Let’s Hit the Slopes
January 25th, 2006
By Archived Story
With winter upon us, the Wake felt it necessary to inform skiers and snowboarders where to go to practice their sport. Below are reviews of three ski areas that are all within 45 minutes of the U. The three hills are rated based on price, difficulty and overall experience.
Afton Alps
While the name makes it seem like you’ll experience a glimpse of Switzerland, the skiing doesn’t follow. There are plenty of chairlifts to bring you to the 48 runs. But Afton Alps is very spread out. While the widespread runs help when the hill is crowded, it is a hassle trying to ski the entire hill. The best thing about this place is that it is relatively close since it’s about 30 miles away from the U. If price is an issue, the best deal at Afton Alps is on Wednesday nights, when college students get $3 off night skiing passes.
Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area
This hill is located within 15 miles of the U. This place is overpriced and undersized for any skier. The runs are much shorter, meaning more time on the chair lift and less time on the hill. There are only 10 runs, while it is priced similar to places that have 30-plus runs. It is ideal for beginners since it has three green runs and 2 “training zones”.
Welch Village
This ski and snowboard area is the best of the three. It has 50 runs, including two awesome terrain parks. The hill features plenty of difficult runs, while scattering enough easy runs to satisfy people of all skill levels. While it is steep in price, $40 for an all-day lift ticket, it hosts the best skiing and snowboarding of any place within 50 miles of the university. The best price is at night, when lift passes are only $30.
General Information
Rental equipment is available at all three places. Hyland and Afton Alps rental costs are a bit cheaper for the standard rental equipment. Also, high performance rentals are available at Afton Alps and at Welch Village, so skiers and snowboarders can experience the hills with high-quality equipment. In addition, each of the three ski areas has chalets where people are able to enjoy hot chocolate and other concessions.
For current snow conditions at each slope, visit the following websites:
