The guest is Tait Wardlaw, the new VP of Sales, Marketing, and Communications for the Olympic Regional Development Authority, discussing Lake Placid's unique blend of summer and winter sports, including skiing, bobsledding, and mountain biking. They reminisce about the 1980 Winter Olympics, explore the region's culinary and cultural scene, and highlight the importance of sustainability and community in maintaining Lake Placid's status as a premier destination for athletes and tourists alike.

Topics

00:56 Summer Vibes and Lake Placid Adventures

02:17 The Olympic Legacy of Lake Placid

03:06 Memories of the Miracle on Ice

05:26 Exploring the Adirondacks and Nearby Attractions

07:06 Introducing Tait Wardlaw

10:19 The Mission of the Olympic Regional Development Authority

17:50 Lake Placid: A Year-Round Destination

21:27 Exciting Mountain Biking Events

22:14 Comparing the Adirondacks and the White Mountains

24:03 Lake Placid's Winter Sports Scene

25:32 The Nordic World Cup and Local Athletes

28:22 Exploring Downtown Lake Placid

35:09 Raising a Family in Lake Placid

36:56 Upcoming Summer Events in Lake Placid

39:35 Reflecting on Lake Placid's Appeal

40:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the New England Ski Journal Base Camp Podcast, Mike and Chip discuss the unique offerings of Utah's ski resorts and natural attractions during both summer and winter with Alison Palmintere of Ski Utah. The conversation covers the exceptional snow conditions Utah experienced last winter, the state’s breathtaking summer activities, and its unparalleled accessibility to outdoor adventure. Moreover, Alison provides insights into Ski Utah's initiatives, including the SkiUtah Interconnect Tour and membership benefits. Listeners also get previews of upcoming enhancements at Utah’s resorts, making it a must-listen for those planning their next ski or summer trip.

Topics

00:24 Celebrating Boston Sports

01:27 Summer in Utah: A Hidden Gem

05:40 Interview with Alison from Ski Utah

07:29 Utah's Winter Wonderland

09:18 Utah's Summer Adventures

21:05 Accessibility and Family-Friendly Activities

25:53 Exploring Utah's National Parks in Winter

28:38 Sundance Resort: A Hidden Gem

31:28 Salt Lake City: A Cultural Evolution

36:16 Winter Preparations and Ski Resort Innovations

38:27 SkiUtah Interconnect Tour: A Unique Experience

40:47 Multi-Resort Passes and Accessibility

42:45 Conclusion and Future Plans

Mike and Chip discuss the transition from winter to summer activities in New England, focusing on the effects of changing weather and their personal engagements in surfboarding, windsurfing, and biking. They emphasize the uniqueness of Vermont, particularly praising Killington Resort for its extensive mountain biking trails, including the beginner-friendly Snowshed area and the more advanced Ramshead and Gondola trails. Special guest Taylor Zink, newly promoted to Terrain Park Manager at Killington, shares insights into the resort's operations, including snowmaking, trail maintenance, bike rentals, and lessons. He highlights Killington's rich biking history, starting in 1991, and how the resort continuously improves its facilities. Taylor also mentions the Beast 365 Pass, which provides year-round access to various activities, and outlines upcoming events such as the Eastern States Cup and the U.S. Open. In addition to biking, Killington offers diverse recreational options like golf, archery, and outdoor music events, ensuring there's something for everyone throughout the year.

Topics

00:22 Weather and Seasonal Changes

01:35 Outdoor Activities and Local Events

03:53 Exploring Vermont's Unique Charm

04:56 Mountain Biking at Killington

08:04 Interview with Taylor Zink

25:15 Wood Screws and Bridge Maintenance

25:30 Meet Colin: The Feature Fabricator

26:31 Training and Certification for Instructors

29:11 Events and Activities at Killington

31:43 Dining and Apres-Ski Options

34:04 Exploring Local Trails and Uphill Routes

37:53 Family Activities and Adventure Center

40:17 E-Bikes and Uphill Climbing

41:15 Reflections on the Ski Industry

43:19 Conclusion and Farewell