I've come to respect smaller, local mountains like Tussey. No, they aren't going to draw numbers by…read moretheir 500-foot vertical drops, but for a few hours with feet in the bindings, hills such as this are great. Much better to have them nearby than...not skiing!
I've always wondered about Tussey after knowing the family who owned it in the '80's- the Aicholtz, or something like that-who went on to own Blue Marsh Ski Area, where I worked for a season. Recent trips to PSU have piqued that interest, and a free Saturday before THON Hoops on Sunday was a no brainer. Kids and dad are skiing!
It was a really good day. Let me hit the main points below...
Pros:
1. Layout of facility: Parking is close very to lodge and base of hill...two rows away close. Ticket shop and rental shops are well marked. No crazy uphill climbs to get to the lift. Logical layouts, bathrooms accessible.
2. Reasonable Prices: Rentals were $31; noon to 5 lift ticket was $30. Combined, this is cheaper than Elk's lift ticket alone! Rentals were a bit steep, but the cheap lift ticket absorbs it.
3. Terrain: Ok, only 5 runs, granted. However, for 5 runs, one is a beginner (Deer Run), two are great intermediates with wide runs and decent drops (Utah and Tuscarora), and one with decent moguls (Grizzly). Plus, Tuscarora and Utah have cool terrain park elements. Overall, for 5 runs they are varied and interesting. Oh, and a beginner hill...didn't spend time there.
Cons:
1. Food: One rather nasty hamburger was consumed ($4) before we purchased the rest of the meals from a vendor outside on the patio outside the lodge...which was really good. Choose this option!
2. Lack of vertical: 500 feet go by quickly, but short lift lines and a quick ride to the top means you're back on your skis quickly! Longest trail is .75 mile.
Other:
1. Clientele: Lots of college kids here- no surprise. There was some yahoo-ish-ness from some of the skiers and boarders, typical for a college town. Also some really talented skiers and boarders!
2. Snow: decent conditions for a 40-degree day. Good snow pack, with one bald-spot wearing through. Some ice at the top.
3. Lodge: Definitely smallish, lacking in character...but clean, with some good views. Wife spent most of the day inside with #3 non-skiing son, and was grateful for the wifi.
4. Rental Shop: Small space, cramped, but it does the job. Newer looking skiis.
5. Staff: Call this one neutral; not overtly friendly. Lack of visible ski patrol members; usually, they are busy training and practicing hauling injury dummies down the mountain. Very few present today.
Verdict: Locals should be grateful for this hill; it serves a purpose. It offers decent enough skiing without the drive, perfect for a few hours in the afternoon or evening. Odds are we will be back, as it was a perfect venue for our kids to further their skills.