Friday, December 18, 2015

Hunter to re-open December 26??

Hi All,
Welcome to the winter that isn’t.  Hunter announced late yesterday that they will next be open December 26  - weather permitting of course. Personally, I have my doubts.
Even though there will be some colder weather this Friday night through Sunday with some lake effect snow flurries it warms up again next week (high 30’s and 40’s) with some rain forecast for most of the weekdays.
Christmas Eve it is supposed to be around 55 here.
Pray for snow and have a very Merry Christmas.
Jon

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Hunter to open Friday Dec 11

Hi All – the wait is over!
Hunter to open Friday in spite of the weather forecast:
 
 
Today we announced that we will open THIS FRIDAY, 12/11/15 for the first day of the 2015-16 season! Woo hoo! The Flyer lift will service the main run top-to-bottom (advanced abilities only), which consists of Hell Gate, 7th Ave, Kennedy, and 5th Ave. The coveted First Chair of the season goes up at 9am! Lift starts spinning Saturday and Sunday at 8:30am.
Lift ticket rates are $44 for Friday, 12/11 and $54 for Saturday and Sunday, 12/12 & 12/13; for sale onsite at the window only. Big Lift Super Saver discounts are in effect!
This weekend's weather looks ideal for enjoying BBQ, beers (21+ only), and mingling on the main deck. Your favorite bartenders will also be serving drinks at the Main Bar - on your way there grab a slice of pizza!
We will keep you updated with information in reference to additional trail and lift openings as well as our hours after this weekend, all of which will be posted on our Snow Report
WEATHER:
Tonight
A chance of showers, mainly after 2am. Increasing clouds, with a low around 36. Southeast wind 6 to 9 mph becoming south after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.
Thursday
A slight chance of showers before 10am. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 48. Southwest wind 3 to 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Thursday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38. South wind 5 to 8 mph.
Friday
Partly sunny, with a high near 51. Southwest wind 7 to 9 mph.
Friday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. Southwest wind around 8 mph.
Saturday
Partly sunny, with a high near 53.
Saturday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44.
Sunday
Mostly cloudy, with a high near 56.
Sunday Night
A chance of showers after 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 46. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Monday
A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 52. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
 
Ski ya,
Jon

Monday, September 28, 2015

Hunter Brewery Event

Hello Hunter friends,
FYI - The Hunter Brewery has scheduled a 1960’s cover band “Time Machine” to play next Saturday night October 3rd at 9 - 12 pm. 
I heard them play a week ago and they are excellent – worth the late night out – you will know and enjoy all the songs - bring your dancing shoes and get in some good pre-ski season exercise!
Ski ya soon,
Jon
 
Pass this on to your friends – the more the merrier!

Monday, September 14, 2015

Hunter Season Passholder Party

Hi All,
Hope you enjoyed the extended hot & humid summer weather – I didn’t.
Hunter is holding the season passholder party this Saturday Sept 19 at 1 pm and are requesting an RSVP. It is also pro day. See attached link to their official announcement.
 
 
 
 
There was new automated snow making added for this season in several areas.
Wayout has been widened and re-graded to be designated a blue square in order to allow intermediate skiers and boarders on the west side. Mgmt thought the west side lift was under utilized.
Personally, I am not too thrilled about this.
The colors are slowly starting to change to a fall look.
Ski ya,
Jon

Monday, June 1, 2015

Hunter June 1 - traffic alert

Hi All,
Hope your spring (more like summer) is going well.
For those of you who have not been up here lately and are planning to attend Mountain Jam or the Country Festival this or next Wed thru Fri and plan to leave Hunter on either Sunday or Monday morning after the festivals be advised of the following situation:  There is major bridge and road construction in Palenville on Rt 23A which has created 2 one lane only openings within a half mile of each other controlled by traffic lights which is creating delays on a normal basis and one can only imagine how long it would take to get through there with festival traffic.  I would therefore suggest alternate routes which could include Thruway exit #19 to Rt 28 to Phoenicia and #214 to Hunter or exit #21 Catskill and Rt 23 to Windham and #296 to Hunter. For those of you familiar with the back roads consider Platt Cove Mountain Rd (County Rt 16) from either exit 19 or 20. This is a scary road at best and not for the faint of heart. There may also be State Police at exit 19 and or 20 directing traffic to alternate routes.
 
Each festival is expected to draw 15-20,000 visitors. Hunter Highlands and Liftside Condo owners may need special passes. Contact your owners association for details.
On another subject, the Bagel Shop has re-opened under new management – for how long, who knows?
Be safe,
Jon

Monday, May 11, 2015

Hunter May 11 updates

Hi All,
Summer is here! No spring. Temps have been in the 80’s with humidity for about a week now and it is dry as a bone. We really need sustained rain. The forest fire on the back side of Hunter in Lanesville continues to smolder since burning over 100 acres last week.
I regret to advise you that the Bagel & Bakery Shop in Hunter has closed as the owner, Frank, just gave up on it. His assistant, Michelle, may try to re-open it in June in time for the festivals but I am not that confident it will happen.
The Hunter Mountain Brewery seems to doing okay in spite of a really dead off season month. It is open Wed – Sun from 5 pm with a 5 – 7 pm happy hour. I like the food and the views of the sunset are spectacular. The locals for the most part have been increasingly supporting it.
If you plan on eating at Messina’s in Windham make sure you ask the price of the specials before ordering – they are way out of line with the standard menu prices.
Hellgate is still covered with a lot of snow and there are patches of snow also on many other slopes.
Stay cool,
Jon
 
Regarding hiking at the Kaaterskill Falls please note the following DEC press release:
 
 

DEC Proposes Plan to Improve Public Safety at Kaaterskill Falls

Draft Kaaterskill Wild Forest Unit Management Plan Features a New Trail to Provide Safe Access to View Kaaterskill Falls

Public Invited to Comment on the Draft UMP Through June 5

A proposed amendment to the Kaaterskill Wild Forest Unit Management Plan (UMP) is designed to make the Kaaterskill Falls area a safer destination to visit, state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Regional Director Keith Goertz announced today. DEC invites the public to submit comments on the draft amendment through Friday, June 5, 2015.
"DEC is committed to protecting and maintaining this unique natural and historic treasure in a manner that enhances public safety and is consistent with forest preserve management principles," Director Goertz said. "We worked with state and local officials and user groups to develop the proposed amendment to gather input on ways to improve public safety and enhance user experiences. We look forward to hearing from a wide range of constituencies on the proposed amendment, which would enhance viewing access to Kaaterskill Falls and make the site a safer and more enjoyable destination for individuals and families to visit."
The draft UMP amendment proposes the construction of a new foot trail leading from the end of the marked Kaaterskill Falls trail at the base of the falls upslope to intersect with the Escarpment Trail on the east side of the falls. This 0.2-mile trail would include construction of a stone staircase at the end of the current marked trail that would lead to a potential viewing area and then proceed upward to the new connector trail to the Escarpment Trail.
The staircase would be approximately 260 feet long, with about 200 stone steps. As part of this proposal, an approximately 300-foot spur trail would lead from the staircase to a point above the middle pool of the falls. At the end of this trail another shorter set of stone stairs would be installed to provide access to the middle pool area. The stone staircase would be designed to blend in with the natural stone of the area at a location to limit its visibility from below.
The proposed trail and stone staircase will address the public's interest for access to a better view of Kaaterskill Falls and the middle pool area, while protecting public safety. Despite DEC's efforts in recent years to prevent people from continuing past the end of the marked Kaaterskill Falls trail, which included increased signage warning of the danger, some people put themselves in danger by continuing past the fence at the end of the trail.
The draft amendment also calls for the expansion of two nearby DEC-managed parking areas: the Laurel House Road parking area and the Schutt Road parking area. Both lots would be expanded to accommodate approximately 50 cars each. Currently, the lots can accommodate about 9-12 cars each.
In addition, the draft amendment calls for the installation of up to 10 permanent anchor points in the middle pool area to assist first responders with rescue operations. The anchors would allow safety ropes to be quickly and safely secured during rescue operations. The anchor points will protect rescuers, as well as those being rescued, from potential falls and injury.
In the fall of 2014, DEC installed about 500 feet of split rail fencing at both the upper and lower falls. The fencing serves as both a physical and visual barrier to alert the public to the potential dangers of proceeding further. Additional signage was also installed in more conspicuous locations to warn the public of the potential dangers in the area. Under the draft plan amendment, these features would remain in place.
Beginning this summer, DEC will construct a bridge over Spruce Creek, an observation deck and associated spur trail at the top of the falls and hire a seasonal steward to educate and interact with visitors at the falls. The steward will gather information about public use of the area, including peak user times, behaviors and preferences to inform management decisions.
The management actions proposed in the draft amendment are intended to complement the actions outlined in the 1987 UMP and the 2013 UMP amendment. When considered in their entirety, the proposals are designed to provide a safer, more environmentally sustainable user experience at Kaaterskill Falls.
DEC prepares unit management plans to assess the natural resources of specific parcels of DEC-managed lands and identify opportunities for public use that are consistent with the classifications of the lands and the ability of the resources and ecosystems to accommodate such uses.
The draft UMP amendment is available on DEC's website. Comments can be mailed to Josh Borst, NYSDEC, 65561 State Highway 10, Suite 1 Stamford, NY 12167, or submitted via email to: R4.UMP@dec.ny.gov. The deadline for comments is June 5.
For more information about the UMP process, visit DEC's website.

Friday, April 24, 2015

Hunter seasonal passes / lockers etc.

Hi All,
The calendar says spring is here but not in Hunter. We had a dusting of snow the past 2 mornings and only 24 last night (34 now) with wind and flurries. Most trails are still fully covered with snow.
This is to remind you all that the last day to buy seasonal lockers and passes before a price increase of $50 is April 30, next Thursday. Yep – they want your money early!
My sources tell me that over 4,000 tickets have been pre-sold for the Tap NY just for tomorrow, Saturday. The weather will be cool and windy:
 
Tonight
Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Northwest wind 13 to 17 mph.
Saturday
Sunny, with a high near 51. Northwest wind 14 to 18 mph.
Saturday Night
Partly cloudy, with a low around 30. Northwest wind 7 to 9 mph.
Sunday
A slight chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 56. North wind 7 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
 
The new Hunter Brewery is open Wed thru Sun from 5 pm and I can tell you the menu and food are excellent! You get a lot for the money. Happy hour is 5 to 7. There are 20 beers on tap plus many bottles to choose from and a full assortment of liquors. The d̩cor and view are exceptional Рcatch a spectacular sunset as you dine.
Van Winkles at the KMC is closed on Tuesdays until July 7.
Have a great spring if it ever arrives!
Jon

Thursday, April 2, 2015

Hunter April 2 - pond and deck party date changed

Attn all Hunter Fans,
The pond skimming and deck party have been moved to Saturday April 11 due to the expected cold and nasty weather forecast for this Saturday.
 
The soft opening of the Hunter Mtn Brewery last night was a huge success with a great turnout. The food and service / staff were excellent considering it was the first night. The ambiance was also very pleasant. The prices were reasonable for the portion sizes and everything came out fresh and hot. I would attach the menu except it is printed on brown paper and wouldn’t copy well so you will just have to stop in: Wed – Sun, closed Mon & Tues at least for now.
 
The temps last night got down to 20 but it is 48 now and rising fast making for some classic spring conditions. Mud season has begun. The weekend is not looking too good:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.VR1Rh-GwGJ0
 
Party on.......
Jon

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Hunter April 1

HI All,
Winter continues on the mountain top – no spring here yet. On Monday and Tuesday mornings we awoke to an inch of new snow that melted by late afternoon. The night time temps have been in the 20’s and daytime only reaching to upper 30’s however with sun and some wind. Skiing has been excellent with groomed granular conditions. The steeper west side trails usually open late morning.  The temp right now at 12:50 is 29 at the summit with a real feel of 20 and 40 at the base. The weather outlook for Thursday is good but it goes downhill from there on Good Friday and Saturday. Easter Sunday is looking good.  We are not done with snow yet. Hunter will decide tomorrow if the pond and deck party scheduled for Saturday will be postponed until the following weekend due to nasty weather predictions. The party was featured in today’s Daily Mail newspaper:  http://www.thedailymail.net/news/article_f82248bc-d803-11e4-a1f4-8f0800d45aad.html
Here is the link to the Summit and base weather stations:  http://www.wunderground.com/personal-weather-station/dashboard?ID=KNYHUNTE3
I can finally report that the new Hunter Brewery (ex Fireside) will have a soft opening tonight with an anticipated grand opening on Saturday. I have seen it and the d̩cor is very impressive especially for this area with 20 beer taps, a full wine & liquor bar and great seating areas both inside and outside. I will check out the menu Рpub food Рtonight. It will have its own 4 craft beers in about 3 to 4 months.
None of the above information is an April Fools joke.
Ski ya around,
Jon

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Hunter March 25

Hello all,
Crazy March weather continues to preserve the snow not only on the slopes but over the entire mountain.  It is all still white however that could change with rain and warm temps tonight and tomorrow. The base is still very deep for this time of year.  It is clouding up now.
The surface conditions have been loose and frozen granular but very flat as the excellent grooming keeps all trails very easy. The west (Claire’s) has been opening only in the afternoon as it takes time to soften a bit.
Temps at night have been in the low teens and single digits. This AM there was an inversion as the summit recorded 30 while only 14 at the base. It is now in the low 40’s on both the top and base. The sun has been brilliant for the past 3 days but the wind was a factor until today when it finally died down a bit. Very variable weather due for the next 4 days including warmth, rain, snow, wind and a return to cold.
Hunter has a few activities such as the Cardboard Box Slope-side Derby this Saturday along with several DJ’s starting at 1 pm: 
Make your preparations for this weekend! March 28th is the Cardboard Box Derby and Dummy Race! It's time for constructing your winning cardboard craft and/or dummy! Get all the details here.
 
Plan to party!
Jon

Thursday, March 19, 2015

Hunter March 19

Hi All,
Well it’s still winter here with temps in the mid 20’s, strong wind but lots of sun today. I did not ski but can tell you surface conditions were frozen granular, noisy but easy. Wind chills on top have been in the single digits for two days now. The Flyer was off loaded and shut down at 3:15 for mechanical issues. The weather outlook for Friday thru Sunday is not great with a chance for both snow, rain and a cold wind. Spring officially begins around 6 pm tomorrow.
No other news of interest to report.
Jon

Monday, March 16, 2015

Hunter March 16

Hello Hunter Fans,
The “Ides of March” wicked winds and cold weekend temps gave way to a calmer weather day. It was 27 overnight but 43 now. The sun was great from 9 – 10 this am then someone turned out the lights. I mean the visibility /light was about as flat as it could be. The surface conditions were a very consistent groomed corduroy granular (sugar) on top of frozen granular. It was noisier skiing than I had expected. All trails were the same but for better visibility one had to be close to trees or rocks on the sides of slopes for any definition of the surface. I did not stay out long after the light changed. There were no crowds at all and not even enough people to put 6 on the flyer at once.
Thursday looks like the next decent ski day at least for a fair weather skier like me. Hard to believe that Friday will be the first day of spring.
Don’t even think of dusting off the golf clubs yet!
Jon

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Hunter March 11

Hi All,
Spring is here for a few days as mother nature teases us again with temps in the upper 40’s and above freezing at night. The firemen have been dominating the slopes this week although down in numbers from previous years. The entire front deck (with BBQ and a beer bar) was cordoned off for the firefighters and there was extra security to keep out the general public and booze. Many of the hosers chose to stay outside the deck at a few of the picnic tables and party with their own “supplies” – you can’t change the culture!  I was not out today but it was very typical spring conditions with a heavy snow surface and a mix of clouds & sun with a pretty stiff breeze. Tonight it will drop into the low 20’s and also for the next few nights with a nasty mix for the weekend.
The melting snow has turned the local streets and parking lots into mud holes as the water really has no place to drain. There is still a good foot of snow pack on the lawns.
This time of year roads & trail surface conditions and temps change dramatically from am to pm so be ready for it.
Ski ya,
Jon

Monday, March 9, 2015

Hunter March 9

Hi All,
Another glorious weekday to be out on the hill. Overnight temps in the 20’s quickly climbed to 40 with strong sun and a light wind (but very strong wind at the summit). The grooming was again excellent and visibility perfect. All front side trails were very sweet but Cliff/Racer’s I thought was exceptional. Wayout was still semi frozen corduroy when I went down it and Claire’s was closed due to not being groomed and it had a very shiny glazed surface. There were no lines and the slopes were fairly empty for such a nice day.
Grand Marnier was hosting its bartenders bash on the front deck of the lodge complete with a DJ and BBQ.   
The firefighters were starting to filter in for their two days of races tomorrow and Wednesday. It looks to be a great weather week to be outside and its about time!
I would guess that the lifts will stay open until 5 pm this weekend due to the time change.
Ski on..............
Jon

Friday, March 6, 2015

Hunter March 6

Hello Hunter Fans,
An amazing day today – call it a 9.9 out of 10. Cobalt blue sky, no wind, strong sun and temps that went from –1 last night to 23 now and the sense that spring is finally around the corner.
The grooming once again was exceptional making all trails flat, fast and powdery on a base that is over 100 inches. Hunter had no snow from yesterday’s storm that hit the city, LI and NJ.
The crowds were very light for such a great day and the “F” was running today. There were no lines at the Flyer although it did go down for a short while around mid-day. The west was hard and fast but 44 was closed and looked as nasty as I have ever seen it. The weekend is looking good although the nights will be quite cold and the forecast shows some 30’s and maybe low 40’s next week:  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php
Get ready for a GRAND Marnier party weekend as follows:
 
GRAND MARNIER WINTER BASH THIS WEEKEND
Grand Marnier hosts one of the biggest parties on the slopes THIS weekend! They're "Painting the Mountain Red" with fireworks, a torchlight parade, fire dancers and music! DJ David Barese brings you his skill on Saturday and Monday @ 2pm, then Funk Evolution sets the stage Sunday at 4pm!  Don't miss one of the best weekends on the hill!
Weekend movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html
The Copper Tree Bar will be open Saturday for the last time this season.
Don’t forget to move the clocks one hour ahead Saturday night.
Party on..........
Jon

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Hunter March 3

Hello Hunterites,
Yesterday’s wicked winds which forced the closure of the west side for the day by 11:30 are gone. The grooming was once again amazing however the early hazy sun disappeared by 11 and the light became extremely flat in advance of the storm that is moving in this afternoon. Surface conditions were great on all groomed trails and none was better than another. The mountain was very empty and one could ski right onto the lift. Snow , sleet, freezing rain and rain are expected over the next few days:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.VPXzi-GwFBI  The temps will climb into the upper 30’s maybe 40 by Wednesday pm and then plunge back into the teens on Thursday. It will get messy. Contrary to earlier misinformation, the Copper Tree Bar (not the restaurant) will be open this Saturday, its last day for the season, but may close by 4:30 -  5pm due to a private party starting at 6.
March, as usual, has come in like a lion and spring will be slow to arrive. Lot’s of festivities on tap for this weekend compliments of Grand Marnier which is sponsoring them so get ready to party – like I have to remind you? – ha!
Keep your cold weather gear available,

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Hunter Feb 25

Hello All,
Two exceptional days in a row to be on the slopes. The sun was stronger today but did pop behind some big puffy white clouds at times. The grooming once again was terrific with all main trails except Claire’s (wind blown & slick) covered with corduroy powder. There was a stiff wind today especially on top and on the west side. 44 remained wind blown shiny porcelain. Temps ranged from mid teens to 26 now. The Wednesday crowd was very light with no lines to speak of. In my opinion Rt 80 was the best today however there were no slick trails at all on the front side including Racer’s which was groomed last night. Gunhill was closed for race training but it really was not needed.
The crews were dragging the hoses off the mountain today signaling the official end of snow making.
Also note a concert this Saturday night at the Orpheum Theater per attached program: Professor Louie & the Crowmatix.
Keep the warm clothes handy,
Jon
 

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Hunter Feb 24

Hello Hunter Fans,
It was a great day to ski. The crazy winds died down (wind chills yesterday made for a steady –35 real feel) and even though the overnight temps reached –12, by 9 am it was 6 and now a heat wave at 16. The sun was muted through high clouds but the visibility was excellent and the grooming sensational. There was actually a slight temperature inversion today. The mountain was a ghost town – I mean really empty and I enjoyed every minute of it having most runs all to myself – felt like a private mountain. Surface conditions could not have been any better. Every main trail was groomed corduroy  powder except Racer’s but that was still okay. The big surprise was Claire’s which was perfectly groomed top to bottom. Rt 80 (White Cloud / Wayout) was also a real ego snow run. The top of 44 was a glaring shiny white porcelain and it was closed as was Upper Taylors. I have got to say that I had one of my most enjoyable ski days of the year today.
It is going to stay cold (sub zero nights and low teens daytime) through Saturday with some flurry activity Wed & Thurs and not much sun.
February could break the all time coldest on record as it ends on Saturday. Hard to believe March 1 is Sunday. I do not believe that Hunter had to make any snow all month – also a record.
Stay warm my friends,

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Hunter Feb 18

Hello all,
The last 2 days have tied a season record for midweek sunny days. Today brought a brilliant blue sky, loads of sun and exceptional powdered corduroy grooming on all trails including Claire’s. Temps were up from an early morning low of –5 to 23 now which feels like a heat wave. There was no wind, minimal lines for a holiday week Wednesday, and the “F” was running. It was ego snow top to bottom on virtually all trails. 44 was closed this am and it looked very slick.
Easily a top 5 day in anyone’s opinion. According to the forecast, that is the end of nice weather for a while. Some snow tonight then into the deep freeze again with below zero nights and single digit days for Friday and the weekend with more snow: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.VOTrbi6wFBI  February is poised to set a multi decade record for cold here in Hunter.
Happy hour at VW’s will resume on Monday Feb 23. The Copper Tree re-opens on Friday for the weekend and you may want to try that steaming hot bowl of Japanese noodles.
Wishing all 150 or so of the NJ Ski Council people headed out to Telluride this weekend for a week a great trip! Hope you get some much needed snow – it’s all here this year!
Keep those extra layers handy and don’t put the snow shovels away yet. Hunter announced a closing date of Sunday April 12.
Jon

Friday, February 13, 2015

Hunter Friday Feb 13

Greetings from the North Pole on this Friday the 13th.
All I can say is that I am very fortunate to be able to pick and choose the days to ski. Even though the sun is out it is not making a difference in the extreme cold.
The temp at the summit is currently –9 with sustained winds of 20 mph which makes the real feel –34. It is 2 at the base with strong winds after being –6 last night. Not for me! I don’t care how good the surface conditions may be but the wind must have certainly blown off any loose powder especially at the top. I can visually see many partially loaded and empty Flyer chairs. Wind will affect lift ops.
Expect the base lodge to be very crowded.  Movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html
Don’t forget you loved ones tomorrow on Valentines Day or you may be spending a cold night in the dog house.
Watch out for frostbite and bundle up if you go out.
Jon
Hunter posted the following:
 
Tomorrow is full of fun here at Hunter Mountain, on Saturday, February 14th, join us for a Vow Renewal Ceremony at the summit, get all the lovely details here.  Bear Creek Country Kitchens, the official soup of Hunter Mountain, brings you an amazing Fireworks show and live music from the Big Kahuna band. Cream of Wheat, the official hot cereal of Hunter Mountain, will be here with hot samples to warm you up. Monster Energy will also be here fueling you for that extra run. And we have Lola Granola bringing you all natural granola bars. It's a weekend that's packed with fun - see you on the hill! Get next weekend's details here.
 

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Hunter Feb 11

Hello all you Hunterites,
Take yesterday and add sun equals WOW!  The morning started out chilly with a temp of 5 but now 30 and it actually feels warm with no wind and only some high wispy clouds. Grooming was excellent once again on all except Claire’s . I couldn’t say any one slope was better than another, front or backside.  Cliff / Racers (groomed) was exceptional and White Cloud / Wayout also great. There was a bit of a crowd today (the sun does that) and a line at the Flyer but no “D” or “F”. There was a mechanical issue with “B” which was closed late am and not sure if it was re-opened so that added to the Flyer line. There were at least 10 buses today. The weather for tonight and tomorrow calls for some snow with wind and colder temps then we really go into arctic weather:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.VNuf1y6wFBI
 
Bundle up!
Jon
Hunter posted the following:
 
PRESIDENT'S WEEKEND THIS WEEKEND!
Get ready for the next holiday weekend at Hunter Mountain! President's Weekend is February 14-16, and we have great events and entertainment lined up! Enjoy live music at the Main Bar Saturday night with the Big Kahuna Band starting at 4pm, then enjoy the Bear Creek Fireworks Bonanza at 6:45pm! The presidential celebration continues Sunday night with the Front Street Band starting at 4pm @ the Main Bar. See you there!

RENEW YOUR VOWS AT THE SUMMIT <3 font="">

Take your love to new heights this Valentine’s Day at Hunter Mountain! We are arranging for couples to renew their vows at the summit with a special ceremony.The offer is extended to any married couple with lift tickets or season passes and are able to ski or ride from the top of the mountain. After the “I Dos”, the group will warm up in the Summit Lodge at a small reception then ski down the mountain together..

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Hunter Feb 10

Hello Hunter snow fans,
It just keeps getting better. Another foot of dry powder over the past few days nicely groomed (except the steeps) but plenty of fluff left to pound through. There is nothing like quiet squeaky powder without hearing the scraping noises.
Temps were steady at 19 yesterday and last night and only now climbing a bit to 29.  There was no sun today which was the only drawback but no wind either. Visibility was an issue with some fog on top but it has been worse.
There wasn’t a trail I didn’t like. Crowds were minimal with no lines and of course no need for “D” or “F” lifts. There is supposed to some sun tomorrow with temps around 23 but that’s it! There will be light snow Thursday and into the deep freeze through the weekend. If you thought it has been cold recently, you ain’t seen nothin’ yet. Sub zero nights and single digit days are coming for Valentine’s / President’s weekend.
Fireworks also on Saturday night at 6:15 and live bands both Sat & Sun starting at 4 pm @ main bar.
Forget fashion – dress warm for the slopes!
Jon

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Hunter Feb 5

Hello Hunter fans,
We had another 2 – 3” of a dusting last night into this am.  The sun with patchy clouds broke out around 10 am but brought some wicked cold and wind with it. Currently around 10 with strong gusty 15 – 20 mph winds at the base and 5 at the summit with a real feel of –10. The temp tonight is expected to reach –10 without the wind..... brrrrr. Today is the last day we will see any sun for quite some time as more snow is possible from Friday right through next week. I have not yet seen any accumulation forecasts yet. I cannot comment on surface conditions since I did not hit the slopes today. So far the winds have not affected lift operations.
I have tried the new hot noodle bar in the Copper Tree “Slurps” a few times and found it quite tasty & healthy especially on the really cold days. It is a bit pricy ($11.87 including tax) but worth it.
Hunter has posted the following for weekend activities:
Mingle with friends at the Main Bar Saturday, 2/7 and listen to live music from Third Rail starting at 4pm. DJ Frank starts spinning at 2pm. Saranac will be on site with samples and giveaways, so make sure you check them out - they're one of 100+ talented NYS craft breweries that attend TAP New York each year!
And for President’s weekend:
Get ready for the next holiday weekend at Hunter Mountain! President's Weekend is February 14-16, and we have great events and entertainment lined up! Enjoy live music at the Main Bar Saturday night with the Big Kahuna Band starting at 4pm, then fireworks at 6:15pm! The presidential celebration continues Sunday night with the Front Street Band starting at 4pm @ the Main Bar. See you there!

Happy trails,
Jon

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Hunter Feb 3 conditions

Hello snow lovers,
Not to rub it in while many of you are at work but.....what else can I say about 16+” of new dry powder groomed to perfection. It was squeaky new light powder all over the place leaving some tracks on each run. Except for Racer’s, Upper K, 42nd St and Claire’s the entire mountain was groomed but there was plenty of loose powder pockets to kick around. There were no lines and no “F” or “D” as is the usual mid-week case. If you liked powder bumps on the steeps there was Claire’s and 44 for you or you could practice bumps on the less steep 42nd st. There was something for everyone today. The temp went to –5 last night but by opening it was up to 9 and 19 now with plenty of sun that was at times muted. Visibility was excellent on both sides of the mountain. The only wind was at the very top. I was advised not to ski Huega because the wind last night polished it. The forecast calls for the possibility of some snow each night & day from today through Thursday with single digit nights and days in the teens:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.VNEKHS6wFBI
The irony of it all is that the west (Utah, Colorado, Tahoe etc.) has very little snow and temps in the 50’s.
Great day – A top 5!
Jon

Monday, February 2, 2015

Hunter Feb 2 storm update and powder alert

Hi all you snow hounds,
Mother natured has once again treated us to more of that white gold. We have at least a foot on the ground and it is still coming down heavy with poor visibility and temps around 24 after teens overnight.
I did not go out so cannot comment on trail conditions.  All local roads are in poor shape including 23A.  Here is the snow map and forecast:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.VM_JSy6wFBI  and from the NWS:
A WINTER STORM WARNING FOR HEAVY SNOW MEANS SEVERE WINTER WEATHER
CONDITIONS ARE EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW
ARE FORECAST THAT WILL MAKE TRAVEL DANGEROUS. ONLY TRAVEL IN AN
EMERGENCY. IF YOU MUST TRAVEL...KEEP AN EXTRA FLASHLIGHT...
FOOD...AND WATER IN YOUR VEHICLE IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY.
 
It’s a winter wonderland,
Jon
 

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Hunter Jan 28 conditions

Hello Hunter fans,
Today was one of those special rare days to be on the slopes. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky, there was fresh well groomed snow on every trail and brilliant sun. Granted it was cold (9 at the base and 2 at the top with a very strong and steady 20 mph wind) but extra layers of clothes and a face mask made up for that. I would say it was the largest non-holiday Wednesday crowd of the season. “F” was open and running and there was a line at the Flyer all morning. No “D”lift. The surface did get scratchy by 11:30 due to the crowds but all in all it was a fun day to be out. We ended up with about 5 – 6” of snow from Monday night through Tuesday. Contrary to my report yesterday, there were a few main line trails groomed for yesterday’s skiing. Everything was open today except # 44 which looked like a flat ribbon of shiny porcelain. Claire’s was not groomed but had cut up powdery well spaced bumps. The upper section of Huega was a wind blown wind tunnel however the run out and Drop-off were nice. The Belt down to Wayout was very powdery as well and Wayout was sweet. Hgate, Cliff, Racers, Ike, Minya & Eside all groomed and nice. There was no snow making in progress except over at the tubing park. Clouds and snow move in tomorrow pm and into Friday with bitter cold temps throughout the weekend with more snow predicted for Sunday pm.
Enjoy and bundle up,

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Hunter Jan 27 storm update

Hi All,
What a bust! More hype than snow. We only got 2 –3 “. Currently 12 at the base and 4 on top with winds that make it feel like –12. It is cloudy with flat light and occasional snow fog drifting over the mountain.
There was no grooming last night due to the expected BIG storm so conditions are as they were at close yesterday with a light wind blown coating on top – not for me!
The firemen’s races were postponed until March 10-11.  The sun is expected to make an appearance tomorrow and grooming should be widespread tonight so Wednesday looks to be a good day.
Snow is again forecast for Thurs but can we believe them anymore?
Just another exciting day in Hunter,
Jon

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Hunter Jan 22 conditions

Hi All,
Today was dominated by flat light conditions so I did not stay out long. The temps ranged from a low of 19 to 29, no wind and only a few short periods of brightness. The surface conditions were exceptional with nice powder, no ice and a few trails with whale humps that were not groomed: Huega & Dropoff. The main line, east side trails and Cliff / Racer’s all nice. I did not make it to the west side. The “Z” lift was running fine. Snow making continued a few trails. The Police races were held yesterday &  today and the Firemen come in next Tue – Wed for their races. There were no lift lines at all. Racer’s is now groomed every night since it is among the most visible trails from the road and parking lots therefore the mountain wants to always show people on it. Someone in mgmt finally woke up.
The weather looks great for tomorrow with plenty of sun and warmer temps.  The 7 day outlook:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.VMFRXi6wFBI
Ski on.....
Jon
 

Tuesday, January 20, 2015

Hunter conditions Jan 20

Hi all you Hunter fans,
Just another spectacular day and great recovery for Hunter after the heavy rains on Sunday and freeze on Monday. The guns were blasting dry powder on most front side trails all night and day making for some great western style skiing all morning under a sunny blue and windless sky. Visibility was excellent. Grooming was done where necessary like on Racer’s which was flat and fast. Every trail on the front side was in excellent shape as guns continued blowing.The west side was still closed since Saturday when the lift broke (electrical component failed and a new one is due to arrive here from Colorado today). The “Z”  lift should be running for tomorrow.  Temps today ranged from 20 to 28 now.
Crowds were very light now that college week is over (yay!) and there were no lines. No “D” or “F” as not needed.
I would expect some very sweet surface conditions all week.
In restaurant news: Numero Uno Pizza is closed and for sale as the owner suddenly and unfortunately passed away from what I am told was a heart attack.
This is the week to play hooky if you can.
Happy trails,
Jon

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Hunter conditions Jan 15

Hello Hunter fans,
A new mid-week season record of two sunny, blue sky, no wind days in a row! Temps started out mid teens to now 24.
Give a word of thanks to ski patrollers and snow makers when you see them as they really have endured some harsh weather this season. They should receive combat pay for what they do.
Grooming was again excellent . New machine made snow in the form of soft whale humps was to be found on Minya. The main line was again powdery with some guns keeping things fresh. Cliff was flat and fast as was Racer’s. Ike was loaded with powder. Wayout was frozen corduroy.  Claire’s had heavy snow making around the doughnut  (no visibility) and was not groomed on the lower half. Westway 44 was still under the guns and closed. There were more than a few college kids here today and the line at the Flyer did reach to the back of the corral a few times when the lift stopped. No “F” or “D” again.
All other trails were flat but fast.  Friday looks to be cloudy and windy, Sat cold and sunny with a chance for a mix on Sunday.
Have a great weekend!
Jon

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Hunter Jan 14 conditions

Hi All,
It’s days like this that any skier lives for – WOW! A top 3 day.
First off let me give kudos to Bruce and the snowmakers for such a great recovery from Sunday’s rains and to Skip and the groomers for an unbelievable job grooming the entire mountain – yes every trail (except of course LowerK which was closed). The sky was powder blue, lots of sun and no wind with temps from 13 to 23. The main line which still had some guns blasting was western powder all the way – soft, light and fluffy. Claire’s had the same conditions as HBK in the chutes with some guns blasting and was groomed to perfection. Westway 44 was under heavy snow making top to bottom and will be ready for the weekend. All trails front & back were, as a minimum, corduroy.  No “F” or “D” but no need for them either.
There was a very short line at the Flyer thanks to college week which for $39 and an ID gets a student a lift ticket. The weather outlook for tomorrow is sunny as well.  Wind with some snow expected Friday with slightly warmer temps.
Hunter is in its prime now with a great base and good snow making weather so come and enjoy it!
Ski ya,
Jon

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

Hunter Jan 7 conditions

Hello all and Happy New Year!
The planet has shifted and we are now in the North Pole. Recovery is still under way from the heavy rains and warm 57 temps last weekend. The guns have been on around the clock but the strong winds are definitely hampering efforts to cover all the trails. It was 15 at the base and 0 at the summit this am with a strong steady wind greeting you as you tried to exit the chairlift. Grooming was minimal last night as only the main line was flat but covered with nice powder once one made the first turn towards Hgate. The very top was wind blown. Cliff, Ike, Minya, Lowercross, Huega all covered with big but soft whale humps. Gunhill was groomed.  The light was good until about 11:15 am when the next front and squall line started to advance on us. Someone turned out the lights - the winds really kicked in and the temp is on its way down to minus 5 this evening. The entire area is under a wind chill warning for tonight and tomorrow and they are talking about 30 below zero.  I did not venture over to the west side – too dark and windy but heard it was groomed.
Restaurant news: The Brewery (old Fireside) is still not open. Roseberry’s (site of the old Heartbreak / Hunter House) is now open 7 days from 4 pm with a restaurant & bar happy hr 4 –7. Karen’s Kitchen, located in the Hunter Village Square building across from the Village Hardware store is open for breakfast and lunch Thurs – Mon.  Happy hour 4 – 6  has returned to the hotel @ Van Winkles.
Bundle up,
Jon