Rumford, Maine — Black Mountain of Maine isn’t the average New England skiing experience, but that’s a good thing. The non-profit Maine ski area has developed a large fan base in the ski and ride community, thanks to its uphill skinning tracks and various glade runs. What it’s less known for is snowmaking, even if it was one of the first ski areas to install it. However, a successful fundraiser campaign is helping the ski area increase its snowmaking capabilities.
After getting approval for two grants, work is underway on a $1.2 million snowmaking enhancement project. Phase one entails the purchase of 15 snow guns (5 mobile and 10 tower guns), which will be installed on the St. John and Allagash trails. This project was funded by an NBRC (Northern Border Regional Commission) Grant. So far this summer, the snow guns arrived, concrete was poured for the tower gunfootings, and workers started placing the footings in their new homes.
The latest update, which came today, shows the snowmaking guns being installed.
The second phase of the project will include a new pumphouse and pumps, along with an expansion of the snowmaking pond. This will result in increased water availability, improved snowmaking production, and longer seasons. The funding for this project is provided through a CDS (Congressionally Directed Spending) Grant. Black Mountain is awaiting the final paperwork to be processed, which will enable the federal funds to be sent to them. After that, phase two will commence.
Situated near Sunday River Resort, Black Mountain of Maine offers a different type of skiing experience. Its extensive glade network and uphill routes make it beloved by adventurous skiers and riders. The non-profit ski area features a vertical drop of 1380 feet, making it the fourth-tallest ski resort in Maine. In recent years, it has become host to the Last Skier Standing, a competition that sees skiers skin up and ski down once per hour until only one skier remains.
Those interested in helping Black Mountain install this equipment can make a donation here. Donors will be honored on a plaque that will be set next to the base lodge’s fireplace.
Image/Video Credits: Black Mountain of Maine, Teton Gravity Research
