Hunter Dec 26

Hi All,

Hope you are enjoying the holidays. I have not been to the mtn so cannot comment on conditions or crowds. It is snowing on and off all day with 1 -2" expected by the time it ends. Visibility is poor. Guns have been on around the clock recovering nicely from the warm weather and rains.

The main lodge bar has increased prices per attached. The Horton Smith House is going to public auction I believe on Feb 13. The Brewery & BBQ at the old Fireside will take at least 3 months to open so it basically misses the ski season. The new and totally remodeled Bakery & Bagel shop opposite the mtn is open so stop in and say welcome to Frank. It is a full line bakery, bagel and sandwich shop open 7 days a week 6 to 6 (6-8 Fri-Sat). The specialty is Italian, they have gluten free items and they will custom make anything with an advance order. There is plenty of nice clean friendly space to sit down.

I had dinner last week at the Dublin Bear (Slopes / Yacht Club) and must say the food was very good, portions large, service excellent and prices quite reasonable.

Weekend movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

NWS 7 day forecast:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.UryI9vuvkrc

Come on up for the new year celebration and enjoy some excellent skiing, riding and eating.

Party on.....

Jon

Hunter Dec 19

Hello Everyone,

Just another day in paradise - 2 in a row! Cobalt blue cloudless sky, temps from 24 early to 41 now and lots of nicely groomed powder with a very minimal lift line. The only downside this morning was a very strong wind on the west side that affected skiing from top to bottom and caused the quad lift to operate at a snails pace. Wayout was nice and Claire's was groomed flat from top to bottom but the wind was blowing the snow around. I would think it is much better this afternoon. Best consistent run for surface conditions: Eside/Milky. Minya & Lowercross were not groomed and were a bit rough. Everything else on the front was in great shape including HBK & Cliff/Racers/Ike/Gunhill.  LowerK27 closed. Unfortunately today may be the last really nice day for a while with warm & wet weather coming in and snow making has ceased:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.UrM4ZCevkrc

The Bakery / Bagel shop in Hunter is not open - maybe another week at most.

The old Fireside Restaurant  AKA  Casarellas on 23A (opposite the entrance to the dump) with views to die for may be opening soon as a brewery / restaurant. Trying to get more details.

The Copper Tree Restaurant and Bar in the base lodge will not be opening this weekend as previously thought.

Tis the season to party on.....

Jon

Hunter Dec 18

Hello Hunter Fans,

Mother nature deposited another 3 - 4" yesterday (not worth skiing) in a blinding cold wind and a dusting last night that made for some excellent surface conditions today. It was a tale of two days today. The morning was cold, teens & windy with only a few spots of sun (usually while I was on the lift) and occasional fog at the summit. There were also guns going all over the mountain adding to some visibility issues especially on Huega. The entire front side of the mountain was open except for LowerK27 and it was all groomed out except for the Cliff making for some very sweet dry powder runs. Wayout was very nicely groomed with a dry powder surface but the Belt to Wayout was an ungroomed mix of frozen whales and losse powder - not exactly the easy run it is supposed to be. Claire's and the Alternate were not opened until 11 am but Claire's was nothing but a slope full of big whales and what looked like some wet powder. There was a line starting to form at the Flyer around 10:30. No F or D nor were they needed. The sun popped out strong around 11 and the temp rose to 31 making for a totally different day. They were checking tickets today for the first time that I have seen. Kudos to the snowmakers and groomers!

Weekend movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

The weather should turn much warmer and messier over the weekend with highs on Sunday in the low 50's:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.UrHZxSevkrc

It looks like the new Bakery / Bagel shop in Hunter has opened and I will check it out later today to confirm.

Van Winkles will not have happy hour pricing during the holiday period next week.

Ski on....

Jon

Hunter Dec 16 - new powder alert

Hello All,

Nothing like a cold sunny day after a storm! We had a good foot of snow. Every trail on the front side of the mountain except Racer's was groomed to consistent perfection. Sweet dry natural powder with excellent visibility made for some really enjoyable ego snow and no lift lines. Temps stayed in the mid teens to now lower 20's with 6 at the summit and a strong wind out of the west. Wayout was closed due to a snow cat issue details of which I will not disclose so I never got to ski the west side - I do not ski Claire's unless I can eyeball it first. Guns are still blowing snow in key areas keeping freshies available in some locations. No one run was  better than another today except Racer's which remained cut up, bumpy and uninviting. We are expecting 2 - 4" more snow tomorrow (see below chart) and bitter cold temps should keep it all in place until the end of the week when it warms up a bit. NWS forecast:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.Uq86tSevkrc

 

 

 

 

Ski ya,

Jon

Hunter Dec 13 - weekend powder alert

Hi all,

Friday the 13th proved to be excellent for surface conditions, decent visibility with high clouds & occasional spots of sun, temps holding in the mid 20's but very high winds especially at the summit. Snow making continues around the clock with guns now on Upper Cross, 42nd St, Racers and mid-station. Wayout was scheduled to open today but the high winds and rumored lift problems prevented it. Claire's is slated to open tomorrow provided the lift can run. Cliff and Ike were nicely groomed out but the best today was Racer's with creamy powder although still under the guns. HBK - excellent! Eside was open but did not look groomed - whale humps. Minya / Lower Cross were sweet right on down through the Terrain Park - still cannot cut through to Kennedy behind top of "B". The crowds were light with no lines at the Flyer.

Snow is due to begin early to mid-day Sat right on through Sunday - see below accumulatrion chart showing Hunter in the 6 - 12 " range.

NWS forecast:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.UqtRiievkrc

Consumer Demo days Sat & Sun.

Have a great weekend!

Jon

 

 

Hunter Dec 12

Hello Hunter fans,

The weather is finally cooperating! What a great day to ski. It was very cold with 20 @ base / 10 @ summit but no wind and plenty of sun. HBK and Belt best runs with consistent dry groomed powder. Minya was nice but had a few spots of marbles from the groomers breaking apart the whales & swales. Eside was under full guns as was Racers (closed), Dropoff (open) and the approach to Ike (open). Huega was all powdery whales of snow as was the Terrain Park. Wayout as eyeballed from the Belt was covered with whale humps but closed - most likely will get groomed out tonight for opening tomorrow. Claire's and the Alternate were under the guns and may open for the weekend. Cliff and Ike were open but hard, scraped off and bumpy so not really worth it considering how nice the alternatives were. There were not many people so every run was right onto the Flyer. No F or D open or necessary. Tomorrow, Friday the 13th,  is looking real good.

This weekend is Consumer Demo weekend for those of you who wish to try out the latest equipment.

Weekend weather should be cold with snow & flurries: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.Uqn7mSevkrc  I have not seen any accumulation forecasts yet.

Hunter Dec 10

Hi All,

Hunter is in recovery mode after several days of messy warm and rainy weather. With temps hovering around 30 now, occasional light flurries, flat light and no wind the guns have been turned on in numerous locations. I would expect more terrain to open later this week including more of the East Side, Huega and possibly Wayout as temps plunge overnight and the air remains bitter cold with snow flurries over the next few days. No sun is forecast until Friday. Check it out:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.Uqc4yyfO2Ts

 

The only other news of note is for those of you with Hunter PO Boxes - the boxes and lobby are now accesible 24/7 although no such notice has been posted on the door. This major convenience will be permanent and not just for the holidays. The assistance window however will be open for normal business hours as usual.

 

Movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

 

Will try to give you an "on hill" report Thursday.

Ski ya,

Jon

Hunter Dec 3

Hi All,

I finally ventured out on the slopes today for the first time and it was very enjoyable for what was open. The temp was 40 (now 45) and very sunny with excellent visibility except for the first section of the Belt which was typically dark. The surface conditons were very consistently well groomed soft and easy - great for a first day! The snow did get a bit heavy however by noon time but not grabby / sticky. HBK was smooth from top to bottom as was the Belt - no ice, bare spots or cookies. Hunter was like a ghost town with very few skiers / riders. The base was very good on HBK but I could see that without snow making on certain sections of the belt it could narrow with the warmer temps and rain predicted for later in the week.

Here is the NWS 7 day forecast which doesn't show colder weather until Saturday at the earliest:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157#.Up4Ylyf287o

 

In restaurant news - American Glory BBQ based out of Hudson wuill be running the Village Bistro in Tannersville. The bakery / bagel shop in Hunter is still a few weeks away from opening due to a full makeover of electrical and plumbing etc. The old Yacht Club / Slopes will be open weekends under new ownership as the "Dublin Bear"  www.dublinslopes.com  with a full new menu.  Van Winkles has their new winter menu out as of yesterday but I do not yet have a link to it - stay tuned. 

 

Weekend movies: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html  note they will also be utilizing the Orpheum Theater in T'ville for some movies.

Good to back on sticks!

Jon

Hunter - Ullerfest date changed

Hi All,

Anita has advised that due to the forecast of rain tonight the Ullerfest has been rescheduled for tomorrow, Saturday Nov 23 from  5 - 8 pm.  Temp 41 and raining now.

Remembering JFK today :(

Jon

Hunter - Nov 19 up-date

Hi All,

Even tho the snow guns could be on 24/7 most of this week they are not. So why not? I'll tell you why. The humidity is too high and the water is still too warm plus there is a small temperature inversion where it is warmer at the summit than at the base.The snow they did make last week was because the climate and  predictions justified it.  An earlier test of the system did blow a small feeder pipe just above the bottom of the Flyer which is now fixed. The snowmakers have been advised that they may blow again possibly tonight but this coming Sat night for sure. Hunter buys its power via a multi year contract on a pay as you go basis from a supplier other than Central Hudson but uses CH as its transporter.

It has been very cold and windy with occasional flurries last night and today with clouds, a high of only 33 and bitter wind chills.

In other news:

Keith and Anita are hosting their annual "Ullerfest" this Friday night Nov 22 behind the Pro Ski N Ride shop on Main St.  For those of you unfamiliar with this tradition it involves the burning of a pair of skis in a giant bonfire to appease the snow gods in hopes for a great winter. Good food, grog and friends.

A new doughnut & coffee shop has opened in Tannersville called "Twin Peaks".

A new Italian-American restaurant called "Michaels" has opened in Palenville just passed the traffic light on the left side at the former site of Ryan Nellies Bar.

The Bakery / Bagel Shop in Hunter across from the mountain is still undergoing renovation.

VanWinkles in the KMC hotel will be out soon with the new winter menu and has hired Sharon (used to work in the ski shop for Irwin) as the new ass't mgr.

The main parking lot at the mountain has received a much needed paving, although a patch-work job, and has added a premium pay parking area adjacent to the High Peaks lot on the west end of the base lodge where the handicap parking used to be.

The tow rope at the tubing park has been replaced by a "Magic Carpet" lift.

More fill was added to the approach at the west side quad lift and the area was re-graded - so I was told.

Ski ya soon I hope,

Jon

Hunter - opening day??

Hi All,

Unfortunately the guns were turned off as temps headed into the 40's - 47 now and very sunny. The snow that was made is being stock-piled in huge mounds until such time as they decide to groom it out and open the mtn. This is now estimated to be around Thanksgiving due to a change in weather predictions for warmer temps (50's) and rain early next week. Your guess for an official opening date is as good as mine so as they say - stay tuned......

This will give a you a little more time to get in shape.

By the way, the bagel shop should be opening soon as a bakery / bagel shop under new ownership coming out of a Windham bakery. Also note The Prime Steak House in Windham finally fired Chef  (the woman beater) who previously ran the bagel shop so I am taking it off my black list.

Ski ya,

Jon

Hunter Nov 12 - Guns are on!

Hi All,

A cold artic blast left us with a frozen dusting last night and Hunter turned the snow guns on H-gate. I expect a limited terrain opening by the end of the week if not sooner. It is 26 out and not expected to rise above freezing for several days.

Better get your equipment and bodies in shape!

Ski ya soon,

Jon

Hunter - JDRF walk to cure diabetes

Hi All Hunter fans,

Hope your summer is going well.

I am asking you to donate to the JDRF - Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation - the local annual walk to cure diabetes will take place in Sept. in Saugerties.

Charlie Murphy the 13 year old son of long time Hunter employees John & Terri Murphy was diagnosed with the disease at age 10 and will be walking to raise funds for the foundation. The official website is below and any donations are tax deductible and you will receive an email directly from the foundation detailing your donation.

Fill out the on-line form with Charlie's name, state (NY), and his team name  "Wee Piper". You will also be asked to check a boxes related to anonymity of donors name and amount etc. Open your hearts and wallets and let's put Charlie over the top of his goal - this charity directly benefits children with this nasty disease.

 

http://www2.jdrf.org/site/PageServer?pagename=walk_homepage

 

Thanks in advance for your generosity.

Jon

Hunter April 12

Hi All,

Following from Hunter mgmt:

 

In case you haven't heard already, we are planning to open tomorrow. The
opening time may be delayed based on this storm today and how grooming goes
on the mountain. We'll know more first thing tomorrow morning.

It is sleeting hard and windy with temp at 34 - roads & sidewalks are very slick and grassy areas are turning white. Main St. just got plowed and sanded. No snow accumulation is expected:

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

Movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

 

Lots of brown and bare spots on the mtn - looks like a plague as warm temps all week have taken its toll on the slopes.

The bar should do well this weekend.

Jon

Hunter April 5

Hi All,

A sweet ending to the season's midweek skiing with lots of sun, no wind and great grooming. Racer's and Claire's were not groomed but by mid day Racer's was soft - Claire's still closed. The early frozen corduroy quickly softened in the sun as temps rose from 28 to 50 rather quickly. All main trails were consistently soft and easy. The pond was dug out this am and is now filling with water for tomorrow's party - see attached photo.

Forecast:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

The mtn has stated that it will open the weekend of April 13 - 14 - let's see!  If there are any other decisions I will let you know but otherwise this will be my last regular newsletter and I thank you all for your support and mostly positive responses throughout the season.

Have a safe and enjoyable spring now that it has finally arrived.

Jon

Hunter April 4

Hello Hunter fans,

Finally at around 11 am this morning spring skiing arrived as the frozen snow started to soften under a cobalt blue sky and temps that went from 25 to 50. Today was in the top 10 days of the season. Great grooming on all trails except Racer's which probably was skiable by noon and Claire's which was closed due to a shiny boiler plate surface (it may open this pm). There were no lines and finally no wind. The surface was a consistent hero type snow. Wayout was a great cruiser as it stayed firmer longer. The only thin / brown spots were on the skiers right of Upper K.  Lower K was closed this am but most likely open now. The general base is still deep and not receding on the sides as cold nights preserve it - tonight and Friday night will also be below freezing..

Forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

Saturday is looking even better for a great pond skimming and beach party on the deck - bring sunscreen! You will notice the new benches against the windows and the new tables along the slope side edge of the deck.

Movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

Note that Last Chance Cheese will only be open Fri  thru Sun starting this week thru June 6 after which it will again open weekdays.

Party on.......

Jon

Hunter April 3

Hi All,

Winter just won't let go! Woke up this am to a blanket of snow 1/2 to 1" over everything (2" on top). Skiing this am was very nice but very cold with temps only in the 20's (16 at the summit) and chill factors in the single digits as high winds prevailed with occasional flurries. Temp just now getting above 33 with a bit more sun than clouds. Grooming was much better than yesterday as done on all trails except Claire's & Racer's and you wouldn't want to go on them - frozen solid ripples. There were freshies most of the am especially on the sides of the terrain park slopes with very few customers and virtually no lines. Minya had more snow than most due to its location away from the wind which was out of the west. Wayout was a nice cruiser but the cut through from White Cloud was a bit rocky. Cliff / Ike and HBK/Gunhill all good. The weather should start a warming trend tomorrow after another bitter cold night tonight.

Forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157 or http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

Weekend movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

Even if you don't plan on skiing this Saturday, come on up and enjoy a great deck party.

Windham has closed for the season and Belleayre is following Hunter's spring schedule however without the partying.

Thursday and Friday look to be excellent ski days.

Jon

Hunter April 2

Hi All,

You got me * #(:#$*@ !! Glad that was the fun response from most of you to yesterday's April Fools report about which nothing was true including the 4" of snow - gotcha - ha!

Woke up today to a dusting and flurries with an overcast sky and plenty of wind - temp at 25. The mtn resembled a ghost town with only a handfull of skiers on minimally groomed trails. Visibility went from flat light to okay at times as the sky brightened a bit with temp now around 30 but still a nasty wind. It is amazing how much snow is left on the mtn this late in the season. The nights will be in the low 20's thru Thursday. The pond skimming party this Saturday should be a great success with temps predicted in the mid to upper 40's with sun and, unlike this past Saturday's great crowded deck party when (stupidly) the band and DJ were inside playing to an empty house, the band will be outside.

Hunter's announcement about it: http://echo3.bluehornet.com/hostedemail/email.htm?CID=15102244406&ch=7C80851A8836D3D9BC5ED2496EAF9BA5&h=fd55ec874080e331eebcd70d8ae577a1&ei=svzC8Q6NY

 

Also some news about Van Winkle's Restaurant & Bar in the hotel:

VW will be closing Tuesdays beginning next Tuesday April 9. Also, they will be closed for maintenance Mon - Thurs the week of April 15 through 18, reopening on the 19^th (Fri) at 3 pm.

The weather forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

Keep the cold weather gear out and the edges sharp,

Jon

Hunter March 29

Hi All,

Good Friday was a Great Friday!  After yesterday's dark, windy and snowy sky, today was a welcome relief. It got down to 28 last night but warmed quickly to 44 under a brilliant sun - at least for a while. Clouds came in around 11 am and still dominate. The crowds came out today in a Saturday type atmosphere since schools are all closed for the holiday. The lift line got long for a while until "F" was opened. Claire's was not groomed and was very slick on the upper section but Wayout was a nice cruiser - no lines on the west. The entire front side was groomed and was very nice although it did get heavy fast as the sun beat down on it. The only thin / brown I saw was on Upper K27 otherwise the base is deep and there is still a snow cover in the woods.

Hunter's Easter events: http://echo3.bluehornet.com/hostedemail/email.htm?CID=15026189932&ch=1D91C1A85B761FB00EE12109D17E0E67&h=ce4d100ec534cea285ec39a215fc13c3&ei=sezAxgkNO

Hunter will most likely close during the week April 8-11 then reopen for a final 3 day weekend April 12-14.

Movies: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

The Zip Line is getting back into the swing of things and taking bookings.

Forecast:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

Enjoy your Easter, party hearty and beware of those chocolate Easter bunnies & eggs mmmm!

Jon

Hunter March 27 - A "10"

Hello friends of Hunter,

I do not often give out a "10" but today was one of them. There were no deductions:  not for temps, or grooming, or visibility, or wind, or surface conditons or crowds!  It got down to 23 last night, was 32 at the time lifts opened and 46 now. Great sun, a surface that was like cream cheese on a hard base - call it hero snow or ego snow but it was GREAT! Grooming was perfect tho not on Claire's last night. Best run Cliff / Racer's or Ike. The west side including Claire's will be great this afternoon as it softens a bit. It is getting a bit overcast now and the wind has picked up a bit but still very pleasant outside. These are the best late March conditions I can recall in the 37 years I have been skiing here. The cold nights will continue to preserve the base even tho the trend now is for warmer days. I anticipate seeing the bears out sometime next week even though the ground off trail is still white & frozen.

Forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157  or  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

Weekend movies: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

These late winter conditions are rare for March so get out and enjoy them - keep the golf clubs in the closet a bit longer.

Ski on.....

Jon

Hunter March 26

Hello Hunter fans,

Winter just won't let go. Upper 20's last night, only 34 now with a stiff breeze and crazy changing weather with mostly dark clouds bringing some heavy snow squalls and some flurries off the great lakes with a few glimpses of the sun. There was actually some accumulation on the top half of the mtn. I did not ski but I can tell you surface conditions were excellent however visibilty went from near zero during the squalls to okay. The mtn policy this school holiday week has been to groom every trail every night except Racer's and Claire's which get groomed alternatively every other night. Last night it was Claire's turn but Racer's was anyway good. Upper K was not done either. There were more than the usual number of people for a Tuesday (school holiday) but not enough for a lift line. A definite closing date has still not been established as they are waffling on opening during the week after April 7. It will be based on how many customers they think they will have so like several past seasons it will come down to a last minute decision - It's all about the $money$ now.

The 7 day forecast calls for more variable weather with possibilities for snow & rain as we head towards the weekend with a gradual warming trend into the low 40's.

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

You'll need wax on those skis and boards - it's getting sticky.

It's ski & party time - Happy Passover and Easter holidays.

Jon

Hunter March 22

Hi All,

Another dusting last night with cold temps made for another nice day of skiing. It was a bit colder today and the visibility was not as good as yesterday due to frequent cloud cover. There was a noticiable wind on top also. A front started moving in around 11:30 with flat light and flurries as expected. Grooming again was sensational with the entire mountain treated to a facial. Claire's was hard and fast but the best trail in terms of snow was Racer's which actually had a powder surface rather than granular. The Eside trails were quite good as was Cliff, HBK and Ike. No crowds, no lines and no "F" or "D" all week.  There was a rumor of bear tracks on Eside Drive but I didn't see any. It wont be long untill we do have bear sightings if spring ever gets here. The 7 day forecast calls for continued cold and flurries. Sunday looks to be a bit warmer than Saturday as we may see temps hit 40.  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

Keep the cold weather gear handy and the edges sharpened,

Jon

Hunter March 21

Hi All,

Winter is ignoring the calendar. It got down to 9 last night, 20 by the start of the day and only about 32 now.

First let me say that I got biased negative info yesterday which I heard about today from many who said skiing was great with excellent grooming but there was a visibility issue. From now on, if I do not experience the conditions first hand, I will not rely on others for trail condition reports.

Today was a top 10 day of the year. We had another dusting last night and there was great sun, no wind, perfect grooming and very consistent flat, fast and firm surface conditions. I had the most runs on Racer's and Claire's than I have all season. There wasn't a bad trail on the mtn and there were no lines in spite of the fact this is another college week - spring break - where $35 and a vaild ID gets you a lift ticket.

The season is now going to be extened another week to April 14 due to the fact that we still have an unbelievable base with more cold weather and some snow for next week.

In other news, The Bagel Shop is closed and has a "For Sale" sign on it.

There are still tickets ($150/each) available for the Beaux Arts Ball on Saturday night April 6.

Movies: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

Forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157  or  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

Keep those skis tuned and enjoy some great winter conditions.

Jon

Hunter March 20

Hello Hunter Fans,

So much for the first day of spring!  We had another dusting to an inch of wind blown snow last night. Temps remain very cold for the season with 21 last night to only 33 now. The early skiers had comments like: very limited grooming, heavy, tough, alot of work, flat light, cold and windy. The clouds have been prevalent all day with only occasional glimpses of filtered sunlight. The rest of the week looks to be about the same with cold temps, wind and clouds:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157   or   http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

So far this has been one of the coldest if not the coldest month of March in decades.

Weekend movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

In restaurant news - The Village Bistro in Tannersville is closed - out of business and the Bagel Shop in Hunter I'm afraid is not far behind.

The tentative closing date for the mountain is Sunday April 7 even though there will be plenty of snow left on the trails.

Keep those edges sharp - no spring conditions for a while!

Jon

Hunter March 19

Hi All,

You would never know that tomorrow is the first day of spring. Mother nature is messing with us. We had about 3" of snow followed by about 2" of sleet topped off with another 2" of wet snow. The roads did not get cleared until after noon time and all schools were shut down. Temps went from 29 to almost 40 now and the snow is very heavy. Those who attempted to ski early said it was very heavy, sticky and tough. I witnessed those few who were out there struggling to get down Racer's.

The forecast calls for cold nights and flurries:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157 or go to 

http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

Tomorrow could be a great ski day.

Play hooky!

Jon

Hunter March 18 - winter storm warning

Hello Hunter Fans,

I hope everyone enjoyed their St Patrick's Day. Temps dipped to 9 last night but with the sun out early and no wind it rose quickly to 33 now.  Clouds have moved in with a front that should bring us some wet March snow tonight:   5 - 8" is the latest forecast. Grooming was excellent and skiing was fast on a frozen granular surface - it was an ego day.  Snow Forecast:

 

 

It will be cold through the rest of the week:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

and  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

 

Wish I could call it a powder alert but it looks too wet for that.

So much for an early spring,

Jon

Hunter March 15

Hi All,

Remember the words whispered to Caesar "Beware the ides of March" - well today there was nothing to beware of - yesterday's brutal arctic dark cold windy weather is gone. The sun was out early and strong with just a light breeze and temps were 20 overnight but 30 by the time the lift opened. The grooming was excellent and the surface conditions were hard, fast, flat, easy & enjoyable. Cliff/Racer's or Ike - great as was HBK and the Eside trails. There was no ice although Claire's had a bit of a shine to it and Wayout was in great shape. Where it wasn't groomed looked like moonscape. Not much coverage left on 44 or Apurna which were closed. The sun disappeared around 11:30 and it is snowing lightly now at 33. Looks like cold weather will preserve the snow for the weekend but you need good edges. Forecasts:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157  or  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php  Sunday - St. Patty's day, looks to be the sunnier of the two.

Movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

Last weekend for Bear Creek - reservations recommended.

Watch out for that green beer and local law enforcement but stay thirsty my friends,

Jon

Hunter March 13

Hi All,

We had 2" of rain yesterday and the temps dropped to 29 last night (21 on top). I went out at 10 this am and called it quits after 1 run. Grooming was done on all trails except Racer's, Claire's & Alternate, Whitecloud, UpperK & Dropoff.  Although the sun is out now and it is 42 it was very cloudy this am and the surface was very variable / deep heavy granular sugar with marbles and occasional ice. Where the water ponded near the bottom of "F" and under the upper section of "B" it was a frozen lake.  The mtn was like a ghost town. The weather will turn much colder over the next few nights with some flurries possible and high wind as a cold front moves in.

Forecast:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157  or http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

Weekend movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

Keep those edges sharp.

Jon

Hunter March 12

Hello Hunter fans,

Rain, rain go away.....It has taken a significant toll on the mtn as brown and bare spots appear.  All of the snow that fell last week is gone and then some. Front lawns are visible again for the first time in months. Those who skied yesterday am said it was only possible and good but heavy where it was groomed and not many trails were groomed. It was 50 yesterday and low 40's overnight with a temp now of 48, heavy rain, high winds and poor visibility. It has been raining hard since last night and typical of March, freezing temps in the 20's and teens are forecast for tonight thru the weekend nights.

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157  or   http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

Streams and creeks are high and getting higher as ice dams break up - flood warnings have been issued for the entire region.

This will be the last weekend for Bear Creek managed by The Lazy Swan as the seasonal lease ends so make reservations if you plan on dining there.

Better sharpen your edges again for the up-coming St. Patty's Day weekend.

Ski ya,

Jon

Hunter March 8 - powder day

Hi All,

The snow storm unexpectedly stalled over us and the snow has been coming down heavily all day so far. We will end up with about 10". Schools are closed and the streets including 23A are still all white - no significant plowing yet.The temp has slowly climbed from 25 to about 31 now and the wind has been steady at about 10 - 15 mph.  Very few trails were groomed and skiing I hear is alot of work with compromised visibility. The west side is better than the front as A'purna has opened and 44 is back on the open list. 

Expect warmer temps Sat and Sun with sunny skies for the Winter Carnival.

Movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

Weather: http://www.cbs6albany.com/weather/features/7day/    or  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

Wax your skis,

Jon

Hunter March 5

Hi All,

After a miserable weather day yesterday that didn't warrant skiing, today started off cold 27 and cloudy with top 1/3 of the mtn in a fog but finally - no wind. After waiting an hour for some brightness to work its way in, the first two runs were still dominated by flat light.  The surface was great, soft, no ice, very well groomed. It got brighter and warmer with each run until the sun broke through and brought the temp up to 40. There were no crowds and no lines. Even the trails that had not been groomed like upper K and Eside were okay.  Best runs: Cliff to either Racer's or Ike and Rt 80. Did not ski Claire's as wasn't sure about the upper part - it had not been groomed. Some crazy daredevil on skis went thru the closed signs on 44 and was slowly working his way down the fence line - it was not well covered.

Hunter has a big winter carnival weekend coming up:

http://echo3.bluehornet.com/hostedemail/email.htm?CID=14769742023&ch=DC86D7DD43B77EAA3E5FA8D46595DF0E&h=8022e99faddd82a4a140ea56dfac21cf&ei=WWNsAqkNj

The weather for the rest of the week does not look that good with mixed snow & rain predicted but no accumulation:

http://www.cbs6albany.com/weather/features/7day/  or   http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

Ski on....Party on!

Jon

Hunter March 1

Hi All,

Did someone say crunchy? Yes it was frozen corduroy, noisy and fast with very poor visibility as low clouds dominated the day. Temps were 30 overnight and 34 now with occasional flurries. Wind was not a factor.  Reliable sources said grooming was sub-par but I was told that the entire mtn including Claire's and Racer's will get a facial tonight. I was told that good (not great) runs included WhiteCloud to Wayout. The trails were scraped off early and one had to stay to the sides to get the "sugar" otherwise it was slick city. The mtn was empty for a Friday. The weekend weather looks to be mostly cloudy with temps in the low to mid 30's.

Forecasts: http://www.cbs6albany.com/weather/features/7day/      http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

For those of you who have AT&T as a cell phone carrier you will be happy to hear that they will add a dish to the older communication tower on top of the mtn very soon.

Movies:   http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

Ski on.....

Jon

Hunter Feb 28

Hello all,

The last day of Feb was "push the mush" day according to the die hards that ventured out there today. The mtn was in a fog until about 10:30 and skiing was alot of work. Only the groomed trails - and there were not alot of them - were easy to ski. The ungroomed were like cement - sticky, grabby snow. The sky did get alot brighter after noon but no direct sun. The temp is 43 now with occasional rain and wet flurries. It never really went below 30 last night.

Forecasts call for continued clouds thru the weekend with some flurries and wet stuff: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157  or  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php  or http://www.cbs6albany.com/weather/features/7day/

 

Movies this weekend include Les Mis:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

Ski ya,

Jon

Hunter Feb 27

Hi All,

It's a sloppy mess here in Hunter. We had about 5" of wet snow last night while the temp was 29 but this am it changed to rain - heavy at times - and now 39. There is nothing but very heavy slush all over the place as the water has no where to drain. The rain will continue well into this evening.  I can't even imagine what skiing was like today other than very wet and uncomfortable especially on the lift. The wind is not bad  - yet. The top 1/2 of the mtn has been invisible all day - in a wet fog.

Forecasts show no sun any time soon:  http://www.cbs6albany.com/weather/features/7day/    http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

My fear is that it will freeze overnight.

Stay tuned........

Jon

Hunter Feb 26

Hello all,

After a cold night with a heavy frost the base temp was 20 (not 30 as the mtn reported) and the sky was dark and cloudy with very flat light until about 10 am when some brightness emerged. There was no wind and the skiing was on a frozen noisy corduroy surface for a while until the temps rose (now 40) and more light filtered through the clouds. The snow softened quite a bit in a short period of time. Claire's was groomed last night and proved to be a hard, flat and fast run. Most of the front was groomed EXCEPT Minya, Dropoff, Gunhill and Racer's. It was all consistent hard, noisy and fast until about 11:30 when it softened. 
There were no crowds / lines at all and no "F" which not needed.

Hunter announced today a big weekend party for March 9 - 10:  

We still have plenty of fun coming up with the Winter Carnival on Saturday, March 9th, including a Paper Box Derby and a Dummy Race.  Get your creative juices flowing and think up your most clever creations- there are prizes to be won!  We will finish off the night with a torchlight parade and fireworks extravaganza brought to you by our friends at Grand Marnier. http://youtu.be/z1FVg9EWLhw

The weather forecast for tomorrow (24 hr storm) as you all probably know (unless you live in a cave) is nasty with snow, sleet, wind & rain predictions all over the place:  from 2 - 4" to 6 - 9".  Take your pick: 

http://www.cbs6albany.com/weather/features/7day/      

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157     http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

I forgot to metion to those of you who have not been down Ski Bowl Rd lately that one of the last reminders of Hunter's hey days has been torn down - O'Sheas  a.k.a. Mahogany Ridge is now a pile of rubble.

I most likely will not be out on the hill tomorrow if visibility is poor as expected.

Be skiing ya soon,

Jon

Hunter Feb 25

Hi All,

With the crowds and wet weather gone Monday started out very overcast and dark so I got out a bit later than usual. Last night we had just enough freezing mist and light snow to leave a crusty coating around town. The sun made an appearance late this am but after playing hide n seek with the clouds, lost out to a low cloud cover.  Surface conditions were soft and spring-like as temps hit the upper 30's and in fact the snow became heavy by noon time. It was easy skiing as long as you could see. Everything was groomed flat for the most part including Upper Cross (rare occasion) which was very sweet. There were no crowds and no lines. The Local Motion race was set for today on Madison. White Cloud to Wayout was very nice but since I didn't see a soul on Claire's I wasn't going to be the guinea pig even tho it looked flat from the bottom - looks can be deceiving especially on that trail. HBK, Cliff/Racers, Ike all good.  Tomorrow should be okay but it looks like we are getting  some real messy weather Tue nite into Wed with a mix of snow, sleet and rain coming out of storms now in the mid-west and south as they combine forces. Forecasts are all the same:

http://www.cbs6albany.com/weather/features/7day/       http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php    http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

Ski on.....

Jon

Hunter Feb 22

Hello Hunter fans and Happy B'day George Washington.

The wind died down and the sun made a hazy appearance until 10 am when it disappeared behind a low cloud cover and the light went very flat. The sun has reappeared now and the temp has climbed from 21 early to 36. The front side trails were once again groomed to perfection and there wasn't a bad spot to be found. I cannot comment on the west side as I never made it over there. The lift lines started to build around 10 as many poured in for the end of President's week and filled up the Flyer corral. There are various reports for the weekend weather ranging from 2 - 4 " of snow to snow changing over to sleet and freezing rain Sat into Sun. Take your pick: 

http://www.cbs6albany.com/weather/features/7day/           http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php    http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

 

Happy Trails,

Jon

Hunter Feb 21

Hi All,

I am pleased to say that I can once again give you first hand ski reports. The day started out very cold and windy with a temp of  6 at the summit and wind chills 18 below zero.  It is about 22 now but still windy. The sun was strong and the wind was bad at the base and summit only - there was no wind from Hgate down to Kennedy. The entire mtn was groomed to perfection - not even a cat track. There were very few people and one could ski right onto the chairlift. "F" was running too. Apparently it was too windy to open the west side lift so those trails were all closed this am. I tried to get down to Wayout via the Belt and the wind stood me straight up going down the first section above the switch-back. I heard that the west opened up late morning. Cliff / Racers was perfect as was HBK, Ike, Eside, Milky, and Minya/Lower Cross. Other than the wind, it was a near perfect day. Tomorrow looks to be even better with no wind and temps in the low 30's. The weekend weather looks to be variable:  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

The weeknd movies: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

This should be the last crazy weekend as President's Week comes to an end (yeah!) with multiple races for various groups.

Back on skis,

Jon

Hunter Feb 13

Hi All,

What a beautiful day to be skiing - too bad I'm not out yet due to a confirmed torn rotator cuff.

Temps dipped into the mid 20's last night but rebounded quickly to 40 now (60 on the deck in the sun).

Loads of sun, no wind and a great base that was well groomed. My sources told me that the East Side trails softened first and were like skiing through icing on a cake. Claire's was scary this am with alot of hard ice - maybe soft enough to enjoy now. Racer's was primo as was the rest of the face of the mtn. For those of you that were here on Sunday you were part of a 10 year record crowd!

There was a decent crowd for a Wednesday with only minor lift lines and no lift problems.

Tomorrow the mtn is hosting a free Valentine's Day "renew your vows" ceremony at the summit wedding deck for those with lift tickets and the ability to ski down.  I understand there will be alot of participants (see below).

There will be fireworks Sat night to start off Presidents week.

Weekend movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

The weather will continue with cold nights and warmer days with some mixed precipitaion on Friday night into Sat. http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php or you can go to:  http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

Don't forget your significant other tomorrow or you will join Fido in the dog house!

Ski ya,

Jon

 

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 who are able to ski or ride from the top of the mountain.  Everyone participating will meet on the summit deck at 10:30am.  Reverend Karen Monk, of the Kaaterskill United Methodist Church will be there to officiate the ceremony. After the “I Do's”, the group will be treated to a small reception at the summit lodge.

 

Not that this has anything to do with skiing but for those of you who drink diet soda, best read this news:

http://shine.yahoo.com/healthy-living/study-diet-soda-increases-risk-diabetes-why-still-192600358.html

Hunter Feb 7 storm warning - powder alert

Hi All,

We are in for a major snow event Friday into Saturday morning 14 - 20 inches expected with high winds i.e a nor'easter.

Airlines are already warning passengers to change flights now without incurring extra fees.

See below NWS Albany forecast:

 

 

Clouds will continue to increase and thicken tonight well in advance of a developing storm, which is currently making its way through the mid part of the country.  This low pressure center will make its way down the Ohio Valley tonight toward Cleveland by early tomorrow morning.  On this track, light snow will begin to break out in Central and Northern New York by sunrise tomorrow.  Overnight lows will be in the upper teens.  At the same time, a secondary low pressure center, rich with subtropical moisture, will get organized in the Northern Gulf of Mexico.  This system will track through the Southeast to a position near Cape Hatteras by early morning tomorrow. 
Light snow will continue to overspread the entire region during the morning hours tomorrow.  During the day, the energy from the primary storm will transfer to the coast and the secondary storm will become more powerful.  Snowfall rates will increase as this occurs and by tomorrow evening a steady light to moderate snow will be falling.  We can expect at least a few inches of snow across most of interior New York and New England by dark.  Temperatures will top out in the upper 20’s.
At this point, the storm will intensify rapidly as it makes its way to a position east and south of Cape Cod overnight into Saturday morning.  It is during this time that the heaviest snow will fall.  Most places will pick up at least 8 to as much as 14 inches of snow in the Mohawk Valley, the Greater Capital District and Northern New York and Vermont.  Parts of the Catskills, the Mid and Lower Hudson Valley, the Taconics, Berkshires, Southern Vermont and Southern New England will receive at least a foot of snow up to 18 inches.  There will be considerable blowing and drifting of the snow, especially closer to the storm’s center towards the coast.  Please click here for a detailed snowfall forecast map.
More wind and snow is likely on Saturday morning but it will gradually wind down during the morning, first in Central and Eastern New York,  then in New England, where it could snow at least into the early part of the afternoon.  Several more inches of snow will accumulate in these locations.  With a return to sunshine from west to east, high temperatures will be in the mid to upper 20’s.
Be careful on the roads!
Jon

Hunter Feb 6

Hi All,

Been some good cold weather skiing as long as you stay on the groomed sections otherwise it's moonscape. The temp never got out of the 20's this week and it has been windy and cloudy most of the time except for today when sun prevailed. Hunter did make some new snow on the main trails.

It looks like a significant storm is developing for Friday which should please the powder hounds. http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

I haven't seen any accumulation predicitons yet.

The WNYT Albany forecast:

The wind shifting to the northwest and becoming gusty, readings will fall back through the 20's during the late afternoon hours.

It will be dry and cold tonight with most locations falling to between 0 and 10 above.
On Thursday, morning sunshine will give way to increasing clouds as a storm heads our way from the west.  This storm will bring light snow across the Adirondacks and North Country later in the day.  Highs will be in the lower to mid 20's. 
From there, we'll continue to track the opportunity for a decent snow storm on Friday as initial storm transfers its energy to a stronger coastal storm.  The exact timing, track and intensity of the coastal storm will determine what we get for snowfall across our region, but it looks like most of us will have at least a moderate snowstorm.
Weekend movies: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html
Hope to ski ya soon,
Jon

Hunter Jan 30

Hi All,

Crazy weather here yesterday and today as temps climbed to 62 with strong winds, clouds and light rain. Now 59 with even heavier rain due late tonight, possibly up to 2" with flood watches posted.  The firemen who are here racing this week are feeling the heat! Conditions are soft and in some places very sticky.  Most of the snow on lawns and in the trees is gone.

Weekend movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

The weather is going to turn much colder and alot of this moisture is going to freeze over the next few days.

Mountain weather forecast:  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

Tomorrow is the last day to buy discounted tickets to the Country Music Festival before sales are open to the public on Feb 1st.

http://echo3.bluehornet.com/hostedemail/email.htm?CID=14349591057&ch=E46C71DC95049AC8244136BFFBBCC119&h=54dec1b3cb949ac7df0cc058a042ab11&ei=WpTMPMk1N

Hoping to be back on the slopes sooner than later,

Jon

Hunter Jan 23

Hi All,

Great frigid weather skiing. Hunter has been blowing tons of snow all over the mtn around the clock.  The sun is strong today but the temps and wind chills are an issue. It was -1 this am but now a heat wave at 8. The police races are going on today and tomorrow, crowds are minimal and surface conditions are excellent.

The end of the week and weekend are shaping up for some great conditions. Some snow is due on Friday but the amount of accumulation is still in debate.

Weekend movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

Mtn forecast:  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

Some of you may be interested in this article concerning skiing vs. snowboarding trends - I like it!! 

http://travel.yahoo.com/ideas/snowboarding-losing-popularity--while-skiing-heats-up-200354126.html

Be safe!

Jon

Hunter Jan 17

Hi All,

Another cloudy, flat light bleak day today. Temps around 30 all day but due to get bitter cold tonight with wind. Ski reports today were mixed:  poor to acceptable depending on where you were. Snow making was in progress on many trails with many guns blowing wet (on purpose according to the snow makers who were questioned about it) especially on Wayout. Hunter is trying to build up the base for the 3 day weekend. Rocks were still prevalent just under the surface.

 

My first hand trail reports unfortunately will end for a while - maybe for the season - pending an orthopedic / MRI evaluation of my right shoulder which popped out and after a few minutes back in plus a hematoma on my right hip as a result of a fall down icy steps last night. There seems to be rotator cuff damage but no broken bones per the X-rays. Just getting over a bad cold too - hasn't been a good week - and of course I am right handed! Thank God for Oxycodone! 

 

Weather forecast:  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php    or  http://wnyt.com/article/708/

 

Movies: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

 

Shit happens - no report tomorrow - will be in Albany at the ortho's office - have a great weekend!

Jon

Hunter Jan 16

Hello All,

I did not ski but was told by several that I didn't miss much. We got about 4 to 6" of semi wet snow that barely covered the ice and rocks. Reports were of a thin layer of snow on top of ice and rocks with damage to ski bottoms. A wet snow & freezing mist at the top coated goggles with ice limiting visibility. Wet chairs contributed to people getting very wet. Having said that, I also heard the first few runs, making tracks where it was groomed on the main line, Eside, Minya and Lowercross was sweet but only where there had been a base before. The problem was knowing where the bare spots and rocks had been showing before. Rock skis were the smart way to go today. It is 34 now with a mix of wet snow and fine rain. The snow clumped up fast after it was cut up.

Schools were closed and there were no power outages that I am aware of.

The roads were plowed, salted and are clear. The temps will drop into the low 20's tonight and freeze everything so the grooming had better be good for tomorrow. Forecast:  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

We have a 3 day weekend (MLK) coming up so expect some crowds again.  Movies:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

For those of you in Colonel's Chair please note there was another water interruption last night due to water main repairs so flush the dirty water out of your pipes before flushing toilets or using any hot water.

Ski ya,

Jon

Hunter Jan 15 - powder alert

Hi All,

Hunter has been making snow on the main trails but a storm arriving tomorrow should help alot. See below chart showing us in the 3 - 5" range.  Due to our elevation we should be at the higher end of this range.

Powder hounds get ready........

Jon

 

 

 

 

Hunter Jan 14

Hi All,

I did not ski today and did not speak to anyone who did. Most likely not skiing tomorrow either due to a bad head cold. Local Motion Race # 1 was scheduled for today with the post race party in the base lodge back by the bandstand. I can tell vou that the warm temps over the weekend in the 50's and a heavy rain last night really took its toll on the mtn. Lots of brown and bare spots showing and I wouldn't recommend using good skis.

The weather does turn colder tonight and I hope they can find a window to make snow over the next few days because we really need it. All the snow that was on lawns and in the woods is gone.

Mtn weather forecast:  http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

I can recommend dining at Bear Creek which is now under new management "The Lazy Swan" from Saugerties - excellent food and service, moderate to high prices for the mountain top but worth it!

Ski ya soon,

Jon

Hunter Jan 10

Hi All,

There were a number of people who contacted me and said that ski conditions yesterday were very good. Of course the snow softened by late morning but visibility / light remained flat. It's the old story - ask 5 people something subjective and you'll get 5 different opinions. If you do not like my reports don't read them and ask to be taken off my list - no problem - but the majority of the 113 on my list generally accept what I have to report which is alot more than just surface conditions. There are a number of people whose opinions I do not agree with - and you know who you are - because they will ski anything any time and whose philosophy is any day on the slopes is better than a day in the office. Some have better vision than others but defensive skiing for whatever reason to me is not enjoyable nor worth the risk! I may not have as many days on the slopes as some of you but what I do have on skis is quality time which to me is more important than quantity.

 

Today was a great morning weather-wise, brilliant sun, temps mid 30's and climbing, a stiff breeze and excellent grooming surface conditions on the front side. Racer's was still not groomed tho. The problem for me today was the crowd - it was like a weekend day with long lines and crowded slopes by 11 am. Apparently NY State has a program that Hunter participates in whereby different ski areas offer NY residents a coupon to buy a lift tkt for $10 on line and today was Hunter's turn. At least 1,800 were sold and this is on top of college week. It is great for the mtn and local businesses.

 

Claire's and 44 were closed this am as they were polished to a shine by the strong winds last night which also blew tree debris all over the slopes. Wayout was open but still a bit frozen and crunchy at the time I skied it. Ski conditions should be excellent this pm as temps climb into the 40's and the sun stays out.

 

The forecast for Fri & Sat varies and the wet weather my hold off until later in the day. See the mtn top forecast as well as the NWS forecast below.

http://www.ctweather.com/wrip-weather.php

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157

 

Movies: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html

There is a great Blues Hall of Fame concert coming to the Orpheum Theater in Tannersville on Sat night Feb 16: http://www.catskillmtn.org/events/world-music/2013-02-16-the-blues-hall-of-fame-night-at-637.html   Reserved tickets are only $25 for a great lineup!

No report tomorrow.

Ski ya,

Jon