Hunter Mountain: New York’s Top Snowy Hot Spot

Hunter Mountain Snowboard Jump by Daniel Nugent

It is a crisp clear morning in the Catskills. You stand knee-bent at the crest of the slope, pumped with adrenaline and ready to do some carving down the fresh, untrodden snow—but it’s hard to leave the still view. After all, you’re perched atop the second highest peak in the county.

Hunter Mountain is now one of the top ski destinations in New York State. And with a slew of new deals and affordable transportation options they’re making sure everyone from ski bunnies to ski bums will be there this winter for a season of sweet rides.

The Cool Deals

Skiing Hunter MtnOver three mountains, there are 58 slopes and trails—including 17 green slopes, 14 black diamond runs and two terrain parks—which total 240 acres of mountable terrain. Easily accessible by bus and only two and a half hours from Manhattan, Hunter Mountain not only offers a variety of slopes but also learning program for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The Progression Session Six Pack includes six individual group sessions over the course of the season that focus on skills like control, linking turns, and extremes for mastering the entire mountain. “You can pick and choose what you want to learn and where you want to improve,” said communications director Jessica Pezak.

Watch this video to get a glimpse:

In addition to their learning packages, Hunter also offers discounts on multi-day tickets and rentals as well as a Valentine’s day deal for you and your snow-loving sweetheart.

Après-ski and Stay

Still reeling from your last gnarly run down the mountain, swap the chairlift for a seat at the cozy Island Bar in the Copper Tree Restaurant and a quick replenishing meal. If you’ve worked your glutes enough for one day, head five minutes away from the slopes to Pancho Villa’s in Tannersville, a popular local spot for burritos and margaritas. Nearby Last Chance Cheese & Antiques Café has a fun European bistro vibe and is great if you’re in the mood for a cheese platter and a craft beer (there are over 100 to choose from). Consider accommodations at the Kaatskill Mountain Club, which is equipped with all the amenities for a luxuriating winter weekend escape: jacuzzi, restaurant and bar, spa, indoor and outdoor pools. Rates begin at $150 for midweek stays, and $250 on weekends, but be sure to review the site’s ongoing specials.

What’s Fresh

A year-round playground for adults and kids alike, Hunter Mountain is the home to what was once the world’s tallest, longest zipline as well as a 20+ lane snow tubing park. Always looking to improve, Hunter was also the first  to install first six-passenger high speed detachable lift in New York, as well as another high-speed detachable quad on the West Side. And with 120 high-efficiency snowguns, you can be sure this mountain will be ready for action every day of the season. Review Hunter Mountain’s calendar for information on cool, adrenaline-pumping events you don’t want to miss.

How to get there

Hunter has teamed up with Sourced Adventures to offer a day pass and transportation package. There are 9 local bus companies  picking up from around Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan so make sure to check-out the options for almost daily service from NYC to Hunter.

 Header photo by Dan Nugent. Other photos from badkleinkirchheim.