Eleven New Hampshire resorts are revamping their facilities for the ultimate skiing experience. Here’s a preview of what to expect in the 2011/2012 season!
At Black Mountain, in Jackson, updates are everywhere! New air-compression technology being installed into the snow-makers has a projected 35% increase in man-made snow. Many of the facilities, such as the pub, restrooms, and locker rooms are being renovated as well. The well-loved Sugarbush trail is being widened and landscaped for the ultimate skiing conditions. Also in Jackson is Jackson XC, which has added 1.7 new kilometers of trails.
In North Conway at Cranmore, many new elements are coming to surface. Get ready for lots of snow this season because 40 high-efficiency snow-makers have been installed and that’s not all! Another groomer has been added to their fleet and improvements are being made on facilities such as the restrooms, base lodge and on-mountain eateries. Also, if you’re looking for great equipment, Cranmore is updating their rental stock for this season.
Bennington, home to Crotched Mountain, is looking at many new rentals, freestyle elements, and improvements to the cafeteria and lodge.
Granite Gorge, in Keene, is undergoing many big improvements on and off the slopes. Look for great changes in the now bigger base lodge, and a widening of many trails, as well as an expanse of snowmaking machinery. Also, a Big Air Bag Jump has been installed as a soft-landing spot for skiers and riders practicing their freestyle moves.
In Gilford, Gunstock has also installed a Big Air Bag Jump. The newly installed Zip line, though primarily a summer activity, will also be available for winter zips.
King Pine and Purity Spring Resort in East Madison is improving their snow-making by using electrical power.
At Loon Mountain in Lincoln, 2 new trails have been added to the South Peak. Also, over 100 new snow guns have been added for ultimate snow coverage. Another groomer has been added to their fleet as well. The ski patrol will now have a summit patrol building.
Mount Sunapee, in Newbury, will premier its 9th glade trail, the Beck Brook Glade. Snow making has also been added for an easier descent option. They will also be installing a Burton Learn to Ride Center, which will rent Burton equipment to their guests.
Pat’s Peak in Henniker has made many changes this summer. They will also become a Burton Learn to Ride Center, which includes many new rentals for adults and children, in addition to their many improvements on boots. Continued growth can be seen in the terrain parks, especially for those who are just learning freestyle. Camps will be held on vacation weeks as well!
Lastly, Windblown XC, in New Ipswich, has opened up more trail terrain and will offer backcountry and telemark skiing.
So, if you weren’t already excited for this season, surely the new improvements to these resorts will get you there. Whether you’re looking for a more comfortable lodge experience, better rentals, or simply more trails and snow, there is something for everyone at these fine, New Hampshire resorts!