Think Snow!

With temperatures starting to drop and snow already falling around the country, it’s time to start getting psyched for the winter season. While western resorts and New England ski areas offer great vacations, Scarsdale residents also have plenty of local options for daily and weekend getaways on the slopes. In fact New York has more ski areas than any other state in the country! With almost 60 years in business just up the road in Armonk, the folks at Hickory & Tweed ski shop has had plenty of time to sample our local mountains over the years. We rounded up several of our favorites, suitable for all types of skiing abilities, for both individuals and families alike.

Thunder Ridge – the closest mountain for most of us here in Westchester (located in Patterson, NY). Thunder Ridge isn’t the largest ski area around but touts loyal and dedicated skiers and boarders. A great place to simply get the kids out on the hill for their first couple seasons, learning the fundamentals (while not having to travel too far).

Windham Mountain – A favorite of Hickory & Tweed. Windham Sports in Windham, NY is one of the more robust race programs and best ski schools in the area. Along with multiple high-speed lifts, Windham has also beefed up its amenities and on-hill lodging over the recent years, making it a great option for a weekend trip.

Mountain Creek – The largest ski area, located in Vernon, New Jersey. While largely known for its vast terrain park filled with multiple jump and rail features for shredders of all abilities – Mountain Creek also offers lots of beginner terrain, along with night skiing and snow tubing.

Catamount – A classic local ski area with retro vibes in HIllsdale, NY. The area features trails that straddle the Berkshire and Taconic ranges. Catamount offers a good variety of terrain and boasts the steepest trail in the Berkshires, aptly named, Catapult. It is also home to an impressive junior race program that is home to many Westchester racers.

What will you need to hit the slopes? Here is what Hickory and Tweed suggests:

Equipment Checklist

Equipment

• Skis/Snowboards (with bindings!) – a ski shop will be able to help determine the proper ski type and length, based on your ability and the desired terrain that you intend to ski
• Poles (if applicable, based on age and/or skiing ability)
• Ski Boots/Snowboard boots – Proper fitting ski boots are the most important piece of equipment. Ill-fitting boots are both uncomfortable and will hinder your skiing performance and control.
• Helmet – there’s no messing around with head injuries
• Goggles – if you can’t see, you can’t ski. Proper goggles are key for sun-protection and visibility.

Skiwear

• Baselayers (top and bottom) – for warmth and moisture wicking. Avoid cotton materials, as they are not very breathable or waterproof.
• Ski socks - for warmth, moisture wicking and additional padding in toes/heel/shin. They can also help promote blood flow to keep your feet warm.
• Midlayers – vest or fleece top to provide proper insulation and warmth
• Ski jacket or shell – we recommend that the jacket should have Gore-tex or similar technology, for proper wind & water proofing.
• Ski pants - we recommend that the ski pants should have Gore-tex or similar technology, for proper wind & water proofing.
• Gloves/Mittens – again, look for gloves with Gore-tex or similar technology. Wet gloves or mittens are no fun and will eventually freeze throughout the day. Its not a bad idea to invest in two pairs if you are skiing consecutive days.
• Neck Gaiter – for added warmth and insulation above the collar of your ski jacket.

We hope you find this list helpful for planning your winter ski season. Questions about a specific area? Feel free to email Hickory and Tweed at the shop ([email protected]). Having been named Best Ski Shop in the Country by Ski Magazine, we have plenty of experience and would be happy to share it with our fellow Westchester residents. Start thinkin’ snow, Winter is on its way!