Ski Bus Trip Mar 14th, 2025

By Elizabeth Ernish

On March 14—Pi Day—thirty-plus spirited travelers boarded the Hampton Jitney coach bound for Miramar’s Ski Lodge in Waitsfield, VT. Led by group leader Tom F. and staff member David W., the trip was a true family affair! Parents brought their children, including a pair of twin teens and some full-fledged adults (if there is such a thing). Three married couples traveled with built-in bus companions. We even had “work spouses” — two first time guests (G1s) joined Miramar after their planned office ski trip fizzled out. Outgoing solo travelers quickly embraced the Club’s esprit de corps, and we even saw the return of two prodigal Miramartians, Nancy and Margaret. MIA for most of the season, we were thrilled to have them back!

On winter’s last Saturday—but daylight savings’ first—we encountered unseasonably warm weather (nearly 60°F in the U.S. and 15°C everywhere else) and snow with the consistency of a 7-Eleven Slurpee at Sugarbush’s Lincoln Peak. On balmy days like this, it can be tempting to search for snow off the summit lifts (Heaven’s Gate, Lynx, and Castlerock), but it’s important to stay within your limits. Luckily, G2 (second time guest) Amy’s trip down Upper Jester in the ski patrol bucket was more of a joyride than a medical emergency — things can go awry. Ski safely! Unsure of your skill level? Take a lesson or sign up for one of Sugarbush’s legendary women’s sessions.

Après-ski in Sugarbush’s courtyard took on a Daytona Beach spring break vibe, with outdoor drinking and revelry continuing back at the Miramar Lodge. Resident firestarter Alan M. cranked up the firepit in addition to tending (with some slight hiccups) to the lounge’s fireplace. Meanwhile, G1s Mona and her sons relaxed in the Adirondack ski chairs.

As has become standard, Chef Matt threw down some tasty chow, including St. Patrick’s-inspired corned beef & kraut egg rolls. After dinner, the guests’ post-supper testimonials ranged from heartfelt to hilarious. G2 (second time guest) Evangeline brought down the house with her origin story—turns out she found our little club through Reddit’s *NYCbitcheswithtaste*. Who knew? The evening continued in the lounge with dancing, shenanigans, and even a few Cirque du Soleil-like moves.

Sunday morning, after completing our chores and enjoying a tasty French toast breakfast, we headed to Killington Ski Resort. As the bus meandered south on Route 100, we saw Moss Glen Falls gushing due to the quickly melting snow. 😞 Along the way, we also learned how the Mad River got its name—unlike every other moving waterbody in the Winooski River Basin, the Mad River flows from south to north.

Despite the warm temps, the “Beast of the East” did not disappoint, offering conditions many, many notches above *meh*. A highlight of the day was the Miramar *mishpacha* dining en masse at Peak Lodge, while a select group of foodies indulged in mountain-inspired haute cuisine at the ski-in/ski-out Ledgewood Yurt. After lunch, yours truly led a group of five skiers on the Peak to Creek run—a 3.46-mile trail from Killington Peak to the Skyeship base.

The day wrapped up with everyone piling onto the New York-bound bus at the crack of 4:30 PM, enjoying our traditional bus snacks and cocktails as we traveled south of Rutland, Vermont.