Lee, Maine — Today, Mt. Jefferson Ski Area began what may be its final ski season.
Earlier this month, Mt. Jefferson revealed in its opening-day announcement post that this could be its final season. That is due to fewer days spent on the snow and lower visitation. He has had success with other side hustles on the property, such as selling lumber and timber.
“Right after COVID, we slammed it. What we dealt with the last two, three years is we have not had enough snow,” said Kevin Zimmerman, the owner of Mt. Jefferson to WABI 5. “And that’s a big reason why the Delano’s sold this place, because they saw it before I did, that the weather pattern changing, because a lot of these storms are going out to sea now, are going over us. So that’s the biggest factor, but I’m not letting it deter me.”
Zimmerman originally bought the land in 2016 to host a music festival. That didn’t work out, so he turned his focus to skiing operations and added tubing.
Various options appear on the table. If the ski area doesn’t make enough money this winter, one option is to convert it into a nonprofit. If they can make money this winter, the goal is to install a chairlift and improve the lodge. Frankly, I don’t get why snowmaking, which they don’t have, isn’t a higher priority. Adding a website would also help grow sales.
“Just come, you know, bring and enjoy it and have fun,” said Zimmerman. “Because if it is the last year, you want to be here.”
About Mt. Jefferson
Situated in Northeastern Maine, Mt. Jefferson features 10 trails, 3 lifts, and a snow tubing park.
If you’re looking to visit, daily lift ticket prices are $30, which are noticeably lower than day ticket prices at some major ski resorts. Other price highlights include $10 uphill tickets, $25 two-hour tubing tickets, a $30 rental package, and a season pass priced at $259.
Click here to learn more about Mt. Jefferson’s history.
Image/Video Credits: Mt. Jefferson Ski Area, WABI 5
