IT’S SNOW TIME! Ski Biz is Open in New Hampshire

PHOTO: Skiers on Outer Bounds at Bretton Woods. The Skyway Gondola up to the new Rosebrook Lodge is open and it isn’t just for skiers and snowboarders, scenic round-trip gondola rides are available to the public.

by Amy Patenaude
Outdoor/Ski Writer

Thanks to the snow makers and Mother Nature the trails and slopes are open all over the State. Christmas is looking better than ever for snowsports this year.
Yah, things are different this year.
But different doesn’t mean it’s impossible or difficult. A little planning ahead is well worth the effort for some good winter fun.
Ski New Hampshire’s “Know before you go” is a good place to discover what you need to do before arriving at your favorite resort. The Granite State Visitor Code of Conduct is a helpful resource for those coming from out of State. Visit SkiNH.com for updated information.

Most of the ski areas and Nordic Centers have been open since the beginning of December. Season passes have always been a good value but this year they are your best bet. At many resorts their season pass holders were given an extra bonus by having opening day only for pass holders, no day tickets were sold. This allowed the resorts to get into the swing with the new way of doing things and making happy their most dedicated visitors.
Different this season, even with a season pass a few resorts are requiring reservations and most all require day tickets to be purchased on-line in advance. This is a good thing that resorts are limiting contact and eliminating crowded lines of people.

Wearing face coverings and practicing social distancing isn’t difficult and honestly it doesn’t seem different since we have to do it everywhere else we go these days.
What is different is having limited access to the lodges but it is okay. We are being asked to get dressed and boot up in our cars to reduce the amount of time people are inside. Get dressed at home as much as you can but be sure you don’t overheat in the car. Keep your boots warm so they will be easier to put on when you arrive. Most of us can’t put our boots on inside our car so bringing a towel or a rug to stand to keep your feet dry is helpful.

The lodges are open and are serving food and hot drinks. The bathrooms are open too. With social distancing requirements we have to all use the lodges less so that everyone can use them when they need to use them.
Lessons and rentals need to be purchased on-line and in advance.
Something that isn’t different is that time is running out to sign up for adult race leagues; they’re still a go. Night skiing is still a thing too, Yippee!
Please, oh please, stay home if you’re feeling sick. No one wants to catch anything.

My friends and I have found it easy to follow the guidelines that the State and the resorts have set forth for keeping each other safe and healthy. I hope you do too.
Skiing makes me happy. Seeing families and young children having fun makes me happy too.
Merry Christmas and Have Fun.