Windham Mountain to Install High Speed 6-Passenger Lift & Implement RFID Ticketing for 2018-9 Season

Windham Mountain in New York’s Catskill Mountains, will have a new high speed six- passenger lift as well as RFID ticketing for the 2018-19 season.

A new, high speed, detachable six passenger chairlift will be installed at Windham Mountain Resort, in New York’s Catskills, this summer. The new Doppelmayr lift will run from the base area to the summit, replacing the current Whistler Triple, better known as “F Lift”.  It will have a slope length of 5,105 feet, and an uphill capacity of 3,000 people per hour. The ride from base to summit on the new lift will be just under five and a half minutes.

Removal of “F Lift” will begin in April and installation of the new lift in May.  Whirlwind Express (A Lift), the high speed, detachable quad that runs alongside “F Lift”, will remain in place and will run this summer, servicing the Windham Mountain Bike Park and skyrides.  The Bike Park opens for the season Memorial Day Weekend and will be unaffected by the construction.

The new lift will be accompanied by state-of-the art lift access, with the addition of RFID ticketing and gates for the 2018/2019 season.  The “Axess” radio-frequency identification technology will eliminate the need for guests to present their lift ticket or season pass to a lift attendant prior to loading all base area lifts.  RFID Cards can be reloaded via a home computer or smartphone, and can be used season after season.

“RFID ticketing is essentially ‘EZ-Pass for skiers’.  It will provide easier access to lifts and more accurate scanning of tickets and passes, helping skiers and riders get on the mountain faster, skipping the ticket windows and lift line scanning process.” said Chip Seamans, General Manager of Windham Mountain Resort.

All guests will now have the option to sign up for Resort Charge, by attaching a credit card account to their RFID card. This eliminates the need to carry cash or a credit card on the mountain. Resort Charge is accepted at all Windham Mountain Resort operated restaurants, eateries and retail locations.

The new chairlift and RFID system represent $6.5M in capital already invested toward the 2018/2019 Winter Season at Windham Mountain Resort.  More details on installation progress and a name for the new lift will follow.

Guests are invited to become a 2018/2019 Season Passholder at the annual Season Passholder Party on Saturday, March 17th, when the best rates on passes will be offered for one day only.  Passholders will enjoy a complimentary buffet and live music at the party.

Windham Mountain Resort is a year-round destination in the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County, NY, about two and a half hours north of New York City.  With 285 skiable acres, Windham offers 54 trails serviced by 12 lifts.  The Resort includes six terrain parks, learn-to packages, ski and stay packages, dining options, an Adventure Park, the full-service Alpine Spa, night skiing, and much more.  In the summer months, Windham Mountain Bike Park is famous for its World Cup course, but also features a three-mile-long beginner trail.  Windham Mountain Country Club is an 18-hole public golf course with a private club atmosphere.  

Windham Mountain Resort, 19 Resort Drive, Windham NY, 12496, 800-754-9463, info@windhammountain.com, www.windhammountain.com.

 

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Windham Mountain Resort Sponsors Paralympics Team Member Staci Mannella in Peoyong Chang

Paraolympic skiing competitor Staci Mannella (left), and her guide, Sadie Debaun in PyeongChang.

WINDHAM MOUNTAIN RESORT, NY – Windham Mountain Resort, renowned for its adaptive skiing program, is honored to have sponsored U.S. Paralympics Alpine National Team member, Staci Mannella, s she made her way to the 2018 Peoyong Chang Paralympic Games.

Staci first discovered skiing with the Adaptive Sports Foundation at Windham Mountain when she was just four years old. Legally blind due to achromatopsia, a genetic eye condition she was born with, she started skiing because it was an activity that her family could all do together. She quickly progressed from skiing with a bamboo pole between two sighted skiers, to out skiing her instructors, to competing in her first national championship at just eleven years old.

A limitless dreamer, Staci’s career thus far has included four national championship titles, a world cup gold medal, and representing the United States in the 2014 Sochi Paralympic Games. Staci and her current guide, Sadie Debaun, have been skiing together since December of 2015. They’ve secured four world cup gold medals, three world cup silver medals, and a bronze medal at the 2017 World Championships. The two have high hopes for Peoyong Chang.

Windham’s support of Staci is a testament to the Resort’s long-standing relationship with the Adaptive Sports Foundation. The non-profit organization provides life changing experiences for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities and chronic illnesses through outdoor physical activity, education, support and community. The slope side Adaptive Sports Center at Windham Mountain provides athletes like Staci with a fully equipped, easily accessible, cozy place to enjoy a day on the mountain with their families.

Staci Mannella is a Randolph, New Jersey native, and at 20 years old, a full-time student at Dartmouth College where she competes on the Dartmouth equestrian team. She aspires to attend veterinarian school after Dartmouth. While her skiing career has brought Staci all over the world, she always makes her way back home to Windham. Windham Mountain Resort looks forward to having Staci on the slopes this season, and to sending her off to the 2018 Peoyong Chang Paralympic Games in March.

Windham Mountain Resort, 19 Resort Drive, Windham NY, 12496, 800-754-9463, info@windhammountain.com, www.windhammountain.com.

 

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NYS To Spend $20 Million on Major Upgrades at Gore, Whiteface Mountains

Whiteface Mountain, Lake Placid, NY is so have millions of dollars in upgrades © 2017 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York State will invest up to $20 million for major upgrades at Whiteface and Gore Mountains to attract more visitors and build on the North Country’s bourgeoning winter tourism industry. The investments will enhance the current facilities at Gore and Whiteface Mountains and create state-of-the art skiing, lodging, dining and retail opportunities as well as year-round activities. The project will be the first major upgrade at both Whiteface and Gore in 30 years and will develop opportunities to increase off-season revenue, while making these facilities more competitive with other resorts around the world.

“Winter tourism is a key driver of the North Country economy and we have made it a top priority to leverage natural assets in the region to increase visitors, create jobs and spur economic growth,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said. “New York State has Olympic-caliber assets and world-class skiing, but the facilities at Gore and Whiteface are outdated and sub-par. This investment will transform these resorts into year-round, world-class skiing destinations, and attract new skiers and snowboarders from around the globe.”

The investment will build on the current facilities at the mountains and create an unparalleled tourism destination for visitors in the North Country. In addition, it will help expand opportunities for local small businesses in the surrounding areas and help promote the state’s vast winter recreational opportunities. This investment will leverage up to $80 million in private funding to add additional amenities and retail options for guests. The $20 million for the upgrades at Whiteface and Gore is in addition to $10 million the state is providing to the Olympic Regional Development Authority as part of the 2017-18 FY budget.

Modern day ski resorts are shifting their primary functions from just purely ski and snowboarding based facilities to ones that provide upscale amenities, conveniences and year round attractions. Substantial improvements to the day lodge facilities at both Gore and Whiteface Mountains will make them competitive with other world resorts and able to meet ever-changing resort needs.

Improvements to the Whiteface Mountain Ski facility would encourage growth and investment in nearby Wilmington and other surrounding areas thereby increasing year-round visitation.

The upgrades at Whiteface include:

• Expanding the Bear Den Lodge and adding a state-of-the-art learning center, bar and restaurant;
• Expanding and renovating the Adirondack Base Lodge and parking lot;
• Installing a line connecting the Bear Den Learning Center area to the Mid Station;
• Building one of the longest zip lines in North America; and
• Building the longest mountain coaster in the United States.

Improvements to Gore facilities would significantly increase revenue opportunities and growth internally and for private investors. Enhancing this market reach will make Gore to a more competitive experience.

Snowboarding at Gore Mountain. Improvements include restoring the original 1967 gondola unloading station into a Gore summit warming facility and overlook © 2017 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The upgrades at Gore include:

• Expanding seating capacity and modernizing the Saddle Lodge’s facilities and infrastructure;
• Adding a third story to the Base Lodge – building corporate meeting room space, additional seating and customer amenities, and expanding the rental shop in the Northwoods Lodge; and
• Restoring the original 1967 gondola unloading station into a Gore summit warming facility and overlook.

When comparing Whiteface and Gore to other competitive North American ski resorts including Killington, both facilities fall short in providing world-class amenities and year-round activities. Making improvements at these mountains will drive increased revenue for the facilities and the surrounding communities and will ultimately expand economic growth and investment opportunities. It will also make unparalleled skiing and winter recreation opportunities more accessible to visitors from New York City and downstate regions closer than other skiing locations throughout the northeast.

Economic Impact of Tourism in New York
Tourism is an economic driver for New York State, and especially important in Upstate. In 2015, the tourism industry generated a total economic impact of $102 billion – an all-time high for the state. Winter tourism at Whiteface and Gore Mountains accounts for more than $100 million in economic impact each year in the North Country.

Last week, the Governor also unveiled a new marketing campaign designed to increase visitors and generate interest in New York State’s top winter tourism attractions and destinations. New York will host its annual Free Snowmobiling Weekend for all out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers from Friday, February 3, through Sunday, February 5, 2017. The state’s snowmobiling community generates a total economic impact of approximately $868 million, according to a 2011 study by the State University at Potsdam.
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I Love NY Winter Ski Bus Kicks Off Jan. 22 from NYC to 4 Mountain Destinations

The I Love NY Winter Ski Bus from NYC offers an overnight trip to Whiteface Mountain, Lake Placid© 2016 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

The I LOVE NEW YORK Winter Ski Bus will begin weekly trips from New York City to upstate ski areas on January 22. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the bus will offer downstate skiers and riders day trips to Hunter, Plattekill and Belleayre mountains, plus an overnight trip to Whiteface Mountain in Lake Placid. Additionally, I LOVE NEW YORK has partnered with popular outfitter REI to further spread the word about the outdoor adventures that the State has to offer.

The I LOVE NEW YORK Bus winter program schedule features:

Fridays to Hunter Mountain, providing weekday access for skiers and snowboarders with shorter lift lines and more runs in the Snowmaking Capital of the World.

Saturdays to Plattekill Mountain, featuring 38 different trails and a family-friendly atmosphere, the mountain offers a great skiing experience for everyone.

Sundays to Belleayre, this model of winter mountain perfection offers 50 trails, parks and glades and a 1,404 vertical drop.

Overnight Trip to Whiteface Mountain, Lake Placid: Experience the mountain with highest vertical drop east of the Rockies and host of the 1980 Winter Olympic Games. In the evening enjoy the beautiful town of Lake Placid for dining and further shopping and entertainment.

Also new in 2016 is the Have Your Own Mountain for a Day option. This exciting new feature allows groups of 100 or more to reserve Plattekill Mountain on a weekday just for themselves. Reservations can be made through Hampton Jitney, call 631-283-4600 ext. 343 for more information. Trips can be booked now at www.Iloveny.com/bus.

Hampton Jitney Vice President Andrew Lynch said, “The success of the I LOVE NEW YORK BUS ski trips last year led us to expand our destinations for 2016. With new partners like REI joining this year, the momentum and engagement is sure to grow.”

“The I LOVE NEW YORK Bus is a great way for downstate skiers and riders to enjoy some of New York State’s top mountains,” said Governor Andrew Cuomo. “It has never been easier for New Yorkers and tourists alike to experience the world renowned skiing and other outdoor recreational activities that await them upstate this winter.”

Partnership with REI

I LOVE NEW YORK’s partnership with REI will help promote winter attractions and outdoor recreation in New York State through in-store promotions, email offers and ski visit information on the company’s website. The partnership will also introduce travelers to New York State’s booming craft beverage and winery trails.

REI Outdoor Programs and Outreach Manager Melissa Abramson said, “REI is thrilled to be partnering with I LOVE NEW YORK to provide the opportunity for our members and customers to explore some of New York’s most beautiful ski destinations.”

Anyone who loves the outdoors can come to the co-op to learn a new activity or advance their skills with the local REI Outdoor School. REI Outdoor School is the nation’s largest provider of outdoor education, offering a wide variety of beginner to advanced classes led by professionally trained instructors. REI’s instructors are passionate about the outdoors and are dedicated to teaching outdoor ethics and outdoor skills with each and every experience. Across the country, REI Outdoor School offers a robust schedule of free and low-cost in-store classes, field programs and day outings for cycling, paddling, fitness, hiking and camping, climbing, snow sports, photography and wilderness medicine.

Last year, more than 200,000 people participated in an REI Outdoor School program or outing, including more than 5,000 New York-area residents. Examples of popular local classes are Intro to Outdoor Rock Climbing, Hiking Tri-States Best Places and Introduction to Kayaking. Since REI Outdoor School launched in 2005, over 1 million people have learned with the co-op. Learn more at http://www.rei.com/learn.html.

Hampton Jitney is a pioneer in the transportation field. In 1974, Hampton Jitney started with one van and a commitment to providing the finest personalized transportation service between Eastern Long Island and metropolitan New York. Building on that simple premise, Hampton Jitney now operates a fleet of luxury motor coaches and limousines. Hundreds of thousands of people now travel each year in style and comfort, safely and on time via Hampton Jitney. Hampton Jitney operates 365 days a year between Eastern Long Island and Metro New York, including the airports. In addition, Hampton Jitney limousines, charters and tour coaches operate regularly throughout the northeastern U.S. and Canada. More information is available athttp://www.hamptonjitney.com/.

New York State features 11 beautiful vacation regions. New York’s attractions feature landmarks such as Niagara Falls, the largest park in the continental U.S. in the Adirondacks and treasures such as the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and the Corning Museum of Glass. New York State offers diverse activities for all: outdoor fun – fishing, hiking and boating, year-round festivals and exploring the rich history and culture of one of the 13 original colonies. Visitors also enjoy the fine cuisine, beverage trails and farm-to-table fresh foods. For more information, visit http://www.iloveny.com.

Follow the I LOVE NY social media channels for news on tourism in New York State. Check out I LOVE NEW YORK on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for great ideas for your next getaway.

 

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New York Ski 3 Pass Gives Access, Perks, Specials to Belleayre, Gore, Whiteface

Feel like an Olympian when you ski Whiteface. Take advantage of the New York Ski Three season pass which gives access, specials and perks to Whiteface, Gore and Belleayre © 2014 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

New York Ski Three provides access to the three mountain destinations operated by New York State’s Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA): Belleayre in Highmount (just 2 1/2 hours from NYC) in, Gore in North Creek, and Whiteface – three very different mountains so you have tremendous variety. Families with kids (or adults) just learning will adore Belleayre, in the Catskills – which has a natural separation and wonderful learning terrain; Gore, in the Adirondacks, the largest ski area in the state, is more challenging but is superb for intermediates, and Whiteface with a vertical to rival the Rockies, a lot of variety, and let’s not forget, it’s hosted the Olympics twice, is where you, too, can feel like an Olympian (and take part in other Olympic activities).

Purchase the pass before Nov. 14 to get a discounted rate (the price goes up about $100 after that): Adult/$929; Young Adult (13-22)/$439, Junior (7-12)/ $339; six and under, $50; 70+, $250.

As a 2014 -2015 Whiteface, Gore, Belleayre season pass holder, you also have access to an extraordinary perks program that includes perks and pass holder specials at all three ski areas. Additional specials may be added throughout the year and might include event tickets, special bring a friend days, discounts on hotel stays and more. (See details at nyski3.com/ski3-pass.html)

Another option is the SKI3 Frequent Skier Card, which gives you the first and sixth day free, in addition to savings on lift tickets every time you ski. Purchase the SKI3 Frequent Skier Card from the resort you expect to ski first or consider your home mountain. Purchase online, mail, or over the phone from Whiteface, Gore, or Belleayre. (See the website for pricing and details, nyski3.com/ski3-skier-card.html).

Visit ISkiNY.com for more information.

 

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New: Moral Compass: Great Places to Go Where the Going Does Good

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Ski Finger Lakes, NY Entices Pennsylvania Residents with Discount Card

Ski Finger Lakes, representing four ski resorts in Cortland County, New York are running a special promotion to bring overnight travelers from Pennsylvania. The Ski FLX Mountain Pass provides a 30% discount card to the four resorts – Greek Peak Mountain Resort, Toggenburg Mountain Winter Sports Center, Labrador Mountain, and Song Mountain Resort.

The resorts are within 30 minutes of each other and offer plenty of variety for experts and beginning skiers alike.

The pass is valid at all four mountains and can be used multiple times. PA residents can order the card at a new website: http://www.skifingerlakes.com. (A Pennsylvania license must be shown in order to get the discount.)

 

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Winter events, holiday happenings in Lake George Area in New York’s Adirondacks

The high-speed gondola at Gore Mountain.

Winter has arrived in the Lake George Area in New York’s Adirondacks. From scores of winter events, including festivals and unique holiday happenings, to unparalleled outdoor adventure in the Adirondack wilderness, plan a visit this winter to experience the Lake George Area’s easily-accessible winter wonderland offering enjoyment for everyone, both indoors and out.

Find new improvements and winter fun at these popular Lake George Area staples:

• Ski or ride the slopes at North Creek’s Gore Mountain, where nearby North Creek Ski Bowl is celebrating 80 years of winter recreation. Arrive on the famed snow train and enjoy easy, full mountain access with free shuttle service to and from the mountain.
• Swing into West Mountain Ski Area for a friendly day on the slopes! For over 50 years, West has offered downhill adventure to skiers and riders of all ages and abilities in addition to snow tubing. With a new operator in place for the 2013 – 2014 season, improvements are underway in the base lodge, snowmaking efforts are being ramped up, and WiFi will now be available for all guests.
• A glacier ice bar will premier this winter at The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing when 18,000 pounds of ice will be transformed into an outdoor bar and lounge. The spectacular waterfront location of the Sagamore is guaranteed to provide a winter wonderland experience – a wintry attraction not to be missed!

Bundle up for a winter adventure – and save a bundle, too! With a variety of affordable mid-week lodging deals and Adirondack weekend getaway options, the Lake George Area invites you to journey and explore this winter without breaking the bank.

Reward yourself and enter for a chance to win an overnight stay for two in the Lake George Area!  Lucky winners will receive an all-inclusive getaway that includes lodging, breakfast, indoor and outdoor winter activities, and more. Enter by visiting http://county.visitlakegeorge.com/contest/.

The Lake George Area in New York’s Adirondacks is an easy-to-reach, affordable, year round vacation destination for the whole family. For information on lodging, camping, dining, events, recreation and activities call 800-365-1050 X5100 or head to http://www.VisitLakeGeorge.com. Four great seasons – one outstanding destination!

See also:

NYS entices skiers, riders with special deals, world-class venues throughout state

Lake Placid, NYS’s winter resort, where you ski and bobsled like an Olympian (Photos)

Lake Placid remains New York’s quintessential winter destination (Photos)

Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort proves perfect hub for enjoying Lake Placid, NY (Photos)

Discover New York Skiing Promotes $12 Lift Tix, Kids Ski Free, $35 Learn-to-Ski Deals

Feel like an Olympian as you ski down Whiteface Mountain, in New York’s Adirondacks, where the Winter Olympics of 1932 and 1980 were held and which has sent athletes to every Olympics in the modern era © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

This winter, Ski Areas of New York (SANY) is rolling out three great deals to encourage travelers- not just New Yorkers, but skiers from around the country and the world – to discover New York’s ski areas. (Note: the deals must be booked in advance at the new site, iskiny.com):

Discover New York Skiing $12 Lift Tickets. On December 19, 2013 and January 9, 2014, 10,000 skiers per day will be able to take advantage of $12 lift tickets through the Discover New York Skiing promotion at 26 participating ski areas across the state. Organized by Ski Areas of New York (SANY), the promotion is an expansion of last year’s popular 10-10-10 one-day deal. Tickets must be reserved and paid in advance and are the perfect start to a long weekend getaway. For details, visit www.iskiny.com/ski-deals/discover-ny-skiing.

Kids Ski Free. SANY is offering free lift tickets and learn to ski packages for 3rd and 4th grade skiers and snowboarders throughout the 2013-2014 winter ski season at 25 ski areas across the state. Passes in the form of a Passport must be obtained in advance, and there’s a $22 processing fee for the season. For details, visit www.iskiny.com/ski-deals/free-kids-program.

Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month discounts. January is National Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month and New York ski areas are joining in with a great deal. This year, 28 NYS Ski Areas are offering learn to ski and snowboard packages which include lifts, lessons and rentals for $35 (some blackout dates apply and shipping and handling charges will apply at time of purchase). To obtain a Learn to Ski $35 voucher, go to www.iskiny.com. You must pay in advance and take your voucher to the ski area that you selected for your Learn to Ski and Snowboard experience.

More deals, special events and updated snow reports. A new mobile-friendly website, www.iskiny.com, offers the latest information on snow conditions, ski area events, updates, maps, adaptive programs, and other information about skiing in New York. The site, operated by SANY, is a one-stop shopping center that also has a section with bookable deals such as third-day-free, ski/stay weekends and other lodging specials.

For more information on skiing and snowboarding in New York, visit iskiny.com, facebook.com/skiandrideny and for other fun winter ideas and information in New York State, visit www.iloveny.com/winter.

See also:

Lake Placid, NYS’s winter resort, where you ski and bobsled like an Olympian (Photos)

Lake Placid remains New York’s quintessential winter destination (Photos)

Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort proves perfect hub for enjoying Lake Placid, NY (Photos)

See more about New York’s ski areas:

NYS entices skiers, riders with special deals, world-class venues thruout state

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