volklyokel

That's one of the most sensible things I've heard in a long time! I can't wait to be having fun again! Someone posted a photo of snowmaking at Snowshoe in WV. Won't be long now. When I make my Pocono run, I'll probably go to as many hills as I can (midweek) and test out as much terrain as I can, including CB, so that I'll be better able to plan a more dedicated return trip for 2005-2006. I'm not all that keen on run-outs, however. Given what some have said, it sounds like some of this group would really like Blue Knob. If you've never been over there, they have good glades (when the snow is good) and some hair-raising steeps. The total vertical drop is only 10 feet shy of Blue's, so the runs are fairly long (for PA). The lifts are as poky as anything in all of PA, and the top-of-the-hill lodge (an inverted resort) is about as lackluster as they come. So the Knob is for those who like to ski and board in good, challenging terrain, but aren't so interested in the ambience of the lodge. I'd love it if they could swing a high-speed quad, but the profits, apparently, just aren't there to make it happen... VolklYokel

I'm grateful for this thread, as I was considering making a three or four day (weekday) run up to the Poconos. I've not skied anywhere up there (except BB and JF a few years ago with a group, which were fun little hills for about half a day). I was considering Blue, CB and Elk. With what I've heard here on PS&R, looks like I might just visit Elk and Blue only. Of course, I'll stick to my plan for (a) doing a few days at Blue Knob, my favorite place in the East that I've been to so far; and ( ten days or two weeks in Utah and ski with the big boys. V

Yes, the lifts at Alta have footrests. It does seem odd that there are still a couple of places that don't permit snowboarding. Deer Valley is another such place in Utah. At Alta, this last season, I saw someone skiing on a single, double-width ski though, so I guess those are permitted. I'm excited about the new Collins-Germania chair at Alta. I hope they'll update, next, the Wildcat chair. But I must say, my favorite place to ski in Utah is Brighton (yes, snowboards are welcome!). VolklYokel

Alta's had 122 inches of snow so far this season! It looks to be an awesome year in the Wastach! Can't wait til late February for my two week vacation out there... VolklYokel