Ski season pass at Campgaw

Since the kids are on a hybrid schedule for school, I figured we'd take advantage of the early dismissals and go skiing. Back in September 2020, I ordered three seasons passes from Ski Campgaw, a small mountain in New Jersey. I was looking for a good place for us to practice on greens, a short drive, and a low cost. At $179 per season pass and about 30 minutes' drive from us, Ski Campgaw met all these criteria.

Ski Campgaw raises prices throughout the season, so the earlier you buy, the better. The current price now, in February, is $269. This is for the weekday season pass. We weren't planning on going weekends and were willing to forgo holidays when it would be extra crowded, so we saved some money there.

About an hour before the kids wrap up their last Zoom class, I start packing up the car. I load the skis, helmets, goggles, gloves, masks, COVID health form, season passes, hand warmers, snacks, and water. A travel mug of hot cocoa and boots get loaded right before we leave so that they don't get too cold. When the kids are ready, we put on our base layer pants, jackets, snow pants, socks, winter hats, boots to wear in the car, and then we're on our way.

We get there shortly after they open-- 2pm on some days, 3pm on others. We stick to the mega magic carpet, which services a green trail, since they're only 7 years old, and I'm not sure that they can reach the chair lift safety bar yet. This also allows me to keep an eye on them while we each go at our own pace.

Depending on the day and how we're feeling, they'll get between 10 and 15 runs in. I go at a slower pace on my snowboard and usually do half as many. Right around the time when we decide to head home, usually 4pm, it gets a lot more crowded.

I love that this place is so close to home, which encourages us to go twice a week. It's the perfect activity for us to get outdoors and get some fresh air during these COVID times. We usually manage to make the trip without having to stop in the lodge for a bathroom break, but even then, it's always nearly empty in there, and we're in and out.

Prior to this year, the kids had taken a few lessons at various local mountains a total of maybe five times. That taught them enough of the basics so that they could do it solo this year. With all the regular practice, they are now proficient at turning, stopping, and avoiding obstacles. One of the best parts for me is that after snowboarding on and off for 20 years, I can finally do beginner turns comfortably.