The Stash at Killington Grand Opening

Killington Resort and Burton Snowboards joined forces this past summer to break ground on the East Coast’s first Stash run out of only five in the world. Although the Stash opened to the public in December, it wasn’t until January 15th that a grand opening took place. Nearly 50 journalists descended on the hill eager to check out the goods and spend some time with Burton pro riders Dave Downing, Yale Cousino, Hans and Nils Mindnich. Enjoying the romance of Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express were a dozen or so handpicked journalists from NYC that were privileged enough to have the private invite extended to come party like a pro with the pros in Vermont.

Although the mercury lingered close to zero, the bluebird skies created a picture perfect back drop to some of Vermont’s most unique freestyle terrain. Freezing temperatures could do nothing to cool off the group’s excitement as hand warmers were dolled out and coffee was consumed. Riders and skiers alike braved the chill, and even those without snow equipment hitched a ride on a sled to go and check out the sugar shack, one of the most unique features in the Stash. Inside the shack is a mural painted by Scott Lenhardt, paying tribute to Jake’s early days in Vermont. Scattered throughout the run are headless yetis created by renowned chainsaw artist Bob King.

Dave Downing, Yale Cousino and brothers Hans and Nils Mindnich threw down and showed their stuff on features like tree jibs, pole jams, bank turns, hips, flat down logs and the wood banked wall ride. Then it was time to warm up with some tasty Italian treats including minestrone soup, spinach and mushroom lasagna and cannoli. The rest of the day was much of the same, taking turns with new friends and old. As the sun went down and the light grew flat, only a few stragglers remained, earning their turns in the rapidly dropping temperatures.

Later that night, it was off to The Wobbly Barn, a Killington landmark for dinner and drinks. Ripples of laughter and the clinking of glasses echoed throughout the cavernous room where the group had seemingly doubled in size and volume. After a delicious dinner, everyone rolled upstairs to check out the entertainment provided by reggae band Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad. If you weren’t one of the lucky ones there, all is not lost.

The Stash at Killington Resort is the fifth run of its kind worldwide and the first in the Northeast. The Stash can also be found at Northstar-at-Tahoe, USA; Avoriaz, France; The Remarkables, New Zealand and Flachauwinkl Resort, Austria. For more information, visit thestash.com.

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