Hidden beneath the tumult, the crowds, the singles scene, and the beehive atmosphere lies one fine ski hill. Intermediate trails are plentiful and alluring, and there's enough challenging terrain to keep advanced skiers very happy. High-speed chairlifts have eased the lift-line backups, but Hunter on a weekend is still a crowded concoction of New Yorkers, Long Islanders, and Jerseyites. One nice feature is a halfpipe lift ticket for snowboarders who want only to ride the pipe and terrain park. A full range of kids and family programs, plus an isolated beginner area called Hunter One, make Hunter a complete destination, but its reputation as a fast-action spot for twenty-somethings remains intact.