Highmount, New York –The Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) today announced that Belleayre Mountain, in Highmount, will open this Wednesday for the 2020-21 season. The mountain is preparing for a limited opening on Wednesday, December 9, 2020, weather permitting. Access to the mountain on Wednesday will be limited to season passholders or those using the first day of their Frequent Skier Card. 

While e-tickets and window tickets will not be for sale on opening weekend, they are now available for days through the remainder of the season. These tickets are limited in quantity, and guests are encouraged to pre-purchase early and lock in desired dates. 

“We are excited to announce the opening of our ski areas,” said Olympic Regional Development Authority President and CEO, Mike Pratt. “This winter season the focus is on the health and safety of all guests and staff, as well as delivering an outstanding on-snow experience. Skiing is outdoor recreation that allows for social distancing,” says Pratt. “As everyone prepares to enjoy the season, please review the ski area websites to educate yourself on expected practices.”

Belleayre Mountain will be starting its season with over 2 miles of terrain. Including the Deer Run Trail from the Summit to the Discovery Lodge and Iroquois. The Catskill Thunder Gondola and Tomahawk Quad will service guests for opening weekend.

“We are eager to welcome our guests back to kick off the start of the 2020-2021 ski season and enjoy our favorite winter sport,” said Belleayre General Manager, Bruce Transue.  “Our snowmaking crew has been taking full advantage of the colder weather and turning on the snowguns to get maximum snow coverage for opening day.”

Skiing and riding will look different this season. All ORDA venues and its staff are adhering to the NYS Guidelines for COVID-19 safety and protocols. Face coverings are required at all times except for when actively skiing or when eating/drinking while seated. 

ORDA encourages all guests to visit Belleayre’s operational updates page to stay informed and prepared for their visit. 

For ticketing and pricing on season passes, visit www.belleayre.com for details.

Trails and lifts are subject to change opening weekend. Please visit Belleayre’s conditions pages before visiting the mountain for the latest conditions.

-- ORDA –

Established in 1982, the New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) was created by the State of New York to manage the facilities used during the 1980 Olympic Winter Games at Lake Placid. ORDA operates Whiteface, Belleayre and Gore Mountain ski areas; the Olympic Sports Complex at Mt. Van Hoevenberg; the Olympic speed skating oval, Olympic jumping complex and Olympic arena. As host to international and national championships, the Authority has brought millions of athletes, spectator and participants to the region, resulting in significant economic development.