Welcome to the gun show, ladies and gentlemen. Admittedly, we're talking about the snow-making guns at Camelback Mountain Resort. Their 1200+ snow guns and 26 Turbocristal fan guns are running at full throttle to make sure they give skiers a guarantee, which is to be 100% open by this weekend.
Camelback is situated in the Pocono Mountains (One Camelback Road, Tannersville, Penn., roughly 230 miles from D.C.), and creates powder snow over its 160 acres of terrain each year. They offer snow tubing (20 lanes), a graffiti park, 34 total trails and 14 lifts.
New this year is the Take Flight Air Bag -- a 50'x50' air bag like those used in major Hollywood stunt scenes. It gives anyone the chance to try aerial maneuvers without the fear of breaking a vertebrae or two. Start off at the top of the Sunbowl trail, launch off the ramp, throw the trick, and land on a cushion of air. At $10 for three jumps, we're sold.
Speaking of deals, buy the Triple Ticket Pass any time before Feb. 12 to receive three lift tickets for $99. Beginner skiers can buy an Explorer Card ($99) that includes three 90-minute lessons, three open-to-close rentals and three beginner lift tickets. Turn in your explorer card after your third lesson (by then you'll be a pro anyway) to get a Camel Card that includes two vouchers for 50 percent off rental.
When you're done on the slopes, stick around. The go-to spot for happy hours and concerts in the area is Camelback's The Thirsty Camel Bar and Grill. For nearby lodging information, click here.
Open Mon.-Thurs. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri. 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. 8:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Equipment rentals (open to close): $37
Worth the Trip
Lift tickets (open to close): $44/midweek, $54/weekends
