We were tired of getting the short end of the snow stick in southern New England, so instead of heading due north to Jay, we decided to head west to Snow Ridge. From western MA, snow ridge is about 80 miles closer and an an hour shorter. The snow is the end of the comparison between the two ski areas though. But, if you go to Snow Ridge knowing what to expect, you'll have an epic time.
With lake effect churning the week before and slowing down before the weekend, we hoped we'd at least find some chopped up powder. The sight of enormous snowbanks in Turin got our hopes up. Rolling into the parking lot we saw they had groomed half of the wider trails and left plenty of chopped up powder on the rest. Great sign!
The lodge was comfortable and clean for a day use ski area. Well above average facilities for the sub-1000 ft vert mountains.
We bought our tickets - $40 for 6 hours. The lift report said the T-bar was closed, which was a disappointment for two first timers who wanted to ski the whole mountain. Turned out it was a blessing in disguise!
We hit the double in front of the lodge. Skied two wide runs right in front, enjoying choppy knee-depth fluff - that was worth the drive right there. Then we ducked onto Kuersteiner, which looked even fluffier. At the entrance a sign read "Snow Pocket (the T-bar) closed, trail open". I didn't think much of it and skied down the first pitch and waited for my girlfriend at the junction of Rockin Robin. I turned around and two skiers stopped behind me, took their skies off and started walking up a bootpack on Rockin Robin. The realization set in that they were headed for the top of the closed T-bar!! Kudos to Snow Ridge for apparently supporting this access point! After a traversing hike over, we stood at the top of 2+ feet of fresh snow, with plenty of room for untouched turns. Our timing was perfect because just as we got to the bottom of Black River, the T-bar began loading. More freshies!
We explored more of the ski area throughout the day. The snow, the community, and the positive vibes stood out. While the vert is small, there's enough pitch to ski 2 ft of settled snow with ease. Oh, and on a Saturday with a high school race, there were still empty tables in the lodge at lunch and never longer than a 3 chair wait to load.
If you're able to get into the mindset of 4 relaxed 500 ft vert runs being equal or better than one 2000 ft vert run with more competition, then definitely check out Snow Ridge. If you're looking for social media points and a resort vibe, head to Vermont. read more
