Brundage Mountain Resort is currently undergoing its most ambitious construction season ever, with significant progress being made on three key projects as part of their $25-$30 million improvement plan.
The first project involves upgrading the Centennial Chairlift. The old Centennial Triple Chair is being replaced with a new Doppelmayr high-speed detachable quad. Work on dismantling the old lift infrastructure began in April, immediately after the close of the winter season. The 32-year-old bottom terminal has been completely removed, and the new terminal and several tower foundations have been poured. The haul rope, carriers, and lift towers accessible from the ground have been removed, with the remaining towers to be taken down by helicopter later in the summer. The new high-speed quad will reduce ride time from 16 minutes to just six minutes, providing easier access to the south side terrain and improving the loading experience for all guests.
The second project focuses on the construction of the Mountain Adventure Center (MAC) in the base area. The concrete foundation for the 17,000 square foot building has been poured. The MAC will serve as a centralized facility, offering efficient access to tickets, guest services, reservations, rentals, retail, the Mountain Sports School, restrooms, and a coffee shop. Construction on the MAC began in May and is expected to be completed in approximately 18 months, ready for use in the 2024-25 Winter Season. The new building will enhance the guest experience by providing a seamless layout and an improved arrival process.
The third project involves the installation of key infrastructure in the new Northwoods residential area. Adams County has granted final plat approval for this 37-acre ski-in/ski-out development, which includes 21 single-family home sites and 11 cottage lots nestled in the woods near the Lower Rodeo ski run. Boise-based RSCI Construction is currently installing the road, water, and sewer infrastructure for the neighborhood during the summer. The next phase of residential construction will include 45 townhomes designed in a contemporary mountain modern style, blending in with the natural beauty of the nearby Payette National Forest.
These projects are part of a comprehensive 10-Year Resort Improvement Plan developed by Brundage Mountain Holdings, the new ownership group that acquired the resort in November 2020. The plan aims to maintain the authentic, uncrowded character of Brundage Mountain while enhancing the on-mountain guest experience, upgrading facilities and infrastructure, and introducing lodging to the base area. In June 2023, the Payette National Forest accepted an updated version of Brundage Mountain Resort’s Master Development Plan, which outlines proposals for lift and terrain expansion, expanded snowmaking capabilities, and new on-mountain lodge amenities.
Brundage Mountain Resort has also completed or made progress on several other projects, including the construction of a new mountain bike/hiking trail, a ski patrol building, an employee housing facility, the realignment of the entrance road and parking lot, dead timber removal for fire safety, whitebark pine preservation efforts, and wetlands restoration at the Activity Barn site.
Through these ongoing developments, Brundage Mountain Resort aims to meet the growing demand while preserving its unique and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.