Industry News
Northern New England resorts are coming off one of the strongest ski seasons in years, thanks mostly to plentiful snowfall and cold temperatures. Resorts in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine all reported an increase in the numbers of skiers.
During the 2018-2019 season, 100,000 more people hit New Hampshire slopes than in the last season. Maine saw a 150,000, or 12% increase, while Vermont saw 207,000 more visitors for an increase of 5% over the previous year. That puts the total number of skier and rider visits this past season in Vermont at more than 4 million, the most since the 2014-2015 season.
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Officials said a key to the season’s success was abundant snowfall, especially early in the season, which allowed resorts to open earlier and remain in operation long into the spring — particularly in Vermont. Mad River Glen ski area, which has a limited snowmaking system, had the longest season in its 70-year history, with 135 days of operation, according to Ski Vermont. And Cranmore Mountain Resort, NH also had the longest season in its 81-year history.
“This season’s robust skier and rider turnout was driven by a perfect storm of factors,” Ski Vermont President Molly Mahar said in a statement. “Early and abundant natural snow and consistent cold temperatures, combined with our member ski areas’ outstanding snowmaking and grooming capabilities, helped deliver excellent conditions throughout the season. … It was a great season — historic and unforgettable.”
