Perfect skiing destination right around the corner

For those of you looking to take advantage of the snowy weather, consider West Mountain in Glens Falls, less than a half hour outside of downtown Saratoga. With a base of 24 to 36 inches of snow already covering the mountainside, conditions are looking great this winter season for skiers, snowboarders, and even those interested in riding an inner tube down the trails. West Mountain isn't only for expert skiers and adults - there's fun to be had for the whole family.

The mountain, ranging from 1,470 feet above sea level at its peak to 460 feet at its base boasts a vertical drop of 1,010 feet. With 22 trails covering over 124 acres, trails vary in difficulty to accommodate absolute beginners as well as advanced skiers. But if skiing isn't your thing, West Mountain also offers 8 separate chutes for tubing, complete with two dedicated lifts to bring you back to the top of the course. Geared towards kids and adults alike, the chutes stretch for as long as 1,000 feet with 100 foot drops, giving tubers an exciting ride again and again.

Never been skiing before, but interested in learning? West Mountain also offers a variety of downhill skiing and snowboarding lessons at their PSIA and AASI national certified school.

With several classes offered daily, the West Mountain staff teaches absolute beginners, as well as experienced skiers looking to refine their skills. Group classes or one-on-one lessons are available, usually taking between an hour and an hour and a half. Prices vary depending on age.

Once you've had your fill of the outdoors, you can head inside and warm up for a bit in West Mountain's brand new West Side Grille, open 7 days a week year-round. 

"The restaurant is brand new this year," Robert Rajeski said, from the public relations staff at West Mountain.  The new dining site is, "Adirondack themed, with a double-sided fireplace, and offers standard pub fare as well as fine dining," Rajeski said.  Every Friday at the West Side Grille is also your chance to catch live musical acts at the mountain, with entertainers already booked as far in advance as March 6.

West Mountain offers a variety of packages available for purchase.  There's the weekend and holiday fare, starting at $45 for 4 hours or $50 for 8 hours for adults.  If you think you might be interested in making regular trips to the mountain, a non-holiday weekday season pass starts at $200, with prices varying depending on age.  They also offer rates for businesses, families, seniors and college students.

If you're hesitant to make the trip because you don't own the right equipment, don't sweat it.  Complete rental packages for skiers and snowboarders are available, or you can rent individual items to round out what you already have. 

For more information on West Mountain, check out their website at www.skiwestmountain.com, or give them a call at (518)
793-6606.