Burke's Season Opener a Huge Hit Despite Delay

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Created on Monday, 03 December 2012 19:38

Written by Alyssa Sylvia

BURKE - Burke Mountain delayed their opening in late November due to unfavorable weather and mountain conditions. This past weekend marked the earliest that Burke Mountain has ever been opened.

Saturday contained ideal conditions, with snow coming down at a good rate for skiers and snowboarders to hit the slopes.Sunday however, was not as ideal.

But although conditions may not be ideal this early into the winter season, Ski Instructor Ian MacDonald explains that although the weather isn't perfect, he doesn't think it will negatively affect business. "I mean, the conditions, they could be better. But it's, I think with the ski lifts opening as soon as they have compared to last year, I think we'll definitely be getting some more activity up here.".    Despite the less than ideal conditions, both the Sherburne and the Mid-Burke Express lifts were up and running over the weekend.

It was Chad Berchard's first weekend as a lift operator, and he really enjoyed being able to interact with other fans of Burke Mountain in a different way than he has in past ski seasons, "It's good to be out here and be with the people all the time. You know, you get to see a bunch of different faces, and you get to just talk with people all day. It's great to serve the people going up the mountain.".

Six trails opened up at Burke Mountain this weekend, Binney Lane, High Meadows Pass, Upper Willoughby, Lower Willoughby, Lower Warren's Way, and Lower Bear Den in anticipation of a few hundred skiers and snowboarders.Those who came out really enjoyed the early ride, but Ken Stowe, who ski's at Burke every year, explains that while they had a good turnout, there are still a lot of skiers who are not quite ready to start their season, "All your expert skiers are waiting for good snow in the woods, and on the steep trails like Doug's Drop that doesn't have snowmaking.".

Trails and lifts will be closed throughout this week, however lifts will re-open on a full time basis starting this Saturday. Early season tickets are available now, with rates at $49 for adults and $39 for juniors.