Alterra Mountain Company has invested $37 million over the past two summers to upgrade Winter Park’s outdated snowmaking system, resulting in a record-breaking season with 340 inches of snow. Other ski areas have closed for the season, but Winter Park plans to stay open for two more weeks. The focus on extending ski seasons is a response to climate change, allowing resorts like Winter Park and Vail Resorts to offer skiing earlier in the season and into May. Vail Resorts invested over $100 million in snowmaking over the past decade, resulting in longer seasons and more consistent conditions for guests. Eldora Mountain Resort is seeking approval to expand water storage for snowmaking, acknowledging the need to adapt to changing climate trends. Despite concerns about climate change, the investments in snowmaking have paid off, with Winter Park exceeding 200 days of skiing the past two seasons. The industry recognizes the need to adapt to ensure long-term sustainability and continued operation in the face of climate challenges. Ski areas like Eldora are leveraging early-season openings to differentiate themselves and provide optimal skiing conditions for guests. The investment in snowmaking technology is seen as a crucial strategy for the ski industry’s future in the face of climate change uncertainty.
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