Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire — Wildcat Mountain has a lot going for it: perhaps the best terrain in the Mt. Washington Valley, and definitely the best views out of any ski area in the state, if not the entire region.
However, an old snowmaking system results in slower trail openings than at other ski resorts in the state. Despite this, it was once known for its early openings (sometimes even as early as October) and late closings (late April or early May). Last winter was affected by this, leading to a late opening and an earlier-than-usual closing. This year’s opening is scheduled for December 3rd, which was reportedly impacted by the inconsistent snowmaking windows last month.
Its historical significance in the Mt. Washington Valley, along with the consistent headline-making over at Black Mountain, has attracted critical patrons. However, it’s clear that Vail Resorts is investing in the mountain.
In a video posted last week by Wildcat Mountain, General Manager Brandon Swartz detailed the ski area’s offseason projects. These improvements include fixing the snowmaking system, adding a new roof and windows at the base lodge, expanding the kids’ program and nursery area, completing a two-year culvert project to improve storm drainage, and converting the Bobcat Lodge into an employee office building with various meeting rooms. Most notably, the Snowcat chairlift, which didn’t operate last winter, has undergone an extensive refurbishment and is expected to be open for this campaign. All in all, these are good changes for the ski area.
Snowmaking efforts began at the upper elevations on November 6th, slowly building a top-to-bottom base. However, it hasn’t been enough to open the mountain until later this week.
Nearby, Black Mountain has been making headlines for its operating schedule. It technically opened first in New Hampshire, even if it had a limited footprint during its opening weekend. Its second weekend, which they just completed, featured top-to-bottom skiing. Other mountains in the region, ranging from Massachusetts to Maine, have been able to open up.
Here was Wildcat’s response last week to a real wise guy Instagram commentator who pointed out that Black Mountain has been able to open already:
“We’re stoked for our Black Mtn neighbors who opened for one day of skiing and riding this season! It really is an amazing feet [sic] and one to be celebrated! 🍻Like us, they’re also managing challenging weather, and our goals are different. We’re aiming to open when we have enough coverage to remain open daily, and that’s just not possible yet. Once it is, we’ll share the update with all here and on our Snow & Weather Report. 👍🏽”
Today, Wildcat announced it will open for the season on December 3rd. Let’s hope this New Hampshire gem has cold, snowy weather this winter so it can flourish.
Image/Video Credits: Wildcat Mountain
