Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Catskills Recreation Destination Plan

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recently issued findings statements and other documents for the Belleayre Mountain Ski Center Unit Management Plan (UMP) and Belleayre Resort at Catskill Park. The issuance of the findings statements and permits allow the development plan to move forward.

Highlights of the final UMP include the installation of three new ski lifts and 16 new trails, construction of a new lodge, upgrades to snowmaking operations, expanded lodges, and additional parking.

The project site is located in the town of Shandaken (Ulster County) within the boundaries of the New York State Catskill Park and adjacent to the State-owned Forest Preserve Lands comprising the Shandaken Wild Forest and Big Indian Wilderness Area.

The Modified Belleayre Resort at Catskill Park, which includes the Wildacres Resort and Highmount Spa Resort, is located generally west of the Belleayre Mountain Ski Center in the towns of Shandaken (Ulster County) and Middletown (Delaware County).

The Wildacres Resort will include a hotel building with 250 units and ancillary hotel uses (dining, spa and hotel related commercial), 163 detached lodging units in multi-unit buildings, and an 18-hole golf course.

The Highmount Spa Resort includes a 120 unit hotel with spa facilities, 96 additional lodging units, a ski lift and two ski-trails.

For more information, visit www.dec.ny.gov.

source: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

Saturday, December 5, 2015

2015-2016 Canaan Valley Resort State Park Ski Season

In West Virginia, Canaan Valley Resort Ski Area will launch its 2015/2016 ski season Dec. 18, 2015. Canaan Valley is the highest mountain valley east of the Rocky Mountains.

Average annual snowfall in the Canaan Valley region is more than 180 inches. The summit elevation of 4,280 feet above sea level features 91 skiable acres, three lifts, lighted night skiing on weekends and holidays, a terrain park, and ski school.

Canaan's ski area has 47 trails and slopes with areas suitable for beginner, intermediate, for advanced skiers. Live ski conditions at Canaan Valley Resort Ski Area are available via webcam.

For more information, visit www.wvstateparks.com or call 1-800-622-4121.