The winter of 2014-15 is just a few short months away, and we’re already hard at work on a bunch of important resort upgrades. By the time you hop on the gondola this winter, you’ll notice several key improvements here at Loon:

1. Increased Snowmaking Efficiency

This winter, early-season snowmaking will get a significant boost thanks to 50 new HKD KLIK semi-automated snowmaking hydrants on Upper Picked Rock and Lower Bear Claw, two key early-season snowmaking trails. By drastically simplifying the snowmaking process, these semi-automated hydrants will allow us to better take advantage of brief snowmaking windows in November and early December.

 

We already know these hydrants are effective: thanks to the installation of 100 HKD KLIK hydrants on the mountain last summer, Loon opened for skiing and riding on November 8, 2013, the earliest top-to-bottom opening in the resort’s history. With 50 additional hydrants on the slopes this year, our snowmakers plan to open even more terrain more quickly in the early season – and deliver better snow all season long.

 

2. Terrain Parks

The Burton Lil’ Stash, our newest terrain park for kids, went through a heck of a growth spurt this summer.

By the time the park opens this winter, young riders will discover expanded terrain, with a new series of wooden berms that ride like a banked slalom in the woods. In addition to these new terrain features, kids will also discover cool new animal carvings to go along with larger-than-life carvings of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox.

3. New Website

Off the hill, you’ll notice that our website, LoonMtn.com, got a complete makeover this summer. The completely redesigned, responsive website makes it easier than ever to find information about snow conditions, events, and more. The site responsive design also means that you’ll have the same great viewing experience, whether they’re using a desktop, tablet, or mobile device.

4. Make a Donation, Save the Forest  

When Tropical Storm Irene unleashed flooding and devastation across New England in August 2011, many areas of the White Mountain National Forest were badly damaged. In response, Loon has partnered with the National Forest Foundation, a Congressionally-chartered nonprofit working to repair damaged hiking trails, improve wildlife habitat and restore national forests across the country – including the White Mountain National Forest.

Guests can choose to make a donation to the NFF’s Ski Conservation Fund when they purchase passes and eTickets through Loon’s e-Store.  Donations will be matched 50% by the NFF, which works with local partners to complete restoration projects in the White Mountain National Forest.

Want to stay up-to-date on all the latest improvements at Loon? Follow @loonmtn on Twitter, @loonpov on Instagram, or like Loon Mountain Resort on Facebook.