What Is Spring Skiing?

Spring skiing is a term that seasoned skiers and riders know well, but if you are new to the sport you might be hesitant to hit the slopes once the days start warming up.

With base depths of one to four feet of packed snow, the snow on our slopes lasts longer than what you might get in your own backyard. Often we will still have patches of snow into May, despite closing in March. While we never know exactly when we’ll close for the season, we typically expect to stay open mid through late March depending on weather, conditions, and skier interest.

What is Spring Skiing?

Spring skiing for us takes place in March and lasts until we close down either due to diminishing conditions, rainy forecasts, or lack of skier interest. Of course, we are sometimes surprised by a winter storm in early March, but the season has to end sometime and we typically don’t stay open past April 1st here in the Mid-Atlantic.

The Weather

Spring skiing is marked by sunny weather, warmer temps, and longer days. The average daily temperature here in Northeast PA is in the high 40s and low 50s, which means less layers and lighter gear. Sunglasses and goggles are a must for when the sun hits the snow, and sunscreen is important for exposed skin. When the weather warms up, a lot of skiers and riders move on to other outdoor activities, which means less crowds and nonexistent lift lines here at the mountain.

The Snow

Chances of natural snowfall severely decrease in March, as well as the opportunity to make snow with cold nightly temps. This means that we have to work with what we’ve got, and grooming becomes integral to maintaining trails through the end of the season. Coverage becomes thinner and trails become narrower as we move the snow around to maximize conditions. Bare spots become visible on certain trails and once the snow is no longer connected, trails will be closed.

The texture of spring snow is different than mid-season packed powder due to the constant thawing and freezing as the sun rises and sets. This is often referred to as ‘corn snow’ and resembles coarse pellets with a soft feel underfoot. Morning conditions are the most favorable with snow becoming wetter as the sun moves higher in the sky. By late afternoon, the snow can be very soft and wet. While this may not be ideal conditions for experienced skiers, the conditions are great for beginners who want to practice their turns.

Spring skiing can offer a unique experience characterized by warmer weather, sunny skies, and softer snow conditions. While snow coverage may be thinner and the snow itself wetter, it remains skiable. As March signals the end of the ski season in Pennsylvania, there’s still plenty of fun to be had for those eager to squeeze in some final runs before bidding farewell to winter. So grab your gear and soak up the sunshine while it lasts on the slopes!

Written on: March 8, 2024 |  Written by: Michaela K., Marketing Asst.