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Okemo Mountain
Okemo Mountain
Okemo Mountain
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Okemo Mountain Resort is a ski resort located in the town of Ludlow, Vermont, United States. Parents Magazine rated it the Top US Family Snow Resort,[1] and Visitor's Choice on the Snow rated it as Number 1 Beginner Terrain in Vermont.

Key Information

History

[edit]

Okemo was founded in 1955 by a group of local businessmen. Operations officially began January 31, 1956, with four inches (102  mm) of snow and trails serviced by two Poma surface lifts. The lower poma cost 20 cents per ride, while the upper one cost 60 cents.[2] The early 1960s saw the introduction of four more Pomas. In these years, Okemo had a reputation of operating with all Poma platter lifts, while other ski areas used double chair lifts to serve advanced ski terrain. The first chairlift, the Sachem double, was introduced in 1965. Along with all of these improvements, Okemo began to offer slopeside lodging starting in 1961. In 1963, Okemo purchased its first groomer, a Tucker Sno-Cat model. Snowmaking was first used, starting with the lower part of the mountain, in 1966.

The 1970s brought tough times for Okemo. There were fires, floods, and competition from the West. In 1982, the owners decided to sell the resort rather than go into bankruptcy. Tim and Dianne Mueller purchased the resort on August 2, 1982. While the resort was in danger of going bankrupt and the facilities were outdated, the Muellers wanted to preserve the historic feeling. They kept the name Okemo, which they claim is Native American for "All Come Home", although there is no evidence as to which Native American language this comes from. According to the scholarship of John C. Huden, the name means Chieftain in Chippewa and a louse in Abnaki. Certain trail names also continue to preserve this sentiment, such as Chief, Tomahawk, Wardance, Sachem, and Arrow, all of which are present on today's trail map.

Since 1982, Okemo has grown in many different ways. The facilities have been expanded in every aspect, including new chairlifts, trails, lodges, and snowmaking. The Muellers later also acquired Mount Sunapee Resort in Newbury, New Hampshire, and Mount Crested Butte in Crested Butte, Colorado.

On December 6, 2008, the Muellers sold Okemo, Crested Butte and Mount Sunapee to a REIT, CNL Lifestyle Properties in a lease-back deal valued at over $130  million. CNL sold the properties to Och-Ziff Capital Management in 2016.[3] Och-Ziff owned the underlying assets of the resorts, while the Muellers continued to run the resorts.

In June 2018, Vail Resorts acquired Okemo, along with the Muellers' other resorts, at a purchase price of $82 million and $155 million to buy out the operating leases.[4]

Mountain statistics

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The base of Okemo stands at 1,144 feet (346 m) above sea level, and the summit is 3,344 feet (1,019 m). This gives Okemo the largest vertical drop in southern Vermont, 2,200 feet (670 m). The mountain has a total of 123 trails spread across 667 acres (2.70 km2) skiable terrain.[5] Trail difficulty is almost evenly divided between novice, intermediate, and advanced/expert. A paved road, named Mountain Road, runs along the mountainside is used as a ski trail in the winter, making it Okemo's longest trail at 4.5 miles (7.2 km). Mountain Road can be driven during the summer and has parking spots for scenic viewing of the valley.

98% (654 acres) of the trail area is covered by snowmaking; one of the highest percentages in the East. The snowmaking pond has a total water capacity of 155 million gallons. In addition, the quality of the grooming is ranked sixth in the nation by SKI Magazine readers.[6]

Trails

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The trails built as each new part of the mountain have had some sort of theme, such as the Native American names on the main mountain and the astronomy-related names at the top of Jackson Gore. The following lists all of the trails by rating and name, alphabetically:

At the moment, 25 February 2026 UTC [refresh], Okemo Mountain has 121 trails, consisting of various slopes and glades.

  • The trail sidewinder
    The trail sidewinder
Easier More Difficult Most Difficult Most Difficult
(Use Extreme Caution)
Bright Star Basin Beeline Black Out (m) Big Bang (m)
Buckhorn Blue Moon Blind Faith (t) Black Hole (g)
Bull Run Boomerang Challenger (n) Broken Arrow (g)
Coleman Brook Catnap (n) Defiance Double Diamond (g)
Day Break Chute Eclipse Forrest Bump (g)
Dream Weaver Countdown Exhibition Loose Spruce (g)
Easy Rider Cutter's Folly Fast Lane (n) (m) Outrage (g)
Easy Street Double Dipper Ledges (m) Rolling Thunder (n)
Roundhouse Run Drop Off Lower Sel's Supernova (g)
Expresso Express Lane Nor'Easter White Lightning (n)
Fairway French Connection (n) Punch Line (m)
Fast Track Heaven's Gate Quantum Leap Terrain Parks
Galaxy Bowl Jolly Green Giant Searle's Way (n) AMP Energy Superpipe
Home Stretch Line Drive Sel's Choice (m) Broken Arrow
Homeward Bound Link Side Kick (n) Bounder Park
Inn Bound Lower Chief Stump Jumper Gordon's Garden
Jack-A-Lope Lower Fall Line The Plunge (m) NASTAR Race Arena
Kettle Brook Trail Lower Limelight Triplesec (m) Progression Park
Ledgewood Trail Lower Tomahawk Turkey Shoot Terrain Park on Tomahawk
Lift Line Lower World Cup Upper Chief Homeward Bound Park
Lower Arrow Moment's Rest Upper Fall Line The Dew Zone
Lower Mountain Road Moon Dog Upper Limelight (m) Blackout
Mountain Road Moonshadow Upper Wild Thing (n) (m)
Open Slope Off The Rim (n) Upper World Cup
Promenade Ridge Runner Vortex
Rising Star Rimrock Wardance
Sachem Route 103 Wild Thing
Ski School Slope Rum Run (n)
Snowtrak Sapphire
Southern Crossing Scooter
Spur Line Screamin' Demon
Sun Dog Side Out
Sweet Solitude Sidewinder
Suncatcher Sprint
Sunset Strip Sprout
Switchback The Narrows (g)
Upper Mountain Road (n) The Shadows (g)
Village Run Timberline
Zip Tree Dancer (g)
Tuckered Out
Upper Arrow
Upper Tomahawk
Whispering Pines (g)
Whistler (g)
  • (g) – gladed trail with trees
  • (n) – natural trail without snowmaking (not including glades), although many of these are groomed after a snowfall to have a solid base
  • (m) – trail with moguls regularly when conditions provide
  • See also Okemo Trail Map

Lifts

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Okemo has 21 chairlifts,[7] including 1 high speed detachable 6-pack chair with protective bubbles and heated seats, 1 new high speed detachable 6-pack chair, 9 quad chairs (4 high speed detachable quads - one with protective bubble that's been newly relocated), and 2 triple chairs, all constructed by Poma or Leitner-Poma. There are seven surface lifts, including six carpets and one t-bar that takes riders to the top of the halfpipe. Excluding carpets, these lifts combine to give the mountain a total uphill capacity of ~29,850 people per hour.

Summary of Lifts at Okemo
Surface Lifts Triple chairlifts Fixed grip quads High speed quads High speed six packs
F-10 Carpet Black Ridge Glades Peak Coleman Brook Express Sunburst Six (Bubble w/ Heated Seats)
Orion's Belt Carpet Morning Star Sachem Solitude Express Quantum Six
Skywalker Carpet South Ridge Quad A South Face Express
Snow Stars Carpet South Ridge Quad B Evergreen Summit Express (Bubble)
Stargazer Carpet Sunshine
Starlight Carpet
The Pull

South Ridge Quad B at the Clocktower base area utilizes loading and unloading conveyors. This is the first unloading carpet to be used in the United States. The use of this system makes it easier for beginners to load and unload.[8] these carpets have since been removed.

Lodges

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  • Clock Tower Base Lodge: located at the base of South Ridge Quads A & B at the main entrance of the mountain, with daycare, ski shop, rentals, tickets, and food from the cafeteria, Caffé Origins, and the Sitting Bull Restaurant & Bar
  • Jackson Gore Base Lodge: located at the base of the Jackson Gore area and Coleman Brook Express Quad, with daycare, ski shop, rentals, tickets, and food from the cafeteria, selling more specialties than the other lodges, and Siena restaurant on the second floor; also attached is hotel-like lodging and Coleman Brook Tavern restaurant
  • Sugar House: located near the base of the Sunburst Six, with many unique dining opportunities, including a deli, a grille, pizza, and a café
  • Summit Lodge: located at the top of the main mountain, accessible from the Sunburst Six, Green Ridge Triple, and Glades Peak Quad, with a cafeteria, bar, and Asian cuisine
  • Solitude Day Lodge: located at the base of the Solitude area and Solitude Express Quad, with a full-service restaurant—Epic—and a small snack area

Skiing

[edit]

There are five main areas at Okemo, each with at least one high-speed detachable quad. The main mountain is serviced primarily by the Sunburst Six. The 1,700-vertical-foot cruisers, such as Chief, World Cup, and Jolly Green Giant are accessed from the Sunburst Six. When lift lines become crowded the Evergreen Summit Express can be used to reach the top of the mountain instead, although it loads at the middle of the mountain. The main area also includes runs directed at more advanced skiers, such as Searle's Way, Sel's Choice, Nor'Easter, Defiance, and the Amp Energy Superpipe (Amp Energy sponsored halfpipe and snowboard park).

Solitude, to the north of the main mountain (right as one looks uphill), offers about 1,100 vertical feet. The Solitude area also has its own base lodge, hotel accommodations, and private trailside homes. Most of the trails in this area are intermediate cruisers, though some blacks exist, such as Exhibition and The Plunge.

The South Face area, to the south (left), has the highest peak on the mountain, faces the sun in the morning, and is served by a 1,100-foot (340 m) high-speed lift. This area is known for its more difficult terrain, including most of the double-black diamond trails. While some of the main thoroughfares are groomed nightly in this area, trails like Outrage and Forest Bump remain natural. There are also mogul trails in this area, such as Punch Line; Okemo marks its mogul trails. Okemo is also known for their bailout lanes, groomed sections on bump run where one can escape from the moguls.

The final area, on the far north (right), is Jackson Gore, complete with its own access road, lodge, ski school, and most other amenities also found at the Base Lodge. This area, served by one high-speed quad and one six-pack, has some of the steeper terrain on the mountain, as well as the standard green and blue trails. Access from the main mountain is provided through Jackson Gore Junction, over a bridge onto Blue Moon. An alternative is Jack-a-lope or Moonshadow to Southern Crossing, although this goes to the base area only rather than the lift to the peak.

Okemo's fifth area and its smallest is Glades Peak, between the main mountain and the South Face, serviced by one fixed-grip quad. It provides access to most trails on the mountain, including a couple that is exclusively served by its lift.

Summer activities

[edit]

The 2.9 miles (4.7 km) Healdville Trail for hikers starts at a small parking lot off Vermont Route 103 and ascends to the fire tower at the top of the mountain. Visitors can also drive up the mountain on the paved road known as the trail "Mountain Road" in the winter. For road cyclists, Mountain Road has rated the 142nd most challenging climb in the United States https://pjammcycling.com/climb/516.Okemo, and the 4th most difficult in Vermont. https://pjammcycling.com/zone/78.Vermont There are lookout points to stop and take in the scenery along the way.

Across Route 103 sits the 18-hole, par-70 Okemo Valley golf course, rated the best public course in Vermont for 2006 by Golfweek. Run by Okemo, it is the first Heathland-style golf course built in Vermont. The whole course measures 6,400 yards (5,900 m) and hosts two events on the Vermont PGA Tour. Other amenities include a 12,000 ft2 (1,100 m2)[citation needed] year-round indoor training center, an 18-acre (73,000 m2) outdoor learning center, a clubhouse, a pro shop, and Yamaha golf carts. Adjacent to the course is Willie Dunn's Grille, a restaurant open every day during the summer (with breaks in between) for lunch and dinner. The Muellers also own Tater Hill Golf Club in Windham, Vermont, 22 miles (35 km) away from Ludlow. In mid-2023, Okemo Valley Golf Course was sold by Vail Resorts to a group of local investors. It has since been renamed Fox Run Golf Club and continues to operate under this new local ownership.[9]

In 2010 Okemo opened up the Adventure Zone in the base of Jackson Gore. The Adventure Zone is a year-round attraction which includes: The Timber Ripper, the first mountain coaster in Vermont, Lumberin' Cal mini-golf, The Maples disc golf course and the Stump Jumper Bungee Trampoline. New for the summer of 2012, the Canopy tour zip lines opened up for year-round access.

Okemo Mountain Resort has added lift-served mountain biking to its lineup of summer and fall amenities, in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains. Okemo's South Ridge Quad-A provides access to more than three miles of trails in the resort's Clock Tower base area.

Wind power

[edit]

During August 2006, the Muellers announced they were switching to wind power for the upcoming ski season at their three resorts, Okemo, Mount Sunapee, and Crested Butte.[10] The Muellers have bought 27 million kilowatt hours of renewable energy certificates from Sterling Planet, through a contract with Gunnison County Electric Association in Colorado, for about 15% more money than they were paying previously. It is estimated that this will prevent 18,800 tons of carbon dioxide emissions on a yearly basis.

Vail Resorts

[edit]

On June 4, 2018, Vail Resorts, a mountain management company based in Colorado, purchased Okemo as well as her sister resorts, Crested Butte and Mount Sunapee as part of an $82 million deal with Triple Peaks, LLC, which operates the three resorts.[11]

References

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Okemo Mountain

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Okemo Mountain Resort is a renowned four-season destination in , southern , , celebrated for its family-friendly , , and summer activities amid the . Situated approximately three hours northwest of , the resort spans multiple alpine areas with a focus on accessible terrain for all skill levels, earning accolades such as best for beginners from in 2024. Its defining features include extensive capabilities and a commitment to groomed slopes, making it a staple for enthusiasts in the Northeast. Geographically, Okemo boasts a elevation of 3,344 feet (1,019 meters) and a base elevation of 1,144 feet (349 meters), yielding a vertical drop of 2,200 feet—the steepest in southern . The resort encompasses 667 acres of skiable across 123 trails and glades, serviced by 20 lifts, including high-speed express options. Terrain distribution caters broadly to visitors: 33% beginner, 37% intermediate, and 30% advanced, complemented by five terrain parks for freestyle pursuits. Advanced covers 98% of its trails using energy-efficient tower guns and modern groomers, ensuring reliable conditions even in variable weather. Established on January 31, 1956, by the Okemo Outing Club with initial trails and a lift, the resort evolved from local roots tracing back to the area's first tow in 1938. In , Tim and Diane Mueller acquired and expanded it, investing over $100 million to add more than 70 trails and enhance snowmaking infrastructure over two decades. purchased Okemo in 2018 as part of its acquisition of Triple Peaks LLC, integrating it into the Epic Pass network and enabling further upgrades like new snow guns and carpet lifts for the 2024–2025 season. Beyond winter, Okemo offers summer pursuits including , , and the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster, solidifying its status as a year-round outdoor hub.

History and Development

Founding and Early Operations

The earliest efforts to develop Okemo Mountain for began in January 1937, when the Okemo Outing Club proposed installing a rope tow and cutting four ski trails on the mountain's side. However, the project did not materialize due to funding shortages, though a temporary tow was eventually built on nearby private land in 1938. Interest in a dedicated ski area persisted through the post-World War II era, culminating in the formation of , Inc. on , 1955, by a group of local businessmen seeking to boost the regional economy. The corporation raised capital by selling shares at $10 each to residents and businesses, enabling the purchase of 374 acres of lower-mountain land and a long-term lease on additional state forest acreage for trail development and lifts. Construction proceeded despite challenges like weather delays, leading to the resort's official opening on January 31, 1956, following a timely 11-inch snowstorm that provided the necessary base. The initial setup featured three trails—served by the longest in the United States at the time—and attracted around 1,000 visitors on , marking a modest start with a small skiable area focused on beginner and intermediate terrain. Early operations faced significant hurdles, including limited terrain under 100 acres and heavy dependence on unpredictable natural snowfall, which often resulted in short seasons or closures. A 1957 attempt to secure a exemption failed by a narrow vote, straining finances further. By the mid-1960s, improvements began to address these issues: the first overhead lift, the Sachem Double chair, was installed for the 1965-66 season, expanding access to higher elevations, while capabilities were introduced on 12 acres of lower-mountain trails in 1966, reducing reliance on weather and enabling more consistent operations. These developments laid the groundwork for gradual growth while maintaining the resort's community-driven character.

Expansion under Mueller Ownership

In August 1982, Tim and Diane Mueller acquired a principal stake in Okemo Mountain Resort, becoming sole owners by the early 1990s, at a time when the resort featured only six surface lifts and three fixed-grip double s and attracted approximately 86,000 skier visits in the prior season. Under their leadership, the Muellers initiated a series of infrastructure investments exceeding $100 million over three decades, transforming the modest operation into a family-oriented destination with skier visits surpassing 300,000 by the mid-1980s and reaching over 500,000 annually by the mid-1990s. Key developments included the addition of the resort's first triple chairlift in the 1982–83 season and the introduction of high-speed detachable quad lifts starting with the Northstar Express in 1992–93, enhancing uphill capacity and access to new terrain. The Muellers oversaw significant expansions of skiable terrain, growing it from initial modest acreage to over 600 acres by the 2010s through targeted projects such as the opening of Solitude Peak in 1987, the South Face complex in 1994–95, and the Jackson Gore pod in 2002–03, which added a second base area and additional gladed runs. Trail count increased from around 40 at the time of purchase to 121 by 2018, with a deliberate emphasis on beginner and intermediate options—comprising the majority of the network—to appeal to families and novice skiers. New facilities supported this growth, including a $1.2 million summit lodge in 1993 and the Jackson Gore base lodge in 2003–04, alongside on-mountain enhancements like expanded slopeside accommodations. Snowmaking capabilities advanced progressively under Mueller ownership, with the construction of a 70-million-gallon in 1994–95 enabling broader coverage that reached 98% of by the mid-1990s and was maintained through ongoing upgrades into the 2010s. The grooming fleet was modernized with additional snow cats to ensure consistent trail conditions, contributing to Okemo's reputation for reliable, high-quality . In a sustainability milestone, the Muellers' Triple Peaks LLC announced in August 2006 a commitment to powering operations at Okemo, Mount Sunapee, and entirely with wind energy, purchasing renewable credits to offset 100% of electricity use. This era of independent growth concluded in 2018 with the sale of Okemo to .

Acquisition and Modern Era

On June 4, 2018, announced an agreement to purchase Triple Peaks LLC—the parent company of Okemo Mountain Resort, Mount Sunapee Resort in , and in —for $82 million, subject to adjustments. The acquisition, which included operating leases for the resorts, closed on September 27, 2018, marking Vail's expansion into key Eastern U.S. markets. This move built on the resort's established reputation under decades of Mueller family stewardship, which had positioned Okemo as a premier family-oriented destination. Post-acquisition, Okemo was seamlessly integrated into ' Epic Pass ecosystem, granting unlimited, unrestricted access to Epic Pass, Epic Local Pass, and Military Epic Pass holders starting with the 2018-2019 season. This multi-resort connectivity drove significant growth in visitation through enhanced accessibility for pass holders across Vail's network. Under Vail's management, operational synergies such as shared technology platforms and marketing initiatives further solidified Okemo's role within the broader portfolio. For the 2024-2025 season, Okemo enhanced its infrastructure by installing five new HKD fan snowguns and 17 low-energy automated guns specifically on the Open Slope trail, alongside reassigning snowmaking pipes to optimize coverage across all levels. Overall, the resort added 150 new HKD and SMI snow guns system-wide, improving early-season reliability and trail openings. Concurrently, The Zone —serviced by The Pull —underwent expansion with new freestyle features announced for the season, catering to progressing skiers and snowboarders. As preparations ramped up in November 2025 for Okemo's 70th anniversary season, the resort targeted an opening on November 22, following the prior season's closure on April 13, 2025. These updates reflect Vail's ongoing investment in Okemo's infrastructure, ensuring sustained appeal amid evolving guest expectations.

Physical Characteristics

Location and Topography

Okemo Mountain is situated in the town of Ludlow, Windsor County, Vermont, within the Green Mountains range of southern Vermont. The resort is approximately 130 miles northwest of Boston, Massachusetts, offering a drive time of approximately 3 hours, and roughly 230 miles northeast of New York City, with a typical drive of approximately 5 hours. The mountain's summit reaches an of 3,344 feet (1,019 meters), with a base of 1,144 feet (349 meters), providing a vertical drop of 2,200 feet (670 meters)—the highest in southern . This profile contributes to the resort's appeal for extended runs and varied skiing experiences. Okemo's topography features five distinct alpine areas aligned north-south along the mountain ridge, encompassing rolling terrain ideal for grooming and forested glades for advanced skiing. The areas include diverse slopes with scenic overlooks near the Black River, which flows through the nearby valley. This varied landscape supports a range of trail difficulties, as explored in the trails and terrain section. The surrounding area has evolved from a 19th-century farming village into a vibrant town, with the broader providing additional lodging options and supporting the resort's growth as a destination.

Climate and Snowfall

Okemo Mountain experiences a typical of Vermont's , characterized by cold, snowy winters and mild, humid summers. Winters are marked by subfreezing temperatures, with average highs around 25°F (-4°C) and lows near 13°F (-11°C). The resort receives a resort-reported average annual snowfall of 200 inches (508 cm) at the , though historical data suggests around 120 inches of natural ; this can vary significantly due to regional patterns. This natural is supplemented by extensive operations, which have become increasingly vital amid variability that has led to inconsistent natural snowfalls in recent decades. Snowmaking efforts peak starting in , capitalizing on cold overnight temperatures to achieve up to 98% terrain coverage across the resort's 667 skiable acres. This system ensures reliable conditions for the typical from late to mid-April, reducing historical dependence on variable natural events. A notable example of such an event was the 11-inch snowstorm in January 1956 that finally enabled the resort's opening after a prolonged early-season . Modern operations include real-time weather monitoring through the My Epic app, providing guests with updates on conditions, snowfall, and terrain status to enhance planning and safety. Summers at Okemo are mild, with average July highs around 78°F (26°C) and lows near 59°F (15°C), supporting a range of green-season activities like and . However, afternoon thunderstorms are common in the region, often developing due to daytime heating and from the surrounding terrain, which can bring sudden rain and . These events underscore the transitional nature of the mountain's , influencing both winter reliability and summer recreation.

Resort Infrastructure

Trails and Terrain

Okemo Mountain's trail system encompasses 123 trails across 667 skiable acres (270 hectares), offering a balanced mix of terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Approximately 33% of the terrain is designated for beginners, featuring wide, groomed runs such as Homeward Bound that provide gentle slopes for learning and progression. Intermediate trails account for 37%, while advanced and expert runs make up 30%, including challenging steep glades like that demand precise control and technique. The resort's trails are distributed across five interconnected alpine areas—Clocktower Base, , Solitude, Black Mountain, and South Ridge—allowing seamless exploration without extensive hiking. A notable addition, the Green Link trail, connects Mountain Road to the base of the Evergreen Summit Express, improving flow between lower and upper sections and enhancing overall accessibility. Okemo emphasizes well-groomed cruisers that follow consistent fall lines, contributing to its reputation for some of the best snow quality in the . The terrain includes gladed , providing natural obstacles and varied pitches for advanced users seeking tree-lined adventures. The current trail map reflects recent updates, incorporating new connections like Green Link and minor expansions to optimize skier traffic and experience.

Lifts and Snowmaking

Okemo Mountain operates a total of 20 lifts to provide access to its . The system includes two high-speed six-person chairlifts, four high-speed detachable quad chairlifts (such as the Summit Express), five fixed-grip quad chairlifts, two fixed-grip triple chairlifts, and seven surface lifts, encompassing T-bars, handle tows, and magic carpets for beginner areas. These lifts facilitate efficient uphill transport, with a combined capacity exceeding 40,000 passengers per hour. Lift operations typically run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekdays, extending to 8:00 a.m. on weekends and holidays, and real-time status updates are available through the resort's website and . The resort's snowmaking infrastructure covers 98% of its trails, enabling consistent conditions despite variable natural snowfall in southern Vermont. This system employs advanced, energy-efficient tower-gun technology for precise snow production, supplemented by a fleet of modern groomers that maintain trail surfaces nightly. Snowmaking began in the mid-1960s with basic installations on 12 acres of lower-mountain trails, marking an early adoption in the region. Over decades, it evolved into fully automated systems by the 1990s, allowing rapid response to weather changes and achieving near-total coverage. For the 2024-2025 season, upgrades enhanced capabilities, including the addition of five new HKD fan snowguns and 17 low-energy snowguns specifically on the Open Slope trail to boost early-season production. These improvements, part of ongoing investments in efficiency, support Okemo's reputation for reliable snow quality across its varied terrain.

Lodges and Accommodations

The Clocktower Base Lodge serves as the central hub for Okemo Mountain's base area operations, offering essential services for skiers and snowboarders including equipment rentals, lift ticket sales, and multiple dining options such as the . Located in the original base area, it provides convenient access to main lifts and skier services, making it a key starting point for daily activities. Adjacent to the Clocktower Base Lodge, the Mountain Lodge at Okemo features one-bedroom units equipped with full kitchens, living rooms, wood-burning fireplaces, and private decks overlooking the base area. These non-smoking accommodations emphasize convenience for families and couples, with short walks to lifts, free high-speed , and access to on-site laundry facilities. In the Jackson Gore Village area, the Jackson Gore Inn offers upscale lodging with country inn charm combined with modern hotel services, including a 24-hour front , air conditioning, indoor/outdoor heated pools, hot tubs, and fire pits. Nearby, the Adams House provides spacious, slopeside residences ideal for families, featuring high-end amenities, private balconies, and direct proximity to retail shops and the Jackson Gore base lifts. These options integrate ski school hubs and retail outlets within the village, enhancing for lessons and gear purchases. On-mountain facilities include the Summit Lodge, which functions as a mid-day refuge with the Summit Café offering quick lunches, snacks, and après-ski options amid panoramic views of the surrounding terrain. The Gate House Lodge, positioned near the gondola entrance, supports easy access for arriving guests with basic amenities and proximity to introductory trails. Okemo Mountain provides a variety of on-mountain lodging exceeding 1,000 units across its properties, supplemented by nearby options in the Okemo Valley such as condominiums and inns for additional capacity. Epic Pass holders benefit from exclusive 20% discounts on these accommodations through Epic Mountain Rewards, along with perks on related services like rentals and lessons. All lodges feature high-speed throughout, ensuring connectivity for families planning their ski days.

Winter Activities

Skiing and Snowboarding

Okemo Mountain Resort is renowned for its family-oriented skiing experiences, catering to all skill levels with a balanced distribution of terrain: approximately 33% beginner, 37% intermediate, and 30% advanced. The resort emphasizes well-groomed runs, supported by an extensive snowmaking system covering 98% of its 667 skiable acres, ensuring consistent conditions even during variable weather. This focus on grooming and accessibility has earned Okemo recognition as a top family destination, including being named the Top U.S. Family Snow Resort by Parents Magazine in 2010. The Okemo Ski & Ride School provides comprehensive instruction for both and , offering group lessons, private sessions, and season-long programs for children and adults alike, fostering skill development in a supportive environment. Suitable for beginners through experts, these programs highlight the resort's commitment to inclusive , including adaptive options available through ' broader initiatives for skiers with disabilities. Annual events such as the Okemo Mountain School's further enhance the community aspect, bringing families together for celebrations tied to the skiing season. Snowboarding at Okemo features dedicated areas like a superpipe and boardercross courses, integrated into the main terrain for riders of varying abilities. is a highlight, with natural wooded areas such as the 16-acre addition opened in 2012 providing intermediate-level tree runs amid the resort's 2,200-foot vertical drop. The combination of —peaking at 3,344 feet—and meticulous grooming contributes to reliable quality, making Okemo a preferred spot for enjoyable, low-risk alpine pursuits.

Terrain Parks and Freestyle Features

Okemo Mountain Resort features five dedicated parks designed to cater to skiers and snowboarders of varying abilities, emphasizing progression through freestyle elements such as jumps, rails, jibs, and a superpipe. These parks integrate over 20 jumps, numerous rails and jibs, and progressive lines that allow riders to build skills safely and sequentially, with features maintained throughout the season to support advanced maneuvers. Access to these areas is available via select main trails and dedicated lifts, ensuring seamless integration with the broader downhill . The Park serves as the primary natural terrain progression area, offering a mix of jumps and hits that simulate varied features for intermediate to advanced riders honing their aerial and technical skills. In contrast, provides a beginner-friendly environment with smaller, approachable rails and boxes, ideal for newcomers to freestyle without overwhelming complexity. The Zone, a skate-park-inspired jib park serviced exclusively by The Pull , focuses on urban-style features including walls, boxes, and an array of rails up to 50 feet long, such as staircase designs and creative s, fostering creativity and flow for all levels. Complementing these, the NASTAR course incorporates freestyle racing elements, allowing participants to practice speed and control on a dedicated with timing , blending competitive progression with park-style training. As of 2025, Okemo is planning to expand The Zone with new rails, jumps, and enhanced features to further develop its role as a premier progression park, prioritizing rider advancement amid challenging snow conditions, with details forthcoming for the 2025-26 season. The resort features a superpipe that typically measures 400–500 feet in length with walls of 13–18 feet high and a width of 46–55 feet, though dimensions vary based on seasonal snow conditions; a shorter training alternative may be utilized based on snowpack. Safety is paramount across all parks, with comprehensive signage, padded elements on key features, and guidelines promoting awareness of transitions, landing on feet, and respecting ability limits to prevent injuries. The resort hosts various freestyle events and camps to engage the community, including the annual Rockstar and Rails Rail Jam competition, which features music, prizes, and judged performances on custom rails under night lighting. Through the Okemo Mountain School's Freeski Program, participants receive coaching in parks, with opportunities to compete in U.S. Ski & Snowboard (USSS) and U.S. ASA series events, emphasizing technique development in jumps and jibs. These initiatives, combined with park-specific lessons from the Okemo Ski + Ride School, underscore the resort's commitment to fostering safe, skill-building freestyle experiences.

Summer Operations

Adventure and Family Attractions

Okemo Mountain's summer offerings emphasize thrilling engineered attractions and family-friendly zones designed for visitors of all ages, transforming the resort into a hub for adventure in Vermont's Green Mountains. The Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster, located at the Jackson Gore base area, provides an exhilarating descent along 3,100 feet of track with a 375-foot vertical drop, allowing riders to reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour while navigating rollers, banking loops, and a twister section through the alpine forest. Riders control their speed using hand brakes on sled-like cars, making it suitable for solo drivers aged 8 and taller than 54 inches, or as a shared ride with passengers. This four-season attraction operates daily during the summer season, offering a high-thrill experience distinct from traditional downhill skiing. Central to the resort's family attractions is the Adventure Zone at Jackson Gore, a comprehensive play area tailored for children aged 4 and older, featuring a mix of aerial and ground-based activities. Key elements include the Sawyer's Sweep Zipline Tour, a guided course with seven ziplines—the longest spanning 900 feet—allowing participants to soar at speeds up to 30 miles per hour over nearly 300 feet of vertical descent, complemented by suspension bridges, rappels, and platforms 40 to 50 feet above the ground. Additional features encompass climbing walls for skill-building challenges, the Stump Jumper Bungee where jumpers can reach heights of up to 20 feet with elastic harnesses, the Haulback Challenge Course offering three levels of treetop adventures with 25 elements including bridges and cargo nets for participants aged 7 and taller than 48 inches, and the 18-hole Lumberin' Cal Course themed around local history. An all-day Adventure Zone wristband provides unlimited access to these elements, promoting extended family engagement in a safe, supervised environment. Families can also enjoy gem mining at Coleman Brook Mining Company, sifting through gravel to discover treasures like amethysts and arrowheads. Scenic chairlift rides enhance the adventurous atmosphere by offering accessible panoramic views of the surrounding , operating on select lifts such as the Bluebird Express from late June through mid-October, typically Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on holidays. These rides, which ascend to elevations providing vistas of forested valleys and distant peaks, integrate briefly with nearby hiking trails for those seeking a blend of elevation and exploration on foot. To foster family bonding, Okemo hosts seasonal events including Camp Gokemo, a daytime program for ages 4 to 12 featuring themed outdoor games, crafts, and nature-based activities in the Jackson Gore area. Complementing these are the Jackson Gore Summer Music Series, a lineup of free evening lawn concerts every Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. between late June and late August, featuring regional bands and creating a relaxed gathering spot at the base for families after daytime adventures. These events underscore the resort's commitment to multifaceted summer entertainment.

Outdoor Recreation and Golf

Okemo Mountain offers over 10 miles of trails that wind through forested terrain and provide access to the , catering to a range of skill levels from moderate to challenging. The 3-mile Trek serves as a popular moderate route, ascending gradually with 1,900 feet of elevation gain to deliver expansive views, including distant glimpses of on clear days. Complementing these paths, the challenging Bear Climb covers approximately 2 miles one way, while the historic Healdville extends 3 miles to the refurbished fire tower, offering 360-degree panoramas of the surrounding . These trails emphasize natural beauty and , with options for loop hikes combining routes for varied experiences. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore approximately 15 miles of dedicated trails at the Evolution Bike Park, featuring flowy singletracks, technical descents, and beginner-friendly paths integrated into the resort's summer landscape. Lift-served access is provided via the Six chairlift, allowing riders to reach the summit efficiently and repeat runs without pedaling uphill. Rentals of full-suspension bikes, helmets, and protective gear are available at the on-site Evolution Bike Shop, while skills clinics and youth summer camps offer instruction for improving technique and safety on the terrain. Golfers at Okemo Mountain enjoy the adjacent 18-hole championship course at Fox Run Golf Club (formerly Okemo Valley Golf Club), designed by architect Steve Durkee in a heathland style that maximizes the area's rolling . The par-70 layout stretches to 6,400 yards, with bentgrass greens, tees, and fairways set against striking mountain backdrops, providing a scenic and strategic challenge. Open seasonally from May to October, the course includes a 10-acre practice facility with a driving range and short-game areas to enhance play. Complementing these activities, the Maples disc golf course presents an 18-hole layout nestled in wooded terrain around the Jackson Gore base area, blending tight tree-lined fairways with open meadows for an engaging, low-impact outing. Free to play for resort guests, the course incorporates elements inspired by Vermont's sugaring heritage and offers disc rentals for newcomers, making it accessible until dusk daily during the summer season.

Sustainability and Ownership

Renewable Energy Initiatives

In 2006, Tim and Diane Mueller, owners of Okemo Mountain Resort, announced the purchase of credits to offset 100 percent of the electricity used at Okemo, as well as their other properties, Mount Sunapee Resort in and in , sourcing the credits from -generated power. This initiative marked an early commitment to , enabling the resorts to claim full renewable sourcing without on-site generation. Following ' acquisition of Okemo in 2018, the company expanded these efforts through a 2018 virtual (VPPA) with Ørsted, committing to 310,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of wind energy annually to cover electricity needs across its North American resorts, including Okemo. This 12-year agreement supported the development of the 82-turbine Plum Creek Wind Project in , which came online in June 2020 and helped achieve its goal of 100 percent renewable electricity sourcing by that year. The VPPA structure allows Vail to offset emissions equivalent to powering all resort operations—such as lifts, , and lighting—through off-site investments, without installing turbines at Okemo itself. Ongoing operations at Okemo continue to benefit from this wind energy offset, with the annual 310,000 MWh allocation ensuring full coverage of the resort's electricity demands and supporting broader emission reductions under ' sustainability framework. In fiscal year 2024, achieved 100 percent renewable electricity sourcing for the second consecutive year and met its energy efficiency goal ahead of the 2030 target.

Vail Resorts Management and Updates

Under ' ownership since 2018, Okemo Mountain has been integrated into the company's Epic Promise framework, a comprehensive and program launched in 2017 that commits to achieving a zero net operating footprint by 2030. This includes specific goals for to landfill, with initiatives such as diverting waste through , composting, and projects across resorts, including efforts at Okemo to host zero-waste events using compostable foodservice products from partners like Eco-Products. Water conservation in is another key focus, where Vail has invested over $10 million since 2018 in energy-efficient systems that optimize water usage, ensuring most water remains non-consumptive and returns to local watersheds via melt, while respecting regional water rights; at Okemo, this supports coverage of 98% of trails with advanced tower-gun technology. Vail Resorts has expanded employee housing options at Okemo to address affordability in the Ludlow area, including a 2024 contract to purchase an existing property that will add more than 30 beds for seasonal and full-time staff, building on prior investments to house over 7,000 employees company-wide. Community partnerships in Ludlow emphasize local support, with Vail donating to nonprofits for housing solutions and childcare; as part of company-wide efforts, Vail contributed $221,000 toward community housing initiatives and $718,000 for childcare programs across its resorts in fiscal year 2023. In 2025, Okemo continues to earn accolades as a top family resort, ranking #19 in Ski Magazine's Top 20 Eastern Resorts for its family-friendly amenities, grooming, and beginner terrain, while maintaining strong visitor recognition for inclusive programs. Integration with Vail's Epic Pass network provides passholders unlimited access to Okemo alongside 42 owned resorts and over 90 global destinations, enhancing multi-resort visitation and rewards like 20% discounts on food, lodging, and lessons. For the 2025/26 season, updates include enhanced real-time terrain status reporting through the My Epic app, offering live updates on lifts, trails, grooming, and weather, alongside preparations for Okemo's 70th anniversary celebration starting with the November 22 opening, featuring special events like live music and historical tributes to its 1956 founding.

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