Friends of Maverick Mountain are asking for help after the Sand Creek Fire severely damaged the longtime Montana ski area, with a new fundraising campaign focused on getting its lifts operating again.
The fire reached Maverick Mountain between August 10th and 11th, burning roughly one third of the ski area. The mountain’s only operating chairlift was damaged beyond repair, while the ski patrol shack was destroyed. The lodge survived the fire.
Friends of Maverick Mountain says the immediate goal is to restore uphill access as quickly as possible. Approximately 250 local children depend on the ski area each winter through programs including the Dillon Jaycees Little Skiers program, homeschool and rural school programs and the race team.
Replacement Lifts Are Already Waiting
Maverick already owns components from two retired chairlifts. In 2024, the ski area acquired the retired Gent’s Ridge quad from Aspen Skiing Company along with components from Jackson Hole’s former Sublette lift. Some of that equipment was moved away from the mountain ahead of the fire and remains intact.
Turning those components into a working lift will still require substantial investment. The project needs a new haul rope, electrical upgrades, an AC drive, at least 18 towers, top and bottom terminals and approximately 120 chairs. The haul rope is considered a critical early purchase because of its long lead time.
Donations Will Fund the Rebuild
The Dillon Jaycees Little Skiers are collecting and distributing donations through the Friends of Maverick Mountain campaign. An advisory board will oversee distributions. Supporters can donate toward the lift reconstruction and recovery effort, with the organization also seeking larger contributions, equipment, materials, labor and professional expertise.
Donations can be made through the Friends of Maverick Mountain fundraising campaign or at any Stockman Bank branch in Montana by requesting the Friends of Maverick Mountain account. Contributions can also be mailed to the organization in Polaris, Montana.
A Fight to Save an Independent Ski Hill
Maverick Mountain has operated since 1946 and has built its identity around affordable skiing for local families. The fundraising campaign is intended to preserve that character while helping the mountain rebuild after the Sand Creek Fire.
Friends of Maverick Mountain says the goal is not simply to replace what was lost. The organization hopes to restore lift access, rebuild the ski terrain and make the mountain more resilient to future wildfires.
For Maverick, the fundraising effort could determine how quickly the historic ski area can begin its next chapter. Learn more about the effort here.