Jay Peak is the closest ski resort to where I grew up. I’ll be honest, as a kid it never interested me as I didn’t learn how to snowboard until college (and I became addicted). I was more into snowmobiling with my dad. Once my new addiction kicked in and especially after I moved to Texas, I try to make it a point to go back and hit the mountain during the holiday visit home. Yes, I’m the one who is still nervous as all hell getting off the lifts.

In recent years, Jay has begun to revamp itself so while I was home, I had to go up and see “what’s new”. That’s what we do when we live in the country folks!

A couple years ago, Jay first introduced a new golf course, which I hear is fantastic (although a little pricey). Maybe I will have to try out my swinging skills in the future, maybe when there’s no snow.

Next, came the ice arena where you can go curling (I’ve heard), ice skating and play hockey.

While we were visiting, the NAHA (North American Hockey Academy) were playing. Jay Peak is now their home. The NAHA is an elite hockey academy which attracts talent from around the country. Oh, if only I could be a hockey player! The facility was really nice!

The last time I went to Jay was probably December 2010, to ride. It was awesome as usual and I got to check out the new lodge which is pretty fantastic in itself. I really love the bar atmosphere. It’s rustic, full of history and just good Northern Vermont comfort.

This (above) is the “old” lodge. Although the old hotel is gone, I”m glad they kept this building. If the walls could talk…

This is leading up to the new building – the Tram House Lodge. This building houses lodging, a spa, Aroma Cafe, Annie’s Table, Tower Bar and more so, it is a place to come in and grab some food to warm up or take a break.  

I think the best part about this building is that they tried to keep everything local. Luke Hardy from Montgomery built the furniture and if you are there and look close enough they used sap spouts on one of the coat hangers. The hallway shows the history and the thought process used when planning this building. It’s really nice to see it all come together.

I love the furniture that can be found in here. If anyone wants to make me some of this for Christmas, my birthday or just because it’s Tuesday (or Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday even)… I’ll gladly accept!

This is the bar in the middle of the… bar. They have the sheave wheels from an old chairlift. It’s awesome!

When I went home last week to visit, I went up to check out the new hotel and the Pumphouse (pool). To be honest, I’m not really sure what I expected but it sure wasn’t the Jay that I remember. The old hotel, was, well, old. I never went in there, never had a reason to. The new hotel is gorgeous. It reminds me of the bigger resorts out west. Now Jay is like a little hidden gem in the Northern Vermont. The hotel wasn’t open yet but I’m sure that once they are complete, it is just a matter of time until they are filled.

Now let’s talk about the most exciting part – the Pumphouse!

Doesn’t it look like fun?!

Wheeeeee!

There is actually a waterpark at Jay Peak. I need to say it again because I almost don’t believe it – there’s a waterpark at Jay Peak! It’s gorgeous and it looks like a ton of fun! I checked this place out on a Tuesday. Obviously, there wasn’t a lot of people there considering mid-week and the fact that there wasn’t a lot of snow at the time. I’m going to predict that this time next year, packed.

Now, I’m going to say, a lift ticket at Jay Peak is a little expensive. $75 for a day pass for out-of-staters and $50 for a Vermonter pass. Maybe I should’ve just said $75 for Flatlanders and $50 for Vermonters. I think I paid $75+ for a day lift in Lake Tahoe and the mountain was much bigger. Anywho – it’s a little steep if you plan on coming for more than one day or plan on coming with a family. It all adds up quickly. Hopefully, it doesn’t get too expensive that the locals can’t come play in their own back yard or even take a mini vacation if they wish.

The best part about all these changes are the number of jobs that Jay has brought to the area. There’s a limited amount of jobs to begin with but this expansion is bringing over a hundred new jobs and the new owner is receiving a ton of credit. Well deserved.

If you check out Jay, let me know how you like it!