Westhouse Your House

Come February, many of us anxiously await the signal that winter’s end is approaching from the  all-important groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil. But regardless of whether or not Punxsutawney Phil casts his shadow on that all-fateful morning, New Yorkers can look forward to snow-covered skiing day trips for at least another month. Take advantage of the season’s precious snowfalls with a final ride down the slopes at one of these beloved skiing and snowboarding destinations. 

Thunder Ridge in Patterson

Though not the largest mountain in the area, the slopes at Thunder Ridge offer a nearby and easily accessible option for a quick ski getaway from the city. At just an hour and a half train ride away from WestHouse, you can easily make it up and back for a snow-capped day trip. Simply take the Metro North Ski Train from Grand Central Station and get off at the Patterson stop. From there, Thunder Ridge offers free shuttles to and from the station (as well as discounted lift tickets).

Whiteface Lake Placid in Wilmington

If you’re up for a longer travel time, the trip to Whiteface will deliver everything you’d expect from a former Olympic skiing ground. Home of the Winter Olympics in 1980, Whiteface continues to host competitions on its gorgeous and well-maintained slopes. If skiing isn’t your go-to winter sport, you can also try your hand at bobsledding, cross-country skiing or luge riding. Take a break from the activities with a pint at the Lake Placid Pub and Brewery before heading back to the city on the Adirondack Trailways bus line (the Mountain Valley Shuttle will provide free transport to and from the resort). 

Hunter Mountain in the Catskills

Hunter Mountain’s proximity to the city and large grounds make it one of the most popular winter sports resorts in the area. Skiers and snowboarders will find their groove on the twelve plus trails available on the mountain, but the most unique draw of Hunter is its tubing park. With tubing lanes that measure nearly 1,000 feet long, Hunter Mountain is home to the largest tubing park in the state! Whether you go for a traditional ski trip or an unconventional tubing adventure, it will definitely be an excursion to remember. For seamless transportation, book your trip through OVR Ride, which takes care of your travel to and from the city as well as your ticket up the mountain.

Belleayre Mountain in Pine Hill

Love a good day on the slopes but hate the crowds? The resort at Belleayre offers the perfect balance between breathtaking mountain views and peacefully uncongested terrain. Grab the day-trip ticket from Adirondack Trailways that includes to and from transport and an all-day lift pass to make the most of this serene and sport-friendly landscape.