It is that time of year when I retreat to Sunday River Mountain to enjoy some turkey, friends, and early East Coast shredding. With the warm weather and a lack of snowfall, pre-season is always hit or miss in New England. However, it is not about the amount of trails or the park features at Sunday River, but rather the love of the sport of skiing. People cruise up to the mountain from hours away just to ride the 7 available trails. This is an impressive improvement from last weekend when the mountain was not skiable from top to bottom. Sunday River has been doing an exceptional job of blowing snow to make sure the resort is at its best for the holiday season.

Today was my first day on the mountain. I decided to impulsively buy a pass for the year, because it was only $339 for students. I figured that would pay itself off in less than 5 days of skiing. I immediately bumped into old friends to accompany me during my first run. The lift lines were nonexistent and the conditions were surprisingly good. After several runs I took a break for lunch at the infamous Foggy Goggle restaurant. I was tempted to take on the wing challenge, but did not think I could stand the heat.

After lunch I got interviewed by Sunday River’s snow reporter, Shelley Bowen, about what brings me to the mountain for Thanksgiving. I explained that this is my sixteenth year having turkey dinner here. My family considers this place home and it is the best spot to share a bird with familiar faces. There is no better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than shredding with friends and family at a resort you love. On that note, have a Happy Thanksgiving from the Freeskier family and myself. Go out there and shred with the ones you love.