Although we’ve had some ups and downs in the temperatures, we have yet to see that first big winter storm. With the first day of winter only two weeks away, we know it won’t be long before the ground is covered in white. But don’t despair skiers. The ski areas are making snow and there are still lots of reasons to visit Vermont right now. (One idea – after spending some time on the slopes, why not do some holiday shopping in the many unique Vermont shops?)
So, without further ado, here is the week 2 report from our squad of Snow Spotters.
Julie, from the Golden Stage Inn in Proctorsville, reports, “Early season skiers have already been enjoying Okemo Mountain for weeks, and Jackson Gore has its season opening this weekend, December 8th! For those who want to kick off the winter season at a lower elevation, be sure to check out Christmas in Mt. Holly or the Holiday Open House in Springfield. But then everyone can head on up to Okemo for an evening snowshoe event!”
Bill Vines at the Birch Ridge Inn in Killington posts a photo of his snow stake, which is located in a clearing behind the inn, every day. Here’s his photo from Dec. 6. His comment: “Snow! Now that looks better. It’s a start!”
Laura Malieswski of the Burke Area Chamber of Commerce, informs us, “Not much snow up here yet, but Burke Mountain has been making snow and opened on December 2nd. This weekend (Dec. 10) Santa will be arriving from 11 am – 1 pm with gifts for the kids and, of course, there will be plenty of cookies, cider, and cocoa. A pair of beautiful horses will be taking folks on wagon rides through the village. Later in the day, East Burke Village is the site for a holiday party and tree lighting celebration from 2pm – 5pm. There will be snacks, cookies, and music at this event. Although all events are free, we ask that you bring non-perishable food items to be donated to our local food shelf.”
Reports from Stratton are encouraging. “Our grooming team was out in full force last night, ironing out 27 trails and 127 acres of skiable terrain. With temps dropping into the sweet spot, snowmaking hit the ground running overnight as we work to expand terrain for the weekend. We’re forecast to sustain cooler temps which will allow us to make considerable progress for the next week and beyond. Just a reminder: you can see Brian Fallon, JD McPherson, Banners, Wild Adriatic plus 5 other bands at the first ever Ski-QX Winter Music Festival happening this weekend (Dec. 8-9).”
Hugh Johnson blogs for Smugglers’ Notch and reports today that in addition to significant snowmaking, “We received 1 to 2 inches of new snow on top overnight. It’s currently 18 degrees at the summit of Sterling with light snow and winds of 5 to 10 mph. Today’s forecast is calling for partly to mostly cloudy skies with flurries and a snow shower an inch of accumulation possible and temperatures between 21 and 33 degrees.”
Stowe reports today that in addition to snowmaking, “Light snow continues to fall at 12pm and we have received 1″ of new snow so far today. That little bit of snow, along with a strong effort from our grooming team, has led to some nice skiing & riding out on the slopes today! The forecast calls for mostly cloudy skies with occasional snow showers & flurries today, and a light snow accumulation is possible on the mountain over the next 24 hours. Last night we groomed a total of 27 trails, including a variety of terrain for all ability levels.”
So, what are you waiting for? Head to Vermont and enjoy whatever the season offers. Check our Calendar of Events to find out what’s happening.