Alpine Valley Ski Area facts for kids

Alpine Valley Ski Area is a ski resort located in Munson Township, Geauga County, in the U.S. state of Ohio, east of Chesterland. It was built in 1965 under the direction of Thomas D. Apthorp, who then continued to operate and manage the resort until 2007. It is located in Ohio's snow belt, allowing it to receive the most natural snowfall out of all of Ohio's ski resorts. Although Northeast Ohio is relatively flat and free of mountains, it has on average a 93-day ski-season per year, allowing Alpine Valley to thrive in the winter months.

Information

Alpine Valley offers a variety of 11 trails for skiers, snowboarders and even downhill tubing. The resort has over 100 instructors for its ski school which is registered with the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA). Trail levels range from a beginner's bunny hill, to the expert terrain park which boasts Ohio's largest half pipe. Alpine Valley also features high-power lighting for night skiing through the season. Although Alpine Valley is located in the snow belt of Ohio and receives roughly 120 inches of natural snowfall yearly, the resort also artificially produces snow on all of the runs once temperatures are below 28 degrees Fahrenheit. Alpine Valley Ski Area has one main lodge where there is a full cafeteria, a deck and a lounging area. There is also a ski and snowboard shop with rental options. The area is great for beginners or those with extensive experience and allows for a family friendly atmosphere. The park is always expanding and creating new terrain and has recently undergone some extensive additions to the terrain park.

Statistics

Elevation

• Base: 1,260 ft (380 m)
• Summit: 1,500 ft (460 m)
• Vertical rise: 230 ft (70 m)

Trails

• Skiable area: 72 acres (0.29 km²)
• Trails: 11
• Longest run: 2,000 ft (600 m)
• Average annual snowfall: 120 in (300 cm)

Lifts

• Double chair
• 2 Quad chairs
• Triple chair
• Surface lift