By Jack Seewagen
It is now December, which means winter in Niagara Falls is officially here. For the next few months or so, our days will be defined by cold rain and snow. For many, this season is dreaded, but there is a specific group of people who are very excited about the coming of winter.
“As a skier, I am so happy winter is finally here,” said Niagara University senior Cameron Ireland.
For skiers and snowboarders, the days becoming darker and colder is a cause for celebration. In Western New York, the months of December through March is peak ski season. Especially in the areas south of Buffalo, lake effect snow and hilly terrain create a fantastic environment for skiing.
“I think it’s an awesome hobby,” explained NU senior Matt Hoff. “Some of my earliest memories come from skiing with my dad and riding the chairlift up the mountain.”
Many people from the area, like Hoff, frequent places like Kissing Bridge and Holiday Valley to get their fix of winter fun.
Kissing Bridge Snow Sports, located about an hour south of NU, is a very charming ski area. Situated on 700 acres, the resort has 39 trails that cater to all skill levels, as well as terrain parks for the daredevils. With two lodges and four restaurants, Kissing Bridge also provides its guests with a great place to unwind. College students can purchase student passes that allow unlimited skiing, or a discounted student pass for night skiing only.
Located about an hour south of Kissing Bridge, in Ellicottville, is Holiday Valley. This resort is larger than Kissing Bridge and offers 60 runs and 13 lifts. The resort also offers four large lodges with restaurants, as well as an inn for those staying for multiple days. Holiday Valley attracts visitors from all over Western New York, as well as Canada, so the hills can get pretty packed. Like Kissing Bridge, Holiday Valley offers student passes, as well as college night lift ticket discounts, which are available Sunday through Thursday nights with a valid student ID.
For NU students who ski or snowboard, or are interested in picking up the hobby, the Niagara University Ski and Snowboard Club is open to all undergraduate and graduate students. Starting the first week back from winter break, the club takes six Wednesday night trips to Holiday Valley. Students are transported to the resort and back, as well as receive a lift ticket that includes a free lesson each visit.
“It is a great way to keep ourselves busy during the winter season,” said NU junior Andrew Passow, the president of the club.
The club not only offers great fun, but also a chance to meet new people and escape from one’s stresses for a night.
“My favorite part of the club is being able to have a break amidst my busy schedule and meeting people who love skiing and snowboarding as much as I do,” Passow said.
Any potential club members can contact him via his email (apassow@mail.niagara.edu), or the club’s faculty adviser, Kris Bradshaw (bradshaw@niagara.edu). The club also posts photos and important updates on Instagram @niagarau_ss.
For More Information:
Kissing Bridge’s website: https://www.kbski.com/
Holiday Valley’s website: https://www.holidayvalley.com/
Niagara Wire 