With winter approaching, ski resorts across New Hampshire are making substantial investments in grooming equipment, lift infrastructure, and snowmaking systems in preparation for the upcoming season. These improvements aim to enhance conditions for skiers and boost local tourism revenue during the state’s most important recreational season.
At Gunstock Mountain Resort in Gilford, a new snow groomer from Prinoth has arrived just ahead of the mountain’s anticipated December 5 opening. The machine, along with a demo unit from the same company, is expected to improve trail quality. “Here in New England, grooming is critical,” said Robert Drake, general manager at Gunstock. “If we don’t have good grooming, our guests certainly feel that.”
Prinoth, which opened a new regional distribution center in Concord in June 2023, has supplied similar machines to other ski areas in the region, including Waterville Valley and Ragged Mountain. The Concord location allows the company to service up to 10 machines at once, significantly increasing its support capacity. The site’s proximity to major highways gives it access to skiing areas across Vermont, Maine, and northern New Hampshire.
Mark Palmateer, Prinoth’s regional manager, said the company’s tiller system creates a slightly softer and more forgiving snow texture than its competitors. As Drake noted, some skiers have preferences when it comes to groomed surfaces. “There are people who swear by the Prinoth surface, and there are others who swear by the Pistenbully surface,” he said, referencing a rival groomer brand.
The grooming upgrades come amid broader infrastructure investments across New Hampshire ski areas. Six mountains have added new lifts, including chairlifts at Bretton Woods, Pats Peak, and Waterville Valley, and a surface lift at Whaleback in Enfield. Magic carpets have been added at King Pine and Loon. The tram at Cannon Mountain, an iconic feature of the resort, was removed from service in October as the state plans for a replacement.
Snowmaking improvements have also been implemented at Loon, Bretton Woods, Gunstock, Ragged, Tenney Mountain, Jackson XC, and Great Glen Trails. Jessyca Keeler, president of Ski New Hampshire, which represents more than 30 resorts, said the investments reflect the critical role winter sports play in the state. “These upgrades not only enhance the skiing and riding experience, but also strengthen the communities that depend on winter tourism,” Keeler said.
At Ragged Mountain, ownership has transferred to SF Mountain Co. LLC, a group of local investors with ties to the Danbury resort. The new owners plan to prioritize employee retention and ensure a smooth transition for the upcoming season, while maintaining existing season pass agreements. They are also considering long-term plans to expand operations year-round.
Whaleback Mountain continues to face operational challenges. Its summit chairlift remains out of service after mechanical issues last season. The resort plans to rely on a T-bar, rope tow, and newly added surface lift to open for the season, though a loss in revenue is expected without summit access. Management is seeking public support to raise funds for repairs.
In Jackson, Black Mountain is undergoing a transformation under new ownership. The ski area was purchased by The Indy Pass and Entabeni Systems, who aim to convert the privately operated mountain into a community cooperative. If successful, it would become the first co-op-owned downhill ski area in the United States. However, the resort is currently involved in a legal dispute with the town over the revocation of its liquor license for on-mountain facilities. Black Mountain has filed a lawsuit in federal court, claiming the decision was both “malicious” and unconstitutional.
New Hampshire’s winter tourism economy generates an estimated $1.6 billion annually and draws about three million visitors. Ski New Hampshire will host its winter kickoff event on December 8 at McIntyre Ski Area in Manchester. The event will include presentations from state tourism officials and weather experts discussing outlooks for the season.
As resorts finalize preparations, the focus remains on delivering consistent snow conditions and reliable access, ensuring that winter recreation continues to be an economic engine for communities throughout the Granite State.
