This incident at Big Sky Resort, Montana, is both unusual and remarkable. On December 15, 2023, the ski patrol reported two separate avalanches in closed terrain. Intriguingly, one of these slides appears to have been inadvertently triggered by a goat. Amazingly, this goat was carried the full length of the avalanche, over a distance of 1,000 feet and through rocky terrain. Remarkably, it emerged from this perilous journey unscathed.

The evidence collected by the patrol paints a vivid picture of the event. Goat tracks were seen leading into the crown area of the avalanche and later exiting the debris pile at the bottom. Impressively, there were no signs of injury, such as blood or broken limbs, suggesting the goat was remarkably lucky to escape without harm.

The patrol’s detailed description of the goat’s journey through the avalanche is a testament to the resilience and hardiness of these animals. The fact that the goat managed to travel such a distance and through challenging conditions, only to walk away apparently unharmed, is nothing short of miraculous. This incident also underscores the unpredictable nature of avalanches and the importance of respecting closed areas in mountainous terrain for safety.

“Further investigation of the avalanche yesterday showed goat tracks leading into the crown area of the avalanche. At the debris pile, it was obvious that a goat had taken the full ride in the slide that it triggered. There was a depression in the debris pile where the critter had come to rest at the surface, and obvious hoof prints trailing away from the debris pile, and then upslope for the long walk back up to rejoin the herd. There was no blood, and the tracks looked usual, with no obvious sign of broken leg(s). It is unknown if the goat was wearing an airbag or if it was deployed in the avalanche. It was a significant ride, 1K’ vt., 1⁄4 mile linear, likely of high speed, through 2nd Dictator transition, which was taken down to mostly bare ground.”

– Big Sky Resort patrol

One of the most anticipated new chairlifts for the 2023-24 season has made its debut.

On Saturday, Mammoth Mountain opened the new Chair 16, also known as the Canyon Express. Chair 16, which opened back in 1994, was replaced this past offseason by a state-of-the-art chairlift.

The new Doppelmayr D-Line six-pack detachable high-speed chairlift is a game changer for the California ski resort. This capacity upgrade, which can fit 25% more guests compared to its predecessor, will help reduce lines at the Canyon Lodge base area. The enclosed top and bottom terminals will help it open quicker during deep storm cycles and windy days. In addition, the chairlift has been realigned slightly to the north to reduce the impact of snow slides from the nearby Avalanche Chutes.

There were some critics of the new chairlift though. Some noted that the off-ramp at the top terminal is pretty steep, leading to riders crashing into each other. While it does look steep, I imagine some more snow will help mellow it out.

Other improvements at Mammoth this season include the continued buildout of the Woolly’s Adventure Summit (which includes the opening of a new mountain coaster), a $5.5 million investment in snowmaking, and an expansion of the bathrooms at the Chair 14 Melt House.

Image Credits: Mammoth Mountain (Peter Morning, Helly Hansen, Smith Optics)

Over the past couple of years, one of the ski resorts that has been on the rise is Nordic Valley in Utah. Located near the city of Ogden, it added a huge terrain expansion during the 2020-21 season. However, the ski resort has been dealt a bad hand for this ski season.

Last week, Nordic Valley announced that the Apollo chairlift, which accesses the majority of the terrain at the ski resort, will be closed for “an undetermined period of time.” The Apollo chairlift suffered a mechanical breakdown back in March and has been closed since then. While dealing with the repairs, Nordic Valley’s maintenance team discovered further issues with the chairlift. With this being an older chairlift, finding the parts took an extended period of time due to the required customer engineering and manufacturing.

In response, Nordic Valley has acquired two Alpina Sleds to carry guests up to the Nordic Express and potentially to the top of the Apollo terrain pod. Each one of the Superclass 1.2L twin-tracked utility snowmobiles will be able to carry eighteen passengers. These people movers will be able to move 200 people per hour. I’m not gonna lie, those things look pretty sick.

It’s not all bad news for Nordic Valley though. They added two hundred parking spots, and two new trails to the Nordic Express terrain pod. Currently, Nordic Valley is open for the season with two trails and two lifts.

The ski resorts around Ogden are in a precarious situation. Snowbasin is an awesome ski resort, but it’s too expensive to visit unless you are a season/Ikon passholder. Powder Mountain just announced its plan to become a semi-private ski resort and has become more expensive this year (outside of night skiing tickets). Wasatch Peak Ranch’s future is in question after a judge ordered that the private ski resort stop construction and halt real estate sales.

Then there’s Nordic Valley. It’s an affordable ski resort with impressively cheap lift ticket deals and a brand-new terrain pod. What currently holds it back is the Apollo chairlift, which is the only way to reach the Nordic Express pod under normal circumstances. I’m a big fan of the place, and the Ogden skiing community needs this place to succeed.

My ultimate viewpoint is Nordic Valley’s future success depends on replacing Apollo. It doesn’t matter if it’s a fixed-grip or high-speed detachable chairlift, Apollo needs to be replaced within the next few years.

Image Credits: Nordic Valley, Alpina Snowmobiles

Start spreading the news, because it is shaping up to be a season full of new capital improvements at New York ski resorts.

In Ski NY’s 2023-24 capital project announcement, they detailed the major projects that are happening across the Empire State. This includes new chairlifts, snowmaking upgrades, and major renovations.

Here are the biggest improvements coming to New York ski resorts this winter. But first, here are some honorable mentions:

• Bristol Mountain opened up a year-round freestyle training facility. Called the Greater Rochester Amateur Athletic Federation (GRAFF) Summer Aerial Freestyle Training Site, it includes one of the few water ramps in the country. Other improvements include a redesigned skier bridge on the Milky Way trail, along with widening and making snowmaking upgrades to the Upper North Star trail.
• The Hickory Ski Center is getting ready to reopen this season for the first time in years thanks to an investment from the Indy Pass and us here at Unofficial Networks.
• Maple Ridge began a three-year, $3 million snowmaking project. The first phase, which happened this summer, resulted in the installation of a new snowmaking pipe system, which will increase their snowmaking capacity by up to 39%.
• Plattekill widened and added snowmaking to the I Think I Can trail. Other improvements include a new maintenance building, new decking for the base lodge, and new demo gear.
• The Windham Mountain Club went through a luxury-focused rebrand. New restaurants are opening across the ski resort, which includes an Italian Alps-themed dining facility around the mid-mountain area.

5. Gore Mountain: Gore’s major project this offseason was the replacement of their beginner chairlift. In its place is the Bear Cub Quad, which is double the length compared to the old chairlift. The conveyer-load quad chairlift gives beginners more terrain to check out and allows for easier access to the Sunway Chair. The new chairlift is making its debut tomorrow, December 16th. In addition, two magic carpet lifts have been added to the learning area, allowing for a simpler learning progression process.

To prepare for their major improvements to the North Creek Ski Bowl next year, they made significant snowmaking upgrades in this terrain pod.

4. Belleayre: The old Lift 7, which was a fixed-grip triple chairlift, was replaced with a new fixed-grip quad chairlift. The Overlook Quad, which opened earlier this season, has increased rider capacity and reliability. In conjunction with the new chairlift, they added a skier bridge, making access to Lift 7 much easier.

Major snowmaking improvements were also made. These included replacing 27,000 feet of snowmaking pipe, along with adding 250 HKD Impulse R5 tower guns and 5 SMI Super PoleCats.

3. Holiday Mountain: For years, the Catskills ski area appeared to be on the brink of closing. Most of the terrain and lifts across its three peaks were closed, but the ski area has been given new life thanks to new ownership. This offseason, they’ve spent millions of dollars to update the mountain. This includes restoring major snowmaking improvements, creating a new snow tubing slope, restoring neglected ski trails, updating their chairlifts, and renovating their base lodges.

Next winter, they will be installing a new chairlift, which they acquired from a ski resort in Virginia. Click here to learn more about all the projects they’ve worked on this offseason.

2. Holiday Valley: They’re celebrating like they’re in New Orleans this winter at Holiday Valley, as they have opened a new chairlift. The Mardi Gras Express was replaced this offseason with a high-speed six-pack chairlift, providing Holiday Valley with more capacity and further modernizes its lift fleet.

Other improvements included a new PistenBully 600 groomer, upgraded snowmaking equipment, a renovation of John Harvard’s restaurant, and room renovations at the Inn at Holiday Valley.

1. Whiteface: Probably the biggest chairlift project in New York this past offseason was The Notch. This high-speed detachable quad chairlift starts at the Bear Den base area, has a mid-station on the Borren trail, and the top terminal drops riders off next to the Legacy Lodge. The lift allows beginners to make their next steps toward big-mountain skiing. It also gives more tenured skiers and riders a reason to park at the Bear Den base area, as they can now reach the upper mountain much easier from that side. This chairlift made its debut last weekend.

The Bear Den Learning Center also saw some updates. The Cub Carpet lift was reoriented to make it easier for beginners to reach. In addition, the Falcon Flyer triple chairlift received some updates.

Other additions include a haul rope replacement and new grip hardware for the Cloudsplitter Gondola, 150 new high-efficiency snow guns with water/air lines, and two new PistenBully 600W snow cats.

Image/Video Credits: Whiteface Mountain (Featured Image), Holiday Valley (Header Image), Gore Mountain, Belleayre, Holiday Mountain

For many ski enthusiasts, the dream of a ski trip to a top-level ski resort is often dimmed by concerns about high costs. Fear not, because fantastic skiing doesn’t have to come with a quite so hefty price tag. Across the United States, there are hidden gems where the snow is just as fluffy, the runs just as exhilarating, but the prices far more wallet-friendly. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of some of the best ski resorts that offer a great ski experience a a major ski resort without burning a hole in your pocket. From the powder-rich grounds of Montana to the serene slopes of Utah, and the unique terrain of New Mexico, we’ve covered a range of destinations that cater to every skier’s desires – all while keeping an eye on the budget. So make that big trip to a major ski resort without blowing you budget.

Top Affordable Ski Resorts Across the USA

Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana: Whitefish Mountain Resort is a haven for skiers who watch their wallets. Not only does it offer affordable lift tickets, but its variety of terrains suits all levels of skiers. The charming town of Whitefish enhances your experience with its budget-friendly accommodations, perfect for family trips or solo adventures.

Bridger Bowl Ski Area, Montana: A short drive from Bozeman leads you to Bridger Bowl, a non-profit ski area known for its cost-effective pricing and excellent powder skiing conditions. It stands as a competitive option against pricier resorts.

Grand Targhee Resort, Wyoming: Experience less crowded slopes and heavy snowfall at Grand Targhee Resort, located on the beautiful western slope of the Teton Range. Its affordability shines in comparison to the famed Jackson Hole, offering value-for-money lodging and lift tickets.

Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico: Taos Ski Valley is more than just a ski resort; it’s a culturally-rich experience blending challenging terrains with a unique ambiance. It’s a budget-friendly alternative for skiers seeking something different from larger, commercial resorts.

Solitude Mountain Resort, Utah: In the heart of Big Cottonwood Canyon lies Solitude Mountain Resort, a serene skiing destination with modest pricing compared to other Utah resorts. It’s ideal for those seeking tranquility on a budget.

Sugarloaf, Maine: For East Coast skiers, Sugarloaf offers fantastic skiing conditions and varied terrain at a fraction of the cost of more famous resorts in Vermont or New Hampshire.

Wolf Creek Ski Area, Colorado: Known for the highest snowfall in Colorado, Wolf Creek provides an ideal setting for powder enthusiasts. Its competitive lift ticket prices and relaxed atmosphere make it a standout choice for budget-conscious skiers.

Embarking on a ski adventure in the USA doesn’t have to deplete your savings. Our guide to budget-friendly ski destinations shows some good opportunities for enjoying world-class skiing without the world-class prices. Each of the resorts we’ve highlighted offers a unique blend of affordability, quality, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re carving down the slopes of Whitefish Mountain or basking in the cultural richness of Taos Ski Valley, you’re bound to find a destination that aligns with both your skiing aspirations and budget constraints.

Remember, the key to a successful budget ski trip lies in careful planning. Keep an eye out for package deals, explore off-peak seasons for the best rates, and don’t shy away from lesser-known resorts. These hidden gems often provide the best value, offering lower prices and fewer crowds, enhancing your skiing experience.

As you prepare for your next ski journey, think beyond the price tag. Focus on the experiences, the joy of skiing, and the beauty of the mountains. With the options available across the USA, you’re sure to find a resort that not only fits your budget but also enriches your love for skiing. So, gear up, choose your destination, and get ready to hit the slopes in a way that’s both economically and experientially rewarding. Happy skiing!

“Thanks to the skiers involved in this incident for their honesty, openness, and for letting us share their video for educational and awareness purposes.” –Mount Washington Avalanche Center

As we reported yesterday, a skier on New Hampshire’s Mount Washington was caught and carried by an avalanche resulting in a severely injure lower leg and required a rescue operation. The Mount Washington Avalanche Center just released a full incident report along with a video of the exact moment the avalanche was triggered. Watch the video and read the full report below:

Human-triggered avalanche; Airplane Gully, Great Gulf Wilderness

December 9, 2023

Summary:
At about 11:30am on Saturday, December 9th, a backcountry skier triggered an avalanche while descending Airplane Gully in the Great Gulf Wilderness. The skier was caught, carried, and not buried, but they sustained serious injuries during the fall. The skier’s partner and a bystander were able to effectively provide assistance and first aid until rescue services arrived. The current General Avalanche Information from the Mount Washington Avalanche Center (MWAC) for December 9th warned of “isolated areas of unstable snow at middle and upper elevations which could avalanche from the weight of a person.”

Backcountry Avalanche Forecast:
On December 9, MWAC had published a current General Advisory. The bottom line stated, “Watch out for isolated areas of unstable snow at middle and upper elevations which could avalanche from the weight of a person. Use proper route finding to avoid these areas and evaluate the snowpack carefully when in steep terrain where snow has collected. Falls in steep terrain can be consequential because of the hazards still present in the early season snowpack.”

Snow, Weather, and Avalanche Events:
*Avalanche Forecasters were not able to access and analyze the Airplane Gully avalanche after the incident. This assessment is generalized and based on first hand accounts, data shared from the reporting party, and photos.*

The general state of the snowpack on December 9th at middle and upper elevations was thin, disconnected, and developing – typical for this time of the year. A significant snowstorm on December 3rd and 4th brought almost 18 inches of new snow to the Mount Washington Summit. Over the following 5 days, much of this new snow was redistributed by dominant northwest winds onto lee terrain. During and immediately post storm, multiple small natural avalanches were observed. An increase in wind on the 7th formed reactive wind slabs in isolated areas. A notable human-triggered avalanche occurred in the Tuckerman Ravine area on December 8th, with other small, natural avalanche activity observed in Tuckerman Ravine and Gulf of Slides. These avalanches were size D1 – D2 hard slabs, with tapered crown lines ranging from about 6 inches to about 2 feet in depth, and limited in width. A similar snowpack setup existed in the steep east and northeast-facing terrain of the Great Gulf Wilderness, where the accident occurred. Photos confirm the variable nature of these wind slabs with an overall very shallow snowpack in the Great Gulf.

Events Prior:
On the morning of December 9, a team of two backcountry skiers (Skier 1 and Skier 2) made a plan to ascend alongside the Mount Washington COG Railway, and assess the conditions of Airplane Gully in the Great Gulf Wilderness as a potential ski option. Depending on the group’s assessment, they would decide to either ski Airplane Gully, or descend back down the COG Railway if they felt avalanche risk levels were too high.

When they arrived at the entrance of Airplane Gully, they began taking visual observations, making snowpack assessments and comparing the information they were collecting to the information they gathered from MWAC over the previous days. Together, they completed column tests and an extended column test at the top of the line which showed no clear signs of instability. They had brought a ski-mountaineering rope and talked about making a belayed ski cut, but decided against it after completing stability tests and making visual observations of the terrain below.

While the team was assessing conditions, a solo skier arrived to ski the same line. This person briefly asked if they were going to ski the line before dropping in seemingly without making snowpack assessments. Skiers 1 and 2 watched as the solo skier descended and didn’t see any signs of snowpack instability.

This additional information increased the team’s confidence in snowpack stability and they decided to ski Airplane Gully. The team managed the risk and exposure of the first section by skiing one-at-a-time, skiing in pitches by stopping in a protected area to wait and watch the other partner descend, and using radios as communication tools. Skiers 1 and 2 regrouped in a sheltered area near the intersection of the Spacewalk traverse, around 5200 feet. After regrouping and confirming good stability on the first section, they noticed the solo skier climbing back up the gully. They decided to wait for this person to reach them before continuing in order to limit the risk to the person below and also to obtain additional information about the snowpack lower down.

Accident Summary:
Skiers 1 and 2 talked with the solo skier and confirmed there were no signs of instability after the first ski descent. Skier 1 then began skiing the next section, making a few turns before triggering a ~15 foot wide hard slab avalanche, capturing and carrying that person down the slope. During the fall, other small avalanches were sympathetically released from disconnected pockets of snow, contributing to the overall amount of snow falling down the slope. Skier 1 was carried a total of about 500 vertical feet down the gully before coming to rest, unburied, at about 4700’ near the top of the Airplane Gully runout zone.

Rescue Summary:
While being carried in the avalanche, Skier 1’s binding did not release, causing an open fracture of the tibia and fibula. They immediately noticed the injury, communicated their condition to Skier 2 over the radio, and called 911. Skier 2 and the solo skier bystander were able to safety descend to Skier 1 and provided immediate assistance which included activating an InReach emergency satellite device, digging a platform, removing the injured skiers ski, stabilizing the injury, controlling the serious bleeding, and keeping the skier warm. The team’s medical training and supplies were crucial in this effort.

After over 4 hours, with coordination between NH Fish and Game, NH Army National Guard, Mount Washington Avalanche Center, and Mountain Rescue Service, a NH Army National Guard helicopter was able to safely extract the injured skier via short haul and transport Skier 1 to the hospital.

Avalanche Statistics:
Type: Hard Slab
Trigger: Skier, unintentional
Aspect: Northeast
Slope Angle: 40 degrees
Size: R2, D2
Elevation: 5200 feet
Sliding Surface: New / Old Interface
Vertical Fall: 700 feet
Width: ~15 feet

Discussion:
The team was well-prepared for this objective. They both were carrying avalanche rescue equipment, technical ski-mountaineering equipment, first-aid and medical supplies, and emergency communications tools. Additionally, both skiers have spent significant time in ski mountaineering terrain, have avalanche education, have emergency medical training, and had read and understood the current MWAC avalanche information and recent observations of avalanches in other areas.

This incident underscores a few important insights relating to travel in the Presidential Range avalanche terrain.

First, it highlights the high degree of spatial variability that our range is known for. Conditions assessed at the top of a terrain feature often yield different results than the conditions found just a few hundred feet down the slope. These subtleties have caught many experienced backcountry enthusiasts and professionals off-guard over the years and contributed to several accidents. In the early season with a very thin snowpack, this variability can be even more pronounced. Additionally, as we saw in this case, one person skiing a slope without incident, does not guarantee a stable snowpack.

Secondly, this incident highlights the severe implications of even a small avalanche in extreme terrain and early season conditions. Many avalanche run-out zones (especially in the early season) are littered with rocks, ice, and vegetation that can cause trauma upon impact. This often makes the fall equally or more dangerous than the actual avalanche itself.

Thirdly, we should all make a point to inspect and tune up our backcountry knowledge, ski gear, and safety equipment. In this case, a failed binding release caused a very negative outcome for the skier caught in this avalanche. If the binding had released, it’s entirely possible the skier would not have been injured and would have had the ability to evacuate on their own. Their level of medical training and carrying a well-stocked medical kit was instrumental in the outcome of this accident. Access to trauma supplies, basic splinting supplies, emergency shelters, and personal levels of training, greatly improved the prognosis for those involved in this accident.

Finally, it’s important to remember that we can seemingly be doing everything right and still have an avalanche accident. We gain experience, take courses, read the avalanche forecast, make slope-specific assessments, and practice good terrain management to reduce our risk in the mountains, but we can never fully eliminate that risk. We also let a variety of information influence our decision making. The injured skier mentioned that if the solo skier hadn’t come along and skied the slope without incident, they were ready to make a conservative decision to turn around and ski down the COG.

MWAC would like to thank the skiers involved in this incident for their openness and honesty about their accident with the hope of public awareness and education. We wish Skier 1 a speedy recovery.

RELATED: Skier Suffers Life-Threatening Leg Injury After Triggering Avalanche On Mt. Washington

Very close call for this Lake Tahoe skier who nearly collided with a black bear while skiing down Ridgerun Trail at Heavenly Ski Resort. Thankfully their paths did not intersect but it was super close.

ABC10 reports the video of the incident which was posted TikTok was filmed Sunday morning. The skier felt extremely lucky that he was able to avoid an impact and felt better after seeing the juvenile bear reunite with its mother off the side of the trail.

Glad this little fella made across the trail without getting struck. Lets hope it learned its lesson and avoids active ski trails in the future:

The black bears of Lake Tahoe, California, are a fascinating and integral part of the region’s diverse ecosystem. These bears, Ursus americanus, thrive in the lush coniferous forests surrounding the iconic alpine lake. Known for their distinctive black fur, these bears exhibit a remarkable adaptability to their mountainous habitat.

During summer, when the lake’s surroundings burst into vibrant colors, the bears forage for berries, nuts, and insects. Lake Tahoe’s plentiful vegetation provides an abundant food source, allowing the black bears to fatten up for the approaching winter months. As autumn descends, these bears undergo hyperphagia, a period of increased feeding, to build up fat reserves for their winter hibernation.

Human-bear encounters are not uncommon in the Lake Tahoe area, as these intelligent creatures navigate both natural and urban landscapes. Conservation efforts and educational programs aim to promote coexistence while minimizing potential conflicts. Residents and visitors are encouraged to secure their food and garbage to prevent bears from becoming accustomed to human-related food sources.

The black bears of Lake Tahoe represent a symbol of the delicate balance between wildlife and human communities, emphasizing the importance of responsible conservation practices in preserving the region’s ecological integrity.

RELATED: Oblivious Skier Chased By Bear At Romanian Ski Resort

Its been 4 years since French skier Quentin Ladame stepped to the legendary speed skiing hill at the Vars France speed skiing hill wearing the customary skin tight red one-piece and dropped in backwards. On that day Ladame achieved the fastest known switch skiing speed 138.62 km/h (86.13 mph). I think the with right athlete and a bit of specialized gear this record could be shattered….anyone interested?

Call me crazy but I think wearing one of these rigs and not having to peek over your shoulder might the game changer for switch speed skiing aerodynamics.  Record is there for the breaking if anyone wants to giver:

About Vars France:

Vars is a picturesque commune nestled in the French Alps, situated in the Hautes-Alpes department of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, Vars is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, attracting visitors throughout the year.

During the winter, Vars transforms into a popular ski destination, forming part of the expansive La Forêt Blanche ski area. With its diverse range of slopes catering to all skill levels, the resort offers an exhilarating experience for skiers and snowboarders alike. The powdery snow, framed by the majestic alpine landscape, creates a winter wonderland that captivates all who visit.

In the warmer months, Vars beckons hikers and nature lovers to explore its trails, revealing breathtaking vistas and alpine meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers. The region is also known for its mountain biking trails, drawing thrill-seekers seeking adrenaline-pumping descents against the backdrop of panoramic mountain views.

The charming village of Vars, with its traditional Alpine architecture, provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The local cuisine, influenced by the region’s agricultural bounty, adds a savory touch to the overall experience. Vars, with its harmonious blend of natural splendor and recreational opportunities, stands as a testament to the allure of the French Alps.

While North America’s ski industry is thriving, Japan’s ski industry is struggling. Due to an aging population, Japanese skier visits have drastically decreased over the past couple of decades. However, one person is trying to change the fortunes of one powder-filled ski region.

Nikkei Asia reports that real estate mogul Ken Chan plans to spend $1.36 billion to redevelop Myoko. The core portion of this plan is to build a village at the base of Mt. Myoko. Ken Chan is doing this through his sovereign wealth fund: Patience Capital Group (PCG). The first phase will include the construction of residential homes, a couple of hotels, and a commercial zone at the base of Myoko Suginohara ski resort (pictured below).

His goal is to create a ski village similar to Whistler. Myoko features numerous ski resorts and is less than a two-and-a-half-hour bullet train trip to Tokyo, making it easier to reach than other Japanese ski destinations like Niseko and Hokkaido.

The Patience Capital Group already owns over 350 hectares (over 865 acres) of land in the area. This includes the Madarao Kogen and Myoko Suginohara ski resorts. An affiliated company has acquired Lime Resort Myoko, which operates lodging properties in the area.

The goal is to invest 70-80 million yen by 2027, and the whole $1.36 billion within the next decade. According to the Japan Times, they hope to have the international hotels and worker housing ready to go in 2026.

Image/Video Credits: Myoko Tourism

Update 12/9: The Salt Lake Tribune reports that Judge Noel Hyde has ordered the halting of construction and real estate sales at Wasatch Peaks Ranch for an indefinite period. This order will be in effect at least until the Utah Supreme Court can hear the case. The information below is from earlier this week.

The future of Utah’s newest ski resort is in doubt after a string of victories by its local opponents.

Over the past couple of years, a group of locals have tried to stop the Wasatch Peaks Ranch development. They originally failed, and the ski resort opened back during the 2021-22 season. However, recent successes for the locals have put Wasatch Peaks Ranch in a tricky situation.

Back in September, Utah Second District Judge Noel Hyde allowed for a referendum, which would see Morgan County residents vote for whether the zoning changes that allowed for the ski resort to be built should remain in place. In addition, a temporary restraining order was issued against Wasatch Peaks Ranch, meaning that they needed to stop construction. This decision is being appealed by Wasatch Peaks Ranch and Morgan County to the Utah Supreme Court. If the referendum were to occur, the locals would need to accumulate around 1000 signatures.

While they were ordered to stop construction, Wasatch Peaks Ranch pressed forward with development, which included requesting more zoning changes to Morgan County. These zoning changes were ultimately approved. However, this is against Utah law, as you aren’t allowed to change zoning laws during a temporary restraining order.

The Salt Lake Tribune reports that because of this, Utah Second District Judge Noel Hyde has ordered that Wasatch Peaks Ranch must halt all development for 14 days. During this period, they can’t do construction or sell/transfer real estate. The only thing that Wasatch Peaks Ranch can do at the moment is protective maintenance. On Wednesday, a preliminary injunction could be issued against the ski resort, leading to further issues for Wasatch Peaks Ranch. The date that the appeal will be heard in the Utah Supreme Court has yet to be announced.

It’s unclear what this would mean for operations during the 2023-24 ski season.

Image/Video Credits: Google Earth (Featured Image), Wasatch Peaks Ranch,
Tommy Harle, Skimap.org (Skier72)