As one of the few independent mountains left in Vermont, Magic Mountain has charted an impressive path of growth over the past couple of years. The mountain stands as a stark contrast from the corporate hierarchy that skiing has become. One such example is their regular Alpine Update, which details the various news and events happening at Magic. The latest version, released Thursday, detailed construction updates on their various offseason infrastructure projects.
Offseason Improvements:
- The Black Chair: The biggest question for Magic Mountain for this upcoming season is whether they will be able to open the Black Chair, which they bought from Stratton Mountain in 2018. The construction has taken years due to various setbacks and Covid-19. Next week, the crew at Magic will build its “newly engineered and fabricated sheave assembly for Tower 13… Final engineered drawings for Towers 6 and 7 are expected this week to begin fabrication for those sheaves which will take a couple of weeks followed by installation.” Most of the work on the lift has been complete, but it’s unclear if it will finally open this winter.
- The Red Chair: A new haul rope will be installed in October. During November, a new driveshaft and upper bullwheel bearings will be added.
- The Green Chair: A new tensioning system and ram are being set up next week, and will be ready for fall foliage rides in October.
- Snowmaking: “Our snowmaking motors for pond and main pumphouse are being refurbished and repaired at Troy Motor works and should be back in-house in early October for testing prior to November start-up of snowmaking operations when temperatures drop. We are also looking to add after-coolers to our electric compressors to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of our snowmaking efforts. The ability to make quality snow at more marginal wet bulb/temperatures in the mid/upper 20s will be greatly enhanced. “
- Other Projects: The beginner area at the base is being expanded, more space and features are being added to the terrain park, much of the terrain has been mowed, and the groomers have been refurbished.
Click here to check out their numerous fall events, employment perks for this upcoming winter, and details about season passes.
Image Credits: Magic Mountain
