Vermont — While Stratton didn’t make any lift replacements this offseason, there were many improvements made across the mountain for this winter.
Last week, Stratton Mountain Resort announced $8 million in capital improvements for the 2026-27 season. While it was nothing on a blockbuster level, there are some improvements that guests will appreciate. Included in this are upgrades to the Mid-Mountain Lodge, an improved experience for the Black Bear Passholders, snowmaking upgrades, and more.
Mid-Mountain Lodge
Improving the Mid-Mountain Lodge was arguably the biggest project of the offseason. The on-mountain lodge at Stratton saw various improvements to its interior and exterior. This included a new outside bar, refreshed polycarbonate wind panels surrounding the outdoor space, upgraded radiant flooring, new inside furniture for guests, and modern kitchen appliances for employees.
“Mid Mountain Lodge has been a guest favorite and a must-stop on the mountain for generations, and we’re excited to have made meaningful investments in this special place. Our collaboration with Jamaica Cottage Shop will present Mid Mountain’s first outdoor Patio Pub providing a scenic stop for a beverage. Guests can also look forward to a refreshed menu concept providing Austrian inspired signature items, ski lodge favorites and items proudly crafted with local ingredients.” – Kasey Mann, Food and Beverage Director.
Employee Housing
Employee housing improvements were also a focus. Upgrades include switching from well to town water, septic system improvements, nicer matresses, installation of high-efficiency heating and cooling units with smart thermostats, and improved security technology (included electric locks).
“For many of our seasonal team members, Stratton isn’t just where they work; it’s where they live, said Kristyn Greene, Vice President, Human Resources. “We want them to feel comfortable, supported, and at home while they’re here. These investments are part of our ongoing commitment to improving that experience and taking care of the people who make Stratton such a special place.”
Other Improvements
Skiers who purchase the Black Bear Pass will have a new space to hang out in. The Edelweiss Room in the Guest Services building will give passholders slopeside access with a restaurant, bar, wood-burning fireplace, and an outdoor deck.
Also noteworthy are the snowmaking upgrades. After dealing with some snowmaking issues last winter, Stratton did heavy maintenance on pipes, motors, pumps, hydrants, and valves, improving efficiency and reliability.
Other upgrades include a refreshed Junior Mountain Sports School building, an ADA-compliant elevator in the Main Base Lodge, new flooring in the Main Base Lodge, two new Prinoth Bison X-Stage 5 snowcats, the replacement of one of the cables on one of their winchcats, a new fleet for Village Rentals, two new Masterfit footbed casting machines at First Run, four new Polaris snowmobiles for the Snowmobile Tour fleet, new chairlift pads on Shooting Star, and the completion of the access road maintenance project. Whew, that was a lot.
Tamarack
Meanwhile, planning continues on Stratton’s next chairlift replacement. Last year, Lift Blog reported that Stratton is planning to replace the Tamarack Triple with a detachable high-speed quad chairlift.
This project was eyed for the 2026 offseason. Reportedly, they’re going through Vermont’s regulatory process for its approval. Alterra’s capital expenditures plan may have also impacted the timeline due to last winter’s mediocrity.
About Stratton Mountain Resort
Situated near Manchester, Stratton is one of the largest ski resorts in Vermont. The Vermont ski resort features 99 trails, 14 lifts, 95% snowmaking coverage, and a 2,003-foot vertical drop.
During the summer, Stratton is home to a Geoffrey Cornish-designed golf course, a mountain biking park, and other attractions. The base village features various dining, shopping, and lodging options year-round.
Image/Video Credits: Stratton Mountain Resort
