Cortland, NY — Steep ski trails in the Northeast spark a dilemma for ski resort operators. While some prefer natural coverage, it can mean thin cover and fewer openings. The alternative is having snowmaking. However, this can lead to more groomed runs and icier conditions. Which option is best? Greek Peak has decided on the latter.
This offseason, Greek Peak Mountain Resort is undergoing a major snowmaking transformation. The $3 million project will see the New York ski resort make extensive snowmaking upgrades, including increasing capacity by 20%. The project will include adding 250 HKD KLIK Snowguns, 33,000 feet of new snowmaking pipe, and a new 450-horsepower pump (which will increase capacity).
The following trails will now have snowmaking:
- Arcadian Gate
- Lower Arcadian Gate
- Arethusa Way
- Crisaean Way
- Marathon
- Mars Hill Connection
- Olympian
- Upper Mars Hill
- Upper Pollux
The following trails will see upgraded snowmaking, meaning new snowguns and/or pipelines.
- Alpha
- Castor
- Cristy’s Run
- Karyatis Way
- Odyssey
Olympian
Perhaps the most interesting project is happening on the Olympian trail. The furthest-right trail at Greek Peak is a double black diamond and also the steepest trail there. In prior years, the double black-diamond trail has relied on natural snow for opening, meaning those caution thin cover signs were out quite a bit. Now, snowmaking will lead to longer opening periods and better coverage.
About Greek Peak
Greek Peak is Central New York’s largest ski resort. It features 55 trails, 8 lifts, and a vertical drop of 952 feet. The resort offers a variety of lift ticket deals, including $48 Tuesdays. The resort also offers Nordic ski trails and snow tubing.
Summer activities include a mountain coaster, zip lines, and an aerial ropes course. Across the street from the ski resort is the Hope Lake Lodge, which is home to an indoor waterpark, spa, and a steakhouse. There’s also a seasonal campground.
Image/Video Credits: Greek Peak Mountain Resort
