Mount Sunapee Ski Changes 2008
Skiing At Big Eastern New Hampshire Mountain With Best Snow Improves
Skiers in New England have known for a long time that Mount Sunapee is a top notch venue for skiers who like varied terrain with everything from slow cruisers to some that will curl your hair. But the secret to really fine skiing is the quality of the snow that covers the slopes and the finesse that is used in grooming it.
Ever since the owners of Vermont’s acclaimed Okemo rescued it from the doldrums of state ownership this exciting ski area has improved annually, becoming one of the top ski areas in the east. This has not been easy for them. Short sighted local and state leaders have prevented the building of owned housing and expansion of the area into lands owned by the ski area.
Millions In Improvements
In spite of these problems millions of dollars have been poured into the resort infrastructure and much of it in the form of snow making and grooming. An example was the addition of 18 new HKD snow making guns to augment their already fine system. This year Sunapee is adding another 30 of these guns bringing the total of new guns to 48.
The importance of this lies in the fact that the new guns produce more snow with less compressed air, increasing snow making capacity without increasing energy usage, and they provide for a more rapid response to bad climactic events. For the skier this means more and better snow, more reliable conditions and less pressure for upward movement of prices.
Save on Lift Prices
Speaking of prices, it is still pre-season and the time to consider the purchase of season passes and to plan on alternatives to save money during the season. New this year is a “Bring the Grandchildren” package that encourages skiers over 60 to bring the grandchildren along. Purchase of a full price day ticket allows the purchase of a ticket for a 6 to 18 year old grandchild for half price. For families interested in taking up the sport, or who are rusty, the Families First program allows the entire family to take lessons together.
The mountain’s Flex Card, $99 adults - $89 young adult & seniors-$79 juniors and super seniors, saves skiers 50% on mid week tickets and 25% on weekends and holidays. There are also savings on lessons and equipment rentals.
But, early buyer prices on passes end on October 13, 2008 so delay is not what you want to do. The Peak pass, for Sunapee provides unlimited skiing (non-holiday) everyday for $899. Possibly an even better deal is the Value Pass Plus that opens up the trails on Sunapee, Okemo and Stratton all season (non-holiday) for a low $699 and if mid-week is OK for you, you can buy a mid-week version for only 369. An added benefit is that Sunapee pass holders can night ski at Pat’s Peak weeknights for half price.
Save on Gas
Sunapee has teamed with Mobil in an innovative program that will help you get to the slopes. Called the Mobil Ski-3 discount program, it provides discounts to skiers at Sunapee and Waterville Valley in New Hampshire and at Okemo, Mad River Glen and Jay Peak in Vermont. Check with you Mobil dealer to make sure they are participating. For every 3 fill-ups of 8 gallons or more the buyer will get a certificate for $10 off the price of a lift ticket to help take the curse off the travel expense.
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