Alpine Mountain Ski Area
In The Poconos Mountain of Pennsylvania

Family skiing rates high at Alpine. Also, a great place to learn to ski. Though it is one of the smallest ski areas in the Poconos, you will find a lot of locals here. It is also the cheapest. There's enough terrain for a coupe days, a snow park for tubing and a rustic lodge with the basics like hot dogs and hamburgers, drinks, rentals and a small shop for boots, ski, poles, goggles and some clothing.

The "Just For Kids" and "Just For Racing Kids" programs are programs worth mentioning. Kids have their own area with teaching aids helping younger skiers to learn at their own speed. After the kids learn to ski, they can join the Just for Racing Kids program to test their skills.

There is a variety of slopes and trails enabling the beginner skier to feel confident, and bring some excitement to the novice and intermediate skiers. There is little, however, to challenge the expert.

Matt and Drew rate Alpine "snowboard friendly" snowboarding is usually available on all trails. Snowmobiling (when natural snow is available) is a nice touch.

Alpine's snowmaking system covers 100 percent of the mountain with more than 4,000 tons of snow 6 to 18 inches deep on most of the trails in a day.

Alpine Mountain has some of the best rates, and programs for beginners and is convenient to NY and NJ skiers. There's also a fine tubing run for those who don't ski or board, when the snow's right.

Alpine Mountain on Route 447 between Analomink and Canadensis, nine miles from I-80 exit 52 and East Stroudsburg.

The best places to stay are in East Stroudsburg about 7-8 miles, Naomi Village for cottages, Crescent Lodge for Couples (all about 6-7 miles from the resort). Call Poconos Reservations at 800-805-3559 for more information on lodging.

Best Thing: Jumps on Side of Trails

Worst Thing: V- E-R-Y S L O W lifts, Though this might be good for beginners, since it is easy to load and unload.

Reason To Go: Good beginner's area

Food: Small Portions and average.

Lift Lines: None

Best Trail: Alpine Way

Worst Trail: The misnamed "Rocket"

Conditions: Not bad for man made

Staff: Very little but kinda "Nice Old School" and friendly

Half Pipe or Boarder Friendly: Very Border Friendly

Private Boarder Trails: All Access

Rating: 6 thumbs up (10 best)

Size: Small Short Trails

Bargain: Two for one coupon (find it)

Boredom Level: BO R I N G after 2 hours for the experienced boarder. Beginners will find this place non threatening.

Cleanliness: Average

Comments: Loved the jumps and kickers.