VERNON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) — Mountain Creek Resort wrapped up what officials called a record-breaking winter season Sunday with its annual Pond Skim event, drawing crowds of spectators and more than 200 participants eager to test their skills on snow — and water.
Families and friends gathered at the base of the mountain March 8 as skiers and snowboarders raced downhill and attempted to glide across an 80-foot-long, 3-foot-deep pond of icy water.
The event, held from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., challenged participants to maintain enough speed and balance to skim across the pond without falling in — though many competitors ended the run soaked to the cheers and laughter of onlookers.
Whether watching from the sidelines or taking part in the competition, attendees lined the course to see who could successfully make it across the chilly water.
Mountain Creek also encouraged participants to wear creative costumes while competing for prizes provided by event sponsors, including Burton, Subaru, Prinoth, Waste Management, Pepsi, HEAD and Fiddle Head.
Awards were given for categories such as Best Male Skim, Best Female Skim and Best Costume.
About 200 skiers and snowboarders took part in the event. All participants received a season pass for the 2026–27 winter season.
