(NECN: Lauren Collins, Lincoln, N.H.) - Several New England ski resports are letting their customers do a lot more than swoosh down the slopes this winter. They're also offering something for the adventurous crowd.
40 Feet above the Pemigewasett River you'll find the newest choice in winter sports.
Loon Mountain in Lincoln, New Hampshire is one of about a half dozen New England Ski Areas to take adventure off the slopes. The zipline was recently added to Loon's summer activities as many traditionally seasonal escapes move to become year round destinations.
"We did open the zipline for the first time in the beginning of July and it was very popular this summer," says Molly Mahar, Loon's Marketing Director.
Karl Stone of Ski NH says this is a trend that began a few years ago. "It started with the ziplines, now we're seeing mountain coasters too."
Attitash Resort in Bartlett, New Hampshire debuted its mountain coaster in August and has also decided to keep the attraction open through the winter
"It doesn't hurt," says Stone. "Anything that has that adrenaline rush and gets people excited and talking about it and wanting to do it really helps."
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The decision to offer summer activities in the winter months comes as New Hampshire's ski areas aim to replicate a banner 2008 season when a record number of visitors spend $940 million dollars in the state's resort towns. With the equipment already in place, it's an easy way to keep faithful snow bunnies happy.
"Skiers are definitely adventurous and we thought it would be a good match," says Mahar.
And, at a cost far less than a lift ticket, it may tap the latent sense of adventure in those who might otherwise stay in the lodge.
