TL;DR
Powder Mountain in Utah continues its development with a new private lift approval, even as its master plan awaits county review. The resort's expansion strategy blends public access with exclusive memberships.
Powder Mountain Advances Development Plans Despite Pending Master Plan Review
Powder Mountain in Utah is moving forward with its expansion plans, securing approval for a new private lift in its northeast Davenport zone. The Cache County Planning Commission has given the green light for this development, which includes a maintenance facility, despite the resort's master plan still awaiting formal review. This decision marks another step in Powder Mountain's ongoing growth strategy, which combines public ski areas with exclusive, members-only sections.
The new Davenport lift, set to open for the 2025-26 season, will serve the private Powder Haven community. This development is part of a larger vision introduced by Reed Hastings, who became the majority owner in 2023. The resort's approach uses revenue from private memberships to support public access areas. However, this model has faced some criticism, particularly after several previously public lifts were converted to private use last season.In addition to the lift, the commission approved plans for a new maintenance facility and nine miles of hiking and biking trails. Powder Mountain is also developing an 'art park' featuring unique installations like large bells and a rainbow tunnel magic carpet for children.
