Ski and Snowboard News, Deals, and Events

Hunter Mountain in the Catskills of New York is offering the 2009-10 Big Lift Card until Dec. 24 for $39. Big Lift Cards will not be sold after that date.

The card yields 25 percent savings on weekend and holiday lift tickets, and 50 percent off midweek lift tickets.

Skiers and riders who buy a Big Lift Card before Oct. 31 also receive one free unrestricted lift ticket.

Card holders from last season can renew their cards online, and Hunter will reload the card's with this season's discounts.

Caveats: The cards are available through Dec. 24, but not after that date. Discounts apply to full season ticket pricing. Discounts cannot be combined with other discount programs. The card can only be used once a day. Cards expire at the end of the 2009-10 season, but may be renewed. Allow 48 hours for processing before coming in to pick up cards.

Hunter Mountain calls itself the "Snowmaking Capital of the World." The resort makes snow early, often, and in large quantities, so the moniker is on the mark. The area also is known for the large numbers of singles it draws from the New York Metro areas. Food offerings are atypical and blaze new culinary trails. You might even find sushi on the menu. The Kaatskill Mountain Club is a big draw. Located slopeside, it has 109 rooms, and indoor-outdoor pool with a spa and restaurant, and a health club and fitness center.

More information. Or call 800-486-8376