Event Recap: TGR’s Pico Mountain Takeover

Wednesday, March 27th was a special day at central Vermont's Pico Mountain. It started like any other, with the sun blazing down on the Green Mountains out of a bluebird sky. However, it became rapidly apparent that this wasn't your average day at Pico. As the lifts began spinning, crowds of unusually stoked skiers, snowboarders, snow-bladers, splitboarders, and other less easily-identifiable varieties of snowsliders appeared on the scene. What could have brought all of these gnarly shredders together in one place? A FWT stop at Pico? No. Pico's world famous Gaper Day? Sort of, but not really. Title-reading types may already know that it was due to TGR's Pico Mountain Takeover that all of these fine folks showed up. 

Snow-sliders of all sorts showed up to TGR's first ever Pico Mountain Takeover. Chandler Burgess photo.

TGR's guests were treated to a private ski resort experience, complete with non-existent lift lines, spring temperatures, fresh corduroy, Long Trail beer and a live set from DJ MANCAT. 

MANCAT's bangers were enjoyed by all. Chandler Burgess photo.

In addition to live music, visitors had the opportunity to demo gear from Jones Snowboards, DPS Skis, and Vermont's own Outdoor Gear Exchange. Also offered were clinics on backcountry travel and gear usage. 

Hiking uphill even when you've got a lift ticket? That's dedication. Christopher Williams photo.

No event would be complete without copious amounts of free stuff, and this event was no exception. Everyone received a custom Yeti Rambler, and there was an on-mountain scavenger hunt featuring tons of prizes from OGE. 

Large volumes of Long Trail beer was consumed and enjoyed by many of-age guests. 

TGR athlete Dash Longe was on the scene ripping up the groomers as only he can. Looking back on the experience, he had nothing but great memories to share: "I’m so glad I finally made it back to New England to ski again. The people are what make it so cool- It has to be the most condensed region of diehard skiers in the country. There was not a shred of arrogance among the attendees and it was one of the greatest compliments I’ve received to hear and literally feel how much TGR has positively influenced the people that came to shred with us at Pico." Ripping right alongside him were members of the VT Adaptive Athletes. 

The adaptive athletes were crushing laps at the takeover. Christopher Williams photo.

About The Author

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stash member Zack Skovron

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, now living in Jackson, WY. I’m an avid skier, biker, hiker, climber, and fisherman. Outside of sports, my major interests focus on public policy surrounding land use and energy systems.