The team has been busy with our first snowmaking window of the year! Here’s an update on what’s happening behind-the-scenes.
Snowmaking Begins
On November 13, we officially began snow production, firing up our snow guns overnight and into the morning to start building our base, testing the new flood line and snow gun additions on Smart Alec, Tranquility and Yahoo. Whenever temperatures drop, we’re ready to make snow, maximizing every opportunity to create and maintain a strong foundation on the trails. We’re stoked to see the response to this, as guests are just as excited as our team is to get back on the slopes!
In the meantime, we’re still busy addressing some leaks in the snowmaking lines. Additionally, our filters for our pump house located by Monterra Golf have been delivered, which will clean the water pumped from our holding ponds on the golf course, before it reaches the snow guns. Additionally, one of our high-voltage compressors, critical to powering the snowmaking system, is currently undergoing a cable replacement and service to ensure it can efficiently push the air needed for quality snowmaking. Our team is keeping a close watch on the weather for the next snowmaking window to keep up the momentum. If we can make snow at any point, we will.
Mountain Cleanup & Safety Testing
We’ve cleared some space for a new rail stash in The Orchard for our terrain parks, which will give the park team easier access to park features that are being stored. Our mountain operations team has also expanded its fleet with four new snowmobiles, helping us respond quickly to on-mountain needs.
This week marked the completion of load testing on the Graduate lift as part of safety regulations, using barrels filled with water to simulate passenger weight and test braking capabilities. This ensures the lift meets all safety requirements, including proper stopping distances and braking control, and is required to be completed every five years. Locals may have seen some lights on overnight on the mountain too, as we complete our night skiing light testing.
Dining & Experience Upgrades
Guests will notice some enhancements off the slopes as well, like an upgraded Grand Central Eatery. We’re hard at work completing a refresh on this space, featuring an updated interior, increased seating capacity, improved lighting, and a more efficient layout to allow for smoother traffic flow. We’re also excited to welcome the newest 1859 Caesar Bar location for all your après needs, and warm and delicious cookies from a new treat shop.
Thank you for your continued enthusiasm as we gear up for a fantastic season ahead. Keep an eye on our updates for more snowmaking progress, and remember to think snowy thoughts!
