VERNON, New Jersey ??” Mountain Creek is pleased to announce that reservations are now being accepted for The Appalachian hotel, set to open on July 1, 2006. This year marks a key milestone in the Mountain Creek development, Intrawest will complete and deliver three projects totaling over 200 new vacation homes capable of being added to the rental pool, and 19,000 square feet of commercial space.

Construction on the “A” wing of The Appalachian is nearly complete, with finishing touches and inspections underway, and the homeowner closing process is expected to begin shortly. Mountain Creek is thrilled to reach this benchmark in the resort’s development, and eager to welcome the first homeowners and guests to the hotel this summer. Visit mountaincreek.com for rates and reservations. The “B” phase of the hotel is on schedule and expected to open in time for the winter season, and the announcement of the first commercial tenants is anticipated in coming months.

The Appalachian will be recognized as Mountain Creek’s premier address, offering fantastic accommodations at the foot of the mountain and the first true ski-in/ski-out hotel at the resort. Featuring 100 studio, 1 and 2 bedroom condominium hotel units with fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, stunning mountain and valley views and wireless internet, The Appalachian will be the region’s premier mountain resort getaway.

The hotel boasts a private courtyard with four-season pool and hot tubs, a well-equipped fitness center and details like stone fireplaces, wood beams and heated underground parking. The handsome rusticity of Adirondack architecture will transport guests from the hustle and bustle of daily life to an authentic outdoor adventure, a place to experience the wonders of nature and enjoy the luxury and service of a premier hotel.

The Appalachian will also cater to small meetings and conferences, bringing a sense of adventure and natural beauty that ordinary conference centers and hotels cannot duplicate. The hotel offers four state of the art conference rooms encompassing over 4000 square feet of meeting space with a capacity of up to 70 in the largest rooms. Reservations for meetings and groups are now being accepted as well by contacting Chuck Hansen at 973-864-8110 or [email]chanson@mountaincreek.com[/email].

The second stage of construction at Black Creek Sanctuary with 28 additional homes is also expected early this summer. Black Creek Sanctuary was Mountain Creek’s first neighborhood and a shining example of the care and respect for the land that guide every Intrawest development. When completed, this cozy gated resort community will include a total of 133 luxury 1, 2 and 3 bedroom townhomes (eligible for the lodging program) nestled among lush foliage and a pristine wetland sanctuary, offering privileged proximity to a stunning natural environment.

Planning is also underway to build a vibrant year-round event calendar and “Base Camp” environment within the resort to supplement the existing major attractions, which include the ski resort, Mountain Creek Waterpark and Diablo Freeride Park, as well as the rich outdoor recreation opportunities offered by the adjacent Hamburg Mountain Wildlife Recreation area. Within the resort itself, there are nearly 130 acres of hiking and biking trails, five mountaintop lakes, fishing, and boating, as well as easy access to nearby golf courses, riding stables, wineries, The Appalachian Trail, High Point State Park and Delaware River to name just some of the nearby amenities.