Greek Peak, Cortland, NY

Greek Peak in Cortland, New York has been around since 1958. The then New York Governor Averell Harriman decided a new ski area was needed. He was asked to attend the opening ceremony which named the place Greek Peak. In 1960 the ski area began construction on a resort in a T-bar formation with an A- Frame lodge in the end. From then on the resort area continued to grow with new and better equipment, lifts, and great skiing. Greek Peak Mountain Resort is the largest central ski resort in New York. They see about 250,000 skiers annually and employee about 600 part time and seasonal workers. The resort is 41,000 square feet with an indoor waterpark, fireplaces, kitchens, and two restaurants. There is also a spa onsite. The hotel offers 106 units.

To reach the resort and Greek Peak Mountain one must take I-81 to the Snow Belt. It is a quick drive from most central New York locations. They offer 32 trails, varied terrain, and plenty of super steeps to keep the entire family happy. In the terrain parks there are half pipes and other fun stuff for boarders. Cortland is actually 8 miles from the ski area. Ithaca is 18 miles and Syracuse is 36 miles. For those flying into New York City it is 210 miles to drive to the ski resort.

Mountain statistics include a 952 foot vertical drop. They make 83 percent of their snow and offer night skiing seven days a week. Reservations are an important must for the mountain in order to get a place to stay during the height of the season. There is a national ski patrol as well. Telemark skiing is permitted and there are 4 dining facilities on the mountain. Included in the other offerings are a junior ski and ride school, adaptive ski program, cross country trails, snowshoeing, equipment rental, and babysitting.

Depending on the year the skiing can open in November or December. Night skiing will start a little later than the day skiing to ensure the runs are safe. Usually, night skiing will end in March way before day skiing. The closing date of the park is often the first day in April though this can change. If snow is still falling the park can stay open longer. Hours are 9:30am to 9pm most days. Friday the park is open from 9:30am to 10pm. Saturday and Sunday they open at 8:30am but close at 10pm and 9pm respectively.

The cost for Greek Peak will change from year to year. The cost is based on the season, economy, and how many individuals are expected to come to the mountain. It is one of the more expensive locations as it is the most popular. The costs are based on daily and seasonal passes. For a lift ticket during the day one can expect to pay at least $30. A season pass is easily a couple of hundred dollars, even for the snowboarding runs one might wish to enjoy.