Enfield, New Hampshire — In theory, it was a successful season for Whaleback, considering the circumstances. The ski area operated for most of its season without its chairlift but managed to get it open in March with help from Holiday Mountain. However, it was still a struggle financially, as the ski area was without its chairlift for most of the season. This means that Whaleback needs to fundraise again to operate this summer and next winter.
This past weekend, Whaleback Mountain announced it needs to raise $350,000 to operate next winter. The fundraiser is due to the cost of reopening the chairlift. The funds will go towards a new cable for the chairlift, maintenance for the lifts and snowmaking network, and to operate during the summer. This follows a couple of fundraising pushes prior to the 2025-26 season, with separate efforts for $250,000 and $210,000. You can donate to help Whaleback out here.
I live near Whaleback and have been a longtime supporter of the mountain. I would like to see a detailed year-to-year plan for the chairlift’s eventual replacement. Obviously, this chairlift won’t last forever, and it’s had maintenance issues in the past. This means a replacement is likely coming sooner rather than later.
This is something BigRock Mountain in Maine did very successfully several years ago, setting a blueprint for non-profits to implement on major capital projects.
About Whaleback Mountain
Situated just off I-89, Whaleback is an easy-to-reach ski area in Enfield, New Hampshire. Whaleback features around 30 trails/glades, a vertical drop of 700 feet, and 5 lifts. While it’s on the smaller side of vertical drops, it skis bigger than you think.
Last winter saw the opening of a new surface lift that connects skiers to the racing trail and the terrain park. New glades were added last winter to provide for more terrain off the new lift. During the summer, Whaleback hosts camps, concerts, and other events.
Image/Video Credits: Whaleback Mountain, Beyond The Lodge
