From Big Money to Big Storms: This Week’s Ski News Roundup
This week’s update brings you the latest from the slopes: major investments, inspiring athlete milestones, and—because skiing is never predictable—some surprise weather and environmental shifts. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or just here for the chaos, we’ve got it all. Let’s break it down.
- Killington Resort Unveils $30 Million in Upgrades Under New Owners
Vermont’s Largest Ski Resort Receives Major Upgrades
Killington’s new owners have dropped a cool $30 million to upgrade the mountain. Expect faster lifts, more snow guns, and even new biking trails. They’re not playing around—except maybe with the bike trails. - Middlebury Snowbowl Ushers in a New Era with Kim Essensa
Middlebury Snowbowl Announces New General Manager
Middlebury Snowbowl is bringing in fresh leadership with Kim Essensa, who’s ready to revamp the resort. And with changes like a new quad chairlift and night skiing, it looks like this “hidden gem” is ready to step into the spotlight (literally).
- Riley Jacobs Joins U.S. Women’s Halfpipe Pro Team
South Routt Skier Promoted by U.S. Freeski Team
Riley Jacobs is officially a pro. At just 21, she’s now on the U.S. Freeski Team and gunning for the Milan Olympics in 2026. No pressure, right? Just, you know, the biggest event in the sport.
- Level 1 Freeski Film Tour: A Cinematic Celebration of Ski Culture
The Art of the Ski Movie Premier
What’s better than watching incredible ski stunts? Watching them with hundreds of hyped-up fans at the Level 1 Film Tour. It’s not just about the movies—it’s about the swag, the autographs, and the overall feeling that you, too, could someday land a trick (spoiler: you can’t). - Mt. Perisher Bids Farewell to a 44-Year-Old Chairlift
Perisher Chairlift Bids Farewell
After 44 years of hauling skiers up the mountain, Perisher’s Triple Chair is officially retired. To say goodbye, skiers donned their finest 70s gear. Because nothing says “progress” like neon ski suits and disco.
- Spring Snow Blankets Africa’s Highest Pub
Sani Mountain Lodge Snowed In
Africa’s highest pub, Sani Mountain Lodge, just got hit with a surprise spring snowstorm. Nothing says “unusual” like ordering a cold beer in the middle of a snowstorm on what should be a warm day. But hey, now you can après-ski at 9,400 feet—just in Africa. - Melting Glaciers Force Switzerland and Italy to Redraw Borders
Switzerland and Italy Redraw Border
As glaciers melt, Switzerland and Italy are literally moving the line in the snow. This will change the ski landscape near the Matterhorn, reminding us that even Mother Nature has a hand in ski resort politics. - North Carolina Ski Resorts Reeling from Hurricane Helene’s Destruction
North Carolina Ski Resorts Recovering from Hurricane Damage
Hurricane Helene wasn’t kind to North Carolina’s ski resorts. Sugar Mountain and others are picking up the pieces after serious damage. The good news? They’re determined to rebuild before the snow hits. The bad news? There’s a lot of rebuilding.
- Powder Mountain Shakes Things Up with a Public-Private Hybrid Model
Nation’s Largest Ski Resort Unveils New Trail Map
Powder Mountain is taking a gamble with its new public-private hybrid model. Some lifts are for homeowners only, while others remain open to the public. It’s like a ski resort, but also kind of like a country club. We’ll see how that goes.
Analysis: Ski Resorts Are Moving, Melting, and Rebuilding
This week proves one thing: whether it’s throwing millions at improvements or dealing with surprise snowstorms, the ski world is always in motion. As resorts upgrade, weather intensifies, and new business models emerge, the industry is adapting fast. What’s next? Probably something we didn’t see coming—just like Africa’s latest snowstorm. Stay tuned, and keep those goggles handy!