Winter sports activities are in full swing in the area due to snowfall that seemed to occur right on cue for the holidays. Thirty-three and two-tenths inches of snow fell from December 17 through 28 alone, according to John Mitchell, who keeps track of Town of Webb weather conditions and seasonal snowfall numbers.
And those number have translated into one of the best holiday weeks experienced by area businesses in years.
Happy snowmobilers took to the trails and kept local lodging opportunities, snowmobile dealerships, restaurants and taverns abuzz.
McCauley Mountain Ski Area Manager Steve Uzdavinis reported that the start to this ski season has been one of the best ever.
And it’s all been downhill—in the best possible way—ever since he and his crew met their target opening date of December 15.
With every trail and lift up and running, the mountain has been steady with activity.
Among the countless cars spotted in the parking lot sporting New York license plates on Monday, December 31, were plates from Ohio, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and beyond.
Ryan Gibbs, who works for Ted Christodaro at the McCauley Ski Shop, said all 150 pairs of rental skis and most of their snowboards were spoken for over New Year’s weekend.
Louie Ehrensbeck, who performs ski tuneups and repairs at the mountain, was so busy he couldn’t take time to chat.
“The lodge restaurant and bar are hopping too,” Uzdavinis said. “And with $12 Fridays (a special McCauley deal), you can’t afford NOT to ski!” he added.
The falling snow was also welcomed by the Town of Webb School Alpine and Nordic Ski Teams and the Polar Bear Ski Club.
Terry Murray, who assists Coach Tom Down with the Alpine team, said they are gearing up for their first race at Woods Valley this week.
John Leach’s Nordic team is ready to face its first competition of the season at Osceola.
The snow has also provided great conditions for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. The staff of Mountainman Outdoor Supply Co. also reported healthy rentals of equipment during the week. Many of those renting were taking their first crack at the sports, they said.
Among those enjoying the many trails at McCauley were John and Donna McAdam of Poughkeepsie.
The McAdams found their way to Old Forge after googling “who has the most snow in New York state.” They said it was their first time here… but not their last, after taking an enjoyable trek around the Herbie Trail.
