An Even Brighter Future for Snowmass, Colorado: The 2022 Snowmass Village Master Development Plan | Avant Garde Aspen Luxury Real Estate

Snowmass has long been celebrated as one of the premier ski areas in the world, with its expansive terrain, exceptional ski school, and vibrant community. The 2022 Snowmass Master Development Plan (MDP) builds on this legacy, outlining ambitious enhancements designed to keep Snowmass at the forefront of mountain destinations. Here’s a closer look at how this visionary plan will transform Snowmass for the better.

Key Goals of the Snowmass MDP

The Snowmass MDP aims to:

1. Enhance the Guest Experience: Improve lift capacity, dining options, and terrain access.
2. Foster Sustainability: Use innovative strategies to reduce environmental impacts.
3. Maintain Community Connection: Provide year-round opportunities for recreation and engagement.
4. Plan for the Future: Address the challenges posed by climate change and increasing visitor demand.

Lift Improvements: Moving Faster, Waiting Less

Chairlifts are integral to the Snowmass experience. To alleviate congestion and improve flow, the MDP introduces:

1. Village Express Gondola

   • Replacing the Village Express lift, the gondola will increase out-of-base capacity and provide summer and evening access to Sam’s for events and dining.

2. Coney Express Quad Lift

   • Installed in summer 2024, this high-speed quad begins across from the Snowmass Mall and ends at the top of Coney Glade.
   • Benefits: Alleviates base-area congestion and offers an entirely new way to access the mountain.

3. Future Lift Expansions

   • Enhancements to Alpine Springs, Elk Camp, and Cirque lifts.
   • A proposed Burnt Mountain Chairlift, approved in 1994 but requiring additional review, will unlock more terrain.

More Terrain, Better Trails

What’s better than getting up the mountain faster? Having more terrain to enjoy once you’re there. The MDP proposes:

• New Glades and Trails: Enhancements across all terrain pods, from Big Burn to Elk Camp.
• Trail Connections: A new run will link Longshot back to Elk Camp, improving accessibility.
• Environmental Focus: Glading will align with the 2012 White River Forest Health Plan, removing dead and diseased trees while minimizing tree cutting.

Expanded Dining Options

Snowmass’ on-mountain restaurants are renowned, but they can struggle to meet demand on busy days. To address this, the MDP includes:

1. Remodeling and Expanding Existing Restaurants: Updates to Sam’s, Lynn Britt, and Ullrhof.
2. New Restaurants: Proposed locations include one on Gunner’s View and another near the Alpine Springs lift.
3. Sustainable Design: New buildings will follow best practices in green development, continuing Snowmass’ tradition of LEED-certified facilities.

Snowmaking for the Future

As climate change impacts snow reliability, the MDP plans for increased snowmaking capacity:

• Higher-Elevation Snowmaking: Ensures top-to-bottom skiing even in low-snow years.
• Efficiency Upgrades: Modern snow guns use a fraction of the energy compared to older models.
• Water Stewardship: Collaborations with the Snowmass Water and Sanitation District to minimize environmental impacts.

Summer Enhancements

Snowmass isn’t just for winter. The MDP includes plans to elevate the summer experience with:

• Expanded Hiking Trails: Multiple new trails of varying lengths and difficulties, offering stunning views of Mount Daly and the Snowmass Creek Valley.
• Kid-Friendly Activities: A new rope course, zip-line experience, and interactive nature walk for ages 5–12.
• Additional Bike Trails: Expanding on Snowmass’ reputation as a premier mountain biking destination.

Sustainability at the Core

Every aspect of the MDP is guided by sustainability:

• Forest Health: Removal of diseased trees to mitigate wildfire risk and beetle infestations.
• Green Construction: New buildings will incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems.
• Water Conservation: Thoughtful water use for snowmaking and environmental preservation.

The Path Ahead

The Snowmass MDP was accepted by the U.S. Forest Service in January 2023 and will be reviewed by the Town of Snowmass Village. Each component, from new lifts to dining facilities, will undergo additional environmental and public review before construction begins.

What This Means for Snowmass

The 2022 Snowmass Master Development Plan is a bold vision for the future, ensuring that Snowmass remains a leader in the world of mountain resorts. By improving infrastructure, expanding terrain, and prioritizing sustainability, this plan sets the stage for even greater adventures—year-round.

Stay tuned for updates as Snowmass continues to evolve, offering an unmatched mountain experience for generations to come.