Industry News
After an early end to its season, Bridger Bowl in Montana is doing everything it can to take care of its employees.
Warm weather and poor snow conditions forced Bridger Bowl to end its season on March 22, 2026. To make up for the lost final weeks of work, employees at Bridger Bowl will be receiving an end-of-season bonus, helping offset financial losses caused by the closure. Employees were notified in a letter from General Manager Hiram Towle, who thanked them for their hard work and commitment to the mountain.
“Thank you for everything you brought to Bridger Bowl this season. The entire management team is grateful for the role you play in making this place so special, and we hope this additional support helps you as you head into a great spring and summer ahead,” the letter wrote.
Typically, seasonal resort employees work at the resort throughout the winter, then transition to spring and summer jobs once the season wraps up. When resorts close early, employees lose out on days, and sometimes weeks, of employment. This can create financial issues for employees who experience income gaps between jobs.
SnowBrains reached out to Towle, who confirmed the bonus and commented on the resort’s effort. “Our Board of Directors was incredibly supportive and approved more than we had originally requested,” Towle stated.
With the bonus, Bridger Bowl management hopes to provide support to employees who lost out on anticipated work hours.
“For those counting on the final weeks of work, the loss of anticipated hours created a financial burden, especially during the transition into spring and summer employment. While Bridger cannot guarantee the length of any season, we wanted to find a meaningful way to bridge the employment gap,” Towle wrote.
News of the bonus was applauded online, including in Reddit discussions about the resort. Many people voiced their support for the resort’s actions. “This is just how a community ski resort should act. Thank you, employees, and well done, administration!” wrote one contributor.
The bonus is a testament to the community that the resort has created. Bridger Bowl’s effort to support its seasonal staff does not go unnoticed, and its actions serve as a model in an increasingly corporatized industry.
“We look forward to seeing you next season!” Towle wrote to Bridger’s employees.
Bridger Bowl is a non-profit, community-owned ski resort located 15 minutes north of Bozeman, Montana. It is popular for its steep terrain and low lift ticket prices.
