Skiers will have more terrain choices this winter at Titus Mountain, in Malone. 15 new trails, eleven of which are glades, have been added, bringing the ski area’s trail count to 42. The new terrain encompasses all ability levels, from beginner to expert. A second terrain park has also been added, and a major expansion of the ski area’s base lodge is underway. “We’ve completely gutted and renovated the lodge,” said Bruce Monette, Principal at Titus. “People will not recognize the place.”

The expansion comes less than a year after Monette and his two brothers, Brian and Christopher, purchased the ski area from long-time owner Paul Augustine. “With all the changes, upgrades and excitement, we’ve modernized the logo and website and are calling ourselves the “New” Titus Mountain.”

Having grown up skiing at Titus, the Monettes appreciate the family-friendly tradition that extends back more than a half century to 1960, when the ski area was founded as Moon Valley. “We pride ourselves as a great place to bring the family. You can drop the kids off in the morning, pick them up in the afternoon and know they are safe all day.” Titus Mountain operates 10 lifts spread over 1200 vertical feet on three mountains.

Monette expects the new lodge to be complete in time for their upcoming Oktoberfest celebration on October 6. This year’s event will feature fireworks for the first time. There will also be live music, kids’ games, scenic chairlift rides and hayrides, beer and food concessions, and a ski & board swap. Admission is $5, kids 12 and under are free. For every paid admission, $1 will be donated to the regional charity Adirondacks for Kids, and food sale proceeds will benefit the Titus Mountain Ski Patrol. For more information, including free vendor registration, check Titus Mountain’s website.