By Stephen Seitz
posted
Nov 21, 2012
KILLINGTON - Only two weeks to go to get the special Vermont
student pass for the 2012-2013 season. The pass costs $75 and
allows Vermont students from kindergarten through the 12th grade
unlimited access to Pico's 52 trails.
Spokesmen for the resort said the special pass was being offered
as part of the mountain resort's 75th anniversary.
"Pico Mountain strongly believes that every youth in Vermont
should have access to snow sports regardless of academic ability or
their family's income," said Tracy Taylor, director of operations
for Pico Mountain. "We are truly excited to offer all Vermont
students the opportunity to experience skiing and snowboarding this
winter at Pico Mountain, and we look forward to another great
season."
Former Vermont resident Kieran Muldaur, a high school junior, said
his family is returning to the state from Massachusetts. He is
scouting area colleges with his parents, and said the skiing is one
reason he wants to come back to Vermont.
"I learned to ski here," he said. "I've had some exciting times
on the slopes, and a few scary times, but skiing is a great, high
octane way to get exercise."
Muldaur said his mother taught him to ski at age five, and he
was looking forward to Vermont slopes again.
"What can I tell you?" he said. "Sometimes I feel the need for
speed. If you're careful, you can go very fast, still be safe and
have a good time. Every kid should learn how to ski. I guess now
it's time to start lobbying my parents to live near Pico."
According to a statement from Pico, the unlimited Vermont
Student Pass is valid every operating day of the 2012-13 season
from mid-December through the end of March, weather and snow
conditions permitting. Pass holders receive numerous benefits,
including discounts on Snow Sports School lessons, food and
beverage, retail, lift tickets, Sunday family discounts and upgrade
opportunities. Plus, parents of student pass holders can purchase
an unlimited My Pico Pass for $399 plus tax.
For the 2012-13 winter season, lift hours will be 9 a.m. to 4
p.m. Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
weekends and peak days.
This year also promises to be a snowy winter, unlike last year,
at least according to the Old Farmer's Almanac. Its forecast for
the Rutland area reads:
"Winter will be colder and drier than normal, with below-normal
snowfall. The coldest periods will be from Christmas through early
January and in mid-January and early, mid-, and late February. The
snowiest periods will be in mid-November, mid- to late December,
mid- to late February, and early March."
The last day the Vermont Student Pass will be offered is Dec. 1.
Up to date information can be found at the resort's website,
www.picomountain.com.
