It’s pretty bizarre to be writing about a ski resort closing for the season in the second week of February, but this has been a wacky winter.
Yesterday, Teton Pass Ski Resort announced that they would remain closed for the rest of the season. While the Montana ski resort was briefly open from January 19th to January 21st and on January 27th, warm weather and a lack of snow derailed a more consistent operating schedule.
The reason why they’re closing is startling: their snowstake is at the lowest level in its fifty-five years of existence. Last week, they saw warm weather and rain, leading to a meager snowpack. While Teton Pass did receive some snow recently, it was on the lower end of what they were expecting. In addition, the next couple of weeks look dry for them, meaning the future snowpack projections appear to be grim. Spring skiing tends to bring in fewer guests, so Teton Pass Owner Charles Hlavac decided to protect the ski resort for future seasons.
The Montana ski industry has struggled immensely this season, with snowpack numbers being well below average. Many had late openings, which is rare. Turner Mountain, which typically boasts plentiful snowfall, is temporarily closed due to a lack of powder.
Click here to read the full letter explaining their decision.
Image Credits: Teton Pass Ski Resort
