Do This, Not That at Camelback

One of the most obvious things to do outside ESU is grab a pair of skis or a snowboard and head to one of the local mountains. Although the Poconos has become a touristy place in part because of these mountains, there are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to hitting the slopes in the Poconos. Take it from me, someone who’s been snowboarding since fifth grade and worked as an instructor at Camelback Ski Area for six loooong years.

• DO try a new sport
• DON’T learn a new sport from a friend or boyfriend.

You both think it’ll be a great time, take an hour to learn the basics and get to the top of the mountain. NO. If you’ve never been on skis or snowboard using your boyfriend or best friend as a coach is the worst thing you could do. Nine times out of ten they will leave you stranded due to high levels of frustration. It’s best to just pay for a lesson. Lessons at Camelback cost about $30 for adults and last an hour and a half. It’s a small price to pay to keep your sanity and trust me it’ll be worth it.

• DO dress for the weather
• DON’T wear jeans.

Jeans aren’t even warm in the winter, especially in the snow. It doesn’t help that you can barely move in them. Borrow a pair of snow pants from a friend or family member. Save yourself from looking stupid and stay warm.

• DO rent skis or a snowboard
• DON’T ride them down the mountain like a sled

It just makes people angry, especially those who work there. It’s hard enough teaching a lesson or using time to leisurely ride with thousands of people losing control around you standing up. It’s a lot worse when people are out of control at high speeds sitting down. In addition to angry people, you’ll have your lift ticket revoked.

• DO follow your normal routine for going out in public
• DON’T go overboard to look cute.

We get it there are a lot of cute boys around on the mountain. You really don’t have to go out of your way to do your hair and makeup to go snowboarding, especially if you’re just learning. It’ll never stay put once you’ve fallen 100 times. The tighter your clothes are the more trouble you’re going to have trying to stand up and the more uncomfortable and cold you’ll be.

Follow these simple rules of the local ski and snowboards and you’ll fit in in no time at all! You might think these rules are common sense, but you would be surprised. 

Camelback Ski Area is located in Tannersville and opens tomorrow, December 9th, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and opens on a normal schedule next Friday. 

Ticket prices vary, from December 9^th through 16^th all day tickets are $40; night tickets are $25. Once they open on a normal schedule open to close lift tickets are $45. Ladies are offered a Wednesday BOGO sale. Buy one ticket for $48 on a Wednesday and receive a free left ticket (must be two women).