FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2011

With early spring snow depths of over 70 inches in Tuckerman Ravine and more than 40 inches at its mountain huts, the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) is offering up to 20 percent savings on spring ski, snowboard, and snowshoe packages at its lodges and huts in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

Backcountry skiers and snowshoers of varying abilities can take advantage of AMC’s mid-week “Last Tracks” special featuring a two-night AMC Hut and Lodge package for only $90—a 20 percent savings off regular non-member rates. Ski or snowshoe into the AMC’s self-service Zealand Falls, Carter Notch, or Lonesome Lake Huts for an overnight stay in spectacular backcountry settings, and then enjoy a second night at either the AMC’s Highland Lodge or Joe Dodge Lodge, where a freshly prepared dinner and buffet breakfast await.

Each of AMC’s three huts offers a unique opportunity to venture out on snow-covered White Mountain trails and wake up to outstanding mountain views, including the Franconia Range, Pemigewasset Wilderness, and Wildcat Ridge. Zealand Falls Hut makes an ideal destination for backcountry skiers to explore Zealand Notch, while Carter Notch and Lonesome Lake huts are best for shorter distance snowshoeing excursions.

AMC is also offering the thousands of expert skiers and snowboarders who flock to Tuckerman Ravine each spring a head start on the day’s first run with its “Tuckerman Ravine Bunk and Breakfast” special at Joe Dodge Lodge, conveniently located just steps from the Tuckerman Ravine trailhead. Joe Dodge Lodge is a historic ski lodge and gateway to Mt. Washington and some of the steepest backcountry ski and snowboard terrain in the U.S.

This seasonal bunk and breakfast package is $54 for non-members and includes comfortable bunkroom lodging, an all-you-can-eat breakfast, and 10 percent off “Tucks” memorabilia. College students pay only $46 per non-member with college ID.

Conditions at Tuckerman Ravine vary, and it is important for skiers and spectators to be aware of avalanche danger, as well as falling ice chunks, open crevasses, and Mt. Washington’s severe and unpredictable weather. At this backcountry ski area managed by the U.S. Forest Service, there are no ski lifts, no snow grooming, and skiers must be in excellent physical condition to meet the challenge of the three-mile hike up to the ravine. Skiers planning to camp overnight at AMC's Hermit Lake Shelters, located at the base of the ravine, must first purchase a permit at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center.

For additional information about Tuckerman Ravine, including mountain conditions and backcountry safety and preparations, stop by an AMC “Tucks Talk” held every weekend morning outside Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, adjacent to Joe Dodge Lodge. Tuckerman Ravine preparation and safety information, including the daily avalanche advisory from the Mount Washington Avalanche Center, is also posted at the visitor center and available online at www.outdoors.org/recreation/tuckerman.

Check snow conditions, spring trail conditions, and backcountry advisories at www.outdoors.org/conditions.

Rates and reservations:
The “Last Tracks” special is available Sunday – Thursday nights through April 30, 2011 when promotion code “LAST” is mentioned. AMC huts are self-service during the spring, and guests are responsible for bringing their own food and sleeping bag. Guests have use of the hut kitchen, stove, and cookware. For package details, visit www.outdoors.org/lodging/whitemountains/spring-ski-savings.cfm.

The “Tuckerman Ravine Bunk and Breakfast” special at Joe Dodge Lodge is available April 1 – May 19, 2011. For package details, visit www.outdoors.org/lodging/whitemountains/ski-tuckerman-savings.cfm.

For reservations, call (603) 466-2727 or book online. AMC member rates offer further savings.

Founded in 1876, the Appalachian Mountain Club is America’s oldest conservation and recreation organization. With more than 100,000 members, advocates, and supporters in the Northeast and beyond, the nonprofit AMC promotes the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the mountains, forests, waters, and trails of the Appalachian region. The AMC supports natural resource conservation while encouraging responsible recreation, based on the philosophy that successful, long-term conservation depends upon first-hand enjoyment of the natural environment.