new to snowboarding

While pondering the Universe, (surf) wrote
.com:

well I ride mostly in VT and we are about the same ahem age. You
didn't mention your weight, but if you are either side 160lbs a board
of 158-163 should be fine. IMHO you shouln't get an advanced freeride
board - they are very stiff and generally have a very large turning
radius (great for big wide open runs, not VT). Look for a all mountain
middle of the road board with a moderate flex. At one time I rode
a Ride Exile - moderate flex and about a 8m sidecut and this was a
lot of fun because I could concentrate more on enjoying riding than
continually worrying about techinque (which will come with time). It
was also easier in crowds and bumps.

As to injury.. I have a reconstructed knee which I blew out in a terrain
park my first year boarding (yes I was old then too). Since then I
do not go in the pipe and generally stick to just riding the mountain
with odd small hit here and there. I'll leave the park and big air to
those who still bounce back. Given the north east snow doesn't have much
give in the winter, my back is probably thankful too.

I would advise against Tuckermans until you know what the * you are doing.
Yes you can get badly hurt there and don't think there won't/can't be
an avalanche.

As others have mentioned, you are most likely to injure your wrists or
just generally get banged up. Hand injuries can be avoided if you don't
stick your arms out to break your fall Shoulder injuries are also
possible (I know), though far less likely.

If you are in Boston you might want to try Mt. Snow, its right on the
MA border and has more terrain than most of the nearer NH mountains.