by Drew Broderick
Bristol Mountain has been the centerpiece of the winter season in the Finger Lakes Region for 53 seasons. It has grown from a local ski hill that at one time was touted as the largest illuminated ski resort in the country, to a mountain of distinction with 35 trails, 3km of Nordic terrain, five Terrain Park Pods, a Race Park, and a reputation for excellent snowmaking and grooming.
The winter season at Bristol Mountain features downhill skiing, snowboarding and Nordic skiing. Now add to this a guided zip line canopy tour that Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventure debuted last winter. This 5,000 feet guided zip line adventure through the trees is available by reservation all year. It is currently featured on the front cover of the 2017 “I Love New York State” Winter Guide.
There are a variety of winter programs for guests to take advantage of at Bristol Mountain. For example, if you have never skied before, the VIP Gold Learn to Ski program, for ages 13 and up, is a four-time lesson package that includes a free pair of Elan skis. There is a similar first timer’s four-day camp-style program for ages 8 to 12. On January 6, Bristol Mountain is a host ski area for the World’s Largest Snowsports Lesson event. For only $10 per person, first time skiers or snowboarders can participate in this lesson. For Valentine sweethearts, there is a private ski- in, ski-out dinner at the Morning Star Café, a beautiful mid-mountain lodge. Nordic Skiers love the Full Moon Nordic ski events that are hosted each winter.
Bristol Mountain is proud to have five former freestyle team athletes competing on the 2017 US Ski Team. The Freestyle “Fab Five,” Jon Lillis, Dylan Walcyzk, Morgan Schild, Harrison Smith and Chris Lillis, will be at Bristol Mountain for the Ski With A Champion fundraiser on Monday, January 9.
If you are looking for ideas for staying active this winter, contact Bristol Mountain at 585-374-6000, or visit bristolmountain.com and bristolmountainadventures.com.
