By Taylor Staubach
PRELUDE TO THE
Winter Season SKI RESORTS GEAR UP WELL BEFORE ANY SNOW FALLS ON THE SLOPES
As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of Berkshire ski season , it ’ s just as important to embrace the fall and early-winter months , which have increasingly become a pivotal time for local ski resorts . We set out to showcase the engaging activities and initiatives for both residents and visitors . By featuring alternative fall and early-winter pursuits , as well as ski season updates , we can support the local community and foster a deeper connection with these hills .
Berkshire East Mountain Resort
Deep in the surrounding mountains of Charlemont , Berkshire East is a haven for adventure enthusiasts throughout the year . As autumn sets the landscape ablaze with colors , the resort unveils a range of activities , including the Thunder Bike Park for mountain bike enthusiasts , high-flying Zipline Canopy Tours , and heart-pounding rides on their Mountain Coaster . For those seeking tranquility , Scenic Chair Lift Rides offer breathtaking views of the valley . The Crazy Horse Bar & Grill beckons with delectable delights , both indoors and outdoors .
As winter approaches , Berkshire East prepares to elevate the skiing experience . A new high-speed detachable quad lift will swiftly transport skiers to the summit in just four minutes . The resort ’ s extensive snowmaking upgrades ensure 100 percent trail coverage while reducing energy demands . Amidst these remarkable developments , Berkshire East remains committed to sustainability , generating all its electricity from renewable sources and using wood from the ski area for heating . With a perfect blend of thrilling adventures and eco-conscious practices , Berkshire East invites visitors to savor the magic of each season while cherishing the natural wonders that surround them . berkshireeast . com
Bousquet Mountain
Experience the vibrant fall season at Bousquet in Pittsfield , where an Oktoberfest celebration on October 1 sets the stage for an abundant autumn — brimming with food , community spirit , and exceptional beer . Bousquet will also host its annual Ski Sale , offering quality used ski gear at reasonable prices and promoting sustainability in the sport . The date and time for this event will be updated on the resort ’ s events calendar soon .
As the transition to winter begins , Bousquet presents an array of activities and events to delight visitors . Families can enjoy Tubing Parties and Laser Lights atop Tube Town , offering an outdoor adventure like no other . With a focus on skill development , Bousquet expands its Winter Vacation Camps in the Snowsports School to create ample opportunities for honing skiing and snowboarding abilities .
The excitement continues with Bousquet ’ s pre-ski season festivities , commencing with the “ Winter Starts Here ” concert on December 15 , followed by a special visit from Santa on December 16 . Throughout the winter , weekends come alive with live music events , adding a lively touch to the snowy wonderland .
At Bousquet , guests are invited to immerse themselves in the magic of the seasons , where community gatherings , exhilarating activities , and festive events combine to create unforgettable memories for everyone . bousquetmountain . com
Catamount Mountain Resort
Catamount in South Egremont is gearing up for an action-packed fall with two exciting events . On September 23 , look for the 2nd annual Fall Fest , a family-friendly gathering that sets the stage for their winter countdown . The event is free and open to the public , offering live music , food and drinks , chairlift rides , and kids ’ fall activities to revel in the anticipation of the upcoming ski season . Then , on October 28 , Catamount will host the inaugural Black Cat Bash Halloween Party . Watch the lodge transforms into a haunted venue for a spine-chilling night of fun with live music , costume contests , themed food and drinks , and Halloween activities ( ages 21 +; ticketed event ).
Extend the thrill of autumn with a Zip Tour , Aerial Adventure Park , and Scenic Chairlift Rides , available through at least October 9 . Experience the longest zipline in the country , or challenge yourself on the vast aerial adventure park amidst the stunning fall foliage . For the winter ahead , Catamount has been hard at work fine-tuning their snowmaking infrastructure , installing permanent snowmaking machines on more trails and updating pump houses and mountain-wide pipes . Additionally , the food and beverage venues are receiving a facelift , introducing new concepts and menus for Fat Cat and Stateline Grill .
Excitement is in the air for the introduction of two new lifts : the Glade Triple and the Catamount Quad , both fully operational for the upcoming winter season . The popular Snow Tubing Park also returns for its second year , offering multiple lanes and an easy-to-use conveyor lift for endless winter fun . catamountski . com
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort
At Jiminy Peak in Hancock , autumn means spooky season has come once more . As the leaves fall , the resort ’ s annual 13 Nights Haunt comes to life , beginning on September 30 and captivating guests on select days through October 31 . This spine-tingling Halloween attraction , utilizing both base area buildings and a nighttime chairlift ride to the summit , offers a creepy and spooky experience for ages 10 and up . Adventure seekers can also opt for Scare and Scream packages , which include hair-raising rides on the Mountain Coaster , amplifying the Halloween excitement .
Over the summer , Jiminy Peak focused on enhancing its snowmaking system , a vital element in ensuring memorable winter adventures . With a commitment to swiftly opening terrain and building robust base depths , the resort prepares to face whatever winter weather challenges lie ahead . As the seasons change and the anticipation of winter takes hold , Jiminy ’ s dedication to seamless experiences and snow-covered thrills remains a steadfast promise to guests . Jiminy Peak ’ s Mountain & Aerial Adventure Park is open weekends from September 9 through mid-October . jiminypeak . com
Otis Ridge
As the vibrant fall colors grace Otis Ridge , the bustle behind the scenes comes alive . While the general public may find fewer activities during this season , the resort is abuzz with ski patrol , lift operators , and ski school staff engaging in annual training sessions . The Grouse House Restaurant remains open year-round , warmly welcoming leaf peepers
70 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE Fall 2023