October 9, 2024
READY FOR WINTER: SUNDAY RIVER CONDUCTS ANNUAL SNOWMAKING TEST
SUNDAY RIVER RESORT TESTS SNOWMAKING SYSTEM IN PREPARATION FOR 2024-25 SEASON
Newry, ME (October 9, 2024) —This morning at 6:30AM, snow guns roared to life on the Rogue Angel, Excalibur, and Lollapalooza ski trails as part of the resort's annual fall snowmaking system test, signaling that winter is just around the corner. With significant snowmaking enhancements in place, Sunday River is ready to deliver top-tier skiing from day one.
This snowmaking test builds on the upgrades made last season to Sunday River’s snowmaking system. Nearly two miles of 20-inch pipe were installed, linking the North Peak Booster Pump House to the summit of Jordan Bowl, tripling snowmaking capacity in that area. This summer, the resort continued its commitment to enhancing snow production by adding 160 high-efficiency HKD snowguns across key trails. These improvements are part of the resort’s snowmaking master plan, which has seen over 550 new guns added in the past three years. Continuous investment in snowmaking is at the core of delivering the best possible skiing experience, with even more upgrades planned for the resort’s future.
For only the second time in Sunday River history, opening day will move to the Jordan Bowl, for its higher elevation and expanded snowmaking capacity. Skiers and riders can expect top-to-bottom skiing on multiple trails, all serviced by the Jordan 8 chairlift. This cutting-edge Doppelmayr lift features heated seats, a weather-protective bubble, and a swift ride time of just over four and a half minutes. Early-season guests will also be able to enjoy ski-in, ski-out lodging at the Jordan Hotel, and dining options.
"Snowmaking is at the core of providing an exceptional experience for our guests," said Sunday River General Manager Brian Heon. "This test confirms that we are fully prepared to kick off the season the moment temperatures drop. Our team is energized and ready to welcome skiers and riders back for the winter.”
While an official opening date is still to be determined, Sunday River’s snowmaking team is ready to go all out as soon as overnight temperatures drop between 25-30 degrees. The resort's upgraded system can now pump 11,000 gallons of water and 54,000 cubic feet of air per minute—ensuring fast and efficient snow coverage at the first cold snap.
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