§ Field Notes
About Mt. Van Hoevenberg.
The trails stretch across terrain that hosted cross-country events in **1932** and **1980**, and the venue continues to serve as a competition site for FIS World Cup and national-level racing. Fifty kilometers of groomed Nordic trail span the property, with both classic track and skate lanes maintained throughout the winter. The trail system divides into competition loops designed for elite athletes and recreational routes suited to beginners and families, though specific difficulty breakdowns are not published.
The network centers on Mountain Pass Lodge, which serves as the trailhead, rental hub, and warming area. Day passes and season passes provide access to the full trail system, and the venue typically operates from early December through late March, snow conditions permitting. Rental equipment and group lessons are available on-site. Youth ski programs run throughout the season, and community events including full moon ski parties with bonfires stationed along the trails draw local participation.
Snowshoeing shares portions of the cross-country trail system rather than offering dedicated snowshoe-only routes. The venue's Olympic pedigree means the grooming and maintenance standards remain high, with recent investments in energy-efficient snowmaking and hybrid snow groomers supporting extended and more reliable seasons. The trails traverse rolling terrain with views toward the surrounding High Peaks, and the lighting on competition trails allows for evening skiing.
Beyond winter, the property transitions to mountain biking in summer, with trail access included in cross-country season passes. The venue also houses Hi Notch, an indoor climbing gym with over 1,500 square feet of climbing surface, and legacy tours that walk visitors through the site's Olympic history and behind-the-scenes access to the U.S. push track facility. The climbing gym operates year-round and offers adult and youth programs alongside open climbing hours.
Editor's note
“Olympic-grade Nordic skiing in winter, the only east-coast bobsled ride year-round, and a long view to Marcy from the top of the trails.”— the publisher
