Among all the craziness and confusion that 2020 has brought, there still appears to be a hopeful winter for snowboarders and skiers. While the season will be different than any other, lodges remain hopeful and cautionary even with the record high daily cases and deaths caused by COVID-19. Pennsylvania ski and snowboard lodges are mostly opening this winter, but it will be a play-by-play call.
Local resort Spring Mountain in Schwenksville, Pennsylvania opened Sunday, December 20th with many guidelines in place. They are working with all the CDC’s and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s guidelines with what they call “an emphasis on cleaning and sanitizing.”
They are also recommending all online purchases to avoid contact with money and long lines. Spring Mountain will not be giving out any lockers, asking customers to instead change in their cars.
Blue Mountain, another lodge in Carbon Country, Pennsylvania is following a very similar set of guidelines. Face coverings are required, and they are also following “aggressive” cleaning protocols. They will be open seven days a week.
Camelback Mountain, a very popular resort in the Pocono Mountains will be opening as well. While their situation is a little different because of their hotels, restaurants, and indoor waterpark Aquatopia, they are also following the CDC’s guidelines throughout the entire resort.
At Jack Frost mountain, transactions will be cashless, and you also have to book ahead in order to guarantee your spot. Sticking with the common theme Jack Frost will also be following the CDC’s guidelines.
Similar rules are being followed at Bear Creek Mountain Resort. Physical distancing and face coverings are required, and those without face coverings will be provided with one.
According to their website, “Our market-leading cleaning programs have been enhanced and include significantly increased frequency of cleaning in all high-traffic areas and on high-touch surfaces. The placement of hand sanitizing stations, property-wide use of personal protective equipment, and focus on team member health protocols are also in effect.”
Finally, their team has been trained on COVID-19 safety and sanitation protocols.
With social gatherings strongly discouraged, and little to do outside in such a bitter climate, it seems the skiers and snowboarders will still be able to get their time on the mountain. Staying safe is the priority, and in Pennsylvania, lodges have adapted very well in order to accommodate their visitors for what is hopefully another great winter season.
Photo: Genevieve Giammarco