The last week in February, forty intrepid members of the Gang sojourned north for our annual outing at the Grand Summit Hotel at Sunday River Ski Resort. Many folks were able to arrive just ahead of the nor’easter that blanketed much of New England, while some had to dig out from nearly 30 inches of snow before joining us. What a hardy and determined group!
At our opening gathering we welcomed several new gang members who were on their first TOHG adventure. Each day after our adventures, we gathered at happy hour for camaraderie and good cheer around a beautiful fireplace.
We were treated to some great weather including a couple of bluebird days. The seven peaks of Sunday River provided opportunities for skiers of all levels whether experts or more casual recreational skiers. It was great to see how the new folks blended in and easily found skiing partners. Other gang members took part in snowshoeing, x-country skiing, and hiking at local venues.
A great feature of our hotel is the convenient ski-in/ski-out access it offers. Most folks didn’t set foot in a car or shuttle bus for the length of their stay. In the past few years Sunday River has upgraded several of their lifts and skiers can now enjoy high speed bubble chair lifts (with heated seats) to help take the sting out of the colder, windier days. Combining that with the nearly complete absence of lift lines and good snow conditions made for some glorious days on the slopes.
The igloo at the Jordan lift also offered an interesting diversion. Among the trip highlights were two wonderful banquets on-site coordinated by our Assistant Trip Leader, Marge Cohen. It was a great week, with longtime friendships rekindled and new ones forged.
Tom J
