Poconos ski resorts ready for winter
New additions highlight season's preparations POCONO MOUNTAINS As raindrops give way to snowflakes in the Northeast, the Pocono Mountains (800poconos.com) is eager to bring in the winter 2011-12 season with the latest additions and improvements to local ski resorts. Look forward to refurbishments to lodge facilities, increased rental equipment and attractions ideal for skiers and riders of all skill levels. Blue Mountain (skibluemt.com) The Vista Ballroom has been updated and is ideally suited for wedding ceremonies, receptions and other parties in a picturesque location overlooking the Blue Mountain Valley. Camelback Mountain Resort (skicamelback.com) The mountain will increase its already massive snowmaking arsenal with the addition of 50 new high-efficiency snow guns from HKD and Turbo Cristal. In addition, the CBK Terrain Park has invested over $11,000 to debut new, cutting-edge rails, boxes and bonks for shredding snowboarders and freeskiers. CBK Park will also offer a small rail garden to be used by beginners “groms” as a stepping stone to the progression park. Camelback is finalizing the installation of an inflatable stunt Air Bag that allows guests of all skill levels to attempt tricks and jumps, while ensuring a completely soft landing. Jack Frost Big Boulder (JFBB) (jfbb.com) A new bar with a view of the mountain has been built at Big Boulder, for enjoyment after a day on the slopes, including music on Saturday evenings. In addition, Boulder Park Lodge has been refurbished. New to the JFBB site are the interactive trail maps in which allow guests to customize their own pictures and videos. Shawnee Mountain (shawneemt.com) In an effort to increase snowmaking productivity, Shawnee Mountain has completed the installation of new air and water piping on the popular Pennsylvania Trail and in sections of the base area. The Shawnee Rental Shop has expanded capacity to outfit over 4,000 skiers and riders per day. (An addition of 350 new pairs of Salomon skis and bindings, 350 new Flow snowboards and bindings, 300 new Burton adjustable helmets and 500 new token operated lockers.) Two new Piston Bully Snow Cats, complete with flex tiller groomers have been purchased for 2011-12. The wireless internet services in both the Hope and Trepp Ski Lodges have been upgraded promising more connections and faster service. The seasonal locker rooms have been refurbished and redesigned for easier access, with the addition of new boot lockers. With over 185 ski trails and seven major ski resorts, the Pocono Mountains allows guests of all skill levels to take full advantage of winter’s offerings. For more information regarding winter in the Pocono Mountains region, visit poconoski.com.