Ski Ward facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ski Ward Ski Area |
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| Location | Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, US |
| Nearest city | Worcester, Massachusetts |
| Coordinates | 42°18′20″N 71°40′30″W / 42.30556°N 71.67500°W |
| Vertical | 220 feet |
| Runs | 9 |
| Lift system | 1 Triple chair, 5 Surface Lifts |
| Snowmaking | 100% |
| Website | Ski Ward Ski Area |
Ski Ward Ski Area is a fun place to ski and snowboard in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. It is a smaller ski area, but it offers a great experience for families and young people. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and even snow tubing here!
Ski Ward has nine different trails for skiing and snowboarding. The highest point of the mountain is about 220 feet above the base. To get to the top, skiers use a triple chairlift or a t-bar lift. For beginners, there is a special area with a handle tow and a carpet lift to help them learn.
The ski area also has a main building called a lodge. Inside, you'll find a place to eat and drink, restrooms, and a rental shop for skis and snowboards. There's also a first aid room if anyone gets hurt.
Ski Ward is also home to a special area for snow tubing. This area has 8 lanes where you can slide down the hill on a tube. Two lifts help you get back to the top easily.
Many high school ski teams, like those from Wellesley and Westwood, practice at Ski Ward. The mountain also hosts exciting events. These include USASA Boardercross races, rail jams, and terrain park competitions. There are also many other special events throughout the winter season.
History of Ski Ward
The ski area first opened in 1939. Back then, it was called Ward Hill Ski Area and was run by the Ward family. It has been open every year since then, which is a very long time!
In 1990, John and Effy LaCroix bought the ski area. They made many big improvements. They added the snow-tubing slope and a new triple chairlift. They also made the lighting better and improved the snowmaking and snow grooming machines. A special chairlift takes skiers to the top of the mountain.
You can still see an old truck near the triple chairlift. This truck used to power the original rope tow that pulled skiers up the hill.
Ski and Snowboard Trails
Ski Ward has trails for all skill levels:
- Beginner: 3 trails
- Intermediate: 3 trails
- Expert: 3 trails
How Ski Ward Makes Snow
Ski Ward can make snow on 100% of its trails. This means they can open for skiing even if there isn't much natural snow. Snowmaking helps ensure there's always enough snow for fun.
