Belleayre Ski Experience
Nestled in the deep wilderness of the Catskills in central New York, Belleayre Mountain is a striking ski area. The Catskills are especially gorgeous in the winter and the road conditions are generally well-maintained, especially around the ski resort, which is just off of Route 28. Families and children are extremely well-received at Belleayre and the ski instructors really care about making the best atmosphere possible for the kids. The resort works extremely hard accommodate everyone and create the best experience possible. The fact that the ski resort is state-run and located on a wilderness preserve is an added bonus because the focus remains on providing great customer service and maintaining and preserving the land, not on making tons of money.
The mountain is more than 170 acres and contains over 50 runs of varying ability levels. There is even a 2+ mile green run for novices seeking a nice cruiser. The rest of the trails are divided as follows; 22% beginner, 58% intermediate, and 20% expert and advanced, including several black diamond trails for seasoned skiers. Another bonus for more adventurous skiers are the five ungroomed glades replete with moguls and fantastic tree skiing. For freestyler skiers, Belleayre boasts a terrain park and a halfpipe. The terrain is greatly varied and promises challenges for every level of skier. The resort also has 98% snowmaking ability when conditions aren’t at their best.
Belleayre Snow Park NASTAR Race Series has a full calendar of competitions for kids and adults. Belleayre offers gate training in slalom and giant slalom, as well as a variety of programs for competitive and recreational racers of all ages. There is also snowboarding lessons for kids, a freestyle program, a holiday training camp for children and other lessons that help hone alpine skiing skills and techniques.
The resort doesn’t offer slope side lodging but does have an extensive array of additional services and facilities for its guests. There are several cafeterias, a first aid center, ski and snowboard rental and retail shops, a cocktail lounge and a full service ski school available. The base lodges are basic, but warm and inviting. The resort normally teams up with accommodations in the area and offers great ski and stay packages throughout the winter.
Belleayre Mountain is located off of State Route 28 in Highmount, NY, just hours from New York City. There are several shuttle and bus services available from Long Island, New York City and New Jersey. It’s only a few hours to the Catskills and its surfeit of great activities, pristine slopes and family friendly fun make it an excellent vacation destination.
