Heading to the slopes? Call ahead Reservations needed for many areas due to COVID FacebookTwitterEmail Skiers will have to call ahead this winter due to COVID restrictions.Times Union file photo LAKE PLACID — It’s turning out to be the best of times and the worst of times for skiers and ski resort operators. With more than 2 feet of snow blanketing parts of New York and New England, winter sports enthusiasts should have a great weekend in the fresh powder – if, that is, they've already purchased season passes or reserved lift tickets. If not, some will find themselves out in a more figurative cold: Amid spiking COVID-19 cases, many areas have halted sales for the weekend and during the Christmas-to-New Year’s period, which is traditionally the busiest time of the season.