This post dives into ski resorts' strategies when nature isn’t delivering snow. We explore trending topics such as snowmaking, snow storage, and summer diversification. You’ll find a specialized breakdowns and a focused look at Snowmass Mountain Lodging's approach, because even off-season, smart resorts keep guests engaged and happy.
First, let’s answer the big question:
When snow is scarce, ski resorts deploy a three-pronged strategy:
- Snowmaking – Using artificial snow to cover trails.
- Snow storage – Preserving early-season or heavy snowfall.
- Diversified activities – Pivoting to non-ski options like biking, tubing, gondolas, hiking.
These tactics preserve winter operations and revenue while attracting guests year-round.
Resort Adaptation Tactics
- Snowmaking: Resorts use high-efficiency snow guns, requiring wet-bulb temperatures below around ‑2.5 °C; an energy-intensive process using ~3.5 kWh/m³ and ~400 L water/m³.
- Snow storage: Trail stockpiling using insulated covers or snow fences to preserve snow into warmer periods.
- Lift conversion: ~68% of resorts operate chairlifts for scenic rides; ~52% offer lift-accessed mountain biking.
- Alternative winter fun: Snow tubing and ice skating in base villages; summer tubing too.
- Summer pivot: Hiking, zip-lining, golf, water sports, festivals, arts & wellness programming.
- Economic resilience: Snowmaking supports reliable seasons; diversified summer revenue counters snow dependence.
Snowless Resort Adaptation Methods
| Strategy | Purpose | Challenges & Benefits |
| Snowmaking | Creates slope coverage | Pros: reliable winter experience; Cons: costly, energy & water-heavy |
| Snow storage | Preserves snow during warm stretches | Pros: extends minimal natural snow; Cons: logistical and limited scale |
| Lift-served biking | Off-season mountain biking using ski lifts | Pros: attracts summer guests; Cons: requires trail upkeep |
| Scenic gondolas | Sightseeing and experiences in all seasons | Pros: year-round lift utility; Cons: fewer winter customers in no-snow years |
| Snow tubing/ice skating | Winter fun without skiing | Pros: family-friendly, weather-flexible; Cons: limited capacity and novelty factor |
| Summer diversification | Outdoor & cultural experiences post-winter | Pros: year-round revenue; Cons: operations require new infrastructure |
Year-Round at Snowmass Mountain Lodging
Snowmass Mountain Lodging, nestled in Base Village, demonstrates how vacation properties complement resort resilience:
- Winter snowmaking support: Lodging remains operational, offering guests comfort even during low-snow winters.
- All-season amenities: Indoor heated pools, hot tubs, fitness centers—usable whether it snows or not.
- Summer transformation: Serves as a base for mountain biking, scenic gondola rides, hiking, rafting, yoga, and live concerts.
- Guest convenience: On-site rentals, concierge for bookings across seasons, and curated local itineraries keep visitors engaged.
Enhancing the Guest Experience — Year-Round
During winter struggles, resorts don’t simply hope for snow—they create memories through non-ski activities:
- Ice skating rinks and tubing lanes suit varied weather and family tastes.
- Resorts keep lifts operable and trails maintained for biking and scenic rides even in off-peak seasons.
- Summer programming—live music, art walks, festivals—draws guests even in warmer months.
These adaptations protect revenue, encourage repeat visits, and maintain brand identity.
So, what do ski resorts do when it doesn’t snow?
They innovate, pivot, and diversify. Resorts invest in snowmaking and storage to preserve a skiable base. When conditions limit skiing, they lean heavily into non-ski winter fun and robust summer offerings—mountain biking, gondolas, tubing, festivals, wellness, rafting—all supported by properties like Snowmass Mountain Lodging that serve as year-round hubs.
When nature holds back its flurries, resorts don’t hit pause—they reinvent, ensuring guests have memorable experiences, community events, and economic viability, no matter the forecast.
Book with Snowmass Mountain Lodging for the ultimate luxury vacation adventure. Embrace the journey, keep learning, and enjoy the ride. The mountains are calling—are you ready?
Explore our offerings and secure your stay today. Call us at 888.976.0807 or email snowmassres@eastwest.com for help planning your next trip.