February and March have left a lot of snow on the mountains and slopes of New England this year, which means spring skiing at its best. Area ski resorts are looking to have a great spring to finish out the year. Spring skiing is more relaxed, less crowded and usually a lot warmer than skiing in the coldest days of winter. With the exception of the occasional spring snow storm, the days are longer, temperatures warmer and the snow is softer. When the snow does fall, it actually leads to better conditions, longer.
Skiers smile and talk when waiting in line, and you can actually see their faces. Kids love the season without all the clothes and the need to worry about their freezing toes. On the warmest days you will see the occasional skier in shorts and t-shirts (parents: don't let your kids try this!). Most ski areas have outdoor patios and barbeques that kick into high gear when the sun comes out and the temperatures warm up. Sunning skiers and the smell of food cooked on the grill are a sign of spring on the slopes. Make sure you have enough sunscreen and sunglasses, though!
Another tradition of spring is the many celebrations and annual festivals to mark the season. Spring events range from races in any variety of forms and pond skiing to the ever popular Reggae festival, a standard at a number of resorts. Many mountains offer a sunrise Easter service. Killington always keeps at least one run open to be the last in the east to close. For die hards who just can't put the boards away, try their annual May 1st race.
With great skiing and entertainment, spring is an ideal time to visit your favorite ski area. Here are just some of the events and happenings at ski areas across the region this spring.
Many ski areas close at the end of March, but there are a number that stay open as long as the snow and the skiers hold out. Check with the individual mountains and resorts to see when they intend to close, and what events they have planned. Spring skiing is a great way for you and your family to end the season - get out and enjoy the snow one last time!
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