Surrounded by rugged wilderness, void of slopeside lodging or commercial development, Whiteface Mountain is a purist’s delight - a big ski hill with technical terrain and few distractions. It has the greatest vertical drop in the East and the folks at Whiteface have been working on building its web of trails and now has 86 of them for all abilities. Now the ski hill has turned its attention inward, that is to say, to renovating its lodges, to create a more modern feel but still maintain its authentic Adirondack character. There are three big changes visitors can expect when they open for this year’s season that will enhance the learning to ski experience and the apres-ski fun.
Learning to ski just got easier
Kids Kampus is tucked away from Whiteface Mountain's main side providing a unique and safe learning environment; complete with it's own lift and trail system, beautiful log cabin lodge (full of everything you'd expect in a ski lodge), parking and complimentary shuttle service. This is an ideal place for children to learn and provides convenient solutions for families to get the most out of their trip to Whiteface.
Whiteface is expanding its ski facilities and programs by combining its kids’ ski school at Bear Den Lodge with the adult learn to ski offerings. Tucked away from Whiteface Mountain's main side, it provides a safe learning environment complete with its own lift and trail system to beginner trails, a beautiful log cabin lodge, parking, and free shuttle service.
The lodge itself, which has a bird’s eye view of the slopes, is doubling its capacity with the expansion of a lounge adjacent to the current Black Bear Café.
Skiers and riders can enjoy a new warming hut at the top of Lookout Mountain when the 1949 structure is updated and re-opens this year. At this stage, there is not a plan for concessions, but skiers and riders can use the cozy building to rest, warm-up, and eat their bring-their-own lunch. It was built as a snack bar and warming hut in 1949 as part of original ski area. It closed in 1958 and was used in the 70s and 80s on the northern shoulder of Whiteface, it was used by the SUNY Atmospheric Science and Research Center, and then as a ski patrol post.
Porcupine Lodge at the top of Whiteface’s Lookout Mountain, will serve as a warming hut for skiers and riders this upcoming winter. Then head out on The Wilmington Trail — it's rated intermediate and 2.1 miles long, providing great wilderness views.
Cloudspin Lounge is getting a makeover inside and out, with the goal of giving guests a modern yet authentic experience after a day on the hill. The lounge will still be serving delicious burgers and its famous bloody Marys in its base lodge location, but now with a prettier, more aesthetically-pleasing feel. Once it opens, we’ll be sure to report back on all the changes and document them with photos!
After your downhill thrills, head into Wilmington to find a comfortable place to stay and great dining options.
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