10/9, Whiteface Mountain

   Whiteface Mountain is one of the best ski destinations in the northeast, and the site of the 1980 Olympic Alpine skiing events.  Interestingly enough, the 1932 Olympics did not have alpine skiing events.  Whiteface Mountain opened the alpine trails in 1958. The auto road to the summit of Whiteface was built three decades earlier in 1929, shortly after the depression by New York State, at a cost of $1.2 Million. The project was promoted by then Governor Franklin D Roosevelt.  The construction was similar to WPA projects, and included a stone castle near the summit built with granite quarried during construction of the road.  The castle is undergoing repairs at this time.  The entrance to the toll road ($20/person) is at a Tyrolian design toll house, seems appropriate.  After paying, the Covid restrictions are laid down: No Summit Access! No Elevator! No Castle! No Hiking! No Public facilities! What??  I am paying full rates (senior discount) for very limited service, damn. The summit photos and views seen on-line are terrific, but out of reach this year… Fortunately, the drive was beautiful and park-like. At the upper elevations there is trace snow and rime ice, which makes a frosty scene.  The air is clear and you can see the high buildings of Montreal, just a bit.

   A short easy hike is nearby, to Cobble Lookout.  The elevation change is minimal and the view is south west with golden autumn colors. 

   The last dinner out for this trip was a splurge at the Hungry Trout, a great restaurant, pub, and fishing lodge.  The service, food, ambiance and views were terrific. 

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• 2020 Fall