As we turn the page from January to February, we’re watching a close-call storm tracking up the eastern seaboard, and a new batch of snow for the Pacific Northwest. Here’s the forecast scoop in this week’s SnoCast.  

As the years pass by, mountain visits can blur or even fade from memory. To make a trip stand out, try one of these memorable activities for après time, a day off, or a unique experience.

The heart of skiing and riding is alive and well at numerous smaller ski areas across the Northeast, where you’ll find shorter lift lines, lower lift ticket prices, and a chance to explore the character of the local’s favorite hill.

Mount Washington from top of Wildcat. (Wildcat/Facebook)

One of the true blessings that comes with skiing and snowboarding is the chance to no only get into the mountains but also to rise up to the high ground and soak in an eyeful of wild country that surrounds.

SnoCountry.com took a long look around the country and came up with some it our favorite mountains where, if we pause for a moment, will bring joy to our eyes and hearts. Here they are:

Wildcat. Skiers and snowboarders at New Hampshire resort are treated to a horizon-to-horizon view of Mt. Washington (highest in East) and the Presidential Range – plus sneak preview of springtime hiking fav Tuckerman’s Ravine. Best view: Top of Polecat trail.

Gunstock. Mountain rises up next to Lake Winnipesaukee – largest in New Hampshire – with the Ossipee Range in the foreground and massif of White Mountains looming behind. Best view spot: Top of Panorama lift on Flintlock trail.

Camden Snow Bowl. Only ski and snowboard mountain with view of the Atlantic Ocean off mid-coast of Maine. Best spot: Top of triple chair or top of aptly named Lookout run.

Lutsen Mountains. Sitting on the north shore of Lake Superior, all four mountain rise 1,000 feet out of the world's largest freshwater lake that looks an inland sea, as no land can be seen across the lake. Best spots: At summit of each.

Copper Mountain. Colorado’s central Rockies spread all around Copper, including the Ten-Mile and Gore ranges and Vail Pass – plus a glimpse at Continental Divide off the backside. Best spot: Top of Storm King chair.

Homewood. With the Sierra Range as a backdrop, skiers and riders get to soak in view of iconic Lake Tahoe that (literally) laps up against the base area of Homewood. Best spot: Pretty much anywhere on the hill.

Mt. Baker. Volcanic field in Washington produces long views of the North Cascades National Park and glacier-coated Mt. Baker itself. Best spot: Top of Experts lifts on appropriately labeled Panorama Dome.

Stunning views at Pebble Creek. (Pebble Creek/Facebook)

Savvy skiers and riders know there are great deals to be found out there to get you on the snow. Buying online ahead of time is often the easiest way to cut costs, but even if you wait until you arrive at the mountain to get your tickets, there are still affordable options at resorts across the country.

You might not expect to find a challenging little ski area nestled into the rocky coast of Maine, but the Camden Snow Bowl offers the best of both worlds for those who can’t decide between a seaside and mountain getaway. Camden is the only ski area in the country that features views of the Atlantic from its lifts and trails.

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the rocky coast of Maine, Camden Snow Bowl embarked on a $6.5 million redevelopment this summer that has been in the works since 2008. They hope to have all but a new lodge completed by Dec. 20, opening day for the season.

Landon Fake, general manager of the Camden Snow Bowl in Maine, told SnoCountry.com that skier terrain will increase from 45 to 60 acres, and a new triple chair will increase uphill capacity 20 percent. 

“Come up and ski.” Unfortunately, those words that Jeff Kuller used to end many interviews will no longer be heard.