Industry News
Hunter Mountain, New York, started making snow last week on Friday. Last year’s snowmaking improvements project added 170+ new snowguns to its signature terrain, which will help the resort open faster with more snow coverage and terrain options. The mountain will continue making snow every chance it gets to provide skiers with premium skiing and riding. Last season, Hunter opened on December 1.
Hunter Mountain is only a brief 2.5-hour drive from New York City through the breathtaking northern Catskill Mountains. Adventure-seeking guests will find Hunter Mountain, The People’s Mountain. Hunter boasts some of the most thrilling terrain in the East, but it’s not just for seasoned veterans; with a state-of-the-art learning center and dedicated children’s area, Hunter is the gateway to winter sports for generation after generation of skiers and snowboarders. Slope-side accommodation is available at The Kaatskill Mountain Club, where guests are hosted with a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and charm.
Quick Facts and Stats
- Date Opened: 1960
- Multi-Destination Pass: Epic Pass
- 67 Trails: 15% Expert, 30% Advanced, 30% Intermediate, 25% Beginner
- Skiable Acres: 320
- Vertical Drop: 1,600 feet
- Base Elevation: 1,600 feet
- Summit Elevation: 3,200 feet
- Terrain Breakdown:
- Beginner: 25%
- Intermediate: 30%
- Advanced: 45%
- 12 Lifts: 3 carpets, 2 doubles, 1 triple, 3 quads, 3 high-speed 6-packs
- Glades: 3 glade areas
- Terrain Parks: 3 freestyle areas
- Snow: 100% snowmaking coverage
- Average Season Length: Late-November to mid-April
Last season, Hunter Mountain made two Epic Lift Upgrades and a major automated snowmaking installation. Since opening on January 9, 1960, with the original “B” Lift in operation, Hunter Mountain has a history of innovation in the industry, from being the first ski resort in New York to install snowmaking to being the first in the U.S. to install an automated snowmaking system. While the resort has grown and evolved with new lifts and peaks over the decades, it still boasts the same energy and sense of adventure, providing skiers and riders a destination to learn, progress, and challenge themselves.
Hunter also added 70+ automated snow guns and upgraded the Broadway Lift and E Lift. Together, these new enhancements allow the Hunter team to produce more snow faster and increase uphill capacity, giving guests more time on the snow and elevating the experiences of both beginner and advanced skiers and riders.
New for the 2025-26 season, Hunter has continued to make upgrades, focusing on boosting the guests’ experience.
- Lodge Renovations: Over the summer, we gave our Main Lodge a fresh new look. Guests will see updated interiors throughout, including redesigned food and beverage outlets like the Marketplace and Grand Central, home to waffles and ice cream, plus more updates across the space.
- Bus trips from NYC with OvRride: This winter, we’re partnering with OvRride to make it easier for guests to access Hunter Mountain from New York City. With dedicated bus trips and experiences to and from the mountain, this provides a convenient option without the need for a car.
- Veterans Weekend: On December 13, we’re honoring active-duty military and veterans with a special weekend event. Guests can look forward to connection, recognition, and activities that celebrate those who serve.
- Expedition Hunter: A new ski and ride competition on February 28 that invites guests to adventure in every direction – from Hunter East to Hunter West—with challenges and exploration opportunities for different ability levels.
Hunter has a full lineup of signature events and experiences this year. Here’s a look at what the resort has planned for the 2025-26 season:
New Year’s Eve Bash | December 31: Ring in the New Year with live music, a dazzling torchlight and groomer parade, and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Pride Ski & Ride Weekend | January 24-25: Join us in celebrating and supporting our LGBTQ+ community with a vibrant weekend on the mountain.
Black Ski & Ride Weekend | January 31-February 2: Celebrate community, adventure, and representation as we welcome and uplift Black skiers and riders.
AMEX First Tracks | March 7: American Express partners are invited to kickstart the day with exclusive early access to Broadway Lift starting at 7:30 a.m., a full hour before the resort opens to the public.
Women’s Weekend | March 14-15: Celebrate connection, adventure, and community at our Women’s Weekend. Enjoy curated experiences on and off the mountain designed to inspire, empower, and bring women together for an unforgettable two days at Hunter.
Denim Dash Pond Skim | March 28: Close out the season in style with our Denim Dash Pond Skim. Cheer on brave skiers and riders as they attempt to glide across a custom-built pond while decked out in denim. Enjoy live DJ sets, high-energy vibes, and a festive crowd atmosphere – whether you’re skimming or spectating.
Hunter Mountain is a signature resort in New York that is known for its rugged terrain and its die-hard locals. Going into the new season, Hunter is poised to have another great year with plenty of events and activities for everyone to enjoy.
