Snow Trails Winter Resort opened their gates at the end of November, welcoming a group of hibernating skiers and snowboarders – even snow tube enthusiasts. Snow Trails planned on opening both the slopes and the tube park again last weekend which is not normal.
The official opening day for Snow Trails this year is Saturday, Dec. 13.
“This is definitely not the average over the years. Last weekend was the first time in the tube park’s history, which is nine seasons, that it opened in November. And for the whole park, only the fourth time. This is our 54th season,” said Snow Trails Marketing Manager Nate Wolleson.
General Manager Scott Crislip said the first weekend was one of Snow Trails’ top opening weekends in the last 15 seasons.
“We’re encouraged by season pass pre-sales, and last weekend was definitely the biggest one we’ve had since I’ve been here, which has been 15 seasons,” said Crislip.
According to Wolleson and Crislip, Snow Trails is the only snow resort in Ohio that is open on weekends at this time. This, said Wolleson, is due to their ability to make snow. He said they are always on the lookout for weather that will be prime snow-making temperatures. Earlier in November, the weather was cold enough to make snow for a solid week-and-a-half, he said.
“So we made snow. But this really is a testament to our cooling tower. It’s an integral part of our snow-making process,” said Wolleson.
The cooling tower is used to cool Snow Trails’ pond water before funneling it out to the snow guns. The tower is able to cool the water down by 13 degrees, making it easier for the snow guns to make snow faster.
“It basically means we’re able to have a larger volume and a better quality snow. With marginal temperatures, which is common around here, the tower helps the season start sooner and last longer,” said Wolleson.
Cooling towers are typically used in manufacturing settings where cold water is needed for refrigeration, air conditioning and electric power generation. Snow Trails’ cooling tower was installed in the summer of 2011.
The winter resort features four terrain parks, which Wolleson said they have big plans for this season. The Woods and Alpine terrain parks will be ready for skiers and snowboarders., but Wolleson said that part of the trail system needs a great deal of snow and they have it.
“We’re always revamping our terrain parks. They’re not exactly ready yet, but we have big plans for them. And big plans call for big snow,” said Wolleson.
With much snow, comes much responsibility. Ski Patrol Director Sue Cline offered some advice for when skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes.
“Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce,” said Cline. She also offered a list that she names the “code” that all snowboarders and skiers should know and observe.
- Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
- People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
- You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.
- Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
- Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
- Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
Snow Trails Winter Resort will have their annual kick-off party on Saturday, Dec. 13. The slopes will open at 9 a.m. with the local band Red Ball Jets hitting the stage at 9 p.m. For more information on operating hours and to buy season passes, visit their website or call 800-644-6754.
