Snowbowl Sets New Record for Open Terrain with the Reopening of Bailey Falls Lift

Middlebury, VT – Middlebury Snowbowl is making history this season with the reopening of the Bailey Falls lift, marking not only the return of a beloved lift and its terrain after a two-year hiatus but also setting a new record for the most open terrain and official trails in the history of the Snowbowl. This incredible milestone is a testament to the vision and dedication of Snowbowl’s leadership and hardworking team, whose efforts have expanded and enhanced the mountain like never before.

A special thanks goes to:

• Ski Patrol Director Sean Grzyb – for his outside-the-box thinking and relentless dedication to expanding open terrain at the Bowl.
• Assistant General Manager Ryan McNulty – for ensuring these newly opened surfaces are meticulously maintained and ready for skiers and riders.
• Lift Mechanics Joe Renish and Nate Reinhold, our incredible volunteers, and the teams from SkyTrac Lift, Leitner-Poma, and G.W. Tatro Construction – for their heavy lifting, countless hours, and true blood, sweat, and tears that went into the refurbishment of the Bailey Falls lift. Their expertise and commitment have brought this project to life and made this expansion possible.

Over the past several seasons, the Snowbowl team has worked tirelessly to reclaim and reintroduce some of the mountain’s most storied trails, including:

• Big Cookie – The former Poma lift line from 1987, now a revived and thrilling route.
• S-Turn & Game Trail – Two classic runs from the old Bailey Falls Poma, now back in action under new names.
• Panther – A trail that winds under the Worth Mountain Lift, adding more variety to the mountain’s layout.
• Pete’s Pass & Bailey Falls Traverse – Enhancing connectivity across the Snowbowl.
• New Learning Area Trail – Added last season expanding access for beginners and ensuring an even better experience for those new to the sport.

With the return of the Bailey Falls lift and these additional trails, the Snowbowl is officially beyond 100%—offering more terrain, more access, and more opportunities for skiers and riders than ever before.

“This is a historic milestone for the Snowbowl,” said Kim Essensa, General Manager at Middlebury Snowbowl. “It’s a true testament to the dedication of our leadership team, staff, and partners. Sean Grzyb and Ryan McNulty have gone above and beyond to make this expansion happen, and the lift wouldn’t be here today without Joe Renish, Nate Reinhold, and the hardworking teams from SkyTrac Lift, Leitner-Poma, and G.W. Tatro Construction. The effort and passion behind this project have been nothing short of extraordinary, and we’re beyond excited to welcome skiers and riders to experience it.”

Skiers and riders are encouraged to explore the newly expanded terrain and celebrate a record-breaking season at the Snowbowl. With the most open trails in its history, the mountain is primed for adventure like never before.

MIDDLEBURY, VT – As daylight fades over the Green Mountains, the Middlebury Snowbowl transforms into an illuminated winter wonderland. One of only two lift-serviced night skiing areas in Vermont, the Snowbowl invites skiers and snowboarders to experience the thrill of carving down the slopes under the stars, with a unique atmosphere that blends adventure, community, and the charm of a classic Vermont ski area.

Last winter, the Snowbowl introduced night skiing for the first time, and it quickly became a beloved feature. The Sheehan lift provides access to terrain suited for beginners, intermediates, and experts alike. The crisp night air, the soft glow of lights on fresh snow, and the quieter evening ambiance all combine to make night skiing a truly special experience. There’s a certain magic in gliding over snow beneath a star-lit sky, where every turn feels like part of a dream.

A Community Experience with Something for Everyone

Night skiing at Snowbowl isn’t just about getting in extra runs—it’s about making memories under the stars. Families gather to introduce their children to skiing under the lights, while groups of friends take advantage of the quieter slopes. Whether you’re a seasoned skier seeking a fresh challenge or a first-timer testing out the sport, the Snowbowl offers an inviting atmosphere. Not only will your family enjoy their time here, but they will build memories that we guarantee will be some of their favorites to look back on throughout their entire lives.

As part of its commitment to making skiing accessible, the Snowbowl offers free skiing and riding for all children 5 and under, ensuring young skiers have a chance to develop a love for the sport early. The Snowbowl’s carpet lift is also free for beginner skiers and riders of all ages, providing an ideal way for newcomers to gain confidence in a comfortable setting. The carpet lift remains lit during night skiing hours, allowing beginners to enjoy the experience alongside more advanced skiers.

More Than Just Skiing

The Snowbowl isn’t just about the slopes—it’s also about the experience off the mountain. Live entertainment is featured on select nights, adding to the festive atmosphere in the lodge. The Snowbowl’s dining operation is another highlight, offering high-quality yet affordable meals, prepared with care by passionate chefs who take pride in crafting delicious food that warms both body and soul. After a night on the slopes, guests can cozy up next to our unique flagstone fireplace, a defining and central characteristic of our main base lodge, creating the perfect place to unwind and share stories of the day’s adventures.

Guests can also take advantage of the full-service ski shop, which provides equipment rentals, tuning, and gear for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your equipment or rent gear for the night, the knowledgeable staff is ready to assist.

When to Go

Night skiing at Snowbowl is available every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evening from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., making it a perfect midweek escape or weekend warm-up. With February vacation fast approaching, now is an ideal time to experience this unique offering.

Whether you’re gliding down the Sheehan lift-serviced terrain, warming up in the lodge with great food and live entertainment, or introducing your little ones to skiing for the first time, Snowbowl’s night skiing experience is one not to be missed.

For updated schedules, ticketing information, and details on special events, visit the Snowbowl website or follow along on social media.

Middlebury College Ski Down Graduation Processional

A Tradition Like No Other

At Middlebury College, graduation isn’t just about walking across a stage—it’s about skiing down a mountain. The Ski Down Graduation Processional at Middlebury Snowbowl is one of the most unique and beloved traditions in collegiate history, blending the school’s deep-rooted connection to winter sports with the excitement and pageantry of commencement.

A Tradition That Defines Middlebury

For decades, Middlebury graduates have celebrated their achievements by taking one final, unforgettable run down the slopes of the Snowbowl. Dressed in caps, gowns, and sometimes creative costumes, graduates make their way down the mountain in a joyous processional, cheered on by family, friends, and fellow students.

This tradition reflects Middlebury’s adventurous spirit, outdoor culture, and the close-knit bond between the college and its home in the Green Mountains. Unlike any other graduation event in the country, the Ski Down represents both an ending and a beginning—one last exhilarating ride as a student before embarking on the next chapter.

A Community Celebration

Each year, hundreds of spectators gather at the Snowbowl to witness this special moment, creating an electric atmosphere filled with cheers, laughter, and a true sense of camaraderie. Graduates descend in waves, some gliding gracefully, others making playful turns, all united in the shared experience of a tradition that only Middlebury can claim.

Beyond its uniqueness, the Ski Down is a testament to Middlebury’s deep connection to skiing and the outdoors. As one of the few colleges in the country that owns and operates its own ski area, Middlebury has long fostered a community where winter sports are woven into student life. The Snowbowl is not just a mountain—it’s a home for generations of Middlebury students.

Join Us for This Year’s Ski Down

The next Ski Down Graduation Processional is set for Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Middlebury Snowbowl. Whether you’re a graduate making your final run, a family member cheering from the sidelines, or a visitor looking to witness this one-of-a-kind tradition, we invite you to join us for this extraordinary celebration.

For those planning to visit, please note that the Sheehan Lift will be closed from 11:45 AM to 1 PM to accommodate the event, but the Worth Mountain Chair will remain open for public skiing. Parking is limited, so we encourage the use of the TVT shuttle from town or carpooling to help ease congestion.

For those who can’t attend in person, the event will be live-streamed here.

Plan Your Visit

Learn More & Get Full Event Details

At Middlebury Snowbowl, we pride ourselves on being more than just a ski area; we’re a place where families can create lasting memories while introducing the youngest generations to the joys of skiing and snowboarding. Over the past several years, we’ve made significant strides to ensure that young skiers and riders have the best possible experience on the mountain, offering an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone, from toddlers to teenagers, can grow their skills with confidence.

One of the most exciting recent additions is our Sun Kid Moving Carpet, affectionately known as the Disco Carpet. This conveyor-style surface lift, located in our Discovery Zone, makes learning to ski or snowboard easier than ever. But what truly sets this lift apart? It’s completely free to use during regular operating hours. That’s right—at Middlebury Snowbowl, we believe that skiing should be accessible to everyone, especially beginners. Offering free access to this essential tool opens up the world of skiing and snowboarding to newcomers, regardless of their experience or budget.

But the Disco Carpet is just the beginning. We’ve also excavated an all-new beginner slope that starts from the top of the carpet, creating a safe, gentle terrain perfect for those taking their first turns on the snow. This slope is designed to provide novice skiers and riders with the confidence they need to develop their skills, all within a supportive environment that encourages fun and progression.

Our commitment to welcoming the youngest generations goes beyond just infrastructure improvements. We are proud to offer free skiing for children five and under, whether they are visiting for a day or the entire season. This initiative means that families with young children can enjoy the Snowbowl without the burden of additional costs for their little ones—a gesture we hope encourages a lifelong love of the slopes.

In addition to free skiing for the youngest children, we’re excited to introduce a new Parent with Child Pass. This innovative pass allows parents to ski with their child, and as part of the package, one child (up to 18 years of age) can ski for free. This new offering is designed to make skiing with your kids even more accessible, whether you’re enjoying a weekend on the mountain or a full season of winter fun together.

What truly makes the Snowbowl stand out, however, is our team of dedicated instructors. Our instructors are not just passionate about the sport—they care deeply about the success of your young skiers and riders. They take a personalized approach to teaching, ensuring that each child feels supported and encouraged as they learn and progress. Whether it’s a toddler making their first turns or a teenager refining their skills, our instructors are real people, invested in the growth and education of these young athletes. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and their expertise ensures that children of all ages are in good hands.

Beyond the slopes, Middlebury Snowbowl is proud to offer a family-friendly experience that extends to every part of your visit. Our affordable dining options make it easy for families to refuel without breaking the bank. Whether you’re warming up with a hot cocoa or enjoying a hearty lunch after a day on the snow, the Snowbowl’s cozy lodge is a welcoming spot to relax and recharge.

Our family-friendly programming also ensures that there’s something for everyone, from engaging lessons for the little ones to fun après-ski activities. Whether it’s a themed event or a cozy family evening by the fire, we focus on creating experiences that keep the whole family entertained.

One of the most reassuring aspects of skiing at Middlebury Snowbowl is the design of the mountain itself. The Snowbowl’s layout is carefully crafted so that no matter where your day of skiing takes you, you’ll always find your way back to the base lodge. Whether you’re skiing as a family or letting your kids explore on their own, you’ll appreciate the peace of mind that comes from knowing all trails ultimately lead back to a familiar spot. This feature is especially comforting for parents introducing their kids to independent skiing for the first time.

At Middlebury Snowbowl, we’re doing more than just teaching children how to ski and snowboard—we’re cultivating a love for winter sports that will last a lifetime. With free access to our Disco Carpet, kid-friendly terrain, innovative pass options, affordable dining, and a team that truly cares about young skiers and riders, there’s no better place for families to introduce their kids to the mountains. The future of skiing and snowboarding starts here, and we can’t wait to welcome you and your family to be part of it.

So come join us, because at Middlebury Snowbowl, the next generation of skiers and riders is already on their way.

Opening Day, Upcoming Events and What’s Happening for Snowbowl Operations

Dear Snowbowl Community,

The wait is over—our official Opening Day for the 2024-25 season is set for Wednesday, December 11th, at 9:00 a.m.! The rope drop will mark the beginning of another unforgettable year on the slopes, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome you back.

A Strategic Start

This fall’s challenging weather has demanded an extra layer of strategy and effort. Like the rest of the Northeast, we’re navigating the ongoing drought, which has impacted our snowmaking resources. As stewards of these precious resources, we’ve been deliberate and strategic in our operations, making the most of each snowmaking window while conserving water for the ideal conditions.

With cold temperatures finally on our side, we are going all in on snowmaking today, December 6th, and tomorrow, December 7th, focusing our efforts on Lang, Cameron, and the Carpet area. Our snowmaking team will work around the clock to ensure these areas are ready for our first guests. By tomorrow evening, we anticipate wrapping up this phase of snowmaking, allowing our surface team to push and groom the snow for a smooth, enjoyable start to the season.

What to Expect on Opening Day

On Wednesday, December 11th, skiers and riders will have access to Lang, Cameron, and the Carpet terrain. These areas are perfect for early-season laps to build your snow legs. As we progress, our next snowmaking target will be Kelton, aiming to expand terrain as conditions allow.

Night Skiing and Events

• First Night Skiing: Our first night of skiing for the season is scheduled for Wednesday, December 18th. Join us for turns under the lights and enjoy the Monthly Blues Jam with local legend Dennis Willmott and Left Eye Jump in the base lodge from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event is free and open to all, whether you’re skiing or just enjoying the après atmosphere.
• Mountain of Cheer Celebration: Mark your calendar for Friday, December 20th, for our “Mountain of Cheer” holiday celebration. This community event will coincide with night skiing, featuring live music from Lowell Thompson and The Neon Ramblers, cozy fires, and a chance to reconnect with friends and family over great food and drinks. It’s an event for all ages, and we can’t wait to celebrate the season with you.

A Season of Gratitude

We owe a huge thank you to our snowmaking and operations teams. Their tireless efforts and strategic planning in the face of challenging conditions have made Opening Day possible. When you see them out on the mountain, give them a wave and your thanks—they’ve earned it!

For the latest updates, including weather, conditions, and terrain openings, stay tuned to the Snow Report.

We can’t wait to see you on the mountain. Let’s make this season one to remember!

See you Wednesday,

The Snowbowl Team

December Holiday Lesson Program Registration

Make this holiday unforgettable with ski and snowboard lessons for all skill levels! Build confidence, enjoy lift access, and connect with others. Space is limited—sign up today!

Season Leases Available Again Starting 12/11

Season leases are back! Gear up for the winter with affordable, convenient equipment rentals that are yours to keep all season long. Perfect for growing kids or anyone looking for hassle-free fun on the slopes. Supplies are limited, so act fast—reserve your season lease today!

Gift Cards Fit Everyone On Your List

Looking for the perfect gift? Snowbowl and Rikert gift cards are a one-size-fits-all solution for winter fun! Whether it’s for lift tickets, lessons, rentals, or swag, they’re guaranteed to fit—and they’ll never go out of style. Grab yours today!