I'm hesitant to write this post, because this Connecticut ski area (notice I do not call it a resort) is just about the greatest find ever.

Mohawk Mountain is a great day trip from Manhattan or Westchester. (about 100 miles from mid-town)  The ski school there has lovely, grown-up instructors - and a few lovely not so grown up one's too. They call themselves a learning mountain -- so lessons are offered often, and at reasonable rates.  There's even a ladies clinic on Friday mornings, especially for women getting back to skiing after a break, or for those of us who want to stop being scared of speed. (um,  that would be me.)

It isn't Vail.  No hot doggers.  No scene. It isn't for you if you care about what you're wearing, or who you'll see.  You'll only see families having fun.    Mohawk is simply a great place to take your family for a day - or even a weekend, to have a fun family ski.

See you on the slopes!

Some tips if you Go:

1. Mohawk's website offers an "express line" for signing your kids up for lessons.  Use it. It will make checking in that much faster.

2. Bring your own lunch, or take Lift 1 and stop on your way down at the Pine Lodge.  It's your basic pizza/sandwiches/soups menu - but it's nice to eat up on the mountain.

3. If the lot is crowded, tell the attendant you're unloading.  You can unload equipment right in front of the lodge, and you might even find a spot up close from someone who has pulled out early.

4. If you can take the colder weather, try night skiing. The mountain is well-lit and the already not-so-crowded slopes are downright empty. (though beware the Friday after-eight influx of partying teens.)

5. Smile. Relax.  We are pretty nervous about letting our kids go anywhere alone.  No need for nerves at Mohawk.  It's friendly, family atmosphere means that your child will be safe and looked after just about anywhere on the mountain.

Basic Stats: