The Economy sucks, the stock markets are still tanking, and my refund check from school is not exactly going to allow me to fly across the world for an expensive ski trip. Where do I turn? I turn on route 476 and head to the Poconos!
This year I think we all took advantage of the Poconos, whether it be for weekend getaways, birthdays or just day trips for skiing/boarding. When planning for the UD undergrad reunion part deux, we specifically made it a priority to make it cheap. Our theme this time was "A Budgeted Winter Wonderland!" Fortunately it all worked out and expenses for food and drinks ended up being much less than our summer reunion bill. It was amazing to see how a big pot of chili for 10+ could be so friggin' cheap. I definitely recommend making chili when trying to feed a group of hungry skiers. Steve, our stay-at-the-cabin-chili-chef, did a great job!
Compliments to Steve's grandma for making the matching hat and scarf set
The weekend UD reunion
Celebrating Katie's 24th Birthday at Shenanigans near Jack Frost
Celebrating My 24th Birthday at Camelback
For all of you skiers and boarders, there are about five main mountains that people like to go to. I've only been to the first four.
1. Big Boulder- Open all day and is one of the family-friendly ones. They only have a few intermediate and black diamond trails.
2. Jack Frost- This is only open during the day time. They don't have any lights for night skiing but a buying a lift ticket here allows you to ski at Big Boulder at night. One great element is the stage they have at the main lodge for music concerts.
3. Blue- One of my favorites because they have a lot more intermediate trails.
4. Camelback- Another favorite because of the number of trails available. I also like their chili. If you're a beginner, they have a really nice bunny slope.
5. Elk- Never been.
Obviously, lift tickets have increased and expect to pay ~$50 for a weekend pass at each mountain, plus $15-25 if you need rentals. Food at the lodge is also expensive! I was at Camelback last weekend and just wanted a Gatorade. Before I even checked the prices, I drank half of it and went to the cashier...$4.75!?
Stretch Your Dollar
If you can gather up a group of 15 or more, you can get discounted tickets for about $35. You'll have to call in advance (maybe up to two weeks, depending on the mountain). Skiing during weekdays when it's not a holiday can also be very affordable, especially if you have a student ID. You can't beat a $26 all day lift ticket!
**On a side note, some mountains are making some great deals because of the economy. Jack Frost and Big Boulder are offering "Bounce Back" deals. When purchasing a full day adult lift ticket, you can also purchase a Bounce Back Bonus Pass for $38 good on your next visit. The radio station, WMMR, also does a few events (Day off at the slopes) at Jack Frost. If you go on these designated days, you can get your lift ticket for less than $10! Just remember to order online at Jack Frost's website.**
When it comes to food, I'm a big fan of packing sandwiches. Albeit, if you don't like putting things in lockers or if it's inconvenient than I guess you can stick with your $20 chili-soda-lunch. As for snacks I prefer to carry a lot of them with me, even if that means putting energy bars in every available pocket. You'll be surprised at how hungry you get when you're riding the lift.
Rentals are another very important thing to consider. If you don't have your own gear (which will save you loads if you go a lot) and it's possible to borrow a friend's, then borrow your friend's! Each person has their own opinion about renting at the mountain versus renting at the near by ski shops down the street. I personally prefer renting them at the ski shops. I think they are a tad bit cheaper, have better quality gear and better service.
Hopefully, next year's winter season will entail a fabulous ski trip to Mammoth Mountain in CA but for now...Budgeted Vacations it is! Enjoy the snow if you still have any!
Au Revoir from the Poconos!
