Save the Whale

[deadheadskier]

Word is the gearbox is being held hostage by whatever company they chose to do the rebuild.

It really sucks after having spent so much time and effort trying to get that place back on its feet to see them tripping over themselves so badly year after year. I stand by my opinion that a wholesale board (and senior staff) replacement is the only thing that might lead to long term success. You see what other non-profits like Big Rock and BMOM are able to achieve with experienced board and management...

That would help for sure it would seem. I'm sure quality leadership for BMOM and Big Rock helps, but they also have funding advantages too I believe. Doesn't the state of Maine provide grants to both? Where as Whaleback has to rely solely on private donations.

 

[Newpylong]

BR and BMOM have definitely received large grants from entities such as the Libre Foundation (which focuses on Maine), but Whaleback has also received sizable grants from The Byrne Foundation, HKD, Killington World Cup Foundation, Share Winter, (just to name a few) and governmental funding such as the Northern Borders Regional Commission. Big Rock was able to install the quad not only through grants but very sizable private donations because they A) had a clear ask and B) have a track record of being able to execute so the Community was all in. Whaleback has neither and it's hard for the community to keep throwing good money after bad. I wish I had a better outlook but it's been 12 years now since the non-profits takeover and yes it's good to have the mountain open but there isn't much to show for it. The place is still falling apart, they can't make snow to save their lives (which severely limits usage) and they can't get out of their own way on both technical and capital decisions.

 

[Keelhauled]

There was a surplus of trench and a deficit of surface lift on the side of Spout last weekend when I went by on the interstate. I'm skeptical they even manage to do that.

I have a lot of good memories from there; it's terribly depressing to see the mountain now.

 

[Rob Katz]

Is this picture flipped?

That is a TON more earthwork than was previously done last season and that already was a wicked scar on Spout. Because they chose for all intents and purposes a variable height handle tow, the profile has to be flat. Complete waste of time and money that would be far better spent on A) Snowmaking, B) Lift maintenance, C) Lodge, D) Snowcat leases, E) All of the above.

Not to forget the fact that they literally have half of their "night skiing" terrain closed because the lights are broken.

Also, without a doubt. The most terrible and infuriating ski patrollers of all time. Disgrace to the profession honestly.

 

[bigbob]

Whaleback Mountain, NH, Will Start the Season Without a Chairlift, But the Ski Area Has a Plan - SnowBrains

Whaleback Mountain in New Hampshire will begin the 2025–26 ski season without chairlift service, the ski area announced this week.

snowbrains.com