Snowbowl Upgrades Hang In Limbo

Planned upgrades include the controversial reclaimed wastewater snowmaking system designed to assist snow pack on 95 percent of the ski area's trails. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against the proposal last spring, thus keeping other upgrades also hanging in limbo until the decision is appealed. The wish list is long. Snowbowl officials would like to replace both the Sunset and Hart Prairie lifts with detachable, high-speed quads. They'd also like to realign the Aspen Lift and add two magic carpets for beginners. Construction of a new Humphreys Lift would open 55 more acres of terrain for intermediate skiers and riders, and building a half-pipe with a surface lift would enhance free-ride offerings. They also want to add a snowplay and tubing area in lower Hart Prairie and replace the Agassiz Lodge, making the existing building a lounge. Upgrades to lifts, terrain, and lodges will not happen without snowmaking.