Mountain Creek Resort, the Vernon-based winter destination, announced a major two-day celebration to honor its 60-year legacy in Sussex County. The 60th Anniversary Festival is set to take place this weekend, Jan. 24 and Jan. 25.
The resort is inviting skiers and riders to pay homage to the mountain’s history—spanning from its origins as Great Gorge and Vernon Valley to its current status as a four-season powerhouse.
In a nod to its founding year, Mountain Creek is offering a limited quantity of $60 lift tickets available on-site. However, there is a catch: to secure the discount, guests must arrive dressed in retro ski gear. From neon onesies to vintage wooden skis, the resort expects a colorful display of mountain fashion through the decades.
The festival will feature a blend of high-energy competition and nostalgia:
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Legacy Rail Jam (Saturday): A terrain park competition at South Peak where athletes will vie for cash prizes and gear. Categories include “Best Trick” and “Best Overall.”
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Mountain Memories Exhibit: Guests are encouraged to submit old photos, videos, and iconic merch to be showcased throughout the base areas.
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Après-Ski Fun: Live DJs will perform at both the South and Vernon base areas. The celebration continues into the night at KINK (South Lodge), with food and drink specials starting at 3 p.m. and a 21+ after-party at 7 p.m.
“We’ve got some incredible momentum right now, with one of the best season starts on record here in Vernon,” Evan Kovach, general manager said. “We want to build on this energy and keep the vibe going… to celebrate our 60th.”
The anniversary comes on the heels of Mountain Creek being recognized as a “Top Workplace” in New Jersey. The resort is currently hiring for the remainder of the 2025-2026 season, offering a $16 per hour starting wage for entry-level roles and unique perks like complimentary season passes for employees and their families.
For those planning to attend the festival, registration for the Rail Jam begins at 10 a.m. this Saturday. More information on the event and history can be found at MountainCreek.com.
