the snowmakers are standing by, waiting for that to happen.

Once the temps start to drop, we will start up the compressors and guns to once again blanket the mountain with that manmade powder starting on upper Belt, HBK, Minya Ike, Madison, Lower Crossover, Hunter One, Mossy and a few more out there.

The good news is that it looks like the weather is moving in with some cold that will stay around awhile with a Christmas present around the holidays of natural snow that will only add to the great skiing at Hunter over the holiday period!

The plan for the weekend is that we will have more terrain opened along with Clair's on the West Side, so get ready for some great conditions and give yourself and friends a ski and ride day or days at Hunter! -Bruce

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Snowmaking Update, Saturday Afternoon

Saturday afternoon and the temps are starting to fall as the sun goes down. Today was an epic day for opening weekend with lots of trails powder and sunshine. With more great snowmaking tonight... there will be even more terrain opened for Sunday... yes, more trails!

If everything goes according to what I plan, we will add Heuga, Dropoff, Racer's, Gun Hill, West Side Glide, Gateway, Lower Broadway, Park Ave, and Upper K27.

This will make a total of 34 trails. Not bad for opening weekend and with great conditions powder and more powder. Make the most of it and get out and enjoy our hard work! --Bruce

But wait, there's more!

No, seriously, there is a lot more.

Today, we opened Madison. The guns are howling in the terrain park, and there are a few features up... keep an eye out for the next few days... NEW FEATURES will be out this week as we continue ramping up (no pun intended, har har)

TOMORROW...
East Side Drive, Milky Way, Upper K-27 & the Rip trail from the KMC will open up.

We are blowing absurd amounts of snow on Heuga, Gateway and Dropoff, so keep your eyes peeled for a Sunday or Monday opening on those!

Beaver Attack!

....we experienced a bit of an outage yesterday (read: ALL DAY, starting at 2am, ending more than 12 hours later). From what I can gather, beavers somehow took down a telephone pole (only in upstate New York...) and we have 0 internet, 0 cable anywhere at all throughout the Mountaintop.

SO, if you received an outdated or slightly confusing snow report claiming Friday to be Thursday, it wasn't on purpose!

That said, today, we are up and running, and waiting for the fun to begin. With tons of snowmaking still going on, we have a whopping 23 trails open today, 5 lifts, and will have more open for tomorrow & the next few days. For our 3rd day, we are 42% open trail-wise... spectacular return for the long wait.

We hope to see you all this weekend, and stay tuned for more openings! I've heard through the grapevine that snowmaking starts on Clair's on Tuesday.........

Wednesday, December 09, 2009

Snow snow snow!

Dudes, we have a LOT OF SNOW. 8"+ and it's still coming down. It might be raining, or hailing, or sleeting where you live, but it's snowing here!

Check out the video below while you're waiting for us to open...... not much time left until the lifts are running!!!

Monday, December 07, 2009

SNOWMAKING UPDATE!!

Right from the horse's (er... Bruce's) mouth!

Finally it looks like winter has decided to arrive in Hunter, and with this cold weather the snow guns are fired up and covering the trails. Along with the cold weather, we got help with some of that old fashioned natural stuff so we will be building on that.

Right now, the guns are on the main line: Hellgate , Broadway, Kennedy along with the Belt, Minya, Lower Crossover, Off-Broadway. Mossy, Ike, and Hunter One.

There looks to be a slight burp on Tuesday into Wednesday but as of now the guns will be turned on in full force to make up for all that lost time. On Wednesday the roar of the snow guns will be heard from the West Side on Wayout with the plan of moving to Clair's by Saturday.

In the next few days and weeks we will be moving around the mountain quickly to get it opened. With cold weather, you will see the power of our snowmaking and remember that this is why you ski Hunter!

Friday, December 04, 2009

Hear ye, hear ye, Hunter's opening midweek!

Due to the unseasonably warm weather, we've chosen to spend a few extra days (i.e., this weekend) making snow, spreading out and developing a base, and plan to open Thursday or Friday of next week. In the grand scheme of things, it seems wiser to us to use this weather to the best of our ability -- and that, for Hunter, is using it for snowmaking, grooming, and to give our customers deeper base and more terrain.

The entire Northeast is struggling with a slow start to winter, but we are not at all dissuaded; we plan to ramp up our world-class snowmaking tonight and have some great, white terrain open for you all midweek and into next weekend... so instead of streaming down HBK alone, keep an open mind and hope for good weather... there may be more terrain to choose from!

Snowmaking starts up again tonight... even after Wednesday's torrential downpour, we've got initial snow left! Forecasts still assure us that a fantastic winter is on its way... it's just a bit late! Stay positive, and stay tuned... Hunter's putting all its power and prowess into some serious snowmaking while temperatures allow, and you all know the wait will be worth it!!

Worm in the news!

Check out this story from Vail Daily about this year's US Ski Team lineup, including Hunter's own Jeremy "Worm" Transue!

Wednesday, December 02, 2009

More summit shots...

Thanks to two of our ski patrol guys for these... yesterday morning, at the summit. Snowmaking starts up again on Thursday night -- look for new photos on Friday!












Tuesday, December 01, 2009

Morning photos from the summit...

Check these out... taken by David Slutzky... early this morning at the summit. Snowmaking has been shut down as of now, though it is snowing :) We'll start making snow again on Thursday evening.










SNOWMAKING HAS BEGUN!

Late, late last night, Hunter fired up its guns, and now visible is a white line down the HBK line -- Hellgate, Broadway, Kennedy -- full summit to base! Check out the photos below and stay tuned for more!










Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Opening Weekend, Thanksgiving Dinner, Hall of Fame, MINI Cooper Sweepstakes & more!‏

Mother Nature has not been at her best lately, but after lots of time and speculation we've got a tentative opening date: December 5 - 6, 2009! The guns & crew are reading for snowmaking, which could begin as early as this weekend.




Stop by on Friday, Saturday or Sunday to get your locker in order and remember to purchase your season's pass, 3X Card or Big Lift Card before the crowds arrive next weekend. Diane and crew will be in Snowsports Services on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 8a - 5p.

The Sports & Expeditions Center will be open on Thanksgiving from 9a - 2p. There are still lots of great deals left over from the fall sales and loads of new merchandise to drool over. Regularly scheduled hours will continue throughout Friday and the weekend!


As for Thanksgiving...have it here at Hunter Mountain! VanWinkle's at the Kaatskill Mountain Club will be serving a prix fixe dinner for $23.95 per person from 1p - 7p on Thursday. Specials include roasted turkey with cornbread stuffing; broiled salmon filet; Catskill Mountain smoked apricot & sherry-glazed ham. Vegetarian options are available. Reservations are strongly recommended.




Our annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony has been rescheduled to take place during the 50th Anniversary Party (Welcome 51!) on January 9th, 2010. Don't miss our 50th Party - it's going to be huge! Bring your family and friends for a truly great time! SAVE THE DATE: January 9, 2010!


Don't forget to take a moment to check out the red MINI Coopers sitting out in front of the lodge... you might just be the winner of a brand new 2010 MINI Cooper!! Sweepstakes entry forms will be waiting for you next weekend. That's right: we'll be giving away a 2010 MINI Cooper at Pond Skimming on April 3rd, compliments of friends at Prestige MINI of Mahwah, NJ, the official vehicle sponsor of Hunter Mountain. We're also giving away a trip to Telluride and a trip to Vail this winter along with hundreds of other Saturday giveaways at the bar!



We'll keep you posted with snowmaking news, photos, surface conditions and more on our newly upgraded website, and on the Hunterblog. Don't forget to also check us out on Facebook, to follow us on Twitter and to sign up for snow report e-mails at HunterMtn.com!




Have a happy Thanksgiving, and we'll see you on the slopes next weekend!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

CATScard news story on YouTube

Thanks to Gerry Pallor, RadXSports

Monday, November 16, 2009

SRD Names Junior Race Team for 2009-2010

Introducing the Ski Racing Development Junior Race Team, for 2009-2010! We welcome new racers Ali Gunesch, Kendall Van Hee, Serina Kidd, Nicolas Veth, Alex Leever, Kazui Kusumi and Sam Morse. They join Jessie Delacenserie, Mikeala Shiffrin, Katelyn Barclay, Katharine Irwin, Taylor Shiffrin, Kieffer Christianson, Andrew Hancock, Stephen Splitstoser and Kyle Burcin. All hope to follow in the footsteps of former SRD racers Ben Morse and Rose Caston in joining the US Ski Team.

With the creation of the SRD Development Team we hope to help support, develop and supply these young racers with the very best in speed equipment featuring the SRD World Cup race suits and ski poles. Our goal is to develop our grass-roots support program starting with these highly motivated young athletes as they progress towards the US Ski team. Truly, we are living up to our name by proudly supporting Ski Racing Development! SRD is also pleased to announce a partnership with World Cup Supply and Halti USA in presenting the Fast Skier Junior Alpine Scholarship Fund.

These exceptional athletes have scored wins from the International Topolino Games in Italy and Canada's Whistler Cup to numerous Junior Olympic titles and regional USSA/FIS races.This past season the SRD Ski Team defeated the Spyder Speedfreaks team in a season long competition! A $500 donation was recently made by Spyder in the SRD Team's name to the World Cup Dreams Foundation, a charity for supporting USA ski team racers in need. To all our SRD Team skiers ..... Go fast and good luck this season!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

RideHunter.com is Live!

Our new terrain park website for the 09/10' season is up! Check it out HERE!

Monday, November 09, 2009

Recovering!

We -- myself, Dre, Brian and Randy are all recovering from a crazy weekend of staff training, ski & snowboard shows and more. It's 65 degrees today in Hunter -- and we're looking at colder nighttime temps later in the week. As for today...get out and enjoy it while it lasts!!

Our Big Lift Card sales have ended, but there is plenty to come in terms of saving money. Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter to get the most up-to-date info from Hunter Mountain each week!

While you're waiting for my next update...check out some recent press!
11 Reasons to Ski New York State
Catskill ski resorts team up for regional promotion effort (Daily Freeman)

Friday, November 06, 2009

Albany Ski & Snowboard Expo starts TONIGHT!

Come visit Dre and others at the Hunter Mountain booth at the Albany Ski & Snowboard Expo (at Empire State Plaza) this weekend, starting today at 4pm! There will be door prizes and sales on apparel, products & more! We hope to see you there!

Show hours are 4 to 9 p.m. Nov. 6, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 7, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 8.

Admission is $8 for adults and $4 for kids 7-12. Children 6 and under are free with a paying adult.

Read more about the expo at Onthesnow.com!

This morning's dusting

I drove into work today to see a SERIOUS dusting of snow on the upper portion of the mountain and alongside the tops of the ridges. Sorry for the not-so-hot cell photo, but better ones coming in the future! Due to weather forecasts indicating temps in the 60's on Monday and Tuesday, we will NOT be making snow over the weekend or early next week, but I will keep you informed as to progress!

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Photo Op: First Tracks Media Night

Last night at First Tracks Media Night in Bryant Park, NYC, the CATScard program was unveiled -- for $25, customers can get 20% off non-holiday lift tickets at 5 Catskills resorts: Hunter, Windham, Belleayre, Plattekill and Holiday Mountain. More info on this product coming...but for now, a photo!



From left: Kirt Zimmer, Windham Mountain; Tony Lanza, Belleayre Mountain; Brian Czarnecki, Hunter Mountain. Photo taken by Bill Jones of SnowEAST.

Hunter's own Jeremy "Worm" Transue named to the 2010 US Alpine Ski Team

Which of the below describes Jeremy Transue?
(a) local skier and fellow attendee of Hunter-Tannersville Central School
(b) son of Hunter snowmaking boss Bruce Transue
(c) member of the 2010 US Alpine Ski Team
(d) all of the above

If you guessed (d), right on!

Jeremy "Worm" Transue has been named to the 2010 U.S. Alpine Ski Team The Team includes four training groups competing at the Audi FIS Alpine World Cup, Europa Cup and Nor-Am Cup levels. Separate teams will also be named for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. 26-year-old Transue, who tore his ACL in the Europa Cup downhill in January last year, notched a handful of top 10's on the Europa Cup this January, won a FIS SG in Vermont, took bronze in this year's national DH race in Alyeska and took a couple of top 10's in Nor-Am on the Mammoth hill in February. He wrapped up his comeback season in top form, as proven by another win at the FIS Spring Series super-G race at Mammoth Mountain on April 15. On December 4 - 6, 2009 Beaver Creek will be hosting the Birds of Prey World Cup. Last winter a group from Hunter went out with a banner and to cheer and support him. On the day of the race, the Marco Sullivan fan Club showed up wearing green fan club hats and making a presence. Well, it's time to make a presence for Worm. Come on out to Beaver Creek and join the fan club to help support him! Follow Worm as he tries to qualify for the Vancouver Olympic Games in February on the U.S. Ski Team website USSkiTeam.com

Wednesday, November 04, 2009

Want a Great Job?

HIRING DAY

Wednesday, November 11th, 2009
From 4pm-7pm
AND
Saturday, November 14th, 2009
9:00am to 2:00 pm

Come join TEAM Hunter!
We are in the business of fun and adventure…sound interesting?
Come to our Hiring Day event!

Employee benefits include Free Skiing/Riding, Lessons, and Equipment Rental privileges - Food, Retail, and Play Care discounts – Employee referral bonus.

Immediate interviews will be held in the Base Lodge for openings in the following departments:

*Food Service—wait staff, line cooks
*Rentals *Cashiers
*Snowmaking day & night shifts *Retail Shop
*Lift Operations *Grooming
*Maintenance *Snowtubing
*Ticket Sales *Ski School Desk
*Terrain Park *Play Care
*Call Center Receptionists
*Housekeepers
*Concierge

Apply in person at
Hunter Mountain Ski Bowl,
Rt. 23A Hunter, NY 12442

It may not be much, but it's snow!

I've been hearing a lot of a particularly exciting four-letter word that starts with an "s" in the news, forecasts and on NOAA lately. As I'm ramping up the snow reporting systems for the season, I'm thinking I might as well let you all see some evidence of the white fluffy stuff. Not much, just yet, but it's something, on the hood of my car, while on the way into work this morning, and lightly blanketing the tops of the ridges of the Catskills, and the edges of our trails...



Check the weather at NOAA for the most concise and often most correct updates on the weather up here in the Catskills.

Tonight, Brian and I are heading to NYC to hang out with folks from Thunder Ridge, Windham, Catamount, Plattekill, Belleayre, Greek Peek, Holiday Valley and many more resorts from New York, along with members of the media. Keep checking back for more news, updates, photos & more!

Tuesday, November 03, 2009

Come visit us at the Albany Ski & Snowboard Expo!

Hunter Mountain, and Windham, and Belleayre, and many other mountains from all over the northeast will be at the Albany Ski & Snowboard Expo (at Empire State Plaza) this weekend, starting on Friday! Stop by the Hunter booth! There will be door prizes and sales on apparel, products & more! We hope to see you there!

Show hours are 4 to 9 p.m. Nov. 6, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 7, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 8.

Admission is $8 for adults and $4 for kids 7-12. Children 6 and under are free with a paying adult.

Read more about the expo at Onthesnow.com!

Monday, November 02, 2009

MINI at Prestige MINI

Brian is hanging out at Prestige MINI for repairs to be completed on one of our MINI Coopers, and sent this image. Check out that sweet hat!

Keep your eyes peeled for these hot little mamas on the Thruway and throughout the Tri-State Area! If you see one near you, snap a photo and send it in! I'll post it here, in the blog!

Updates, updates and more updates.

Hello Hunter skiers, riders and other assorted friends and passers-by! This blog update is going up before the email blast goes out...keep on reading for important news!

Our sales for the 3X and Big Lift Card & BLC+1 were supposed to all end on Sunday...HOWEVER, due to overwhelming interest (to the point of our online shop crashing), we've extended the sale through Friday for Big Lift Cards & BLC+1s. If you have been struggling with our eSki online store, give it another shot, and you shouldn't have any issues. Buy your BLC & BLC+1 here!

I've got some more info, news, photos and such coming soon. Keep checking back, as the blog will be updated nearly every day from now until April! Check back soon for a revamped appearance on the Hunterblog, as well.......:) bye!

Sunday, November 01, 2009

In with November, out with fall foliage!

How's the weather in your neck of the woods? We've got no leaves left...I took some photos this morning around North/South Lake, Boulder Rock & Inspiration Point. Winter is near! With nighttime temps in the low 20's, snowmaking will start sooner than later.......







Some leaves last longer than others....


Stay tuned for snowgun testing information...

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

We won top 10 Cams on Earthcam.com!


The Top 10 Cams are chosen each week by EarthCam based on quality of image, uniqueness of content and overall technical achievements in webcam technology.

Check it out HERE.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Hunter Featured on NJ.com News Site

Our rail graffiti time lapse video caught some media attention. Check it out HERE.

Be sure to visit RideHunter.com during the winter for up to date photos, videos,and more information about the park!

Visit our Youtube page for more great videos!

Friday, October 16, 2009

New Snowfall!

Our first snow of the season has arrived! Not enough to slide on, but it looks nice!

Thursday, October 15, 2009

It's Snowing Here!

Hello skiers and riders!

Currently it is around 36 degrees and the first flurries of the season are upon us! I know many of you would be excited to hear this! As soon as flurries are more visible with a camera, I will post some photos.

Think Snow!


Update! The snow is picking up! Here's a photo:

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Hunter Mountain 08-09 Highlight Reel!

This is a mix of clips from some of the 20+ Videos from last season!

Monday, October 12, 2009

Hunter Mountain Rail Painting Time Lapse!

Recently, Jamie Squier, a talented graffiti artist got the opportunity to paint our terrain park rails! Usually, most people only see the finished product of an artist's work, in this video, you get to see how it's done. Enjoy!



RideHunter.com

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Prestige Mini MotorToberfest!


The Mini Rally is here! Right now! Free Oktoberfest, featuring Grammy winning Jimmy Sturr and his Orchestra.

The Rally is sponsored by Presitge Mini out of Mahwah, New Jersey. Click here for more!

Thursday, October 08, 2009

Ski Swap + Tons of Ways to Save Pre-Season! Big Lift, 3X Card & more!‏


Hello skiers and riders! The winter is approaching! Our first Oktoberfest & the Colors in the Catskills motorcycle rally went off with a bang, and here at Hunter, we saw some serious luck with the weather and had sunshine both days!

This weekend is our second Oktoberfest, combined with our Columbus Day Swap/Sale.

We wanted to remind you of all of the incredible deals we have available right now -- most of them end soon, so take advantage while there are so many ways to save! Be sure to check out our new 3X card: 3 visits for $99! Available only until November 1!

COMING UP! Columbus Day Swap/Sale

Our annual Columbus Day Swap/Sale begins on Friday, October 9 and ends Monday, October 12. Bring in your used equipment—if it sells, you’ll receive full store credit in our Sports & Expeditions Center! Lots of 08/09 winter gear will be sold at up to 75% off!
Big Lift Card, ALL NEW 3X Card & Season Pass Sale

Big Lift Card & Big Lift Card +1

For $39, receive season-long savings of 50% off midweek tickets and 25% off weekend/holiday tickets, PLUS receive one unrestricted lift ticket, valid for use any day of the 09/10 season. Upgrade to a Big Lift Card +1 for the same great discounts, plus not one but TWO unrestricted lift tickets (over $120 value!) for $78. Available for purchase until November 1, 2009.

3X Card - BRAND NEW!

Buy 3 all-area lift tickets to Hunter Mountain for $99! Holiday blackout dates apply. Available for purchase until November 1, 2009.

Season Pass Sale
Hunter’s season pass prices remain the same for 2009/10. Discounted early season pricing ends October 18! There are many unique advantages of being a Hunter Mountain Season Passholder – visit HunterMtn.com for details!

Fantastic Deals at the Kaatskill Mountain Club, Liftside Village and Pinnacle Condominiums

Holiday Special
25% off lift tickets, children's programs and learn-to packages o Book any slopeside accommodation at the Liftside Village or Kaatskill Mountain Club by December 1 and receive 25% off your pre-booked lift tickets, children's programs or a learn-to package! Valid on reservations made for December 24, 2009 - January 1, 2010.

Returning Guests Special
Plan a return trip to the Kaatskill Mountain Club Resort and you will receive 20% off your room rate! Reserve one of many of our Play & Stay packages and receive a complimentary 50-minute massage at the Mountain Club Spa. Valid on any 09/10 non-holiday reservations.

Buy 2 Nights, Get One Night Free
Reserve a two night Play & Stay Package from December 1st through 20th and get a third night of accommodations FREE. Play & Stay packages available at the Kaatskill Mountain Club & Liftside Village. Valid on reservations made for December 1 – 20, 2009.

We hope to see you soon -- have a great weekend, and stop by our Oktoberfest...admission is free!

Thursday, October 01, 2009

DEAL ALERT:AWESOME Lodging Special Available Now!

25% off pre-booked lift tickets, children's programs & learn-to packages!


Reserve any slopeside accommodations at the Kaatskill Mountain Club Resort & Spa, Liftside Village or The Pinnacle condominiums and receive 25% off your pre-booked lift tickets, children's programs or a learn-to package!

Visit KaatskillMtnClub.com for more information...call 800-HunterMtn to book now, while this incredible deal is still available!

This offer is only valid on reservations made for December 24th - January 1, 2010. This offer will only be available until December 1, 2009!

There are a number of other lodging deals available at the Kaatskill Mountain Club, and many lift ticket & product specials available at Hunter Mountain! Visit HunterMtn.com or KaatskillMtnClub.com for further info!

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Oktoberfest & Rallies, Ski Swap Sale, Lodging Specials, Big Lift Card & More!


Hello from Hunter Mountain! There is a TON of stuff going on, and I am going to make this short and sweet! We hope you are having a fantastic week...thanks to all of those who came out for our Microbrew & Wine Festival. We had a fantastic weekend and are looking forward to more, beginning with our Oktoberfest & Motorcycle Rally this weekend! Head over to the Oktoberfest page for more information!




If you're busy this weekend, remember that Oktoberfest continues next weekend, combined with our Columbus Day Swap/Sale (starting on Friday, October 9 and ending Monday, October 12). Bring in your equipment, and if it sells, you'll get full store credit in our Sports & Expeditions Center! For questions and more information, give the shop a call at 800-486-8376 x2233! There will also be a MINI Cooper Rally, organized by our friends and partners at Prestige MINI!




We've got an amazing holiday special at the Kaatskill Mountain Club!
Reserve any slopeside accommodations at the Kaatskill Mountain Club Resort & Spa, Liftside Village or Pinnacle condominiums and receive 25% off your pre-booked lift tickets, children's programs or a learn to package! Visit KaatskillMtnClub.com for more information!
This amazing offer is only valid on reservations made for December 24th - January 1, 2010. This offer will only be available until December 1, 2009!


Remember: BIG LIFT CARDS are still on sale! Available only until November 1 -- get yours now! For $39, you get 25% off weekend & holiday tickets, and 50% off midweek tickets throughout the season...PLUS an unrestricted lift ticket to use at any time during the 09/10 season! Buy the Big Lift Card +1 (our new product!) and receive not one, but TWO (2) unrestricted lift tickets, plus the season long savings listed above! Buy your Big Lift Card now!

For those of you who are looking for season passes, pass prices increase soon! Buy your season passes at their lowest available prices, and reserve your lockers, seasonal programs, workshops and children's programs while they're still available! Visit HunterMtn.com to set yourself up for the 09/10 season!

We hope to see everyone soon, and have a great weekend!! More great deals, specials & savings coming your way shortly! Share This!

Friday, September 25, 2009

Microbrew & Wine Fest! This Weekend!


Sample fine microbrews and wines of the Hudson Valley, New York State and beyond. Many varieties of beer and wine will be represented, from more common merlots and pale ales to more exotic styles like meads and maibocks, ports and porters.

There will be a variety of vendors offering specialty foods and delicacies, plus a variety of arts and crafts vendors, a farmers market, live entertainment and more.

Admission to the grounds is free; there is a $20 per day fee for beer or wine tasting, which includes six tastings and a souvenir beer or wine glass.

Hours of operation: Saturday, 1pm-5pm; Sunday, 12pm-4pm.

The Kaatskill Mountain Club is offering a two night package for $89.00 per person per day for the Microbrew & Wine Fest. This package is based on double occupancy and requires a 2-night minimum stay. This low rate also includes one day admission to the Microbrew & Wine Fest for each adult. Call 800-486-8376 to take advantage of this special rate.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

AlpineZone Ski Area Challenge 2009

Good morning everyone! The weather is cooling down, and my overflowing inbox is a sign that more and more people are thinking snow. I will be answering a variety of Hunter Mountain related questions in an open forum at AlpineZone.com -- if you have a question you'd like to ask about Hunter Mountain, please register and post it! If selected, it will be addressed in the near future!

Continue to AlpineZone Ski Area Challenge Thread >>

Wednesday, September 09, 2009

Hunter Mountain Biking Weekend Video Sept 5th - 6th 2009!

Hunter Mountain Biking Weekend Video Sept 5th - 6th 2009! Shot & Edited by Shane Valcich

Tuesday, September 08, 2009

The Big Lift Card is on Sale Now!



The time has come yet again! Hunter's legendary Big Lift Card is ON SALE NOW...for $39, get deep discounts on every day of the winter season and a FREE unrestricted lift ticket to use whenever you'd like! The deal gets even sweeter: for $78, receive all the advantages of the Big Lift Card, plus TWO unrestricted lift tickets! Head over to HunterMtn.com to read more and BUY NOW! Prices increase November 1!

Click HERE for more information.

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

SkyRide Open Through Monday This Week!

We have extended our weekday SkyRide hours one more week starting Wednesday September 2. After Monday September 7, we will only be open weekends. So hurry!



Click HERE for hours, pricing, and a video about the SkyRide experience.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Hunter Mountain Competition Team Blog

Want to keep up with what our competition teams are doing in the summer? Then check out their blog!


Recently our Freestyle Team trained in Lake Placid, NY at the water ramps. The project was lead by Bill Murdy and assisted by Phil Lidlow. A summary and photos are now available on the competition team blog.


Click here to view it.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Trail of the Week: Insanity!

This week George takes you on "Insanity". For more pictures, videos, and information on our mountain bike program please visit RideHunter.com

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Hunter Mountain SkyRide Tour

This is a video tour of the SkyRide at Hunter Mountain. Group rates, hours, and other information available at www.HunterMtn.com

Thursday, July 09, 2009

Ride Hunter Opening Weekend 4th of July: Mountain Biking and Skyride Open!

This past 4th of July we opened up mountain biking and the Skyride for the summer season. We had live music, BBQ open, as well as new trails! Stay tuned for weekly video updates! Every week a new trail will be featured!



Go to RideHunter.com for more. Pricing for the Skyride available at Huntermtn.com

Tuesday, July 07, 2009

First Snow of the Year!

As I was driving to get some lunch today, the President of the mountain, Russ Coloton, flagged me down to show me some snow. That's right, snow in July! Check it out below.



Living in the Catskills, you never know what you're going to get!

Monday, July 06, 2009

Mountain Biking and Skyride Now Open!


This past 4th of July weekend mountain biking and the Skyride opened for the summer season. Needless to say it was a blast! The weather was great, the BBQ was open, and there was free live music!

Below are some pictures of our new features in our bike park. We have many new trails, bridges, and drops! Check out www.RideHunter.com for more pictures, and a video which is soon to come. So stay tuned all season long for our gallery updates!


We have new bridges!


We also have new drops!

Mountain Biking is open weekends starting July 4th through October 11th, 10am to 4pm.

The Skyride hours are:

July 4 through Aug 30: open Wed.-Sun.
(noon-4pm on Wed-Fri; 10am-5pm on Sat-Sun)
Sept. 5 through Oct. 11: Sat. & Sun.