OKEMO LAUNCHES JACKSON GORE

It's taken four years in the permitting process, but finally, the most exciting thing in eastern skiing is happening at Okemo and there's much to talk about!

Okemo's new Jackson Gore area will feature seven new trails, complete with snowmaking (mainly intermediate and advanced in ability level) and one new highspeed detachable quad chairlift. Many of the trails have sweeping turns and undulations, reminiscent of classic New England trails. With the addition of Jackson Gore, Okemo now has 5-mountain areas comprised of Jackson Gore, Solitude, Northeast Summit/Glades, South Face and South Ridge. Trail names such as Quantum Leap, Sunset Strip, Escape, Limelight, Vortex and Blue Moon can be found in the new Jackson Gore area.

The trails have all been cut and snowmaking has been installed. The upper and lower terminals for the Jackson Gore Express Quad Chairlift are now in place and the lift towers are expected to be put in place by the use of a helicopter sometime in early October. It's an exciting site to see.

In the Solitude area, a new kid's carpet lift will be added. it's called the Starlight Carpet and will transport Snow Star skiers and riders up the teaching slope faster and more efficiently. It's the ultimate teaching tool for kids that aren't quite ready to ride a lift, but need to experience the thrill of downhill and improve upon their skills.

A new generation of Super Pipe maintenance is shaping the future of the snowsports industry and high-flying action at Okemo Mountain Resort. Introducing the Zaugg Pipe Monster for 21002/2003 -- it's unlike any other pipe shaping/cutting equipment available. Considered the "Rolls Royce" of pipe grooming, it's specifically engineered to produce a world-class Super Pipe and cut walls in excess of 22-feet in height. But the Zaugg technology won't appeal to just world-class athletes. The Pipe Monster creates a smooth compression so pipe enthusiasts of any ability level can expand their skills and learn more tricks in a monstrous pipe.

On the Culinary side, a new BBQ station will be added on the outside deck area at Gables Restaurant in the Solitude Lodge and the Sitting Bull Lounge, located inside the Base Lodge is now completely smoke-free!

Digital Photos:

Photo #1 - A crane helps to lift the terminal for the Jackson Gore Express Quad Chairlift in place. The lift is 4,093 in length and will run at a speed of 1,100 ft/min.

Photo #2 - A view from North Hill showing the trail layout of the new Jackson Gore area. The new area will feature seven new trails (primarily intermediate and advanced) and a highspeed quad chairlift.

Photo #3 - Tim and Diane Mueller inspect the trail network with Okemo's VP of Mountain Operations, Barry Tucker. The Mueller's hands-on management style has been a contributing factor in their overall success during the past 20 years.