vermont ski & ride, march 2014

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Whats the secret locals know about spring? See page 23 Fine dining at Killingtons Ledgewood Yurt

SNOWCATTHRILLSAt Sugarbush, guestsget a taste of catskiingand knee-deep powder!

12 spring eventsnot to be missed!

Kid savvy!Two resorts set the bar

for skill development in the backcountry

Six useful apps for skiers and riders!

A zipline for Stowe?From top of the gondola

all the way down!

2PA G E 2 V E R M O N T S K I A N D R I D E M A G A Z I N E , F E B R U A RY / M A R C H

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MONDAYS 50/50 Mondays-""(()!)($#%'%'%"!(($%+'

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Advertising Sales Assistant Editor Christy Lynn Evan Johnson

Contributing writers/photographersSilvia Cassano and Herb Swanson

Graphic Artist/ProductionStephanie Manning

For news tips or to advertise call 802-388-4944 or email: [email protected]

Advertising & Editorial Office: Vermont Ski & Ride Magazine58 Maple Street, Middlebury, Vt. 05753802-388-4944 (also offices of the Addison Independent)

Vermont Ski & Ride Magazine is owned and operated by Addison Press Inc., a Vermont company locally owned since 1946. Vermont Ski and Ride Magazine is published monthly November through March.

M a g a z i n eRideandSV

ermont

kiEditor/Publisher, Angelo Lynn

[email protected]

Chris Kaldy glides through untracked snow on Paradise in mid-March off of Sugarbushs Heavens Gate lift.

Photo by John Atkinson

Cover Photo:

6-7 Snowcat ThrillsTheir motto says it all: When its snowing, the snowcat at Sugarbush is going. We joined a crew after Storm Vulcan dropped 20 inches of snow on March 12 for an early morning of untracked skiing!

8-9 Kid SavvyTwo resorts, Sugarbush and Bromley, have established skill-based programs to teach youth, 10-17, how to survive and thrive in the backcountry. As part of a growing movement, thesse two resorts are leading the way.

18-19 Junior NationalsNordic teams from across the country came to Stowe, March 1-8, for a national event that put some of the best young racers in the nation in head-to-head competition. The conditions were great, as are these photos by Herb Swanson.

20 Killingtons YurtAt Killington, fine dining can be found at Ledgewood Yurt, which is a 15-minute sleigh ride into secluded woods above the Snowshed Lodge.

21 Stowes ziplineStowe resort has plans for parallel ziplines that would go from the top of the gondola all the way to the base.

Amazing On-line Ticket Deals! Learn more


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Publishers Desk

Some of the nations best racers competed at the Junior Nationals competition at Trapps Touring Center in Stowe for seven days in early March. See more photos on pages 18-19. Photo by Herb Swanson

You have to love a job with perks. The day after Storm Vulcan dropped two feet of snow across north-central Vermont,

I hitched a ride on Sugarbushs Lincoln Limo with a dozen others to go catskiing at the resort. For two hours-plus, we skied 20-plus inches of untracked powder, dancing above the submerged moguls on Morning Glory and Sunrise off the North Lynx chairlift.

Thats heavenly skiing. Better than what we had skiing earlier this winter on a four-day catskiing trip in British Columbia, where they had a rare three-week snow drought. And compare the cost? Well, $75 for the morning runs at Sugarbush compared to the several grand youll spend on a week-long trip to BC. Now, thats not an apples-to-apples com-parison, but still, its a heckuva value right here at home.

More important, however, is that Sugarbushs snowcat treks brings the experience of skiing untracked powder to guests. For skiers and riders, its a joy not to be missed, and savored whenever you can.

Sugarbushs Fresh Tracks program (see the story on Pages 6-7) also allows skiers to get a feel of what a catskiing trip in BC or New Zealand or elsewhere would be like. If you can zip down Paradise in two feet of snow, and dodge the trees in Slide Brook wilderness, chances are youll do fine on most guided trips (though the terrain is often steeper with less predictable snow.)

And like anything worth doing, it takes a little sacrifice. Youre up at 5:30 a.m., at the resort getting a cup of coffee by 6:30 a.m., and youre on your first run around 7. If its zero or so with 20-30 mph winds, as it was this morning, its a bit nippy. But that first run floating through the moguls on velvety snow will make it all worthwhile and put a grin on your face the rest of the winter.

**********Talking about grins, we joined a couple friends in Killington for an evening sleigh ride to

that resorts Ledgewood Yurt for a night of fine dining. The five-course meal was superb, the yurt was amazingly cozy, and the sleigh ride with a light snow falling and you and your date wrapped up in warm, woolen blankets was as romantic as it gets.

The yurt is usually open Friday and Saturday nights (see story on Page 20) with expand-ed hours during peak season and holidays.

********** Late winter is the culmination of the racing season, which means several Winter Carni-

vals in Vermont hosting the best racers in New England. We captured some photos of the action at the Middle-bury College Winter Carnival, and also review the action at the Junior Nationals Nordic competition held at Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe from March 1-8.

The racing at the Junior Nationals was phenomenal. The speed, endurance and determination of these young athletes is inspiring and breathtaking to watch. (See pho-tos on Pages 18-19)

The event brought huge kudos to the Trapp Family Lodge for putting on such a great show and to the Stowe community for all the support it gave the effort. The event also reflected well on the state as the snow conditions couldnt have been better, and the weeks weather held cold and steady with mostly bluebird days.

Thank our lucky stars. **********

We also feature two stories on backcountry skiing one previewing a backcountry training workshop held at Bolton Valley Ski Resort and the Catamount Trail Associa-tion (pages 24-25) and the other on two ski resort programs geared toward educating 10-17-year-olds on survival skills and safety in the backcountry (pages 8-9), as well as how to love being out there.

********** For those readers looking for family-fun things to do this spring, this issue highlights

dozens of events not to miss, great deals on season passes for next year and ski tickets this spring, as well as a feature on six useful mobile apps geared toward skiers and riders.

The snow is deeper than its been all winter, the sun is out and spring is bringing those glorious days when t-shirts and shorts replace down parkas, neck warmers and frozen toes.

Enjoy the rest of the ski season, which, as locals know, its the best time of year for ski-ing and riding.

Angelo S. Lynn


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By ANGELO LYNNSUGARBUSH Who hasnt seen those action shots in

ski movies with skiers and riders gliding through knee-deep, untracked powder and wished just once in their lives, they could be there too?

Who hasnt seen photos of face-shots where the snows so deep, and the speed so fluid that it splashes into your face as you bust through deeper pockets and wished the big, snowy grin at the end of the run was yours?

Admit it. Its a skiers dream to be transported onto a snowcat or helicopter somewhere in big mountains and have endless miles of untracked powder just waiting for you to set first tracks even if not all of us think were ready to huck 20-foot cliffs. Hey, everyone gets to dream.

And with Sugarbush Resorts First Tracks program those dreams can become reality right here in Vermont, at a modest price and on modest terrain.

Thats right. You dont have to be a world-renown extreme skier like Sugarbush ambassador John Egan to go cat-skiing and ski untracked slopes that will deliver you plenty of thrills for an early morning.

Sugarbushs snowcat, the Lincoln Limo, is equipped with individual cushioned seats for 12 passengers, is heated and as comfortable a snowcat youll ever ride. When you sign up with the resorts First Tracks program, you meet at Timbers Restaurant at 6:30 to 6:45 a.m., have a quick breakfast snack of muffins and fruit, with coffee or tea, meet your compatriots and soon load into the limo to head to one of several areas top of Heavens Gate, top of North Lynx, Slide Brook Wilder-ness Area or elsewhere depending on the judgment of the guides.

A couple of guides (ours were Jesse Murphy and John Egan) accompany each trip. Because of high winds at the summit of Lincoln Peak, we headed to North Lynx where we sometimes split into two groups to head down the intermediate favorite, Birch Run, or the steeper diamond slopes, Sunrise or Morning Star.

I jumped on a tour Thursday morning, March 13, after snowstorm Vulcan had dumped 20 inches the day before and that night. The temps were cold (zero or so) and the wind blustery (15-20 mph), but our first run of the morning down Sunrise put any thoughts of the cold out of mind.

Soft bumps lay under-neath a silky carpet of snow that was just deep enough to allow control while heading straight

down the fall-line, using the moguls underneath to bounce turns and catch a little air. The feeling of skiing untracked powder above the knee is pure heaven, and it can make you feel like a pro fluid and graceful, while also strong enough to send the snow flying as you bust through the steeper mo-guls on Morning Star.

If your group is quick, youll get four or so runs. We got four runs before opting to ski the Slide Brook area that drops 2,000-vertical through nicely gladed birches in one of the more scenic and remote sections of any ski area youll find in the East.

Two feet of snow in the trees and no wind? Its just like the footage in those movies, and it doesnt get much better than that.

Snowcat thrills!

How to book a First Tracks Tour The First Tracks tours are available for advanced

skiers and riders only and most groups get three or more runs. Powder-Day First Track operates on the motto, When its snowing, were going, so call ahead, 802-583-6590, when you see a storm coming. Tours are $75 per person.

Any-Day First Tracks is also available for any group of 8 or more if your preference is skiing on that per-fectly groomed corduroy. Book at least 48-hours in advance.

Sugarbushs Lincoln Limo offers guestsearly morning untracked powder runs

Sugarbush guide Jesse Murphy cruises through untracked powder on Morning Star the morning after snowstorm Vulcan dumped two feet of snow over much of north-central Vermont in mid-March.Photos by John Atkinson and Angelo Lynn


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Photos from top left, clockwise: Angelo Lynn enjoys Sunrise; Johnny Egan Jr. catches a little air on a Morning Star bump; a guest tele-skiing in Slide Brook wilderness area; John Egan and guests get inspired in the trees; the Lincoln Limo; photographer John Atkinson and John Egan flash smiles inside the cat.


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Kid savvy: Two backcountry programs set the barBy SILVIA CASSANO

BROMLEY/SUGARBUSH While the realm of backcountry skiing is the fastest growing segment of the adult ski population, it has not been a big part of youth programming in Vermont or throughout the sport. Rather, training for youth has been focused on Nordic or alpine youth programs, or teaching within the family.

For decades, Vermont Nordic skiers outfit-ted their children with skinny, waxless skis and went to ski touring centers. Since the 80s, many Vermont youth (ages 4-13) have learned to cross country ski with their local Bill Koch League (BKL). At the same time, many race programs have taught youth alpine racing, starting at age 6 through 18 in academy or high school ski racing.

With the advent of backcountry skiing, youth programs are in the beginning stages, most notably at two Vermont ski resorts Sugarbush Resort and Bromley Mountain Resort.

While Sugarbushs program has been on-going for the past six years, Bromley just launched an option within their existing pro-gramming this winter.

Bob Clark, a Junior Educational Training Squad (JETS) Backcountry Program Instructor at Bromley Mountain believes that education is key when people are venturing off the trails. We can give these people skills to make them more aware of what theyre doing, but not only that, give them knowledge about certain equipment they need to take out with them to increase their chances of survival.

The JETS backcountry group is a season-long option within the JETS program, and is open to 12-17 year olds. Its a non-competitive

environment, says Burleigh Sunflower, Ski and Snowboard School Director at Bromley. With a student-to-instructor ratio of 8 students to 2 instructors, and one ski patroller, the resort hopes to fill 12 spots next season and expand if there is adequate demand.

Sugarbush Resorts Mountaineering Blazers program, now in its sixth year, entices students ranging from age 10-17, with the median age being about 15. This season they have 15 par-ticipants. Brian Diggity Daigle, a Mountain-eering Blazers Coach, says they are most likely expanding the capacity of the Mountaineering Blazers next season due to growing interest.

Other participants at Sugarbush ages 9-15, can enroll in renowned extreme skier John Egans Adventure Blaz-ers program, which briefly introduces them to off-piste skiing as part of their all-mountain skill set. This season has had the highest enroll-ment to date with 120 participants. Last season had 85 participants, but Sugarbush does not expect the Adventure Blazers Program to grow significantly. Expert level skiers who want to be in a backcountry program and are over age 18, can be part of the Bush Pilots, led by Egan. The Bush Pilots had 27 participants enrolled this season.

VITAL SKILLS LEARNEDTopics covered by both programs include:

first aid training and survival skills training, with days spent learning how to build snow caves, melt snow for water, learning to start a fire, or working on map and compass skills. Basic avalanche safety skills are taught, and participants can practice using avalanche beacons, shovel and probes, or learn from pro-fessionals about how to dig avalanche pits.

Many of the skills my son has gone over are skills he learned in Boy Scouts, but now he

really feels like he knows how to apply them, says one JETS parent.

Both programs utilize the terrain available to them surrounding their mountain, and

both use shuttle systems to get them back to the mountain if need be.

Were teaching backcountry safety above all else, which of course translates into a safer and more responsible all-around skier, says Gunnar Johnson, a JETS Backcountry Pro-gram Instructor. Most of the kids have never skied outside of the resort, so coming back inbounds after a tour gives them the feeling of true accomplishment, something I feel every time I ski something new or rediscover an old favorite line.

Both groups have practiced over-night skills, utilizing an actual shelter at night. The JETS Backcountry group stayed in the Ski Patrol cabin at the top of Bromley and skied back down the next day.

The Mountaineering Blazers at Sugarbush have done longer day or overnight trips using the shelter options the Long Trail for mid-day breaks and on Sugarbush for overnights. They also train for the nationally sanctioned randonee race held annually at Sugarbush Resort and Mad River Glen, which traverses the spine of the Green Mountains from one resort to the other.

It is such a good confidence builder, says Daigle. One kid was thinking of bowing out because he had blisters, and two of his com-rades came and talked him into finishing.

Rick Rickity Hale, Daigles counterpart with the Mountaineering Blazers, believes that teaching youth the skills to survive out there and knowledge on how to get around in

Programs at Sugarbush Resort and Bromley Mountain Resort have programs dedicated to teaching youth, from age10-17, about skills in the backountry. Above and below are photos of Bromleys JETS program.


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Kid savvy: Two backcountry programs set the bar

the woods and on being safe, and respectful of the environment, is critical for youth, as many of them will venture to bigger ski destinations.

They learn with the tools they have. They arent limited to the ski area. You have to get owners permission and respect the land, Hale said, adding that he and Daigle believe that, the skys the limit and you want to be able to go out there and do it again tomorrow. Thats part of the core philosophy, they said, that they teach to their students.

Over the past six years at Sugarbush Resort, the lessons they have taught their Mountaineering Blazers not only seem to be taking hold but the bonds formed during the program are lasting.

The original group of kids we had still get together when they get up to Sugarbush, reflects Daigle. Theyre like a pack of Blue Angels skiing down the mountain in formation The knowledge they have now could really save someone...Rick and I often say we have the best job on the mountain.

Clark echoes this sentiment adding that, a lot of people go out West. They see a rope out there and a kid may say, Wait a second, Dad. Lets think about this. Give them education and tools so later on down the road they have the knowledge they need to make good decisions.

Egan, who is Chief Recreational Officer at Sugar-bush Resort, states that the goal of their programs is to create strong skiers by first understanding who they are.

We really have to mold the kids into their own shape, he says. Theyre all different. We believe

our coaching style is to understand the person you are coaching. Understanding the kids means to understand their wants, desires and limits, and then work on those particular limits. We want to bring them to their limit and teach them the next step and make them not afraid. You just watch these kids grow into an amazing team.

Egan said he recently heard a former student of his, who founded the High Fives Foundation, speak at a fundraiser at Sugarbush Resort.

To hear another generation talking about the generation above them, and how they are influ-enced by them, and to see how you influenced them When you can see how its passed on, its really neat.

Egan said he believes the recreation opportuni-ties that exist in Vermont and the opportunities the newly formed Vermont Backcountry Alliance is working on will create alternatives for different kinds of recreationists in the near future and will create opportunities for recreation professionals.

I think well see some of these kids in the future being the guides, Egan says, adding that his youth programming, which doesnt have a set structure from day to day, sets the basis for that leadership.

This is more about life, he said of the programs, and theres nothing in life that is rigid like that at least not in the mountains.

Note: Silvia Cassano works for the Bart J. Ruggiere Adaptive Sports Center at Bromley Mountain and for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in Southern New England.

Backcountry programs or events offered at ski resorts and touring centers in Vermont Smugglers Notch is hosting a Backcountry Basecamp event open to all ages partnered with Backcountry Magazine on March 29-30.

Killington: No youth options currently exist, but they recently opened up their Natural Woods area, which could provide new options for youth programming.

Trapp Family Lodge: Offers lessons and guided tours for beginner to advanced skiers in the backcountry terrain on their property. Typically adults sign up for these lessons, but youth lessons maybe an option upon request.

Catamount Trail Association: This past year the CTA began offering a series of Introductory Tours that are geared toward the new or developing backcountry skier. The tours are based on skier abil-ity and the CTA encourages any skier to contact them for more information. The CTA welcomes beginners.

Clearwater Sports, Waitsfield. Offers Introduction to Backcountry Skiing and Backcountry Skiing classes. Skis or boots (sizes 6 and up) are for rent or sale.

Umiak Outfitters, Stowe. Offers Introduction to Backcountry Skiing Clinic, Introduction to Tele-mark class, and Nordic Backcountry Ski Tour options. Skis and boots (size 6 and up) available for rent or sale.

Bill Koch Leagues exist throughout Vermont. Youth in Pre-K-8th grades cultivate a love for Nordic skiing and the outdoors through learning classic and skate skiing techniques in a fun group set-ting. Student to instructor ratios are high. The world of racing is introduced, but is optional. Some programming in VT includes:

- Prospect Mountain Bill Koch League Ski Club offers a Skijegern (pronounced shee-yay-garn, Norwegian for ski-hunter) course for six weeks. Coaches and parents help participants find markers based upon the Skijegern map. There is no instruction on map reading skills, and the goal is to get to all the markers by the end of the six weeks.- Memphremagogs Bill Koch League Club does a single session of ski orienteering with its partici-pants - Putney Bill Koch League (as well as other BKLs in VT) emphasizes skiing with a buddy, and what to do in case someone becomes separated from the group.

Kid savvy...

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PA G E 1 0 V E R M O N T S K I A N D R I D E M A G A Z I N E , F E B R U A RY / M A R C H

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Middlebury Winter CarnivalMIDDLEBURY COLLEGE HOSTED its Winter Carnival on Feb. 21 and 22 at the Snow Bowl in Hancock and at the Rikert Nordic Center in Ripton. The carnival, which also doubled as the Eastern Intercollegiate Skiing Association Championships, featured two days of alpine and Nordic events. The University of Vermont won the carnival, followed by Dartmouth. Middlebury took third place. Pictured are, clockwise from above, Middlebury College students Kara Shaw; Nicolette Amber; Stella Holt; Colin Hayes; Ben Lustgar-ten; and Yina Moe-Lange.

Photos by Trent Campbell/Addison Independent

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V E R M O N T S K I A N D R I D E M A G A Z I N E , F E B R U A RY / M A R C H PA G E 1 1

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MONTPELIER, Vt. April in Vermont is sweetened with festivities that celebrate a variety of Vermonts spring-time traditions. Some events are playful, like pond skimming at ski resorts; others are enriching, like the Full Circle Festival and the Made in Vermont Marketplace. There are also several sea-sonal art exhibits opening.

Take a look, the events are varied and some are sure to appeal to your interests.

POEM CITYMONTPELIER, MONTH-LONG

In Montpelier, the celebration of National Poetry Month is coming into its 5th year, bringing with it a text display of contemporary Vermont poetry from throughout the state. This month-long celebration began with the belief that all people are poets and that their work should be cultivated, communicated and enjoyed. Come celebrate with more than 200 Vermont writers in the month of March.

JOHN GORKAAPRIL 4, RANDOLPH

An icon of the American folk tradition, best known for his rich baritone voice and skillful songwriting, Gorka was inspired by the folk-inspired acoustic music found at Godfrey Daniels and started touring with his own songs. The folk duo Mustards Retreat opens the show.

11TH GREAT GARDENS & LANDSCAPING SYMPOSIUMAPRIL 5, MANCHESTER CENTER

Features six dynamic lectures, a Gardener's Marketplace, great food, door prizes and gifts. Featured speakers: David L. Culp, Thomas Christopher, Deborah Trickett, Adam R. Wheeler, Kerry Ann Mendez. Lectures include: 50 Perenni-als I Could Not Live Without, The Layered Garden, Mowless Lawns, Celebrity Pots, Fun with Color: Variegated Foliage in the Garden, Flashy New or Underused Perennials for 2014.

TINSELTOWN BENEFIT GALAAPRIL 5, STOWE

Join the Stowe community for a Vintage Hollywood inspired dinner party while benefiting the art center. An extraordinary art auction fills the walls.

HOT CLUB OF COWTOWNAPRIL 6, MIDDLEBURY

Hot Club of Cowtown, comes to the After Dark Music Series in Middlebury. Elana James, Whit Smith and Jake Erwin coming from Austin, Texas, are one of the hardest-swinging Western swing trios on the planet and theyll liven up the town with this hot perfromance at Middleburys historic Town Hall Theater in the heart of downtown.

GURU OF CHAIAPRIL 8, 9, 10, BURLINGTON

Created by award-winning actor Jacob Rajan and musician David Ward, Guru of Chai tells the tale of a poor chaiwallah (tea seller) whose life is changed by an abandoned young girl with a beautiful singing voice. With over two dozen larger-than-life characters performed entirely by Rajan, live music, and puppetry.

DOUGIE MACLEANAPRIL 9, MIDDLEBURY

Dougie MacLean, Scotland's pre-eminent singer/songwriter is internationally renowned for his song "Caledonia," music for the "Last of the Mohicans" and inspired performances.

THE LOS ANGELES GUITAR QUARTETAPRIL 12, RANDOLPH

The LAGQs inventive, critically acclaimed transcriptions of concert masterworks provide a fresh look at the music of the past, while their interpretations of works from the con-temporary and world-music realms continually break new ground. Programs including Latin, African, Far East, Irish, Folk and American Classics transport listeners around the world in a single concert experience.

FULL CIRCLE FESTIVALAPRIL 11-13, BURLINGTON

Vermonts first regional festival to celebrate the spirit and opportunities of aging. How exactly do you feel about get-ting older? Explore that question in a variety of ways at Full Circle. In venues throughout downtown, over 50 events will consider the gifts of aging through a fresh and celebratory approach.

FIRST ANNUAL MADE IN VERMONT MARKETPLACEAPRIL 12-13, ESSEX JUNCTION

Vermont is home to some of the most vibrant locally made products in the country. The marketplace will feature a great variety of Vermont-made products from furniture, wine, spir-its, specialty foods, and crafts to home goods and fine art.

CLASSICS CONCERTAPRIL 13, NEWPORT

As part of the Now Playing Newport Music Series, the selec-tions will include Piano Quartet No. 1 in C minor (Kuhlau).

ARTURO O'FARRILL & THE AFRO LATIN JAZZ ORCHESTRAAPRIL 19, BURLINGTON

Grammy-winning pianist, composer and educator Arturo OFarrill and the extraordinary 18-piece Afro Latin Jazz pre-

serves the classic sounds of Latin dance bands while embrac-ing its experimental side, roaring through compositions by Latin musics best: Machito, Tito Puente, Astor Piazzola, Her-meto Pascoal, and his own father, Chico OFarrill. A veteran of the groups of Dizzy Gillespie and Harry Belafonte, OFarrill leads the orchestra in a performance that spans the Ameri-cas, playing both traditional cuts and commissioned works with the fire of a mambo workout.

THEATER: AMADEUSAPRIL 23, JOHNSON

This provocative work weaves a confrontation between mediocrity and genius into a tale of breathtaking dramatic power. In the court of the Austrian Emperor Josef, Antonio Salieri is the established composer. Enter the greatest musical genius of all time: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. www.jsc.edu

VERMONT RESTAURANT WEEKSTATEWIDE, APRIL 25 - MAY 4

The fifth annual Vermont Restaurant Week is an opportu-nity to sample locavore, farm-to-table cuisine that is perenni-ally celebrated in national accolades and headlines. Vermont can credit its distinction as a culinary destination to its abun-dance of agricultural resources and top-flight chefs paired with the states position as home to the most cheese makers and brewers per capita in the country. Vermonts rural farming heritage has nurtured a dining culture that welcomes explora-tion culinary visitors delight in fine, local, fresh foods amid the vibrancy of downtown, while admiring mountain views or appreciating the working farm next door.

THE 48TH VERMONT MAPLE FESTIVALAPRIL 25-27, ST. ALBANS

The theme of the 48th Maple Festival: A Top Ten Event! When sugarings over, its time for maple fun! The weekend is host to new syrup tasting, exhibits, street entertainment, food stands, pancake breakfasts, cooking and maple prod-ucts, contests, a carnival, face painting, sugarhouse tours and a giant parade.

CAPITAL CITY CONCERTS: MAIDS IN VERMONTAPRIL 26, MONTPELIER

Maids in Vermont features Karen Kevra on flute, Mary Rowell on violin, Stefanie Taylor on viola, Frances Rowell on cello, and Rebecca Kaufmann on the harp. This all-female/all-Vermonter band's combined experience includes perfor-mances at Lincoln Center, Carnegie and across the globe. They will perform music of Ravel, Dohnanyi, Martinu, Libby Larsen, and Jean Francaix.

Vermont spring flings

April festivals, music, galas, food and theater highlight events

A T L A R E A U F A R M

Lodging & lift ticket packages available Hearty farmhouse breakfast included On the Mad River, in the heart of The Green MountainsMinutes from Mad River Glen & SugarbushHome of American Flatbread Pets can be accommodated Great rates from $85 to $135

ph: (802) 496-4949/www.lareaufarminn.com

On the Mad River, in the heart of the Green Mountains

Minutes from Mad River Glen & Sugarbush

Home of American F la tbread Hearty farmhouse breakfast included

Children & pets can be accomodated

Great rates from $90 to $135A T L A R E A U F A R M

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Vermonts maple sugaring season usually runs from late February to mid-April, when warm days and cool nights cause the sugar maples sap to begin to flow. Sugar mak-ers collect sap to boil down to make maple syrup. It takes 40 gallons of sap to create one gallon of maple syrup. Vermont is the nations leading producer of maple syrup, producing 1.3 million gallons last year.

This spring, the Vermont Department of Tourism is promoting multiple Maple Season Packages. Participants can experience immer-sion in Sugar Maker for a Day, or stay over-night in a restored sugarhouse; take a sugar-bush snowshoe tour and dine at restaurants featuring maple.

This spring features two major maple-

themed events: Vermont Maple Open House Weekend:

March 22-23, StatewideMore than 80 Vermont sugar makers invite

guests to visit their farms and sugarhouses. Some sugar makers offer tours and horse-drawn wagon rides, and others welcome visi-tors with tastings of this years crop, sugar-on-snow, and maple donuts.

The 48th Vermont Maple Festival: April 25-27, Saint Albans

Three days of celebrating all things maple in Saint Albans. This years fair will feature a craft and specialty foods show, with cooking demonstrations, a parade, a pancake break-fast, maple buffet dinner, and more maple festivities.

Vt. maple sugar events set for spring

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Your smartphone puts the world at your fingertips, and that includes while youre on the slopes.

Cant find your car in the parking lot? Theres an app for that.What to know your speed while racing down your favorite

run, and the vertical drop? There are apps for that, too.Need to locate your friends on the slopes, or in the lodge?

Unbelievably, you do can that on an app, too. Here are some of the latest apps weve found geared to skiers

and riders:

FIND MY FRIENDSLets say youre going down the trail and you go left and your

friend goes right. Now you dont have to make plans to meet at the car in case you get separated. This app uses GPS to help you track them so youll know if theyre waiting at the lift or in the lodge.

REALSKIThis is an augmented reality app that grabs information from

your phones compass, camera and GPS to track your location on the mountain in real time. Take pictures of trails names or lifts to find yourself. The app displays trails and their difficulty, locations of the nearest restrooms and, as an added bonus, you can mark the location of your car on the map so that you wont have to wander around the parking lot clicking your keys. The app costs .99 cents and links to your preferred mountain.

LIFTOPIALiftopia is the perfect app for people looking to ski on the

cheap. This app searches for the best discounted tickets at over 150 ski areas in the US from Alaska to North Carolina all the way to mountains in Europe, South America and even Austra-lia.

APLINEREPLAYIf youre the competitive type, heres an app for you. Alpin-

eReplay tracks your vertical feet, maximum speed, and even clocks your time on the chairlift. Then, you can read your stats right there on the slope, or login online to track your stats throughout the season, compare with friends, push to social media sites and replay the runs in 3D.

SKI AND SNOW REPORTThis handy app provides the location and conditions of local

mountains, including up-to date temperatures, snowfall rates, and access to local web cams.

ROUTE 802 APPSWed be remiss if we didnt mention

our own apps that feature guides of what to do at several of the states ski resorts. Route 802 (the number refers to Vermonts single area code) is a net-work of mobile apps across the state that features restaurant and lodging listings, family activities, professional services (for the electrical, mechani-cal, plumbing or heating issues you may have) at many of the states southern resorts and Stowe. The list includes the Killington App, All Aboard Rutland, Okemo App, Mount Snow 360, Middlebury Mobile, Unlost Stowe and Burlap in Burlington. More apps covering other state ski resorts and communities are in progress. All apps are loaded with business profiles and contacts. Just tap the name of a

restaurant or lodging, for example, and itll send you right to reservations. Check out the features at Route 802.

Send us other apps that youve found useful while on the slopes and well post them to this story online at www.vtski-andride.com.

By EVAN JOHNSON

Best Apps for skiers and riders

If you cant find a reliable app or you simply lack an iPhone, sometimes an actual person can be the best resource. Tim Kelley, meteorologist for NECN has estab-lished himself as the go-to weather-guy for skiers, riders and even surfers in the Northeast.

After training at Lyndon State College, Kelley began his career at WMUR-TV in New Hampshire, then spent three years as a meteorologist and environmental reporter at WLNE-TV in Providence, Rhode Island. Since his debut on NECN March 2, 1992, he has logged the weather every single day that NECN has been on air.

Hes also been able to apply his weather in expertise to more recreational activities, managing the website Surf Ski Weather, where he gives forecasts for surfing and skiing practically every day that he gives from the com-fort of his house since 2010.

You can follow him on twitter with his handle @Surf-SkiWxMan or check his website for his consistently reli-able forecasts and weather analysis.

And if youre still in need of timely information about your favorite area, a third and final option is to call up the resort and ask how much snow is there and when its expected to snow next.

NECN Meteorologist, and your Northeast Snow Reporter

Introducing Tim Kelley:

A skier approaches some glades at Okemo Mountain Resort in southern Vermont. Photo by Brian Moore

Mobile apps for phones have become a skiers an riders tool for dozens of ski-and-ride related activities. Ski Vermont photo

Mobile Middlebury AppHandy. Info. At your fingertips...

Ski Info. Dining. Lodging. Services. Maps. Events.

Powered by Route 802. Brought to you by Vermont Ski & Ride Magazine.

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A dozen events provide a sample of spring funWith bluebird conditions, plenty of snow and some of the best events

of the year, spring skiing in Vermont provides some of the best skiing and riding of the entire season.

Daytime temperatures reach into the forties and fifties, but drop in the night, which keeps the slopes from losing too much snow. Mean-while, resorts around the state feature a spread of events, from Mardi Gras in March to pond skimming in April, for entertainment when youre not skiing in t-shirts and sunglasses.

Heres what not to miss this spring at the mountains nearest you:

MARCH 22Spring FlingBromley Mountain Resort

A Bromley family favorite features pond skimming, a duct tape derby, live music, a BBQ and rides from the summer adventure park.

MARCH 22Life is Good NorBeaster Festival Killington Resort

Life Is Good brings its annual music festival to Killington with free live music and family-friendly events all day long on March 22 via outdoor stages at both Snowshed and Bear Mountain. Headlining acts of the festival include Allen Stone, Assembly of Dust, Josh Panda and the Hot Damned, and BoomBox, which will perform at the Wobbly Barn.

Skiers and riders gather aound the bondfire at Bromley Mountain Resort after a day on the slopes. Ski Vermont photo

Fireworks, like these at Stowe Mountain Resort, are a common occurence at many of the ski resorts throughout Vermont as a way to celebrate special events, create excitement at races such as the Sugar Slalom, or just add to the festive atmosphere.

Stowe Resort photo

MARCH 22Kingdom Plaza Rail JamQ-Burke Mountain Resort

An end of season throw down at Q-Burke featuring a DJ, prizes and the Corona Beach Party immediately after in the Bear Den from 3-6 pm with Corona and music from Live Wire DJ.

MARCH 2267th Annual Mad River Glen Family TournamentMad River Glen

Mad River founder, Roland Palmedo, began what was then called The Father/Son Race at Stowe with his colleagues in 1947 and moved in 1952 to his new ski area, Mad River Glen. Today, MRGs most popular event includes categories such as Mother/Daughter, Mother/Father, Mother/Son, Father/Daughter, Grand-mother/Grandson, Grandmother/Granddaughter, Grandfather/Grandson, Brother/Sister, Brother/Brother, Sister/Sister and of course the overall Family Winner.

MARCH 28 30Bud Light ReggaefestMount Snow Resort

Mount Snows weekend of reggae music featuring perfor-mances at the Snow Barn on Friday and Saturday night as well as parties in the base area on Saturday and Sunday.

MARCH 29Spring Fling with CostumesMagic Mountain Ski Area

Magic Mountains end-of-season party features fun races in costume, flamingo tosses, a scavenger hunt and an out-door bar and grill to celebrate spring skiing and a great season.

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MARCH 29 Pond Skimming Bolton Valley Resort

Its time to get busy or get wet with Boltons annual pond skimming contest and annual rite of Spring passage. Skimmers may only use skis or boards to attempt to skim the pond, sorry no sleds, jack jumpers or anything else that is not a pair of skis or snowboard. Registration begins at 10 a.m. with skimming starting at 1 p.m. and awards to follow. One adult and one youth winner will receive a 2014-15 All Access Season Pass. Each winner needs to have an outstanding costume and a solid skim.

MARCH 29Cabot Chesseburgers and Bonks Rail JamStratton Mountain Resort

Of all the great combinations in history, cheeseburg-ers and rails are among the best. Strattons spring-time jam is an opportunity to show of the tricks of the season and enjoy a cheeseburger at the same time.

MARCH 2935th Annual Beach PartyJay Peak ResortThis years Beach Party will be one for the books, celebrat-ing thirty-five years of fun in the sun, or snow. The party will feature live music by the High Breaks, Long Trail give-aways, and enough waterslides to entertain any child, big or small at the Hotel Jay Courtyard & Pump House Indoor Waterpark.

MARCH 29Sugarbushs Pond Skimming Annual Rite of Spring

Home of the original pond skim, Sugarbush hosts the oldest, continually running pond skim in the country. Cos-tumes are strongly encouraged and if youre under the height of five feet tall, bring a lifejacket. Youll want to be able to get out when youre finished! Limited to the first 100 participants.

APRIL 5 6Bear Mountain Mogul ChallengeKillington Mountain ResortOver 200 amateur bumpers take to the slopes of Outer Limits to battle for a place in the finals. The top 32 men and 16 women will return on Sunday to compete in a head-to-head competition for the mogul challenge cup.

April 5Chillin n Grillin Annual Tailgate PartySmugglers Notch Resort

Its more than blue skies and long sunny afternoons that will bring skiers and riders together. Smuggs annual tailgate party is awarding over $2,500 in cash and prizes to winners of the following categories: Best Over-all Tailgate Presentation, best Original Recipe and best Smuggs-themed Tailgate

APRIL 5 6 Sugar Slalom Stowe Mountain Resort

Held annually since 1940, the Sugar Slalom is one of the most recognized alpine races in America. The two-day event can attract over 1,000 avid racers and up to 600 spectators. Originating as a celebration of the arrival of Spring and the tapping of maple trees, the Sugar Slalom is held in a Mardi Gras atmosphere complete with music, barbecue on the hill, fantastic ski racing, festive costumes and of course sugar on snow waiting at the finish line.

T-shirts, sunshine and warm temps, soft moguls and sunglasses are the makings of a great day of spring skiing.

A contestant cruises down the bumps at Killingtons Bear Moun-tain Mogul Challenge.

Fun in the sun is the theme of most spring activities, as demonstrated by these skiers at Intrawest resorts.

Guests enjoy the spring sunshine at the Umbrella Bar in Killington.

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MARCHMarch 17St Patricks Day Apres Ski Party at Q Burke MountainCelebrate Saint Pattys day at Q Burke with an aprs ski party at the Bear Den.

March 22Backcountry Challenge presented by Wolavers and MRG at Mad River GlenThis is not a race. There are no winners and no losers - only those who finish the course and those who dont. Choose your gear - telemark, snowshoe, or randonee - as you adventure

through the rugged terrain of the Green Mountain spine. A raffle follows.

March 22 23Relay for Life Nordic-style at Trapp Family LodgeAn overnight Nordic skiing event that enlists volunteers to help fight cancer by raising money and awareness to support the American Cancer Society mission.

March 22,Triple Crown Mogul Challenge at Mad River GlenThe third leg of the Triple Crown Competition Series

March 22Mad River Glen Family Tournament at Mad River GlenA family-inspired race event pitting family members against one another and against other families for the Overall Family Winner

March 22Spring Fling at Bromley Mountain ResortA Bromley familys favorite features pond skimming, a duct tape derby, live music, a BBQ and rides from the summer adventure park.

March 22Kingdom Plaza Rail Jam and Corona Beach Party at Q Burke MountainThe end of season rail jam and party at Burke with prizes, Corona and music from Live Wire DJ.

March 23Third Annual Bromley Rando RaceUsing climbing skins with alpine touring or telemark bind-ings (or even split snowboards), racers start at the base of the mountain, ascend it, then descend it (on marked in-bounds ski area trails), as fast as possible, over multiple laps and up to 5,000 cumulative vertical.

March 23Bumps and Bamboo at Okemo Mountain ResortAn 80s inspired race event featuring racers earning bonus points while ripping the course or sashaying through the bumps in their best retro ensemble. March 28 30Bud Light Reggaefest at Mount Snow ResortMount Snows weekend of reggae music featuring perfor-mances at the Snow Barn on Friday and Saturday night as well as parties in the base area on Saturday and Sunday.

March 29Pond Skimming: Annual Rite of Spring at Sugarbush Resorts Lincoln PeakThe oldest continually running pond-skimming event in the country. Limited to the first 100 competitors.

March 30Bud Light Duct Tape Derby at Mount Snow ResortCompetitors construct crafts out of duct tape, card board and zip ties before racing them.

March 29Pond Skimming! at Q BurkeThe annual pond skim event on Lower Warrens Way, next to the BMA Warming Hut.

March 29 Burgers and Bonks Rail Jam at Stratton Mountain ResortSkiers and riders show off this seasons tricks and compete for cash prizes & swag on rail features in Tyro. All with a side of Cabot Cheeseburgers. Free burgers and soda served at the Jam. Helmets required.Over 400 racers registered to compete in the second annual 24 Hours of Stratton, held from 12 p.m. March 15 to 12 p.m. March 16.

March/April Events 2014

Photos courtesy of Stratton Mountain Resort

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March/April Events 2014March 29Race Fest at Stratton Mountain ResortA one-day alpine racing series (GS, SL, Combined). Anybody 18 years or older can enter, but the event is limited to 100 racers in this non-sanctioned event.

March 30Cares and Shares Spring Food Drive at Okemo Mountain ResortDonate a minimum of five nonperishable food items and ski or ride on March 30 for $39. All donations go to local food banks.March 30

US Military Day at Stowe Mountain ResortAll active, full-time, Vermont Military Personnel, Guard and Reserve Members along with their families (spouse & depen-dant children), will receive complimentary single-day lift tick-ets at Stowe Mountain Resort on three select Sundays this winter.

March 30 Bud Light Duct Tape Derby at Mount Snow ResortBuild a craft of only cardboard, duct tape, zip ties and paint, then race them across the pond for distance. Awards will be given out for best slider, most creative, best kids only sled and a judges choice

APRILApril 5 6Sugar Slalom at Stowe Mountain ResortOne of the oldest ski races in the U.S. Shoot the gates, enjoy sugar on snow at the finish.

April 56th Annual Brewers Festival at Mount Snow ResortA one-day celebration of springtime, beer and live music with 20 different breweries pouring 40 different beers.

April 5Slush Cup at Okemo Mountain ResortCostume-clad Slush Cup competitors schuss toward an 80-foot-long slushy pond and try to make it across without falling in. Its a chilly spring dip for those who dont make it. Open to the first 125 participants.

April 6Glade-iator at Mount Snow ResortA mogul skiing contest on the soft bumps on one of the steep-est trails in the East! Competitors will show off their bump and jump skills and will be judged on a combination of time, form, line and aerial maneuvers off one of two jumps (option of small or large). This is also one of the best spectator events of the year, complete with sun, snow and a cash BBQ & Bud Light bar.

April 12Spring Fling and Annual Pond Skim atStratton Mountain ResortCelebrate the season with the annual party and pond skim. Skim is open to the first 125 participants.

ONGOING: TuesdaysTrapp Nordic Cup Time Trial Series atTrapp Family Lodge XC CenterEvery Tuesday for ten weeks, compete each week on a marked

racecourse complete with timing and start area. You pick your start time each day between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Its a 10-week series with prizes for both skate and classic.

Fridays Free Heel Fridays at PicoDesigned for all ability levels, participants are responsible for providing their own equipment, telemark rentals are not avail-able at Pico Mountain.Lift ticket not included, helmets recommended.Season Pass holders receive a 15% discount.Call 866-233-1195.

SaturdaysBolton After Dark at Bolton ValleySaturday nights from 4-8 p.m. Bolton Valley throws a mini party complete with skiing and riding for all ages, food and drink specials at Fireside Flatbread, and a public screening of a movie by Meathead Films, a local film studio based in Wil-liston, VT. Night skiing tickets are $19 for all ages, and when youre finished for the night, head inside for $2 flatbread slices

and sodas, nightly beer specials and screening a different movie every week.

Mountain Moments at Mad River GlenEvery Saturday throughout the ski season in the Kent Thomas Nature Center, MRGs on-staff naturalist will be on hand to answer questions and expose visitors to the wildlife and eco-systems on the mountain.

SundaysFree Nordic Clinics at Bolton ValleyThe 2013-14 Season offers free Sunday morning clinics from 10-11 a.m. Please arrive at 9:30 a.m. to get set up. The classic skiing clinic is taught by Bolton Valley instructors and qualified guest Nordic instructors. Free clinics are limited to one session per person per lifetime. Clinic participants receive $5 off rent-als. Reservations required, call (802)-434-6876. Complimentary ticket for the length of the class is provided. Participants must purchase a ticket if they would like to ski for the remainder of the day, but rentals are no additional charge.

Womens Ski Discovery gathers for a photo at Sugarbush Resort.Photo courtesy of Sugarbush Resort

Photo by Andy McClellanCompetitors assemble at the starting gate for the Castlerock Extreme Challenge at Sugarbush.

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By EVAN JOHNSONPhotos By HERB SWANSON

Stowe, Trapps put on a spectacle for Junior Nationals competition

Members of the FU20 Team New England pose for a picture during the week of competition at Junior Nationals held March 1-8. The event was held at the Trapp Family Lodge and Touring Center in Stowe, Vt.

Leah Lange celebrates her finish.

Jack Schrupp pink bib #514

STOWE, Vt. After a week of racing at Trapp Family Lodge, Team New England emerged as the winners of the 2014 USSA Junior Nationals.

The event, which featured the nations best young cross-country skiers divided into 10 regional teams, began on March 1 and continued through March 8. A total of 380 cross coun-try skiers and 95 coaches from 23 states competed at Trapp Family Lodges Nordic Center.

The course was packed for the weeklong race series. The classic technique sprints made for a long day, with the qualifi-cation round followed by 54 separate heats with six skiers per heat, resulting in nearly 700 racer starts between 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

On Friday morning, a mass start saw a pileup of skiers in the first turn, with some injuries reported. Organizers acted quickly and subsequent races started behind a pacer until the course cleared and the racers were safe to sprint.

By the end of the week, Team New England took back the biggest prize in national junior cross country ski racing, win-ning the Alaska Cup as the best team at the Championship. Last year, Alaska bested New England at home in Fairbanks. This year, New England reclaimed the cup with Team Midwest in second and Intermountain in third.

Considering that the previous New England host had been in Presque Isle, Me., hosting the championships at Stowe gave New England a distinct home field advantage for the first time in four years. New England skiers stayed at the Von Trapp family lodge and were just a short walk from their rooms to the racecourse. Heidi Halvorsen, a Nordic skier from Stowe who won the 1.4k classic technique sprint in the womens U20 class, said in a letter to the Stowe Reporter that the race

trails at the Trapps were significantly more familiar to all New England skiers.

I knew the course especially well, after living and skiing here the last several years, she said.

Others placing in the top tier for Team New England were: Cole Morgan, Jack Hegman, both of the University of Ver-mont, Tara Humphries from Bates College and Hannah Ben-son of the Williams Outing Club, who each placed in the top five in the mens and womens 5k/10k classic on Monday. On Wednesday, Forrest Hamilton of the Mount Mansfield Nordic Ski Club took second in the 1.4k sprint, while Leah Brams, racing for Cambridge Sports Union, was the top New England finisher in the womens division, taking fifth.

Fridays 5/10/15k freestyle saw Jack Schrupp of the Gun-stock Nordic Association take second with UVMs Morgan and Hegman in fourth and eighth respectively for the mens 15k race. Hannah Benson of Williams College placed third and Kelsey Phinney took sixth in the womens 10k. Gavin McEwen from Cambridge Sports Union placed first in the mens 10k. Russell Boswell from the Stratton Moun-tain School placed third in the mens 5k, while Chloe Levins from Mountain Top Nordic took second in the womens 5k.

Carol Van Dyke and Kristina Von Trapp, co-directors for the USSA Junior Nationals, also wrote to the Reporter, thanking their small but dedicated organizing committee.

Racers, coaches, volunteers and spectators all gave high praise to the weeklong race series. The series of races, two years in the making, shined a spotlight on the Stowe com-munity. With associated events held at Stowe Arena, Stowe Mountain Resort and in the streets of the village, visitors were treated to all Stowe has to offer with excellent snow coverage and cold weather keeping the courses in good shape, while bluebird skies prevailed for most of the week.

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Start of MU16 Freestyle Relay.

Start of MU20 3x3km Freestyle Relay.

Kelsey Phinney took sixth in the womens 10k.

Laurel Fiddler races in front of the pack in the FU20 relay. Jackson Hill and Kyle Marshall lead skiers in one of the sprints.

Heidi Halvorsen of Stowe helped lead Team New Eng-land.

Patrick McElravey of Middlebury College celebrates.

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Killingtons Ledgewood Yurt offers aclassy, fun way to dine on the mountainBy ANGELO LYNN

KILLINGTON Want a special dinner date in Killington? Climb aboard Killingtons snowcat-drawn sleigh, snuggle up in the warm, woolen blankets they provide for the 15-minute ride into the secluded woods on the resort to the Ledgewood Yurt and youll be in store for a one-of-a-kind dining experience with an excellent menu, expertly cooked.

Modeled after the rustic yurts of the nomadic tribes in Mongolia over 2,000 years ago, the Ledgewood Yurt is surprisingly spacious, warm and cozy. Its a social atmo-sphere with dining tables for groups of six or eight guests, and holds just over 30 guests.

Executive chef Greg Lang has crafted a five-course meal with local ingredients, prime cuts of meat and superb appetizers as accents. Our dinner began with a taste of bay lobster with creamed sunchoke, chanterelle mushroom, blood orange honey truffle sauce, and coconut oil. That was followed by peppered Muscovy duck bacon, then a delicious cremont prepared

with salted Marcona Almond, orange blossom honey, black fig preserve, bourbon maple reduction and imperial pumpkin ale spent lavash.

The main course was a 50-day wet aged beef tenderloin with white asparagus, roasted corn pudding, Okinawan sweet

potato galette, English Stilton, gremolata, Szechwan Whistle Pig Veal Reduction all cooked to perfection. The meal was topped off with a Guanaja chocolate mousse.

The service was excellent, the camarade-rie with friends wonderful and the ride back to the base of Snowshed Lodge idyllic with a light snowfall and the lights of the resort below. Its a charming evening that adds a nice touch of refinement to the resort.

The evening starts at 6 p.m. at the Ver-mont Fresh Caf with the sleigh departing at 6:30 sharp. Dress is winter attire and the yurt is only open Friday and Saturday nights, plus expanded days during peak periods and

holidays. For more information, go to killington.com/yurt, or call 806-809-9147.

The sleigh ride to the yurt leaves behnd the Snowshed Lodge around 6:30 p.m. as it heads into the woods. At left, Tim Peek and Meg Den-nison, who have a home in Killington, snuggle for the ride back down.

The yurt, at right, is rustic but surprisingly warm, spacious and cozy inside. A chef hut, shown in back, and a restroom, at left, mesh in with the environment and are connected with a common deck.

Chef Greg Lang talks with guests after the five-course meal. Hes dressed for his snowmobile ride back down the mountain.

The sleigh to the Ledgewood Yurt holds just over 30 guests and is pulled by a snowcat for the 15-minute ride. Woolen blankets are provided and guests are expected to dress warmly and in winter attire.Photos by Angelo Lynn

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WARREN On Sunday, March 2, the third annual FAT Ski-A-Thon took to the slopes of Sugarbush Resorts Mount Ellen in the Mad River Valley with a field of 127 participants sporting fat skis and ear-to-ear smiles. Close to $80,000.00 was raised to help support ath-letes that suffer a life-altering injury.

A marquee fundraiser for the High Fives Foundation, the 3rd Annual FAT Ski-A-Thon was a family friendly event in which participants completed as many laps as possible on fat skis. This event was presented by Vermont North Ski Shop as part of a coordinated campaign to increase the national reach of the High Fives Foundation.

Lap count punch cards were updated from 9am to 3pm as skiers schussed through a dedicated chair-lift line for easy access. Hot, smoked food from the Localfolk Smokehouse, snacks from popchips and Cabot Cheese as well as refreshments from Vita Coco and the Village Grocery kept participants fueled to ski strong all day long while the music played.

Upon the conclusion of the event, all participants turned in their punch cards and the total runs were counted in preparation for the awards presentation upstairs in the Mount Ellen lodge. Among those honored were:

The most laps skied (male): Brooks Curran and Parker Herlihy (tie) both skied 31 laps.

The most laps skied (female): Isabelle Harris skied 31 laps. The top five individual fundraisers: (Sisters) Rubi & Mae Murphy ($5,001.00),

Ethan Wood ($4897.00), Liz Harris ($4,525.00), Steven Brackett ($3,890.00) and Deb Kuklis ($3,850.00).

The top fundraising team: Team Benny (in memory of Benjamin Brackett) with $8,876.00.

$80K raised at Sugarbushs 3rd annual FAT Ski-a-thon

Veda Chojnicki, Rubi Murphy and Mae Murphy mug for the camera. The sisters were among the top fund raisers.

High Fives Foundation Executive Director Roy Tuscany was more than pleased with the turnout.

Waylon Lowe got his laps in as well.

Todd Hathaway jumps in line for a lap.

Top Individual Fundraisers Rubi and Mae Murphy.

By EVAN JOHNSONSTOWE, Vt. Stowe Mountain Resort might soon be the home of one of the largest

and fastest ziplines in this part of the country. As part of the states official pubic review of the project, environmental commissioners recently visited the proposed launch pad for two 10,193-foot parallel ziplines, which would send riders down the mountain at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour, as well as an area planned for a treetop aerial adventure ropes course.

If approved, resort officials hope to break ground on the projects this spring and summer with the aerial adventure park starting as early as May and both projects finishing by fall in time for foliage season.

This will give us a larger offering in the summer, and also give more opportunities for year-round employment, reported the Stowe Reporter referring to comments Mountain Opera-tions Manager Rob Apple told the commission.

According to the Reporter, the proposed ziplines first 4,500-foot span would begin near the Gondola top station on Upper Perry Merrill and connect to a landing on the Midway Trail between Nosedive and Goat. The next section would link to a landing just below the pump house on lower Perry Merrill; the final landing would be located near the mountain opera-tions building by the Over Easy gondola. The proposed aerial adventure park would be in a wooded area adjacent to the Spruce Peak Golf Course.

Designers are hoping to make the course accessible for people with disabilities. Stowe director of mountain experiences David Merriam and Apple said cutting tree limbs

and brush removal to make room for the lines would be minimal, as the lines would hang above tree height.

Dave Johnson, designer of the aerial course, said the concept of the aerial adventure section is similar to ropes courses, but is meant primarily for fun, as opposed to teambuilding. John-son, who also designed the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course in Lake George, N.Y., said the courses will rely on less invasive methods of rigging the platforms. The designers plan to use a compression system which hugs platforms and features to the trees securely.

We have them disappear into the canopy of the trees, he said.

Stowe Resort has plans for zipline, aerial adventure ropes course

Gunzburg, Ashley take honors at The CompMount Snow, Vt Snowboard athletes from across the country traveled to Mount Snow to

compete in the Carinthia Open Mega Plaza (a.k.a. The COMP) on March 8, and were greeted by an elaborate terrain park creation.

Levi Gunzburg (Guilford, Vt.) placed first in the pro mens division with Max Lyons (Marl-boro, Vt.) taking second and last years winner Shaun Murphy (Westfield, Ma.) coming in third place. The womens pro podium had Bekah Ashley (Wilmington, N.Y.) standing atop in first place, followed by Lily Calabrese (Cavendish, Vt.) in second and Emily Gorham (Killington, Vt.) took third.

The mens amateur division was won by Elliot Buckley (Bennington, Vt.) with Austin Lam-oreaux (Milford, Pa.) coming in second and tied for third place was Luke Winkelman (Blowing Rock, N.C.) and Peter Pimitriov (Montague, Ma.).

The total purse for pros was $7,000 and amateur winners went home with gear from event sponsors Skullcandy, Snug Life, Oakley and Bern.

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Find out whats hot and hip! We

have you covered!Check out all the Central Vermont

apps:KillingtonRutland

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BY SARAH WOJCIK, Ski VermontBlessed with abundant snowfall and a strong

base due to Vermonts 80 percent snowmaking capacity, Vermont ski and snowboard resorts enjoyed an astounding February holiday period. It kicked off on Friday, February 14 with a Valentines Day storm of up to 2 feet of snow in areas over the Green Mountains and contin-ued for nearly two weeks through Presidents

Valentines storm brings skiers flocking to Vermont resorts during Presidents holiday

By SARAH WOJCIK, Ski VermontMONTPELIER, VT Vermont produces

more US Winter Olympians per capita than any other state by a long shot. Nineteen

athletes with Vermont ties traveled to Sochi, Russia in February to compete for their country. That said, its not only the number of Olympians from Vermont that is impressive,

its their quality. Six Vermont athletes took home medals from the 2014 Olympic games in Sochi. That is 6 out of 28 total medals for the USA, meaning 21 percent of the winning athletes have Vermont roots. Not bad for a little New England state of only 625,000 inhabitants.

Here are the facts:Mikaela Shiffrin, a graduate of Burke

Mountain Academy, won Gold in the Womens Slalom.

Devin Logan, a Mount Snow Academy graduate, won Silver in the first ever Olympic Womens Ski Slopestyle competition.

Kelly Clark, another Mount Snow Academy graduate, won the Bronze in the Womens Snowboard Halfpipe.

Hannah Kearney, a Norwich, VT native, former Gold Medalist and two-time World Cup champion, brought home the Bronze in Womens Moguls.

Alex Diebold, a Stratton Mountain School graduate, won Bronze in the Mens Snow-board Cross.

Nick Goepper, yet another Mount Snow prodigy, competed in his first Olympics bring-ing home a Bronze in Mens Ski Slopestyle.

And there is more.Shiffrin is one of four US women to ever

stand at the top of the Olympic podium for

the Slalom race. Two of the other 3 also hail from Vermont: Andrea Mead Lawrence of Pico Mountain in 1952 (She took home the GS title, too.) and Barbara Ann Cochran of Cochrans Ski Area in 1972.

Kelly Clark of Mount Snow is the most decorated snowboarder in the history of snowboarding, male or female. A now three-time Olympic medalist, Kelly has had over 60 career wins, and over 100 podium visits in her career.

Clearly Vermonts ski and snowboard acad-emies and terrain are putting athletes to the test and preparing them for high level com-petition, but the strong ski and snowboard community is also to credit for instilling pride and positivity that these athletes can take anywhere in the world.

Take it from Silver medalist, Devin Logan. Skiing in Vermont builds a great strong

foundation to become a skier (or snowboard-er) that can handle any kind of conditions. Without my Vermont skiing roots, I wouldnt be where I am today. If you can ski the east, you can ski anything! Vermont is my home and it is always the best to come home to, and I have felt an overwhelming sense of love and support coming out of Vermont the last month and beyond.

Six reasons why Vermont is a good breeding ground for Olympians

Day and Northeast school vacation periods. Okemo Mountain Resort had a solid week

with its highest number of skier and rider visits of the season during the Presidents Day vacation week. Lodging was near capacity and remains strong on weekends looking forward.

Mount Snow Resort reports being up year over year for Presidents week due in large part to abundant natural snowfall.

Stowe Mountain Lodge was sold out for the entire Presidents week, and Jay Peak reported strong numbers as well.

"Presidents' Week saw record numbers both in terms of skier visits and revenue," said JJ Toland, Jay Peak's Director of Communications. "We've been spinning the lifts for close to 60 years and in that time have never experienced the number of skiers and riders who came out for the week to carve up the new snow. And it looks like the momentum's going to continue right on through St. Paddy's Day with resort occupancy averaging 93 percent."

Sunday, February 16 was the busiest day for The Mountain Top Inn & Resorts Nordic center since current owners started keeping records 10 years ago.

Neighboring Killington Mountain, also saw a record day with the most skier and rider visits of the season on Saturday, February 15.

Psyched skiers and riders also made for hungry bellies. Okemo's Sitting Bull recorded a record day with a 20 percent increase over its previous best day. Killingtons new Peak Lodge, an on-hill hot spot for skiers and non-skiers alike, served up record-breaking numbers in meals over Presidents week and Bolton Valley saw a 66 percent increase in hamburger sales year over year.

There is still plenty of winter to enjoy in Ver-mont, with fun, sunny spring skiing on its way.

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VERMONT Good news: Winter isnt leaving anytime soon. After the massive snowfall on Valentines Day and in mid-March with winter storm Vulcan, Vermont has plenty more of the ski season to go, and some of the best skiing of the season is now.

Spring skiing brings out a different culture of the season, says Dave Meeker, communications manager at Mount Snow Resort. I know people who actually wait until the spring to ski because they love the sun and the warmth. It means bigger events coupled with longer days. Its that much more fun.

During the daytime, you can look forward to some of the most comfortable conditions imaginable no neck gators, handwarmers or heavy coats needed, just long days in the sun with mild temperatures and plenty of snow.

Its never for lack of snow that we close the mountain at the end of the season, says Bonnie MacPherson, director of public relations at Okemo Mountain Resort, citing peoples desire to move on to summertime activities. I always joke and say that I wish we could take the kind of demand we see in October and November (when it can be colder and grayer) and move it to March and April.

Aside from superb snow conditions, warmer temps and abundant sunshine, you also can also look forward to a cal-endar packed with competitions, parties and festivals.

Plus, there are terrific end of season deals on gear at shops throughout the state, as well as on discounted ticket prices at the resorts.

Around the state, resorts are rolling out discounts for the remainder of the season. So if youre looking for deals on single or multiple day tickets and lodging, the only dilemma will be deciding where to go.

8 Spring Deals You Cant Pass Up! Okemo released its new Spring Skiesta card. For $99

starting March 17, the card grants the user a ticket every-day for the remainder of the season over a month of skiing for just $10 more than the cost of a single-day adult ticket.

Plus, the cost of the card can be applied toward the pur-chase of a 2014/2015 seasons pass if the seasons pass is pur-chased before the early-buy April 30 deadline.

Further north on Route 100, Killington Resort expects to stay open well into April, aiming for the title of longest season of any resort in the East. This year, the mountain is keeping its doors open into the spring with the NorBeaster Spring Season Pass. Starting March 15, the spring pass is valid for the rest of the season and costs $199. Current Killington Express Card Holders and Midweek Season Pass Holders and Pico Season Pass Holders can upgrade for $179. Spring pass holders also enjoy a 20 percent discount on select lodging at Killington Resort managed properties.

At Bromley Mountain Resort, skiers who sign up for the Spring Loaded Card, receive a card valid for four days of skiing and riding any day for the rest of the season. Considering the price of a single-day adult ticket, the card offers four days of skiing for about $25 per day. The card can be reloaded with an additional four days, which can be used until next December, allowing for an early season teaser of the 2014-2015 winter.

Meanwhile, in Southern Vermont, both Stratton and Mount Snow have unveiled opportunities that reward skiers for buying next years season passes in advance.

At Stratton, early buyers can tag on the rest of this season for $100 when they buy next years seasons pass.

At Mount Snow, buyers can save $150 off the full price of the season pass just by buying early.

At Bolton Valley Resort, passes for ages 7-17 start at $99. When a family of four buys their passes for next year, they can save $360 when they purchase passes before April 1.

The 2014-2015 season pass includes senior passes as well as night skiing. In addition, those who purchase their passes before the April 1 deadline will ski and ride for free every day of the remainder of the 2013-2014 season.

At Jay Peak, the resort offers two discounts on skiing, swimming and lodging vacations during the spring. Mid-week vacations, anytime between February 23 through March 27, can save 25 percent on packages, including daily lift tickets, passes to the Pump House Indoor Waterpark and lodging. Packages are available from $300 per night for a family of four in the Stateside Hotel, Timberline Condos and Cottages, or Golf & Mountain Cottages.

Ski-only vacations and Waterpark-only vacations are also available. In April, guests can save 15 percent on late-season April lodging packages.

At Sugarbush, spring passes include skiing and riding from March 17 through the end of the season for $199.

Select 2014-2015 season pass purchasers will also receive

free skiing and riding through the end of this season. For those about to turn 30 and for the Spring Pass campaign only, For20s Pass purchasers can use their age as of May 7, 2014, rather than the traditional Nov. 1 cutoff. Check your birthday and the details of this special offer, if youre going to turn 30 between now and next November, you cant afford to pass this up itll save you several hundreds of dollars.

SPRINGTIME EVENTSIn addition to the special deals, resorts feature a full cal-

endar of classic springtime events like brewers festivals, Saint Pattys Day parties, costume-clad pond skimming and live music to keep you outside and enjoying the sun-shine.

Stratton Resort rounds out its season with the new Be. series of events, which includes the annual Spring Fling and Pond Skim before the projected closing date of April 13. Mount Snows spring lineup includes the Glade-iator competition and Bolton Valley keeps the energy levels high day and night, with lifts on Friday and Saturday nights turning until 10 p.m.

Killington designed their NorBeaster pass alongside a six-week long line-up of events, including the classic Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge, a seasons passholder appre-ciation day, banked slalom races and Vermont specialty food tastings. The spring wraps up with the May Day Slalom race on May 1 and the Triathlon on May 3.

Its an on-snow, off-snow party all spring long, Michael Joseph at Killington says. Its more than just sunshine and soft snow, its about the spring experience here.

Its like that all over Vermont. Come see for yourself.

Whats the secret locals know that you dont? Spring is the best time of the year to enjoy skiing, riding By EVAN JOHNSONPhotos By Craig Burnham, provided by Killington Resort

Above: Competitors partake in the annual Vermont tradition of pond skimming. Costumes are encouraged. Below: Spring weather means fewer parkas and more t-shirts at Killington. Photos by Craig Burnham/Killington Resort

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BOLTON VALLEY Denny Bowen got his first pair of skis when he was ten years old.

I was hooked, he says, describing the days when he and his brother would ski at the country club near where they grew up. It was so satisfying because we were able to go wherever we wanted.

Now, at the age of 77, hes looking to explore new trails, but says getting the best possible introduction to backcoun-try skiing has been difficult. Five years ago, he made it up the Tear-drop Trail on Mount Mansfields western flank on Nordic skis. While he was able to make it to the top just fine, the decent, he says, was harrowing.

That was when I was 72 and young and foolish, he says. But Ive skied enough that I can tell what I need to work on.

So this past February, Bowen was one of roughly 50 people to take part in the Get Out and Backcountry Ski Festival at Bolton Valley. The event was organized by the Catamount Trail Associa-tion (CTA), and provided novice and intermediate telemark skiers with educational clinics on skiing techniques, guided tours to the local network of trails and the backcountry beyond, and dem-onstrations on types of skis and proper preparation for backcoun-try travel.

Greg Maino, communications and events director for the CTA, says he understands peoples apprehension before starting a new variety of a sport they may already enjoy.

Before people go out on a tour or participate in anything else, people can be wary, he says. Its important for them to have baby steps before getting out, so we try and provide stepping-stones all along the way. The goal is to take people from being a never-ever, to giving them the skills and the con-fidence they need to start exploring on their own.

Backcountry skiing isnt an insiders game anymore and there are plenty of resources available to show you how its done and where to go. For beginners, clinics, education cen-ters and guide outfitters offer plenty of opportunities for people looking to learn the basics. Add that to the 300-mile-long Catamount Trail running the length of Vermont and more than 1,800 miles of trails maintained by the Vermont Association Of Snow Travelers, and that means plenty of ter-rain and trails are available to ski.

EXPERIENCED SKIERS, NEW SKIS AND NEW TERRAINJacob Hemmerick, 33, from

Colchester, has done some alpine and Nordic skiing, but still clas-sifies himself as a beginner skier. He says making the transition from alpine to telemark skiing was challenging.

Maintaining balance has been the hardest part because its a totally different feel from downhill skiing, he says. Doing downhill skiing and then moving over to this is a different balance. It was technically more difficult than I was expecting.

He and his housemate, Lisa Liotta, became interested in telemark and backcountry skiing after meeting Alan Binnick, a CTA Board Member, at a confer-ence in the fall. Binnick invited them to the southern region of the trail near Wilmington and

showed them backcountry travel as well as telemark skiing technique.

Hemmerick says skiing on the Catamount Trail and in other backcountry areas appealed to him because it is accessible as well as affordable. He bought his first pair of backcountry telemark skis this year and after getting an introduction at Bolton Valley, he and Liotta cant wait to get out more this season.

Bolton/CTA host backcountry courses for skiers seeking new adventuresBy EVAN JOHNSON

Participants at the Get Out And Backcountry Ski Festival at Bolton Valley, pose for a picture before heading into the backcountry.

Backcountry skiers organize their gear at Bolton Valley.

(See Backcountry on page 25)

what to bringBy EVAN JOHNSON

Whether youre a seasoned backcountry skier or brand new to off-piste, its important to be prepared. Even if youre headed out for a morning, having the right equipment, extra clothing and food on your back can mean the difference between a great day or a miserable one.

For more suggestions, head to the Catamount Trail Associations blog, In Their Packs and On Their Backs to see what experienced backcountry skiers take with them.

Extra clothing: When considering what clothes to wear and pack, remember the Four Ws: Wick, Wind, Water and Warmth. As you sweat, cotton loses its ability to retain warmth, so no cotton t-shirts. Wear a baselayer that will wick sweat away from your skin. On top of that, dress in layers that you can remove as you warm up. Pack a waterproof jacket, extra gloves, socks and another hat.

A first aid kit: A good and complete first aid kit should contain the following: tweezers, safety pins, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic towelettes, wound closure strips, moleskin or duct tape for blisters, Band-aids, ACE bandage, a bandanna, ibuprofen, antihistamine, powdered energy drink.

Food: When packing food for the day, reach for the foods that are going to give you the most energy. Trail mix, energy bars/gels are good because they have a mixture of long-burning protein, quickly-used carbs and sugar. Snickers bars and PB&J will do as well. Pack what you need and then pack a little bit more.

Water: Even though its winter, youll surprise yourself with how thirsty youll get after a morning of skinning. Depending on how long youre planning on being outside, youll need at least two liters of water. A note on hydration systems: in winter, even insulated hoses will freeze. Keep your bottles secured in your pack.

Other essentials: Aside from the basics, here are a few other odds and ends you should be sure to bring: Map and compass of the area, cell phone, multi-tool or Swiss army knife, duct tape, hand/toe warmers, sunglasses, sunscreen and helmet.

Photo by Keith Macchione

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Weve been wanting to go out on the trail even before coming here, he says. Were trying to build the skills so we can go out and stay safe.

Liotta added that workshops like the one they attended were a good introduction.

I feel like we have a little bit of confidence to go out on our own and explore a little bit more from what we learned, she says. A lot of basics were covered; they were all things that would take a very long time to learn on our own.

Liotta and Hemmerick arent alone. Flora Hurtea, 59, from Milton, has been skiing her entire life and considers herself a halfway decent alpine skier.

Usually with outdoor activities, I just go out and do them, like snowshoeing and alpine skiing, she says. Its what I love to do. Im not frustrated (with telemark skiing), but making the transition was a very humbling experience for me.

Despite the learning curve, she says she intends to ski the entire length of the Catamount Trail all 300 miles and join the list of End-to-Enders on the CTAs website.

Patty Dunn, 58, from Hinesburg, has taught telemark skiing since 1980. She teaches Womens Wednesdays, a series of telemark clinics for women at Bolton Valley. She says she finds people participate in beginner telemark clin-ics usually have some background in skiing, usually in alpine or cross-country disciplines. While telemark provides even experienced skiers with many of the familiar movements, the sensation of linking turns in a full telemark position with heels free and knees dropped is the most challenging part and the part of the progression that demands the most from her abilities as the instructor. As a result, she says she has to stay positive, be willing to change plans at a moments notice and expect students to follow her example.

I have to rely on the lively spirit and good nature of the skiers, she says. The students come with an open attitude and they go with the flow. Its a laid-back crowd and when you change plans at the last minute, you adapt. Thats a valu-able skill youll need for backcountry skiing. The conditions are always variable, you never know what youre going to encounter and you have to be willing to adapt.

OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPLOREThe Catamount Trail Association holds a series of annual

events, including the Trapps to Bolton Tour in March. In the rest of the year, users can access the trail from a backyard or a parking lot for short day tours. For longer trips, skiers can overnight in lean-tos and cabins along the trail or at inns and bed-and-breakfasts.

Exploring the winter landscape on skis goes well beyond sticking to the 300-mile-long trail that the CTA manages. Skiers can use the trail to access their own secret stashes of snow or use the trail to go from town to town. In addition to the Catamount Trail, the Vermont Association of Snow Trav-elers (VAST) maintains more than 1,800 miles of trails open to all.

The real goal is to get people out on our trail and all the other trails in Vermont, New Hampshire, New York and wher-ever else they may be, says Greg Maino of the CTA. Giving them the skills and the confidence lets them go out and expand the sport. In the long run, it would be great if those people who developed those skills came back and helped us introduce even more people to the sport.

Even though hes a lifelong skier, Bowen says hes always looking to learn and other people should as well.

We dont invest enough in our success, Bowen says. Every ski lesson Ive taken has made me stronger and more confi-dent. If more people would follow through on taking lessons, they would have such a richer experience.

Skiers head off onto the Catamount Trail near Bolton Valley. The 300-mile long trail stretches the length of Vermont.

Skiers discuss their tele turn technique on the Catamount Trail.

Backcountry

Photo by

vermont ski & ride, march 2014

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