Base area and lodging enhancements were the focus this year at the northern Vermont ski resorts of Stowe, Sugarbush and Jay Peak, with some additional snowmaking improvements as well.
Sugarbush improvements
At Sugarbush, skiers will notice new base lodges and amenities in the Lincoln Peak base area for the 2010 – 2011 season. I like to report on skiing-related improvements, so on the snowy side of things, Sugarbush reports that they began replacing key sections of its snowmaking infrastructure this summer. Over two miles of primary-supply snowmaking pipe was replaced at both Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen. And what about trail work? Well the resort has cut two new gladed areas on the Mt. Ellen side of the ski resort. I look forward to checking them out.
Stowe construction
Stowe Mountain Resort is reporting base area enhancements in the Spruce Peak area – including a new performing arts center. They are not reporting any skiing-related improvements on their Web site.
Jay Peak mountain improvements
Jay Peak Resort is buzzing with base area construction as well, which will be evident to skiers this winter. They've been constructing new hotels and amenities, and they built a new building to house the nordic center and the golf club. This fall they installed a new surface lift. This enclosed magic carpet lift will serve beginner skiers and shield them from the elements. What luxury! When I was a kid learning to ski ... oh nevermind. More than 100 new snowmaking tower guns have been placed in what they are calling “notoriously challenging areas” such as Montrealer, Northway, Vermonter, Angel's Wiggle, Paradise Meadows, Alligator Alley and Perry Merrill, as well as more hydrants on Upper River Quai. Snowmaking efficiency work includes a new compressed air cooler. A new ticketing system will impact all skiers at the resort. Guests must purchase a $5 RFID card the first time they visit. The card has a radio chip that is read as you approach a lift.
Photo of snowmaking at Sugarbush on November 18, courtesy of Sugarbush Resort.
Photo of magic carpet installation at Jay Peak in October, courtesy of Jay Peak Resort.
