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Community
MOUNTAINS
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aerial chairlift, still highly main- tained and in operation today, was added while the Eclipse tri- ple chair was put in service in the mid-1980s, increasing service to those skiing the mountain.
Tenney has had its ups and downs with management changes over the past few years, especially when COVID changed lifestyles and even outdoor activi- ties everywhere. Last year, North Country Development Group took over the mountain; how- ever, it was a major comeback for the area. Since then, the new owners have invested millions of dollars in a top-to-bottom revital- ization project. This August, they brought in Dan Egan, a former extreme skier and knowledgeable businessman, as their General Manager. Egan is eagerly look- ing forward to bringing Tenney Mountain back as the “inde- pendent, family-focused ski area where everyone learned to love skiing.”
With an elevation of 2,100 ft. and 60 trails on their 110 acres
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December 2023
of skiable terrain, there is some- thing for everyone to enjoy.
For beginners to the sport, ski, and snowboard rentals are avail- able with the option of private one-on-one lessons and terrific beginner trails on which to hone their skills.
In addition to the numerous groomed trails for all levels of skiing, there is also backwoods skiing and a terrain park, better known at Tenney as a “jib park” for its resemblance to an old- school style terrain park. The jib park offers special features to maneuver, such as half-buried vehicles, barrels, rails, and other “whacky things” for experienced snowboarders as they make their way down the mountain’s 1,650- foot vertical drop.
Those not into skiing may very well enjoy their tubing hill, however, equipped with a surface lift that will bring everyone back up to the top after a thrilling ride down the lengthy hill. Tubing is available both day and night.
And whether you crave a bite to eat midday or at the end of a fun day in the great outdoors, there’s no place better to grab
a hot or cold drink and some hearty, mountain-inspired cui- sine than at their Back Country Bar and Grill. In fact, the dining establishment is not just available to skiers; it’s open year-round and welcomes all who want to enjoy a relaxing meal or drink by their roaring fireplace.
Lodging is also available at many nearby hotels, inns, and Air B&B establishments.
“Whether you ski or don’t ski, come up to Tenney, where we embrace the community and em- brace the weather,” Egan said.
Opening Day at Tenney Mountain Ski Resort is set for December 23, and the staff has many special events scheduled throughout this winter, includ- ing high-end demo ski days from Blizzard and Elan, guided Head Lamp night skiing for groups of 4-6 people at a time, live music and much more!
Prices, season passes, and special deals can be purchased through their Web site, www. skitenney.com. Guests are en- couraged to pre-register for les- sons and rentals, along with the purchase of lift tickets in advance
to ensure a seamless experience at the mountain. Walk-up ticket purchases may also be available, depending on how large the turnout is on the day of your ar- rival. The Tenney Mountain Ski Resort is located at 151 Tenney Mountain Rd. in Plymouth, and the crew looks forward to seeing everyone soon!
RAGGED MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT
Located at 620 Ragged Mountain Road, just off Route 104 in Danbury, this ski area is a renowned spot for all winter en- thusiasts to explore.
Ragged Mountain has two peaks, 57 trails, 17 glades to ski or snowboard on, and three exciting terrain parks on its 250 acres of skiable terrain.
In addition to great ski and snowboarding experiences, Rag- ged was also ranked as the New England Ski Journal’s Best Over- all Value in New Hampshire.
Mission Affordable season passes are available in the fall, and currently, Four-Pack tickets are on sale until mid. Dec. 18th, providing other great deals for four lift passes that are transferra-
ble to family and friends, hold no black-out dates and make a great Christmas gift.
When it’s time for a break from the slopes, the main lodge has venues where people can grab a quick bite to eat before heading back out on the slopes. Whether people are skiers or not, all are also invited to visit their third venue, Stone Hearth Restaurant, located on the top level of the lodge. Floor-to-ceil- ing windows overlooking the mountain, as well as a fireplace and a great menu, make for a re- laxing afternoon or evening out for all. A full bar is also available, which includes their own special brew, Rags to Riches IPA from the Flying Goose Brew Pub in nearby New London, along with other fine beers, ales, and wines.
Those looking for a place to stay during a trip to Ragged Mountain Resort will find they have several options. The resort has nearby lodging partners who are happy to accommodate their guests at local inns, motels, and Air B&B locations. But, for a spe- cial treat, reservations can also be made in advance for one of their