Hancock, Vermont — Middlebury Snowbowl took some significant steps forward last season. They opened a new quad chairlift, added lights for night skiing, and sculpted a new trail for the beginner terrain area.
However, it wasn’t all rosy. For the entire 2023-24 season, the Snowbowl was without the Bailey Falls chairlift. This was due to the need for replacements of various critical components. Installed in 1987, it has faced challenges staying open due to mechanical issues and a lack of snowmaking on the backside.
However, they’re about to begin a modernization project in the coming weeks to make Bailey Falls more reliable. This week, Middlebury Snowbowl announced that they have purchased a new haul rope from SkyTrac and will refurbish the chairlift’s electrical and safety systems. An official timeline for the completion of this project has yet to be announced.
The other major project this summer is the replacement of snowmaking pipe. This summer, they are replacing 3000-4000 feet of current snowmaking pipe. Most of their snowmaking pipe is from the 1980s, meaning it is at the end of its lifespan. Ultimately, a more modern pipe will result in a more efficient snowmaking network, meaning that there will be less leakage and breaks.
If you haven’t been to the Snowbowl yet, it sounds like a fun place to visit. Its uncrowded slopes, new lift, and scenic views are why it’s on my bucket list for this upcoming winter.
Image Credits: Middlebury Snowbowl
