In recent years, North America has witnessed a remarkable resurgence of ski resorts run by non-profit organizations, driven by local communities seeking to preserve the authenticity of the sport and ensure its accessibility for all. This movement opposes the trend towards large corporate resorts and offers an alternative focused on sustainability, community involvement and conservation of the natural environment.

The resurgence of not-for-profit ski resorts reflects a trend towards reclaiming the core values of skiing and snowboarding, prioritizing community, sustainability and accessibility. These resorts offer a viable alternative to the corporate model, demonstrating that it is possible to enjoy winter sports responsibly and in harmony with the natural environment.

Given the I Love Ski association ‘s commitment to promoting sustainability in the mountains and supporting the development of local communities, it would not be surprising if in the future it were to promote a non-profit ski resort project, in line with its objectives of encouraging responsible and sustainable practices in mountain environments, such as those we recently encountered in Pays de Vaulx (France).

The resurgence of not-for-profit ski resorts in North America

The ski industry in the U.S. and Canada has experienced significant growth, with over 25 million skiers in the U.S. and 470 ski areas in operation by 2024. However, this growth has been accompanied by increasing commercialization and rising prices, leading some communities to seek more affordable and sustainable alternatives.

Non-profit ski resorts have emerged in response to this situation, prioritizing community access and environmental preservation over economic profit. These resorts are often run by community organizations, cooperatives or foundations, and reinvest any surplus in infrastructure improvements, educational programs and environmental preservation.

“The combination of sustainability, inclusion and human connection is the key to the future of skiing.”

Smaller resorts are considered the “soul of skiing”, as they offer a more welcoming, less commercial space. Whole families find these mountains a place to strengthen bonds and learn values such as perseverance. Climate change and lack of economic resources are major challenges. However, these resorts have adopted technologies to maximize their snowmaking capacity and extend their seasons, while relying heavily on volunteers.

Despite the difficulties, collective efforts and a passion for skiing have kept these resorts in business, proving that community-based models are viable and necessary. These resorts are essential to revitalizing rural communities affected by economic decline, like Black Mountain in Rumford.

The inspiring video below shows how non-profit ski resorts across North America are transforming communities, preserving the spirit of skiing and creating opportunities for new generations of winter sports enthusiasts.

The managers of these resorts are convinced that their success can inspire other communities to save or create resorts based on this model.

These projects show that resorts are not just places to ski, but fundamental pillars of communities, where skiing becomes a vehicle for personal and collective development.

Non-profit ski resorts: case studies from North America

  • Shames Mountain, British Columbia, Canada: This resort was purchased by a cooperative of local residents who raised funds for its purchase, ensuring its operation as a not-for-profit entity aimed at providing an authentic, accessible ski experience for the community. Each member of the cooperative technically owns a portion of the mountain, fostering a sense of ownership and collective support. This model allows profits to be reinvested in the community and infrastructure improvements.
  • Whaleback, New Hampshire, USA: maintained by volunteers and donations, Whaleback focuses on connecting generations and making skiing an experience accessible to all, rejecting the corporate model in favor of a “social currency” where skiing and snowboarding are more than just sports. Since then, the association has set up programs accessible to children and young people. For example, its programs such as free ski passes for children under 18 aim to democratize access to skiing, which has exponentially increased participation by children and adults alike.
  • Black Mountain of Maine, Maine, USA: This resort has implemented youth programs that foster a sense of belonging that transcends the sport, becoming a pillar for the local community and providing opportunities for young people to get involved in skiing and snowboarding.
  • Antelope Butte, Wyoming, USA: Thanks to the collective efforts of the community, this resort has been revitalized and continues to operate successfully under a not-for-profit model, distinguishing itself by its ability to bridge generations and make skiing an experience accessible to all.

Advantages and challenges of the not-for-profit model

Not-for-profit ski resorts offer many advantages, including more affordable rates, educational programs and a focus on environmental sustainability. By reinvesting revenues in the community and improving facilities, these resorts foster a sense of belonging and involvement among local residents.

However, they also face significant challenges, such as dependence on volunteers, the constant need to raise funds and competition with large resorts. The long-term viability of these resorts requires ongoing community involvement and innovative strategies to attract visitors and generate revenue.

Impact on the ski industry and the environment

Climate change poses a growing threat to the ski industry, with fewer days below freezing affecting season length and snow quality.

Non-profit ski resorts, with their focus on sustainability and environmental preservation, are best placed to adapt to these challenges by implementing eco-friendly practices and raising skiers’ environmental awareness.

Future prospects

The success of not-for-profit ski resorts in North America could serve as a model for other parts of the world, demonstrating that it is possible to combine a passion for winter sports with sustainability, accessibility and community involvement. As more and more communities seek to regain control of their natural resources and promote responsible tourism, it’s likely that this model will be increasingly adopted in the future.