A small Montana ski area devastated by a wildfire this summer has received a major fundraising boost, with an anonymous donor pledging to match up to $250,000 in contributions to help bring the mountain back to life.
Maverick Mountain, a family-oriented ski area in southwestern Montana, lost its only chairlift when the Sand Creek Fire swept through the mountain in August. The blaze also destroyed its ski patrol building and communications infrastructure, leaving the longtime community ski hill unable to operate for the upcoming winter.
The Friends of Maverick Mountain fundraising organization announced the new “Maverick Magic Match,” which began November 4. Every dollar donated to the rebuilding campaign will be matched by the anonymous supporter until the $250,000 commitment is fulfilled.
Community Has Already Raised $385,000
NBC Montana reports the campaign has already received $385,000 from more than 500 individuals and businesses, according to figures released November 5. The organization’s current fundraising goal is $1.5 million, with the new matching opportunity potentially adding another $500,000 through a combination of community contributions and the donor’s pledge.
The rebuilding effort is particularly important for approximately 250 local children who participate in skiing programs at Maverick Mountain each winter. The Dillon Jaycees have operated their Little Skiers program at the mountain since 1955, providing affordable access to winter sports for generations of southwestern Montana families.
Replacing the Chairlift Will Cost Millions
The Sand Creek Fire burned approximately one-third of Maverick Mountain in August, destroying the resort’s only operating chairlift. Firefighters managed to save the main lodge and much of the mountain’s equipment.
Fortunately, Maverick had already purchased components from two retired quad chairlifts at Aspen and Jackson Hole before the fire. Those components survived, giving the mountain a head start on rebuilding its uphill infrastructure.
However, installation remains a significant undertaking. Friends of Maverick Mountain estimates that refurbishing and installing the former Aspen chairlift will cost approximately $2.9 million, compared with $5.4 million for a completely new lift.
The replacement project requires a new haul rope, electrical upgrades, drive equipment, lift towers and other infrastructure. The ski area’s insurance settlement is expected to cover approximately $1.4 million, while U.S. Forest Service approval is still required before the replacement project can proceed.
As previously reported when the fundraising campaign began, Maverick Mountain has served southwestern Montana since 1946, developing a reputation for affordable skiing and a strong local community.
The mountain will not operate for downhill skiing during the 2026-27 season, with its owners working toward a return the following winter. An exact reopening date has not been confirmed.
Donations to the Maverick Magic Match can be made through the official rebuilding campaign, at Stockman Bank branches in Montana or by mail. The organization is also accepting offers of equipment, materials, labor and professional expertise to help bring the mountain back.
