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Sundance Mountain Resort Is Getting a New High-Speed Quad and More Back Mountain Terrain This Winter
Sundance Mountain Resort's back mountain is finally getting a proper lift. The Electric Horseman Express opens for 2026-27, unlocking a new bowl next to Bishop's Bowl and three expert gladed chutes across roughly 105 fresh acres - on top of the Storyteller ridge run that debuted in preview form last season. It's Sundance's biggest expansion since 1985, and it turns a three-lift slog into a single six-minute ride to Bearclaw Summit.
Eagle Point Resort Destroyed by Cottonwood Fire as Utah Blaze Tops 59,000 Acres
Utah's Eagle Point Resort has suffered catastrophic losses after the Cottonwood Fire tore through the Tushar Mountains, destroying the Lower Lodge and multiple condominiums. The human-caused blaze reached nearly 60,000 acres with zero containment as of Wednesday - and worsening weather is forecast for the weekend. The resort has confirmed it will remain closed for a considerable time.
Vail Resorts Hires Defence Bankers as Billionaire Pushes to Buy Park City Mountain Resort
Vail Resorts has quietly engaged takeover-defence bankers to assess its vulnerabilities, as pressure builds from multiple directions - a rough winter, union tensions, and a persistent billionaire who wants to buy Park City Mountain Resort. Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince has gone public with a $500 million offer and says activist investors are calling him. Vail's CEO isn't selling.
Park City Mountain Resort Gets Approval for Eagle and Silverlode Chairlift Replacements
Park City Mountain Resort has received planning approval to replace two major chairlifts - Eagle and Silverlode - with higher-capacity alternatives likely to debut in the 2027-28 season. The approvals end a years-long process that saw an earlier approval appealed, the original lifts redirected to Whistler Blackcomb, and a fresh application filed.
Sundance Mountain Resort Begins Construction on Electric Horseman High-Speed Chairlift
Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah has begun construction on the Electric Horseman Express, a detachable high-speed quad chairlift with a vertical rise of 1,850 feet and a six-minute ride time. The lift forms the centrepiece of a terrain expansion adding 105 skiable acres and 6 new trails for the 2026-27 season. Construction is currently in the staging phase at the Mountain Camp base area.
Alta Records Lowest Snowfall in History, is it a Troubling Trend
Utah's Alta Ski Area endured a historically dry 2025-26 season, receiving just 321 inches of snowfall – the lowest on record. This highlights a broader pattern of declining snowpack in the West and raises concerns about the future of skiing.
Brighton Resort Extends Season to May After Late Spring Snow
Brighton pushed its closing date back a week to 10 May after spring storms delivered enough snow to justify extended operations. The Utah resort was among only three still operating following what's been documented as the state's lowest snowpack since 1980.
Alta Opens for Uphill Travel After Season Close
Alta closed its lift operations on 26 April following a 13-inch powder day, but uphill access remains open through the off-season. The mountain is now unpatrolled backcountry with no avalanche mitigation or emergency services - and you'll need to bring your own rescue capability.
Powder Mountain Private Side Announces $157 Million Development Phase
Powder Haven, the private membership side of Powder Mountain in Utah, has announced a $157 million expansion including two new chairlifts, a 73,000-square-foot clubhouse, and additional real estate development. The additions will give members access to six lifts and over 3,000 skiable acres.
Park City Extends Paid Parking to Canyons Village for 2026-27
Park City Mountain Resort is converting the previously free Cabriolet lot at Canyons Village to paid parking from the 2026-27 season. The US$29 daily charge represents another reduction in free parking options across Utah resorts, though several workarounds remain available.
How the West Lost Its Winter: The 2025-26 US Snow Drought Explained
The 2025-26 ski season across the western United States wasn't just a bad year - it was the worst on record. A massive marine heat wave, a stubborn high-pressure ridge, and relentless warmth combined to destroy snowpack across eight states, force at least 69 ski resorts to close early, and wipe roughly $100 million from Vail Resorts' bottom line. Here's what happened, why it happened, and what it means for skiing's future.
Utah Resorts Score Late Season Snowfall After Disappointing Winter
Utah's ski resorts received significant April snowfall, with Brighton recording 29 inches from a single storm. Seven of the state's 15 resorts remain open to take advantage of the late-season conditions, offering temporary relief after a below-average winter.
Snowbird 2026-27 Season Passes On Sale Now — $100 Renewal Credit and Free Kids Pass Included
Snowbird has launched its 2026-27 season passes at the lowest price of the year, with a $100 renewal credit for returning passholders and the return of the Freeloader Pass — a free under-18 pass bundled with every qualifying adult pass. Early Bird buyers also get a free night at The Cliff Lodge.
Western U.S. Ski Resorts Close Early as Warm Weather Compounds Poor Snow Season
A heat wave hitting the western United States has forced dozens of ski resorts to close early or abandon their seasons entirely. With below-average snowpacks across the region, the warm spell has ended operations at over 40 resorts from Arizona to Montana.
Snowbasin to Close March 22 After Difficult Utah Winter
Snowbasin Resort will close its 2025-26 season on March 22, weeks earlier than its typical mid-April closure. Warm temperatures and low snowfall drove the decision, with rain falling on Christmas Day compounding the challenges. The resort joins a growing list of operations cutting seasons short.
Utah Billionaire Escalates Campaign Against Vail Resorts Ownership of Park City
Matthew Prince, Utah's wealthiest resident, has intensified his public criticism of Vail Resorts' management of Park City Mountain Resort. The Cloudflare CEO claims Vail's 10-year stock performance has been dismal and argues the company should sell off individual resorts. Vail says it's not selling.
Vail Resorts Drops My Epic Gear Membership Fee, Makes Premium Rentals Standard
Vail Resorts is scrapping the $50 My Epic Gear membership fee and rolling premium rental features into standard offerings. Starting next season, anyone booking Demo rentals at 12 resorts can select specific gear models online, access BOA ski boots and Step On bindings at no extra cost.
Deer Valley Opens East Village Gondola and Pinyon Express as Expansion Takes Shape
Deer Valley's expansion reached its first operational milestone on 27 December with the opening of two new lifts. The 10-passenger East Village Gondola and Pinyon Express six-pack now provide access to previously inaccessible terrain, though five more lifts remain unopened this season.
Brian Head Becomes Utah’s First Resort to Open for the 2025-26 Season
After receiving 10 inches of snowfall in the last week, Brian Head Resort became Utah’s first resort to open the 2025–26 ski season on Friday, November 21. The resort was originally scheduled to open on November 7 and subsequently postponed season opening twice, first to November 15 and then to November 21.
Alterra's $400M Investment: Deer Valley Expansion Takes Centre Stage
Alterra Mountain Company announces a $400 million capital investment program, with a significant focus on expanding Deer Valley Resort in Utah. The plan includes doubling skiable terrain and adding new lifts, but questions remain about the impact on the resort's character and pricing.
Park City Mountain's Lift Upgrade Plans Derailed by 1998 Agreement
A Utah court ruling has blocked Park City Mountain's proposed lift upgrades, citing a decades-old development agreement. This setback highlights ongoing tensions between Vail Resorts and the local community over infrastructure improvements and resort capacity.
Deer Valley's $600 Million Expansion: Four Seasons Resort Development
Extell Development Company has secured a $600 million loan for the construction of Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Deer Valley, Utah. This project marks the first new luxury alpine village development in North America in over 40 years.
Utah Ski Season 2024-25: Third-Busiest Year Despite Visitor Decline
Utah's ski resorts recorded their third-busiest season ever with 6.5 million visitors in 2024-25, but the 3.6% decline from the previous year highlights growing challenges. Weather patterns, the Park City strike, and economic pressures all contributed to the drop, even as the industry invests hundreds of millions in new infrastructure ahead of the 2034 Olympics.
Utah Ski Resorts Maintain Strong Visitation Despite Weather Challenges
Utah's ski resorts saw a slight dip in visitors during the 2024-2025 season, but still recorded the third-highest total on record with over 6.5 million skier visits.
Vail Resorts CEO Confirms Park City Mountain Not for Sale
Vail Resorts CEO Rob Katz has firmly stated that Park City Mountain is not for sale, despite recent interest from a tech billionaire. This article explores the situation and its implications for the popular Utah ski resort.
Sundance Mountain Resort Expands with New High-Speed Quad and Terrain
Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah is set to enhance its skiing experience with a new high-speed quad lift and 165 acres of additional terrain for the 2026-27 winter season.
Park City Mountain Resort: Local Tech CEO's Vision for Acquisition and Expansion
Matthew Prince, CEO of Cloudflare, has purchased Town Lift Plaza in Park City and expressed interest in acquiring Park City Mountain Resort from Vail Resorts, with plans for significant upgrades including a potential gondola connection to Alta.
Deer Valley's New Gondola Project Progresses
Deer Valley Resort in Utah is making significant progress on its new gondola project, part of a major expansion plan set to transform the ski area.
Deer Valley's Major Expansion Plans for 2025 and Beyond
Deer Valley Resort in Utah is undergoing significant changes, with new trails, lifts, and base area developments planned over the next several years. This article outlines the recent expansions and future projects that will transform the ski resort.
Mountain Capital Partners Invests $15M+ in Ski Resort Upgrades
Mountain Capital Partners announces over $15 million in improvements across its ski resorts following a record-breaking 2024/2025 season, with upgrades planned for Purgatory, Arizona Snowbowl, Brian Head, and other properties.
Brian Head Resort Celebrates Longest Season in Its History
Brian Head Resort in Southern Utah concludes its 2024-25 season with a record-breaking 178 skiable days, surpassing last year's record and setting new visitation highs.
Epic Pass 2025/26: A Comprehensive Buying Guide for Skiers and Riders
Explore the various Epic Pass options for the 2025/26 season, including new resort access, pricing, and benefits for skiers and snowboarders looking to maximise their mountain time across multiple destinations.
Utah Ski Resort Closing Dates for 2024-25 Season
As the 2024-25 ski season winds down in Utah, find out when your favourite resorts are planning to close and make the most of the remaining snow days.
Powder Mountain Expands Private Lift Network Amid Master Plan Review
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.
Brian Head Resort Offers Affordable Spring Skiing with $3.80 Daily Passes
Brian Head Resort in Utah is offering exceptional value for spring skiing, with weekday passes available for as low as $3.80 per day. The resort also provides free skiing for children under 12 and discounts on equipment rentals and lessons.
Cottonwood Canyon Ski Resorts in Utah Receive Significant April Snowfall
Utah's Cottonwood Canyon ski resorts have been blanketed with fresh powder, receiving up to a foot of snow in the past 24 hours. This April snowfall has boosted season totals and improved conditions across Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude.
Snowbasin Auctions Historic Becker Triple Chairlifts
Snowbasin Ski Resort is auctioning 117 retired triple chairlifts from the Becker lift, offering skiers and riders a chance to own a piece of Ogden's skiing history. The auction supports local youth winter sports programs.
Snowbird Launches 2025-26 Season Passes with Early Access
Snowbird unveils its 2025-26 season pass offerings, featuring the return of the Freeloader Pass program and early access to current-season skiing for new passholders. Various pass options and benefits are available, including flexible payment plans and discounts.
Alta's Supreme Lift Upgrade: Smoother Rides Coming in 2025
Alta Ski Area announces plans to straighten and upgrade the Supreme lift, eliminating the notorious 'bend' and improving the skiing experience for the 2025-26 season.
Alta Ski Area Reaches 500-Inch Snowfall Milestone
Alta Ski Area in Utah has surpassed 500 inches of total snowfall this season, marking a significant turnaround from a slow start. The recent storms have created ideal conditions for spring skiing.
Mineral Basin Chairlift Repair Delays Access to Popular Snowbird Terrain
Snowbird Resort has announced a temporary closure of its signature Mineral Basin terrain pod due to mechanical issues with the chairlift, expected to last until late this week despite promising snow conditions.
Park City-Deer Valley Gondola Connection: New Feasibility Study Planned
Park City officials are taking steps toward a potential aerial gondola system connecting the historic Main Street district with Deer Valley Resort. The City Council is considering hiring specialised consultants to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study, marking a significant move in the long-discussed transportation initiative.
Park City Ski Patrol Strike Hitting Vail Resorts Where It Hurts
The ongoing ski patrol strike at Park City Mountain Resort has created significant operational challenges for Vail Resorts during peak season. With patrollers demanding higher wages and only 50 of 350 trails initially open, this labor dispute highlights broader challenges facing one of North America's largest ski resort operators.
Powder Mountain Utah Unveils Lightning Ridge Lift, Opening New Expert Terrain
Powder Mountain celebrates its biggest infrastructure upgrade in ten years with the Lightning Ridge lift opening, providing access to advanced terrain and deep powder. The new Skytrac fixed-grip quad marks a significant expansion for Utah's powder skiing haven.
Brian Head Resort Is Utah's First Ski Resort to Open for 2024-25 Season
Brian Head Resort leads Utah's ski season, opening on November 8, 2024, with top-to-bottom runs on Navajo Mountain. Marking their second-earliest opening in 60 years, the resort offers four pristine trails and attractive early-season rates, including free skiing for kids under 12.
Best Ski Resort In Utah For Beginners in 2025
Planning your first ski trip? Utah's resorts offer an unmatched experience for beginners, with terrain ranging from 13 gentle trails to a whopping 38 beginner-friendly runs across 1,975 acres. From Powder Mountain's uncrowded slopes to Park City's world-class instruction and Deer Valley's luxurious amenities, we've analyzed every resort to help you choose the perfect destination. Discover why Utah should top your list for learning to ski or snowboard.
Latest News
More from the SnowStash desk
Arosa to Replace 40-Year-Old Hörnli Lifts With New Gondola and Chair
Arosa's Hörnli sector is getting its biggest overhaul in decades. The 1986 gondola and 1994 chairlift linking toward Lenzerheide are both being replaced, with capacity up, tower count down and a new base station lower on the hill. At roughly CHF 67 million, it is the largest single investment Arosa Bergbahnen has ever made - and the target opening has already slipped a year, to December 2028. Here is what is changing, and why the timeline moved.
Sundance Mountain Resort Is Getting a New High-Speed Quad and More Back Mountain Terrain This Winter
Sundance Mountain Resort's back mountain is finally getting a proper lift. The Electric Horseman Express opens for 2026-27, unlocking a new bowl next to Bishop's Bowl and three expert gladed chutes across roughly 105 fresh acres - on top of the Storyteller ridge run that debuted in preview form last season. It's Sundance's biggest expansion since 1985, and it turns a three-lift slog into a single six-minute ride to Bearclaw Summit.
Levi and Ruka Confirm October 2 Opening on Farmed Summer Snow
Finland's Levi and Ruka open for the 2026-27 season on October 2, more than seven weeks before most of Europe sees a lift turn. Neither resort is waiting on autumn snowfall - both are skiing on snow buried since last spring, insulated through the Finnish summer and dug back out for opening day. It is not a shortcut. It is a decades-old system now spreading from the Arctic Circle to Idaho, Utah, Vermont and Colorado. Here is how snow farming actually works, and why it is catching on.
Sölden's Old Einzeiger Chairlift Gets a Second Life in Montafon
Silvretta Montafon is replacing its ageing Freda chairlift - but not with something new. The resort is having a 1999 four-seater chairlift, retired from Sölden, dismantled, shipped to Vorarlberg and rebuilt with new electronics, cable and clamps. It has to be running before March 2027, when Silvretta Montafon hosts the FIS Snowboard, Freestyle and Freeski World Championships - the biggest winter sports event Vorarlberg has staged. Here's how a reused lift ends up cheaper.
Nassfeld Invests €13 Million in New 6-Seater Chairlift for 2026/27 Season
Nassfeld is putting €13 million into a new 6-seater chairlift, the Tressdorfer Almbahn, connecting Sonnleitn with the Tressdorfer Alm from December 2026. It replaces three ageing drag lifts and will run through summer too, from June 2027, moving up to 2,500 people an hour on the roughly three-minute ride. It's the latest step in Carinthia's largest ski resort building out a genuine year-round offering, following last year's Gartnerkofelbahn gondola.
Stelvio Glacier Suspends Summer Skiing, Leaving Continental Europe Without a Lift-Served Slope
Italy's Stelvio Glacier has pulled the plug on summer skiing from August 15. It was the last lift-served ski option left standing in continental Europe, and now there's none. Operator SIFAS pointed to persistent heat, storms, and a snowpack that simply wasn't refreezing overnight anymore. The cable car keeps running. Whether skiing comes back later this summer depends on the weather turning - and right now, nobody's promising anything.
Maverick Mountain's Only Chairlift Destroyed as Sand Creek Fire Tears Through Montana Ski Area
Firefighters saved every base building at Maverick Mountain, Montana, but the resort's sole chairlift didn't survive the Sand Creek Fire. Owners Erik and Kristi Borge say the lift is "most likely" out for the 2026/27 season after flames tore through the mountain on August 8. The wildfire has since grown past 27,700 acres with zero percent containment. It's a gutting result for the tiny, one-lift operation near Dillon - though the lodge, groomers and equipment all made it through untouched.
Fairmont Niseko: New Luxury Resort Revives Stalled La Plume Site for Early 2028 Opening
Fairmont is bringing its second Japanese property to Niseko, and this one's got history. The 165-room resort will rise on the site of the stalled La Plume project, which collapsed into bankruptcy in 2025 before J-Will Partners bought the site for redevelopment. Set between Mount Yotei and Mount Annupuri, it's slated for an early 2028 opening - putting it in play for the 2027/28 season. Expect two restaurants, a spa, onsen bathing, and a kids' club, a short drive from Niseko Village and Hirafu.