Wildcat Mountain

Wildcat Mountain: Opening Video & Ski/Ride 3 Mountains Only $22.30!

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:44:00 +0000

(photo on summit of Wildcat Mountain taken 12/14/09)

Opening day at Wildcat Mountain, Friday, December 11th and right through the weekend in to Monday pretty much ran the gamut of possibilities: A day of dumping and some wind challenges restricting summit access and providing negative wind chill, but made for excellent snowmaking temps; then bluebird days with warm temps in the middle 30's and no winds topped with incredible conditions and scenery and views that just never seem to fail to impress. Yes, it was essentially a range of what we'll be seeing this season as New England skiers & riders. And with that, we have our first of many regular video updates showing you the conditions the past few days. Working again with Thom Pollard of Eyes Open Productions, we're taking a bit different approach to our videos and I think you'll notice that with this first video. If you are reading this as an email, you can click Wildcat Mountain Litter Blog to view.

We have opened a couple more trails this week and snowmaking is scheduled to resume with the very cold temperatures moving in later this week and efforts will continue to cover some essential lower-mountain trails before moving on to the entire length of Lynx. Keep an eye on our snow report page for updates.

And although many resorts are still working to build up their available terrain, this Friday is aligning to be a bit of a time warp regarding a few Mount Washington Valley ski resorts and ticket pricing. Why do I mention other resorts? Because the possibility of a "Trifecta Ski Friday" is too cool to not mention. Get this, Friday, December 18th, lift tickets will be only $9 at Wildcat Mountain, $3.30 at Cranmore Mountain, & $10 at Black Mountain. What we're likely to see is a herding effect in the valley with persons gunning to ski and ride all 3 in one day for only $22.30. No, this was not a planned special and there is no single ticket offer. Think about the possibility and challenge, but please note that trying to work the clutch in ski boots is not recommended. We're already hearing about meet-ups at local restaurants and pubs after with persons showing off their 3-resort same-date ticket jacket and pant ornamentation. Also, keep in mind that at Wildcat Mountain, you can upgrade your $9 lift ticket to be valid again Saturday for only $39, but you have to do that before 3:30pm on Friday, so plan accordingly before you take off to maybe make runs at Black or Cranmore. We'll also mention that Tuckerman Brewing Company will be hosting the apres scene in the Wildcat Pub on Friday afternoon with 93.5fm WMWV's own "skiing DJ" Roy Prescott and a live remote-radio broadcast from 2 to 4pm.

Also, this Sunday, December 20th, we are hosting the first Nevado Mountain Adventures On-Snow Demo day. Between 10am and 2pm, you'll discover many toys among their collection of winter hardgoods, softgoods, eyewear, and more that you can try out at no cost. Yes, it's free, but just be sure to bring a valid drivers license if you do want to demo any products. You can find out about these events and other upcoming events on our events calendar.

With the holiday week all but here, I imagine many lodging properties are filling up, but please consider all of our partner properties featured on our lodging page and follow the links to their website for additional details, information, and to book directly with the property. Some date restrictions usually apply with the lowest pricing featured on our website, but perhaps offers like those from The Village House located close by in Jackson who also offer seasonal rentals or perhaps even just north of Wildcat Mountain in Shelburne at the Mountain Washington B&B might be something you haven't considered for the holiday week or this season.

Final reminders, and you should know all the details already, but the WildCard deadline is this Sunday, December 20th. Don't miss out on this and other Wild Deals this season. Searching for a last minute gift idea, consider a custom made Wildcat Mountain trail signs. Order online for your friends and family and have it shipped directly today.

Cheers and hope to see you soon.

Wildcat Mountain: AbilityPLUS Partnership & Postings

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:01:00 +0000

A Winter Storm Watch has been posted for Wednesday in to Wednesday evening that should help our cause to open. As much as 10" of snow forecasted, with a possible slight wintry mix toward the end of the storm, will add to continued snowmaking efforts. Off and on snow and mostly favorable temps remain in the 7-day, but high winds are expected Thursday. Plans continue to cover from the summit down via Upper Catapult to Middle Wildcat to Cheetah and will continue around the clock as weather and temperatures allow. Wildcat Mountain is currently scheduled to open Friday, December 11th.

In the meantime, some news was recently released regarding a partnership with AbilityPLUS and also some new department managers this season and we wanted to share both with you:

Wildcat Mountain is pleased to announce a partnership with the AbilityPLUS program of Mount Washington Valley. From the centrally located adaptive program at Attitash Ski Resort in Bartlett, New Hampshire, AbilityPLUS volunteer instructors will now be available to provide all lessons, instruction, & equipment to people with disabilities at Wildcat Mountain.

AbilityPLUS was founded in 1997 by a small group of volunteers who were inspired by the awesome achievements of the disabled participants at the Waterville Valley Adaptive Skiing Program. Today, with the help of hundreds of volunteers at operations and affiliate programs in New Hampshire, Vermont and Massachusetts, AbilityPLUS has provided thousands of lessons for people with all types of disabilities who, along with their families and friends have experienced the joy of inclusion in mainstream recreational activities. AbilityPLUS and each of their affiliate programs are open to everyone regardless of their age or disability and are dedicated to helping disabled people of all abilities realize their dreams of inclusion through adaptive skiing and other recreation opportunities.

Erik Corbett, Director of AbilityPLUS at Attitash helped to coordinate the partnership with Wildcat Mountain by meeting with General Manager Tom Caughey & Snow Sports Director Rich Russo to better understand the facilities, terrain, and considerations of providing lessons to disabled persons. “It’s been positive to meet and partner with AbilityPLUS to understand some of the challenges that a disabled visitor might encounter when first experiencing skiing,” said Caughey “But we’re pleased to work with AbilityPLUS so that the experience of visiting the White Mountain National Forest and skiing at Wildcat Mountain is available to all.”

Corbett, most recently seen at the 2009 WinterX Games and in footage of Warren Miller’s newest ski-film “Dynasty” added, “I have had a chance to ski at Wildcat Mountain a few times the past couple of years and I’m really excited to add it as an available resort partner.” Persons interested in adaptive snowsports at Wildcat Mountain will be able to contact Erik directly to inquire about availability, arrange reservations, tickets, and any needed rental equipment by calling (603) 374-2688.

AbilityPLUS is a nonprofit organization based in Waterville Valley New Hampshire with operations at Waterville Valley, Attitash and Mount Snow resorts. AbilityPLUS affiliates include Adaptive Sports Partners of the North Country, Gunstock, Crotched Mountain, Wildcat, Eastern Slope Ski Club, Wachusett, Nashoba Valley and Stowe. AbilityPLUS programs are open to everyone. For further information, please visit www.abilityplus.org or by calling 1-603-236-4758.

With the 2009/2010 winter season underway and a first holiday vacation period approaching quickly, Wildcat Mountain is happy to announce that there will be some new faces joining the legendary resort’s team that includes a snow sports director, race coordinator, several instructors and members of mountain operations with each more than 25 years of dedication to the mountain. Among the newly hired and joining this dedication to delivering service and a quality experience are Rental & Tune Shop Manager Dave Chandler, Food & Beverage Director Lesley Kology, & Ticketing & Guest Services Manager Celeste Welsh.

Dave Chandler has been working at Wildcat Mountain part-time and on-call helping to tune skis for several years but has officially accepted the position of Rental & Tune Shop Manager. Known around the valley having been a manufacturer’s representative for DaKine, Dave had been most recently helping to cook at the Thompson House Eatery in Jackson. Dave brings a combination of professionalism within hard- & soft-good sales, detail, prior tuning experience, certification, and recognizes that the experience for many beginner skiers & snowboarders begins right in the rental shop. When not trying to get first tracks, Dave and his staff will be helping walk-in rental guests, ski school program participants, and helping to facilitate rental equipment for larger international groups visiting the Mount Washington Valley. It should also be noted that Dave looks forward to highlighting Wildcat Mountain’s tuning services with returning ski tech Greg Muzerall.

Lesley Kology, Food & Beverage Director, is originally from Cape Cod and is currently living in Gorham, New Hampshire. Many local residents may already know Lesley from her previous experience at the Appalachian Mountain Club in Pinkham Notch or from the Wildcat Tavern in Jackson & Libby’s Bistro in Gorham prior to that. An avid skier who enjoys backcountry pursuits with her husband and dogs, Lesley brings experience, maturity, and an eye for detail having started up her own catering business & vintage clothing store in the past. “I believe visitors to Wildcat Mountain this season will see a marked improvement with food services in the base lodge cafeteria, Wildcat Pub, & Bobcat lodge,” Said Lesley. “With a hospitality background and having been employed at Wildcat Mountain sales back in the late 90’s, I appreciate the combination of quality and experience that our guests would like to see. My staff will be aware of a hospitality objective this season.”

Celeste Welsh is a native of the Gorham & Berlin area and is the new Ticketing & Guest Services Manager. “I have been involved with guest services in different capacities for many years,” said Celeste. “But I’m really excited to bring that to Wildcat Mountain and to deliver upon the expectations of those who I share a common enthusiasm with…I love skiing.” Celeste is also very familiar with Pinkham Notch having most recently worked for the Appalachian Mountain Club. In addition to her work with the AMC, she had developed her professional guest service & sales experience with Disney Cruise Lines and at one time operated her own travel agency. In her capacity, Celeste has been working with returning staff, hired new staff, and begun to coordinate training for all front-line ticketing, season pass, and guest-service staff.

Wildcat Mountain is a year-round, family-owned business, located 100% within the White Mountain National Forest in Pinkham Notch, NH. It is home to the 75-year-old Wildcat Trail; New Hampshire’s most powerful quad summit chair lift; New England’s longest 4-season ZipRider® cable ride, and is renowned for its proximity to Mt. Washington and long season. Wildcat Mountain is rated #1 Scenery and Top Ten in the East for Terrain, Challenge, Value, and Overall Satisfaction (SKI Magazine, Oct. 2009). For further information, please visit www.skiwildcat.com or call 1-888- SKI WILD.

Wildcat Mountain: Diary Of A Winter That's Trying

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:43:00 +0000

(photo: Tom Caughey)

***UPDATE Wildcat Mountain has re-scheduled an opening date of Friday, December 11th. Snowmaking crews began efforts Monday evening with this season's first real extended period (meaning more than 24 hours) of favorable weather and temperatures, but have suspended operations as of Wednesday morning. Unfortunately, unseasonably warm temps & heavy rain have been forecasted for the next couple of days as seen in the current 7-day forecast. Favorable temperatures and snowmaking are expected to resume sometime Friday afternoon/evening and continue efforts from the summit down via Upper Catapult to Middle Wildcat to Cheetah and will continue around the clock as weather and temperatures allow. Please note, as soon as a quality summit to base run is available, Wildcat Mountain will open which could be sooner than official re-scheduled opening date of Friday, December 11th.***

General Manager of Wildcat Mountain was on the mountain Tuesday morning to take a photo and see how snowmaking crews, anxious to have moved aggressively Monday afternoon/evening on a weather window and ideal temperature bulb that will last longer than 12 hours and could allow for 'round the clock snowmaking between night & day shifts, were doing. Snowmaking equipment and guns have been set since well before Thanksgiving from the summit of Wildcat Mountain down via Upper Catapult to Middle Wildcat to Cheetah in addition to those that will cover the base area and from the top of the Tomcat Chair over to Middle Wildcat via Cat Track. With temperatures more favorable at the upper elevations as compared to the base, snowmaking will continue as weather and conditions allow, but it looks like a bump in that road between now and an already once re-scheduled opening date for this Friday, Saturday, or this weekend at all. You can see what we face with the current 7-day forecast and an operational decision will be made Wednesday, December 2nd on whether we'll try to open this weekend or if we'll have to delay that again. We don't like this anymore than you do. If you haven't been following the recent photo updates on our website, here's a quick timeline update with photos...

(photo: Thomas Prindle)
Our original "Black Friday" opening date following Thanksgiving is re-scheduled because it's been as warm of a November here as it likely has been where you are. But the Friday brings in one of the season's first storms...a more spring-like "up-slope" storm with high water-content snow.

(photo: Thomas Prindle)

(photo: Thomas Prindle)

Friday afternoon, just after 4:00pm, and already a few inches have collected of "Sierra Cement" like snow. One of the season's first roll-over accidents as a result of tricky conditions is seen in Pinkham Notch driving home between Wildcat Mountain and the AMC Visitor's Center.

(photo: Tom Caughey)

Saturday morning and 6" of high-water content snow is measured at the 2000' base level. High winds have contributed to rime-like snow & ice build-up on ZipRider and lift cables. The Mt. Washington Summit Observatory reports 2 feet of snow accumulated, but high winds have been blowing everything off and likely contributing to Bretton Woods bounty of snow. A wind-speed high of 137 miles per hour is recorded Saturday.

(photo: Tom Caughey)

A couple of "Pete"'s and a dog named Iris make it up to earn some turns. Tom Caughey, General Manager, receives reports of 1 to 2 foot drifts in some areas and other areas already being scoured to bare ground by wind.

(photo: Tom Caughey)

Warmer temperatures and some drizzly precipitation has all but eliminated what was hoped to have been ideal base snow in lower elevations (approx 3000' and below) from the Friday/Saturday storm, but cold temps begin to move in and night snowmaking crews get on it and begin Monday evening.

(photo: Tom Caughey)

Snowmaking continues all-day Tuesday. Stay tuned to our Snow Report at www.skiwildcat.com for official operation plan update some time Wednesday and scheduled opening date. Keep praying for snow!

Wildcat Mountain: Sunsets & Scarlet Begonias

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 23:27:00 +0000

It was a pretty sunset over the White Mountains Friday evening and I wanted to share a few images that I took on my way out of the lodge. Big orientation session beginning this Saturday morning for many returning and welcomed new Wildcat Mountain employees who are as anxious as you are to get the season underway. We're still looking at Friday, November 27th as our planned opening date and just hope that temperatures and snowmaking operations will cooperate sometime between now and then.

Hey, we're really excited to be sponsoring a couple of "boutique" radio shows on 93.5fm WMWV and if you're in the Mt. Washington Valley or surrounding Lakes Region area this Saturday night, be sure to check out Scarlet Begonias from 10pm - Midnight. You can click the play button below and here what host Dennis Quinn has scheduled this week (email readers click Wildcat Mountain Litter Blog to view player in post). And of course, we're once again sponsoring the Blues Summit with host Roy Prescott heard Wednesday evenings from 6 - 9pm.

Don't forget we'll be at the Boston Ski & Snowboard Expo next week from Thursday, November 19th - Sunday, November 22nd and we hope you'll stop by if you're planning to attend the show. For more info on what we're up to there, check out our previous Wheeling & Dealing blog post. Until then, pray for snow!

Wildcat Mountain: Wheeling & Dealing Between Now & Opening Day

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:05:00 +0000

Well hello there,

Yes, we've been kind of quiet here for a spell in between our summer and winter operating seasons. Like you, we can't wait for the skiing and riding season to begin and are praying for snow and consistent cold temps.

But with today really feeling a bit like winter and there being a tiny hint of "white" on our trails as you can see above, it is time to give you a shout and tell you what's going on between now and our scheduled opening date of Friday, November 27th.

If you don't know, Wildcat Mountain has lowered the price on the long-running student Cool Cat season pass program available to every New England school group to be less than the cost of 2 teen day lift tickets. More information is available on our Cool Cat web page. Orders collectively submitted after November 1st and received no later than December 1st will not be able to ski or ride until December 15th, but this is a deal that parents of children should not let their grade, junior, and high schools miss out on.

Also on sale now and available until the deadline of December 20th, the Wildcard offers great value for adults and can be considered a mini-season pass offering 3 days of skiing or riding for the low price of $130. Combined with Wildcat Mountain's continued next day ticket upgrade offer of only $39, the Wildcard can be a great way to ski & ride for just a little over $40 a day this season. Wildcards are non-transferable, but can be purchased as a gift and multiples of 3, 6, & 9 days are available. Visit our Wild Deals page for more info and to purchase today or come see us when we're out and about and ask us about the limited Wildcard bonus offer at the Seacoast Ski Club Ski Swap at Putnam's Ski & Snowboard in Portsmouth (Saturday, November 7th), the New Hampshire Ski Club Ski Mountain Extravaganza at The Yard Restaurant in Manchester (Wednesday, November 11th), or the king of ski shows, The Boston Ski & Snowboard Expo (Thursday, November 19th - Sunday, November 22nd). Read on for more on that limited Wildcard bonus offer.

Anticipation for another winter season builds and from all over New England skiers and riders will converge at the Boston Ski & Snowboard Expo to see or buy the latest gear, plan ski vacations, find lift ticket deals, collect bags of free swag and stickers, and to hear what’s new at all the Eastern, Western, Canadian, and European resorts in attendance. Wildcat Mountain will again be attending and located in booths 18 & 19 among other Mount Washington Valley & New Hampshire resorts. The show begins at 4pm Thursday, November 19th and runs until 6pm Sunday, November 22nd and the schedule can be viewed online at bewisports.com. Wildcat Mountain will invite attendees to become part of the legend with a mix of discount offerings including its classic “two-fer” that offers two lift tickets for the price of one ($65) every Wednesday during non-holiday periods and also the Sunday Afternoon Cruise where late-risers can ski or ride on the afternoon lift ticket for only $25. Also back again, but at a new lower price, during non-holiday periods are “Aristocat Tuesdays” for skiers age 50+ and “Ladies Thursdays” with both programs offering a lift ticket, lesson, and lunch for only $45. A highlighted value that keeps pricing low on multi-day tickets, Wildcat Mountain continues to offer the flexibility of upgrading your next day ticket for only $39…every day, any age.

With other limited Boston Ski Show ticket discount coupons, many will be happy to know that a special offer will again accompany Wildcard sales while show supplies last. On sale now and available until the deadline of December 20th, the Wildcard offers great value already, but If purchased at the Boston Ski Show, persons will receive one additional day of skiing and riding valid Sunday - Friday during non-holiday periods while supplies last. This offer will sell out and is only available at the Boston Ski Show. Wildcat Mountain will also be able to demonstrate via wi-fi how you can purchase discount lift tickets through Liftopia.com and buy consecutive, multi-day tickets at a 10% savings off the normal rate through the Wildcat Mountain website. There will also be a “Brew-ski” & stay package provided by the Eagle Mountain House located in Jackson raffled off to one lucky winner attending the show.

That's it for now and we hope to see some significant snowfall and maybe you at a ski show soon. It's getting frosty on that big rock pile across the street.

Wildcat Mountain: Working & Wildcard

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 15:15:00 +0000

Chairs for the Tomcat Triple line up for service. (all photos by Tom Caughey)

Thank you for another great summer/fall season at Wildcat Mountain. Though we officially closed the scenic gondola & ZipRider on Sunday, October 18th, there has been little rest here as we gear up for the 2009/2010 skiing/riding season to begin in late November. At this time, our intended opening date is the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 27th. So off come the gondola cabins and on go the 4-person chairs as well as maintaining, tuning up, and inspecting other lifts & chairs. With that in mind, be aware that our limited Wildcard mini-season pass product is now on sale. 3 days of skiing/riding for the price of 2. Combined with our next day $39 ticket upgrade, the Wildcard offers unparalleled vertical value.

A blanket of clouds covers the ridge line above the bowl.

Hoisting quad chairs on to the Wildcat Express.

I see a pair of wings, what do you see?

Clouds that appear as brush strokes.

The old gondola base building has seen quite a bit of refurbishing this summer & fall including structural improvements and siding replacing the old wall of glass.

Amazing palette of colors at sunset seen from Jackson.

First Accumulation

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:56:00 +0000

Six inches of new snow accumulated at the summit. still lots of chores to do onthe Mt before ski season. Gondola scheduled to operate till 10 18 2009 call ahead.

October 10th colorful and Breezey

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 20:50:00 +0000

The view from the lift just below the clouds on Saturday october 10th looking north to Great Glen Trails and the base Of the Mt. WashingtonAuto road the route to the NH State park on the summit.

Working inthe clouds today our chair lift crew has replaces the main shaft bearings of the Tomcat chair lift then reset it and put the cable back in place while in heavy fog. Buck form Cross Machine of Berlin, Rigger Bob Langlands of Shelburn NH, Lift Ops Director John Ginter and mechanic John White of Wildcat with Trails manager and equipment operator Rick Flynn spent a cold day in the clouds and drizzel to finish the two week long project. The excavator is a Cat 320C owned by A Eastman and son of Bartlett NH it was able to easily lift the 3 1/2 ton wheel.

Friday on the Drive in to work I stopped by the flagpole at AMC Joe Dodge lodge to snap a shot of the snow with the colors of foliage so bright. The day before I drove under 8 rainbows that blended into the foliage like a magical image shown in the first picture. Going to be a cold one tonight may be white again on Sunday

This bull was one of 4 moose in the bog at the base of Wildcat Mt on thursday night about 5:45 PM. There was a bull 2 cows and a calf.

Gondola and zip rides open untill October 18th.

(Photos by Tom Caughey General Manager Wildcat Mountain Ski Area Pinkham Notch NH)

First Snow of the Season on Mount Washington seen from Wildcat Mountain in Pinkham Notch

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:52:00 +0000

Tuckerman Ravine October 1 2009 above ,and Huntington Ravine below right.

It was a great view when the clouds lifted to see the snow above the fall color of the forest.
The buses of tourists from all over the world are arriving daily are greatly impressed with our part of the world in its fall splendor.

(photos Tom Caughey Wildcat Mountain Ski Area)

Wildcat Mountain: Leaves of Change, Wild Stallions, & Black Cats

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 18:14:00 +0000

(photos by Tom Caughey, General Manager of Wildcat Mountain)

With cooler temps and a sense of the coming winter, Autumn is definitely not perceived by the ski industry as one season’s end, but rather another season’s beginning. Wildcat Mountain continues to operate the ZipRider, lift-serviced disc golf, and New Hampshire’s highest scenic gondola daily through the fall foliage period in to late October, but it is a forthcoming season of skiing and riding that marks improvements & changes.

“There is a lot of new snowmaking pipe currently being set in to place on the mountain and more that remains to be done,” said General Manager Tom Caughey speaking in regard to primarily non-visible, but costly, improvements taking place at Wildcat Mountain. “And looking ahead to our usual opening date for the Friday after Thanksgiving, this season’s snowmaking will benefit from the additional investment on top of last year’s newly purchased low-energy snowmaking guns and efficiency improvements.” The buildings & grounds crew have also been working on significant renovations to an older building that formerly served as the original gondola’s base terminal. Now used to store the newer, summer scenic gondola cabins, improvements being made to the base area building will allow better use of available space, storage, & restroom facilities used by the ski school, visiting domestic & international student groups, and during race events.

Other changes taking place will only bolster Wildcat Mountain’s reputation for vertical value. Retail lift ticket prices remain what they were the previous season, but skiers and riders will find value-priced Wildcat Mountain ski school products and programs for the 2009/2010 season. Rates, including group lessons, private lessons, Learn-to-Ski/Ride, adult and children’s ski school, have been reduced to be more inviting for those looking to improve the skills and tactics sought to enjoy the sport. More notably, and perhaps appealing for the local market during non-holiday periods, are the lower-priced “Aristocat Tuesdays” for persons age 50+ and “Ladies Thursdays” with both programs offering a lift ticket, lesson, and a lunch at for only $45. “We have set our price points to be very affordable for the coming season,” said Snowsports School Director Rich Russo. Wildcat Mountain has also lowered the price on the long-running student Cool Cat season pass program available to every New England school group to be less than the cost of 2 teen day lift tickets. “At only $109 per pass, I’ve been emailing and calling the 100 different districts in the state of New Hampshire,” said group sales person Brian Chamberlain. “This fall, it’s very exciting to make this kind of offer to every SAU that I can contact because it is so affordable and can also be a great means to raise funds for a student organization or program.” More information on the Cool Cat pass program is available at www.skiwildcat.com/coolcat.html.

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Wildcat Mountain is a year-round, family-owned recreation destination, located 100% within the White Mountain National Forest in Pinkham Notch, NH. It is home to the Wildcat Trail, one of the first ski racing trails built in the United States cut by the Civilian Conservation Corp in 1933, and is renowned for its proximity to Mt. Washington and Tuckerman Ravine. For further information, please visit www.skiwildcat.com or call 1-888- SKI WILD.

Long lengths of new snowmaking pipe.

This ATV looks pretty cool and rigged out, but why is there camoflauge attached to it?

The definition of laying pipe.

An old toboggan stash and possibly circa 1930's

Wildcat Mountain: Meathead Films & Black Cat Pass Special

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:50:00 +0000

Reaffirm your love of skiing the East during the Columbus Day weekend, Saturday, October 10th when Wildcat Mountain hosts the premiere of Meathead Films latest ski film project Wild Stallions. Filmed exclusively in the Eastern U.S. and Canada while following the finest regional freeskiing athletes to spectacular terrain, Meathead Films Wild Stallions features many familiar New England resorts, Tuckerman Ravine, and more. Fresh backcountry footage is coupled with innovative park and urban skiing. What the East lacks in vertical drop, Meathead Films makes up for in finding tight tree skiing, deep powder, unique jump sites, creative urban terrain, and of course, die hard locals.

Boasting one of the larger movie tours in the industry, Wild Stallions will premiere at Wildcat Mountain on the Saturday evening of Columbus Day weekend, October 10th. Prior to the film beginning at 7pm, Wildcat Mountain is offering everyone a one-time/one-night-only opportunity to purchase their Black Cat midweek, non-holiday pass at the early price of $249 before the film. Currently priced at $299, the Black Cat and all other available season passes will increase from the mid-price level to regular rates on the deadline of October 16th.

Filmed in High Definition, 16mm, and Super 8mm film formats, Wild Stallions is truly a unique mix of visual mediums. Last year’s offering from Meathead Films, Head For The Hills, was another forward move for the Burlington, Vermont based crew, and Wild Stallions is sure to stir up similar excitement in the industry and get you excited for the winter season. To be shown on a 100” big screen provided by Cinemaesque Home Theatre Company located in North Conway, The Meathead Films crew will premiere the film in the Wildcat Mountain Pub (open for the premiere and sponsored by Tuckerman Brewing Company) with plenty of great gear and goods to give-away and a raffle. The Wildcat Express scenic gondola and ZipRider will be operating, weather permitting, as normally scheduled for the long weekend offering incredible and unique views of the fall foliage and staff will be available prior to the scheduled 7pm film screening for the $249 one-time/one-night-only Black Cat midweek, non-holiday season pass offer or other pass purchase needs.

There will be no admission charged for this event and more information is available at skiwildcat.com. A complete list of all tour stop locations, dates, and the movie trailer can be viewed on meatheadfilms.com, as well as the skitheeast.net community website.

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Wildcat Mountain is a year-round recreational destination located 100% within the White Mountain National Forest. The ZipRider™, scenic gondola, and the 9-hole alpine disc golf course currently scheduled to remain open until October 18th. All information can be found at www.skiwildcat.com or by calling 1-888-SKI-WILD.

Wildcat Mountain: Happy Labor Day Weekend

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 16:10:00 +0000

I hope everyone is having a happy & safe holiday weekend and will enjoy the beautiful weather that we're experiencing and is forecasted to last through Labor Day. We're happy to be busy today and want you to know of course that we are scheduled to continue operating our scenic gondola (the highest in the state), the ZipRider, and our lift-serviced alpine disc golf course right through the fall foliage and leaf-peeping season until the weekend after the long Columbus Day weekend. I can't think of a better way to enjoy the autumnal splendor of New England than coming up to Pinkham Notch and Wildcat Mountain. And for those of you ready to begin skiing or riding on our scheduled opening date after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 27th, I ask you one question, Do you have your 2009/2010 winter season pass yet? Don't forget to purchase that at current low rates, including the low cost $299 Black Cat pass with fewer black-out dates and early/late season bonus, before the deadline when season pass prices increase Friday, October 16th because it's coming up quick. With that, here are some photos from today and we again hope you enjoy this weekend and the summer's ending days:

A view this morning off the backside of Wildcat Mountain looking toward the Mt. Washington Valley.

The view down Upper Catapult from the summit. How many of us know this little start in section oh so well? Try it switch.

A 300mm close up of the Mt. Washington Observatory, but quite visible today to the naked eye.

Tuckerman Ravine patiently waits for when it will again be the alpine backcountry mecca of the East.

Riding the 'Wildcat Express' scenic gondola, the highest in the state, back down to the base area.

Visible signs of snowmaking system improvements and large sections of on-hill pipe being replaced.

Look at you Tuckerman Ravine...without any snow.

A small group of visitors excited to load the first few cabins and ride to the 4,062' summit of Wildcat Mountain. That's about as long of a wait as I've ever seen and will likely be a similar experience for bus groups and visitors during the peak periods of the foliage season in early October.

Approximately 75 feet up!

The start of Labor Day weekend and the weather couldn't be nicer.

Wildcat Mountain: Rraawwrrr!

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 18:42:00 +0000

Now that Alex has helped us to get your attention, let's think back to a time some 75 years ago when a depression born civilian conservation corps, armed with axes and cross-cut saws, started clearing the Wildcat trail, one of the first ski racing trails built in the United States. Twenty-five years later, an original, first-of-its-kind in North America gondola introduced lift-serviced skiing in Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire. Since then, Wildcat Mountain has developed in to a year-round destination for those seeking a unique experience 100% within the White Mountain National Forest. It can be seen that much of what remains the same about Wildcat Mountain, unencumbered by development and slope-side real estate, is what makes this New England resort so unique and considered by many to be a legend. Above average annual snowfalls, high elevation with a significant vertical foot drop and a northern exposure assuring a long ski season has contributed to a lasting legacy. And of course, the spectacular scenery that surrounds Wildcat Mountain, including eye-level views of Tuckerman Ravine and Mt. Washington directly across Pinkham Notch, has been influential establishing a reputation among outdoor enthusiasts.

Wildcat Mountain has consistently ranked #1 scenery in North America according to readers of SKI Magazine and has placed previously top 10 in the East for snow, lifts, terrain, challenge, value, and overall satisfaction categories helping it to be listed among overall top 50 resorts in North America and top 20 resorts in the East. Perhaps it is Wildcat Mountain's ability to remain a classic, providing a glimpse of the sports heritage and roots, that continues to resonate with a core market that simply come to ski and ride.

With that said, here is just a sneak peek at forthcoming current capital, & value improvements for the 2009/2010 season that will contribute to this season’s pure vertical fun. You will be hearing more in the months ahead as well as updates and changes occurring on our winter website...

• Savings & Value –

Known for its value, lift ticket rates remain the same from last season as well as its next day ticket upgrade rate of only $39 every day, any age. In addition, many of its over-the-counter ski school product rates have been lowered in an effort to introduce new persons to the sport and to reduce average costs associated when skiers & riders want to improve their techniques and tactics on the mountain. Traditional weekly offerings of vertical value include the original “two-fer” that offers two lift tickets for the price of one ($65) every Wednesday during non-holiday periods and also the Sunday Afternoon Cruise where late-risers can ski or ride on the afternoon lift ticket for only $25. Also back again during non-holiday periods are “Aristocat Tuesdays” for persons age 50+ and “Ladies Thursdays” with both programs offering a lift ticket, lesson, and lunch at an even lower price for the 09/10 season of only $45.

The returning Cool Cat Student Season Pass has been aggressively re-priced and is now a means for any school, including all grammar, middle, high school, public, private, or collective educational groups, to raise funds. With an organizing member or SAU representative submitting a group purchase minimum 20 passes at only $109 per pass (less than the cost of 2 single day teen lift tickets), not only can students ski or ride every day this season, but Wildcat Mountain will also reimburse the school $10 for every pass sold!

Wildcat Mountain continues to partner with New Hampshire ski areas Gunstock Resort and Mount Sunapee in the multi-resort NH College Breakout Season Pass. Starting at only $239 if purchased before December 24th, 2009 and valid every day for the entire 2009/2010 season, the NH College Breakout pass offers the most accessible big mountain skiing and riding in New England. In addition to Wildcat Mountain offering over 2,100 vertical feet of skiing and riding and a consistently long season, Mount Sunapee (1,510 vertical) and Gunstock (1,400 vertical) are less than two hours from Boston.

Wildcat Mountain saw a 300% increase in tickets purchased online through Liftopia.com. Adjusting ticket rates and yield quickly based on business, weather, and snowfall, Wildcat Mountain will again work with the forward thinking online discount lift ticket website.

• Relocating the Wildcat Mountain Jib Lot –

Following last season’s partnership with Coca-Cola of Northern New England that helped Wildcat Mountain to acquire a 16 foot flat rail, a 24 foot flat box, and a 24 foot rainbow box and develop a previously absent Freestyle Terrain area, the Wildcat Mountain Jib Lot will be relocated to the Lower Catapult trail offering access to better snowmaking and opening the door for additional snow elements to be introduced.

• Base Area Renovations –

Building upon the previous year’s major improvements, our buildings and grounds crew have been busy with continued maintenance and renovations to base area buildings including restroom renovations and constructing ski storage areas to accommodate extended international and domestic group stays.

• Snowmaking Maintenance and Improvements –

Maintaining Wildcat Mountain's current snowmaking network that can produce 90% coverage, efforts and capital improvements during the off-season have focused on replacing large sections of water pipe mains.

• No Really...We’re Located In the Forest & There Isn’t A Condominium In Sight –

Wildcat Mountain operates 100% within the White Mountain National Forest under a special use permit. This is a commitment to operate using sound environmental practices and policies that will sustain the natural resources and continue to provide outdoor recreational experiences that compliment the natural qualities of Wildcat Mountain and its surroundings. Work continues with the U.S.F.S to restore areas of natural vegetation in the Mountain Jag glade by educating our guests of this action and restricting use and access to selected areas. We also use environmentally friendly products for food service, recycle, and participate in the NH Department of Environmental Services “Anti-Idling” campaign and continue to seek correct sustainability and stewardship of the environment and outdoor recreation in the White Mountains.

• Raising A Social –

We’ve got friends and followers via: Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, and the Blogger page you are reading now. But in all honesty, if there is a ski resort that hasn’t established a "social media" presence, they may be a little lost.

It's cool...just ask Alex below. Her mom Veronica says she's one of Wildcat Mountain's biggest fans and we think that her daughter is awesome. Thanks for being part of the legend Alex and we look forward to seeing you again this winter!

Wildcat Mountain: 21st Annual “Wildman” Multi-Sport Endurance Event Saturday, August 8th

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:21:00 +0000

(above 2008 Wildman photo courtesy of Cappi Thompson)

If you find yourself hitting the pavement, riding the saddle, running up hills, and consider yourself in decent shape, then you might have the makings of a Wildman (or Wildwoman) under that running wear and spandex. The 21st annual Wildman Biathlon is scheduled for Saturday, August 8th beginning at 8:00 a.m., rain or shine. Athletes from all over will challenge their endurance amid some of the most spectacular scenery in New England. The Wildman Biathlon includes individual competitors as well as two- and three-person teams completing a 10-K run beginning in the picturesque town of Shelburne, a 22.3-mile bicycle trek through Gorham, and a 3-mile foot hillclimb up the Polecat ski trail to the finish line at the summit of Wildcat Mountain in Pinkham Notch, NH.

Entry fees after July 30th are $55.00 for an individual, $110.00 for a two-person team, and $165.00 for a three person team. Categories are available for all ages and team configurations. Overall and category winners receive commemorative awards, and numerous other prizes are awarded through random drawings. The entry fee includes a limited edition Wildman T-shirt for all participants, a ride down from the summit on the Wildcat Express scenic gondola, and meal ticket for the “après-race” pasta feed. Additional meal tickets and spectator gondola tickets are available for purchase. Wildman Biathlon information and the Wildman registration form are available on line at http://www.ncia.net/wildman, or call RSVP at 603-752-4103

The Wildman is a fundraising event for the Coos County Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), a Tri-County Community Action Program. RSVP offers volunteer opportunities to people age 55 and older in their communities. Over 400 RSVP volunteers give 64,000 hours of volunteer time each year to over 70 volunteer sites in Coos County. Major sponsors of the annual Wildman include: Wildcat Mountain, WPKQ 103.7, Altitude 6288 Sports, Great Glen Trails, the Royalty Inn, Munce’s Superior, Sportshoe Center, Pepsi-Cola, North Country Internet Access, NEEBCo, Northeast Delta Dental, Isaacson Enterprises, Davis & Towle Insurance Group, and Moriah Design Agency.

Wildcat Mountain: Fundraiser Dinner Event Friday, July 17th.

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:44:00 +0000

We invite all to join us when Wildcat Mountain will host a dinner along with performances by local, alternative rock band Tommy Guns and other special musical guests the evening of Friday, July 17th in an effort to raise funds and assistance for one of its employees. Jon White and his family were recently displaced due to a fire at their rented residence in Groveton, New Hampshire. In addition, many of their belongings and furnishings were destroyed or damaged and not covered by insurance at the time.

The dinner will be served at 6:00pm and will include pasta, choice of meat or tomato sauce, salad, garlic bread, and dessert. Beverages will be available for purchase. Dinner tickets are $6 per person and all proceeds will be donated to help Jon, his wife, and five children. Guests are invited to arrive early between 3pm and before 4:45pm to take advantage of a free scenic gondola ride with your ticket purchase. Welcomed additional cash donations and a planned silent auction for items including area restaurant gift certificates will provide further assistance that evening. If persons can not attend, but would like to help, please call 1-603-466-3326 x213.

Also, I can't help myself and want to share the radio spot we did with the guys at Mt. Washington Radio & Gramaphone (WMWV/Magic). Not sure, is this irony or art imitating life?

Wildcat Mountain: Keepin' It Natural Every Wednesday This Summer

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:39:00 +0000

It's amazing how good that big old fireball in the sky we're spinning around can make you feel when it shines again after having been M.I.A for so long. I think no matter where it is that you might be reading this, it's safe to say that you've been waiting for summer to actually begin despite last Sunday's official equinox. We're ready too and July is all but here and that really means vacation time for most. There is plenty to do here with your friends and family on any given day during the summer including the ZipRider, scenic gondola, & the 9-hole lift-serviced alpine disc golf course, but it's specifically what's happening on Wednesdays that I want to share with you.

Wildcat Mountain and the Tin Mountain Conservation Center are once again offering the Wednesdays at Wildcat summer naturalist program. Every Wednesday in July and August from 10:00am to 12:00 noon, Wildcat will host interpretive outdoor programs led by a naturalist from the Tin Mountain Conservation Center.

Wildcat is a great summer outing for families of all ages to explore and learn about the diverse ecology of the region. Program topics change weekly and range from the flora and fauna of the forest and fresh water ecosystems to those of the higher alpine environment, including wildflowers, mosses, waterfalls, frogs, and moose to the geology of the surrounding mountains and Presidential Range.

Wednesdays at Wildcat begins July 1st and runs through August 26th. Reservations are not required, and programs are geared for all ages. Meet at Guest Services in the Wildcat Base Lodge shortly before 10am. Admission is free, unless the tour requires a trip to the Summit. Round-trip Wildcat Express scenic gondola tickets can be purchased and are $15.00 for adults, $7.00 for children ages 6-12, $13.00 for seniors ages 65+, and ages 5 and under ride for free. Picnic lunches are available for purchase, including the Family Fun Pack which includes gondola skyride, lunch, and tour for two adults and two children for $64.95. In case of inclement weather, the interpretive program is held indoors using slide shows and interactive displays.

You say you love skiing or riding here in the winter, but have never visited in the summer or fall? Well, to get a feel for what we're all about, check out the new RSN North Conway Summer Adventure segment and if any of it looks like fun, we hope to see you soon.

Wildcat Mountain: Ski Team Coaching Duo & New Radio Spot

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:28:00 +0000

Wildcat Mountain race director Phil Ostroski recently traveled to Timberlane Regional High School located in Plaistow, New Hampshire to personally deliver a certificate of achievement to Peter & Mary Beth Torosian. The couple helped to establish a competitive alpine ski team in 1997 when their son was a student at Timberlane. In the years to follow, and often training at the not-so-near-by Wildcat Mountain, the couple continued to direct and coach both the boys and girls ski team with a passion that has shown results. “Only three members of the Timberlane Ski Team in its entire history had ever raced competitively prior to joining the team,” said Peter when he and his wife accepted the certificate of appreciation. “But from that, several athletes in the last six years have gone on to compete in the Eastern regional meets with the boys finishing top 6 in the Division I state finals over that same period.” Mary Beth, after mentioning that the girls too have an impressive record of 305 wins to 56 losses over the 12 years and helped to capture the first annual Zimmerman Cup ski trophy in 2008, commented that the ski team goes beyond stats. “A high percentage of the student alpine racers over the years have been honor students with several members having been selected to our regional newspaper’s All-Star ski team.” added Mary Beth, reflecting upon former athletes like a proud parent. “I know of two currently in med school and some others that have gone on to compete in college. One is racing in Colorado and competing nationally.”

“This is a story seen a lot within high school athletics,” said Wildcat Mountain General Manager Tom Caughey. “But it is one that we can not recognize and applaud enough.” As a licensed airline pilot and part-time officer with the New Hampshire Department of Safety and a Registered Nurse respectively, Peter & Mary Beth Torosian have essentially volunteered full-time to coaching and fundraising for the ski team, the Timberlane Boosters, and to maintaining a ski team scholarship established in 2001. “We are pleased to acknowledge Peter & Mary Beth’s dedication to the Timberlane ski team,” said Wildcat Mountain’s Phil Ostroski. “And we continue to welcome Timberlane among the collective of dedicated alpine ski teams that train at our mountain.” The Wildcat Mountain certificate of appreciation follows a previous 10-year recognition awarded to the couple by the New Hampshire Coaches Associations & New Hampshire Interscholastic Athletic Association as well as being the Lawrence Eagle Tribune’s coaches of the year in 2004 & 2008.

And in other more light-hearted news, we are please to present another Wildcat Mountain/WMWV radio ad below (or you may have to actually to hear via our blog if you've received this as an email which is the reason why that little link before you read this long, exhaustive sentence within the parenthesis...is there). This time, we're going for the hard sell because it seems to work considering the amount of crap that we see selling on T.V. If it works for the Sham-Wow, maybe it'll work for the ZipRider, right? Finally, we begin opening daily this Saturday, June 13th, it's Laconia bike week and Rally in the Valley this week, and dads can ride the scenic gondola free next Sunday, June 21st when another family member or friend purchases a gondola ticket. More details on all of that were in the previous blog post, so check that out if you missed it.

Wildcat Mountain: Opening Daily Saturday, June 13th & Free Fathers Day

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:12:00 +0000

It's been nice having things kind of quiet during the week, but we're ready for summer and for everyone to be enjoying the outdoors. Wildcat will begin operating daily Saturday, June 13th just in time for the legendary Laconia motorcycle week. New this year, Wildcat Mountain is taking part in the Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce & MWV Hog Chapter’s 2nd annual Rally in the Valley happening June 15th – 19th. As part of that, persons who have purchased rally wristbands through the chamber (www.mtwashingtonvalley.org) or as a lodging package can take advantage of a half-price scenic gondola ride any time that week. In addition, we invite all vacationing bikers to come fly Wildcat on New England’s only 4-cable ZipRider™ or to enjoy our mountainside café with beer and wine available.

Then on Fathers Day, Sunday, June 21st, dads (and grandfathers) can enjoy the scenic gondola for free when one or more other family members purchase an adult or junior gondola ride. The only one of its kind in North America, the Wildcat Express transforms from New Hampshire’s fastest and most powerful summit quad chairlift during the winter and spring skiing and riding season to the state’s highest summer and fall scenic gondola. The 6,700 foot cable line transports the enclosed 4-person scenic gondolas offering a unique guest experience and opportunity to view Mt. Washington and the Presidential Range from atop Wildcat’s 4,062 foot summit. The Wildcat Express scenic gondola is the best way for the entire family, including well-behaved canine members, to enjoy the incredible views and scenery.

And maybe you've heard this before? Wildcat Mountain, a year-round destination located 100% within the White Mountain National Forest, provides both exhilarating and one-of-a-kind opportunities to enjoy views and scenery that have been consistently voted #1 in North America. In addition to the ZipRider™ and scenic gondola, Wildcat offers lift-serviced disc golf, hiking, weekly guided tours and outdoor interpretive programs with the Tin Mountain Conservation Center. A seasonal food menu including beer & wine is offered in the Wildcat base lodge with fresh "Lunch & Ride" packages available for individuals, families, or groups. All rates and information can be found at www.skiwildcat.com or by calling 1-888-SKI-WILD.

Wildcat Mountain: Season Pass Deadline & Summer Coming

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Wed, 13 May 2009 16:22:00 +0000

Warmer, longer, sunny days, COOL! That period of time in Northern New England we call bug season, NOT SO COOL! Regardless, The lowest prices for 2009/10 winter season passes are on sale now until the early price deadline of THIS Friday, May 15th. Visit our season pass page for more information and to purchase directly online...don't miss out.

Wildcat Mountain opens for summer & fall operations beginning Saturday, May 23rd offering one of New Hampshire's most unique thrill rides the ZipRider™ along with the highest scenic gondola in the state, the Wildcat Express, and new 9-hole lift-serviced alpine disc golf course. As a year-round destination located 100% within the White Mountain National Forest, Wildcat Mountain provides both exhilarating and one-of-a-kind opportunities to enjoy views and scenery that have been consistently voted #1 in North America.

Wildcat's amazing ZipRider™ zip-line cable ride combines a one-of-a-kind experience with beautiful scenery and is the only year-round attraction of its kind in New England. The ZipRider™ expanded last summer to offer four cables that affectively allow twice the rider capacity and even more vertical fun. With a chair lift ride to the starting deck, the ZipRider™ trolley is a safe device designed to brake automatically while the rider, who is strapped securely into a comfortable harness, descends close to a half-mile over trails, tree-tops, and the Peabody River at heights of up to 70 feet and speeds that can reach 45 miles per hour to a landing platform located a short distance from the main base lodge.

The only one of its kind in North America, the Wildcat Express has once again transformed from New Hampshire's fastest and most powerful summit quad chairlift during the winter and spring skiing and riding season to the state's highest summer and fall scenic gondola. The 6,700 foot summit cable line transports the enclosed 4-person scenic gondolas creating a unique guest experience and opportunity to view Mt. Washington and the Presidential Range from atop Wildcat's 4,062 foot summit. The Wildcat Express scenic gondola is the best way for the entire family, including well-behaved canine members, to enjoy incredible views and scenery. Gondolas run continuously, so you don't wait in any lines.

The ZipRider™ & gondola will be open as weather permits for weekends beginning Saturday, May 23rd and then will begin to operate daily Saturday, June 13th, along with the scheduled opening of the lift-serviced, alpine disc golf course also on that date, through the spectacular fall foliage in mid-October. In addition to the ZipRider™, scenic gondola, and disc golf course, Wildcat Mountain offers hiking, fishing, weekly guided tours and outdoor interpretive programs with the Tin Mountain Conservation Center. A seasonal food menu, beer, & wine is offered in the Wildcat base lodge with fresh "Lunch & Ride" packages available for individuals, families, or groups. All rates and information can be found at www.skiwildcat.com or by calling 1-888-SKI-WILD.

(Photos: Top - Two, lonely Snowcat chairs book-end the scenic melt on Mt. Washington and within Tuckerman Ravine, but definitely still some turns to hike for. Below - The emerging Trillium along the start of the Thompson Falls trail is a sure sign of the coming Summer months.)

Wildcat Mountain: Season Ends & Video Finale

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:18:00 +0000

Well...this is it. Wildcat Mountain spins its lifts one final time for the 2008/2009 season today, Patriot's Day, Monday, April 20th. Thank you for another great, long season. Here is the Wildcat Mountain Weekly Video Update Season Finale. It's a long one highlighting the entire season and...man...there were some good days. Aside from our thanks to you for another great season, we're quickly reminding you that the early price deadline for the 2009/2010 season passes is Friday, May 15th and we're hoping to see you this summer when we get the ZipRider, scenic gondola, and disc golf course going.

This post begins with a photo of four of the "Five Crazy Cats" team that participated in the first inaugural Wildcat Wildfire pentathlon event. Sorry to have not taken better photos, but I'm sure they'll have better photos or maybe even video over at the Friends of Tuckerman Ravine website. On a side note, congratulations to Pete Ostroski who defines the word athlete and won the Tuckerman Inferno race as a solo "Tuckerman" participant taking on all 5 events (run, kayak, bike, hike, and ski). Pete not only won the overall, but had the fastest time among the skiing contigent in "less-than-ideal" conditions and limited visibility in Tuckerman Ravine. Pete is the son of Wildcat Mountain's Ski School Director/Race Coordinator Phil Ostroski and Pete has been killing it on the alpine race course all season long as a member of the Plymouth State ski team having recently competed at the Collegiate Nationals in Alaska. The Inferno and Wildfire post-race awards dinner was a great time for all participants and volunteers and a very big thanks to all Wildcat Mountain staff that helped to pull that one off.

Other photos below are from last Saturday and Sunday's Yahoo weekend. Many families with children who have been seeking or have sought treatment at Boston's Dana Farber Center annually make the trip for a fun-filled weekend at Wildcat Mountain learning to ski or snowboard, flying on the ZipRider, enjoying some quality barbeque, and having fun at night at the Town & Country Inn where all the families stay. A huge acknowledgement of gratitude to Janet Langlands and Maria Rocco and the many that volunteered their time and helped to coordinate a great weekend for the kids and families.

Don't worry, we're going to keep updating this blog with spring, summer, and fall randomness, so until then...cheers indeed!

Wildcat Mountain: Is The Glass Half Full or Half Empty?

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:02:00 +0000

I took the above photo today on the way up the lift of this guy on Panther (I thought I had a Radio Ron sighting) and I'll ask you a question. As a skier or rider, what do you see in this picture? If you answer, "I see growing patches of exposed base. This is not quality product. This is unsafe for any skier or rider and should be closed." then we think you are the proverbial glass half-empty person. But if you answer, "It's sunny, 60 degrees, snow is softening, and this is some bitching spring skiing and riding and, yes, I just had to ski over a patch of grass to get to these bumps on Panther but they're totally worth it!", then we think you view the world through a glass that is half-full and likely that glass is being enjoyed in the Wildcat Pub after another great spring day of making turns in late April.

Once again, Wildcat Mountain will be the one to turn the lights off on the 2008/2009 skiing/riding season for the state of New Hampshire. With some of our NH sister and brother resorts having pulled the plug on the Easter weekend and some even a week or two prior to that, there was only one resort left to enjoy what has become an absolutely incredible stretch of sunny, clear, warm, beautiful days. That being said, we are currently open and will be through this weekend and spinning the lifts one last day, Patriot's Day, Monday, April 20th. Spring conditions have been better than good as they say and are holding up, but have a look at the printable version of our snow report for the daily dose. Spring lift tickets are only $39 (full-day, half-day, adult, teen, junior, senior, whatever, doesn't matter) and no additional coupons/discounts/offers can be applied toward that reduced price, except the Sunday afternoon $25 tickets. So come on up because it's going to be a busy final weekend with the Yahoo Weekend events for visiting families from Boston's Dana Farber Center and the Wildcat Wildfire & Tuckerman Inferno pentathlon events.

And don't forget, Wildcat Mountain is offering its lowest prices for 2009/10 winter season passes to skiers and riders who purchase before May 15^th. Wildcat is the place for those who enjoy a long season and vertical value. Heck, renew or purchase any 2009/2010 season pass today and you can still ski or ride every day until the final day, Patriot's, Monday, April 20th for free!

The most popular Wildcat Mountain pass is the Black Cat pass, offered at the early price of $249 unchanged from last year's price, and is valid midweek Monday thru Friday with only 10 black-out dates during the Christmas and February vacation weeks. Ideal for many locals or those who do not have your average work and vacation schedule, the Black Cat is an easy decision. New this year for the Black Cat pass are fewer black-out dates and the ability to ski or ride every day, Saturdays and Sundays included, for the early 09/10 season from opening day until December 24^th, 2009 and then again for the late season beginning April of 2010.

Wildcat's Adult, unrestricted, "any day" or full pass has lowered in price $100 from last year's rate and is available to purchase for $599 before May 15^th. The corresponding Teen (13 to 18), Junior (6 to 12) and Child (age 5 and younger) passes remain unchanged from last season's early-season price of $399, $299 and $39, respectively.

New this year for the Adult 6-Day Pass is no associated black-out dates. Valid Sunday thru Friday, the 6-day Pass excludes Saturdays and is offered at the early season rate of $499. An additional bonus, and similar to the Black Cat pass, passholders can ski or ride every day, Saturdays included, for the early 09/10 season from opening day until December 24^th, 2009 and then again for the late season beginning April of 2010.

We want to thank you all for another great season and for being part of the legend and we hope you'll come visit us and say hello this summer and to perhaps enjoy our scenic gondola, ZipRider, or even play a round of disc golf. And for many of you, don't worry, we'll be writing you letters like we're at summer camp with Blog, Facebook, Twitter, or MySpace page updates. Give us a virtual friendship bracelet by making all nicey, nicey with us on one of those interweb thingies. If you've received this as just a text email, I like your style, but you'll have to visit skiwildcat.blogspot.com for videos, photos, and more frequent updates. Cheers!

Wildcat Mountain: Spring! Ski & Swim Same Day

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 14:30:00 +0000

It wasn't under sunny skies as hoped for and, to accommodate several visiting school groups from the United Kingdom utilizing our learning area, we had to relocate and shorten up the overall length of our wet ditch, but Portland Maine's 94.3fm WCYY hosted another great pond skim event. In addition to the photos here, the Wildcat Mountain Weekly Video Update features some good footage to show you the hearty group of hybrid water skiers and wakeboarders that went for it. Though not included, there were a few succesful skiers and riders that did manage to make it all the way across (though more than one attempt was needed). Also mentioned in the video is the fact that we are offering $39 lift tickets every day until close and that the 2009/2010 Wildcat Mountain season passes are on sale now with fewer black-out dates, early/late season incentives, and at their early and lowest price if purchased before the deadline of Friday, May 15th. But if you buy or renew any season pass now, you can ski or ride EVERY day for the rest of the 2008/2009 season. We also tell you in the video that the Jack Frost Ski Shop is set up in the base lodge clearing out skis (some you can even demo), boots, and great jackets and pants at unbelievably low prices. And although we're intending to remain open until Monday, April 20th (Patriot's Day) and that upcoming events include Easter Sunday's Polecat Trail Easter Egg Hunt and BBQ on the base lodge deck, the Wildcat Wildfire and Yahoo Weekend on Saturday, April 18th, this will be it for weekly video updates. But stay tuned in the next week or so for a final season-end video montage featuring highlights from the 2008/2009 season.

Goodbye Mr. Wet Ditch. We'll see you again next spring. Thank you Mike & George (B&G), Ian (Ski Patrol), Reggie (Groomer), Peter (Mountain Host), and crew for helping to make the pond skim event possible.

Wildcat Mountain: Legends of American Skiing, Saturday, April 18th

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 14:20:00 +0000

Toni Matt rounds the control flag to drop into History and Tuckerman Ravine's Lip in the 1939 Inferno. Photo Credit Adrian Bouchard courtesy of New England Ski Museum.

Legends of American Skiing with Rick Moulton at AMC's Pinkham Notch Visitor Center Saturday, April 18 at 8 pm.

On Saturday the 18th of April, Rick Moulton will be speaking before showing Legends of American Skiing at AMC's Pinkham Notch Camp. This lecture and film fall on the 70th Anniversary of the 1939 Inferno. The film depicts Toni Matt's legendary feat that day of Schussing the Headwall to win the race by more then a minute. On the 50th Anniversary of this race Toni Matt returned to speak to large crowd gathered to see the film. Before the show during the afternoon the Forest Service took Toni up in the Snow Cat to HoJo's. Looking up at the bowl Toni exclaimed that he had not been back in the Ravine since that day. Talking to the crowd before the show Toni laughed and repeated what he said in the film. He was a multiple National Champion. He won 19 down hill races in a row, but no one remembers any of that. What everyone remembers is "Tuckerman's Ravine"... "Its a good thing!" he concluded, "I got more mileage out of that then anything else I 've ever done."

This year also marks the 75 Anniversary of the 2nd Inferno which was held in a warm fog. The original Inferno was only staged 3 times. 1933, 1934 & '39. This was largely do to the unpredictable weather on Mt. Washington. It was big Mountain race dropping 4000 ft from the summit snow fields, through the Ravine and down the Sherburne Ski Trail to the AMC Pinkham Notch Camp. Joe Dodge staged the event and was way ahead of his time using field phones and a form of electronic timing. Several things combine to make staging the full race impossible today. Times have changed and the Sherburne Ski Trail does not meet the race standards of today. Additionally the average condition of the Little Headwall, the connection between the ravine floor and the Sherburne Trail, has often degraded into open water by April. A couple of so called "Bob Cat Infernos" have been held, (1967 & 1987). These USSA sanctioned races also began on the summit snow fields, but they ended in the bowl of the Ravine. The current Inferno Pentathlon Race staged by the Friends of Tuckerman's includes a Giant Slalom up in the Ravine. Last year it was in Left Gully, the year before it was in Hillman's Highway; the site reflecting the prevailing best conditions available in Tuck's for the race. The Pentathlon is held on or as close to the anniversary date of the Original Classic. The 1939 Inferno can be looked back upon as the last Big Mountain Downhill Race in America and certainly the last in the North East.

This program is part of our free evening program series. Join us for dinner at 6 pm before the program. For more information or for the monthly schedule please look online at www.outdoors.org Programs are free & open to the public. AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, Route 16, Pinkham Notch, NH, in the White Mountain National Forest. For more information contact the AMC at (603) 466-2727. This schedule is subject to change. AMC Outdoor Explorations are sponsored in part by L.L. Bean & the William T. Morris Foundation.

Wildcat Mountain: Spring Sessions, Sunshine, & Bump Lines

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 15:41:00 +0000

Aaaahhh...New England weather, this blog update is posted on a cloudy, rainy day following a classic Wildcat Mountain Spring Saturday complete with gorgeous weather, temps, sunshine, ZipRider, barbeque, soft bumps, beautiful views of all the ants hiking, skiing, and riding Tuckerman Ravine, and a bunch of friends getting together in the Wildcat Jib Lot for an impromptu session. This week's Wildcat Mountain Video Update is letting you know that lift tickets are only $39 EVERY day until we close and that the 2009/2010 season passes are on sale now...and as a bonus...you can renew or purchase now and ski or ride every day until the end of the 08/09 season for free. Find out more information on this bonus offer, fewer black-out dates, a lower price, and new early- and late-season skiing and riding privileges by visiting the Wildcat Mountain Season Pass page at skiwildcat.com today. Plan to be here next weekend, Saturday, April 4th for the WCYY Reggae Wet Ditch Skim Contest and if you're looking for some great season-end bargains on this year's ski gear, the Jack Frost Ski Shop is currently set up in the Wildcat base lodge clearing a sizable amount of their inventory out at low prices up to 50% off and will be here at least through Sunday, April 5th. Come on up and get yourself some corn snow this Spring!

Wildcat Mountain: $9 Lift Tix Again, 09/10 Season Pass Pricing & Video #16

tprindle@skiwildcat.com (Wildcat Mountain) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 16:43:00 +0000

This blog update is chock full of info, so here you go...Wildcat Mountain is again offering the very popular $9 lift tickets on Friday, March 27th and its lowest prices for 2009/10 winter season passes to skiers and riders who purchase before May 15th. Currently planning to continue this spring’s skiing and riding until May 2nd (weather/conditions permitting), Wildcat once again is a perennial best value for those who enjoy a long season. As a bonus to all immediate renewing and new season pass purchases, persons will be able to ski or ride every day, 7 days a week, beginning April 1st for the remainder of the 2008/2009 season!

The most popular Wildcat Mountain pass is the Black Cat pass, offered at the early price of $249 unchanged from last year’s price, and is valid midweek Monday thru Friday with only 10 black-out dates during the Christmas and February vacation weeks. Ideal for many locals or those who do not have your average work and vacation schedule, the Black Cat is an easy decision. New this year for the Black Cat pass are fewer black-out dates and the ability to ski or ride every day, Saturdays and Sundays included, for the early 09/10 season from opening day until December 24th, 2009 and then again for the late season beginning April of 2010.

Wildcat’s Adult, unrestricted, “any day” or full pass has lowered in price $100 from last year’s rate and is available to purchase for $599 before May 15th. The corresponding Teen (13 – 18), Junior (6 to 12) and Child (age 5 and younger) passes remain unchanged from last season’s early-season price of $399, $299 and $39, respectively. New this year for the Adult 6-Day Pass is no associated black-out dates. Valid Sunday thru Friday, the 6-day Pass excludes Saturdays and is offered at the early season rate of $499. An additional bonus, and similar to the Black Cat pass, passholders can ski or ride every day, Saturdays included, for the early 09/10 season from opening day until December 24th, 2009 and then again for the late season beginning April of 2010.

“Wildcat is entering the legendary portion of its season” said General Manager Tom Caughey. “It is gratifying to have a regular returning contingent of skiers and riders that are passholders and part of the legend, but I have also met so many new people experiencing Wildcat for the first time this year. We recognize that commodities and the economy are much different than they were this time last year. As a result, we have kept prices the same, and also lowered the adult full pass. In addition, we have also reduced or eliminated black-out dates and associated both early and late season incentives for the remainder of this and next season for renewing and new passholders.”

Wildcat Mountain is a year-round, family-owned business, located 100% within the White Mountain National Forest in Pinkham Notch, NH. It is home to the 75-year-old Wildcat Trail first cut by the Civilian Conservation Corp in 1933 and is renowned for its proximity to Mt. Washington and Tuckerman Ravine. For further information, please visit www.skiwildcat.com or call 1-888- SKI WILD.

And here's the weekly Wildcat Mountain Video Update reminding you again that we will be offering $9 Lift Tickets this Friday, March 7th. Get on up here!