Albany, NY - November 15, 2017 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the start of the 2017-18 skiing and snowboarding season, with both Whiteface Mountain, in Wilmington, and Gore Mountain, in North Creek, slated to open this Saturday, November 18. Belleayre Ski Resort, in Highmount, is scheduled to open Friday, Nov. 24, weather and conditions permitting. A number of other ski resorts are starting operation across the state. Every winter season, skiing and riding at New York's 51 mountains attracts millions of visitors and generates $1 billion for the state's economy.
"From skiing to snowboarding to skating and beyond, New York offers world-class outdoor recreational activities that attract millions of visitors to this great state all winter long," Governor Cuomo said. "With over 50 world-class ski resorts, I encourage everyone to come and experience all that New York has to offer."
New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority President and CEO Mike Pratt said, "Winter tourism is a key economic driver for both the Adirondack and Catskill regions. We are excited to welcome our guests back to the Ski Areas."
Both Gore and Whiteface have been making snow around the clock preparing for Saturday's opening day. Gore is expected to open with five trails (Showcase, Lower Sleighride, Stokes, 2B and Arena), serviced by the Adirondack Express. Whiteface opens with summit to base skiing and snowboarding off Little Whiteface to include Excelsior, Summit Express, Upper Valley, Lower Valley, Fox and the Mixing Bowl. The Bear Lift and the Cloudsplitter Gondola will be operating.
Lift tickets for Gore are $65 for adults, $52 for teens and seniors, and $43 for juniors. Whiteface's prices are $68 for adults, $54 for teens & seniors, $44 for juniors and $42 for ages 70 and older.
Gore Mountain is promoting its annual Food Drive promotion, with $10 off per nonperishable food item, with a two item maximum discount.
New York State Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, "New York State is full of incredible winter destinations for families and guests of all ages and interests. There are countless things to do, from Olympic-caliber ski slopes to well-groomed snowmobile and snowshoeing trails, world-famous winter carnivals and indoor attractions like museums, spas and even water parks. I encourage everyone to plan a trip and see for themselves that it's all here and only here in New York State."
Ski Areas of New York President Scott Brandi said, "We are excited to welcome the start of skiing and snowboarding season across New York State. As the temperatures fall after a warm autumn, crews are ramping up their snowmaking operations and the first skiers and boarders are starting to hit the slopes. With more ski areas than any other state, you're never too far away from great powder and trails in New York."
Trails and lifts are subject to change this weekend. Please visit www.goremountain.com and www.whiteface.com for the latest conditions.
Information on skiing and other winter activities statewide is available at www.iloveny.com/winter and www.iskiny.com.