LYRA MAG.

Big Apple based day-or get outta town weeklong excursions- are value friendly . Under January's  blue(r) skies, enjoy sporty mountain endeavors-all within reach of one of the greatest cities on earth. BONUS: Upgrades and freebies abound. ADIRONDACKS ·       Gore Mountain   (North Creek, Essex County) anticipates biggest snowmaking season with its new new snowmaking machines-serving  14 lifts, 110 trails for beginning - expert skiers  In addition, new grooming machines will ensure a smooth experience on the nine sides of four peaks of alpine terrain. For those looking forward to après ski, the Tannery Pub and Restaurant will also double the size of its facilities. ·           West Mountain’s   (Queensbury, Warren County)  nearly $3 million investment includes treetop aerial adventure  includes new SMI snowmaking sticks and 49 snowmaking fans to create optimal ski conditions, a new chairlift for...

Part 2 Besides boasting of a Senator who can still hit a jump (sorta) shot via GIPHY source bostonmagazine.com -the beautiful green state of Vermont offers up outdoor destinations for all budgets and desired experiences (alpine -nordic skiing, ice skating, snow shoe adventures, antiquing,  shopping, reviving spa treatments)  ..and tasty culinary choices too. For going with a crowd of party hearty friends ( Killington Resort ,   Mad River Glen ),  active kids ( Okemo , Sugarbush , Bromley , Smugglers Notch ), independent minded teens ( Mt. Snow , Stratton , Magic Mountain ), going solo-or with a special someone-( Stowe Mountain Resort, The Hermitage Club  Suicide Six Ski Area/ Woodstock Inn )...the variety of mountain resorts packed with serious snow making trails, plus daring or relaxing off trail fun...beckon all- with sweetened up enticements of mid week bargains, learn to ski/ride options, and night-time on slopes activities. Some ideas: ...

The Nov-Dec holiday travels are typically for family gatherings-the rest of the winter months though- yay - it's all about fun-and/or relaxing getaways-aka ME times...with or without a chosen a few... Close by domestic USA destinations abound...that don't break the budget..and are easy enough to get to and fro, no passport needed. Part One: In Colorado: via GIPHY source vimeo.com "Days of MyYouth"/ Red Bull Media House and MSP Films The majestic Rocky Mountains beckon outdoors' types -and this year the snow is REALLY deep. In beautiful Colorado...lucky travelers or luckier locals- can partake of freebies courtesy of Colorado Ski Country's 22 members' resorts.** Wolf Creek Ski Area Free Horseshoe Bowl Snowcat to Reach Expert Terrain To help guests take advantage of powder that can usually only be reached by hiking, Wolf Creek offers a  Snowcat shuttle. The Horseshoe Bowl Snowcat Shuttle picks up skiers and riders at the Dog Chutes a...

OSPREY PACKS, CAMELBAK, SEIRUS, SLINGFIN,  Why does it seem like all our our gear -seems outdated...maybe because it is! Gifts for those heading outdoors-no matter the pace...always appreciated especially when this new stuff is just so cool. via GIPHY SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT Hydration Systems from name brands Osprey and Camelbak-for  day hikers-trail running ultra-marathoners-and bikers...boast bounce free sips-and a lot of them. OSPREY --hydration  compartment accessed handy dual zip-inside  dedicated compartment/band prevents reservoir from sloshing around..on hip belt-more compartments provide super easy access plus hip belt-zip compartment is handy and shift the weigh. Reflective pops...NOTE Duro 15 (pictured $140) and Dura-are gender specific-available early  2017

Though it is SO tempting to put that strong USA$ to work overseas...nearby mainland ski/snow resorts have made outdoor adventures that much more affordable and easier to get to.