Industry News
Lost Valley Ski Area in Maine is set to debut its first new chairlift since 1971. According to News Center Maine, crews have been busy installing the ski area’s third chairlift on the left side of the hill, with a loading zone near the ski school area, throughout the off-season.
Although new to Lost Valley, the chairlift is actually almost 50 years old, with Lost Valley being its third home. According to LiftBlog, the double chair first served skiers at Craigmeur, New Jersey from 1976 to 1997, before relocating to Mount Southington, Connecticut, where it operated as the Northstar double from 2001 until last season.
General Manager John Herrick noted that while the new lift will have fewer seats than existing ones, it will shorten the distance skiers must travel and provide a quicker ride to the summit.
In addition to the lift, Lost Valley is enhancing its snowmaking capabilities on the left side of the hill, which previously relied on natural snow. New lights are also being installed along trails for night skiing.
“This expansion targets some of our most challenging terrain. It will give skiers more options and help distribute crowds during busy days.”
– John Herrick
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Co-owner Scott Shanaman emphasized the importance of this upgrade for the small ski area. “We’re constantly striving to offer a better product for our customers,” he stated. “This is our biggest project in nearly ten years.”
Lost Valley’s mission focuses on teaching kids to ski and providing families in central Maine with outdoor recreation. All profits are reinvested into improvements, including snowmaking and lodge facilities.
While an exact opening date for the new chairlift has not been announced, it is expected to be operational this ski season.
