Loon Mountain Resort, a prominent ski destination in New Hampshire, is charting a course for significant transformation over the coming years, unveiling a suite of ambitious projects aimed at enhancing both on-mountain experience and surrounding infrastructure. This strategic vision builds upon a foundation of recent modernizations, including the introduction of a new mountain biking park, the state-of-the-art Kanc8 eight-pack bubble chairlift, a revitalized high-speed quad replacing the Seven Brothers lift, an expanded Timbertown area, and substantial snowmaking upgrades. The resort’s forward-looking plans signal a commitment to sustained growth and an elevated guest experience, potentially reshaping the landscape of winter recreation in the White Mountains.
A New Era for the White Mountain Express Gondola
At the forefront of Loon Mountain’s future development is a proposal to replace its iconic White Mountain Express Gondola. Revealed by the U.S. Forest Service, this initiative seeks to retire the existing gondola, installed in 1988, and usher in a new Doppelmayr D-Line system. This cutting-edge technology will feature 10-person Omega cabins, a notable upgrade from the current capacity. The proposed replacement is projected to dramatically increase uphill capacity, boosting hourly throughput from approximately 1,000 people to an impressive 1,800-2,400 guests per hour. This substantial increase is designed to alleviate potential congestion during peak periods and improve overall guest flow throughout the resort.
A particularly noteworthy aspect of the proposed gondola project is the relocation of its base terminal. Instead of operating from the existing Octagon Lodge, the new terminal is slated to be situated outside the current footprint. This strategic repositioning aims to streamline access and potentially integrate more seamlessly with future developments. The construction timeline is ambitious, with the resort targeting a late 2027 or late 2028 opening. This phased approach, spanning one to two offseasons, underscores the complexity and scale of the undertaking. The existing White Mountain Express has been a workhorse for decades, providing panoramic views of the surrounding Presidential Range and serving as a crucial artery for accessing the mountain’s upper reaches. Its replacement marks a significant technological leap and a substantial investment in the resort’s core infrastructure. The Doppelmayr D-Line system is globally recognized for its reliability, efficiency, and passenger comfort, suggesting a future of enhanced accessibility and a smoother ascent for skiers and snowboarders alike.
Expanding the Boundaries: A New Frontier for Glade Skiing
Beyond lift infrastructure, Loon Mountain is also eyeing an expansion of its skiable terrain, with a particular focus on glade skiing. A proposal submitted to the White Mountain National Forest outlines plans to open up approximately 300 acres of new tree skiing off Black Mountain. This expansion would provide a new and exciting challenge for advanced skiers and snowboarders seeking off-piste adventures. Access to this new glade terrain is envisioned from an entrance point situated near the summit of the North Peak Express chairlift.
The egress route for these new runs is designed to be intuitive and well-integrated into the existing trail network, featuring a bridge that will connect skiers to the Brookway trail. This initiative follows closely on the heels of substantial investments made in snowmaking capabilities for the North Peak area during the 2025 offseason, ensuring that the new glades will have reliable snow coverage. The U.S. Forest Service document suggests a potential readiness for the 2027 winter season. However, the formal announcement and commencement of this project are contingent upon further review and the resort’s official commitment. The addition of 300 acres of glade terrain would significantly enhance Loon’s appeal to expert skiers and riders, diversifying its offerings and providing a more challenging and immersive experience within the natural mountain environment. The careful consideration of access and egress routes highlights a commitment to guest safety and trail management within this new terrain.
Bridging Communities: The Lincoln Pulse Gondola
In a development that promises to fundamentally alter the connectivity between the town of Lincoln and the resort, Loon Mountain is planning New England’s first pulse gondola. This project, initially announced in 2024, aims to create a direct link between the town center and the Timbertown base area. The strategic placement of this gondola is intended to serve both current residents and future developments planned for the area, fostering greater integration between the community and the resort.
The pulse gondola system, known for its efficiency and flexibility in handling varying passenger loads, is a significant technological advancement for the region. This project is currently undergoing review, and while originally slated for the 2025-2026 season, its timeline is subject to the ongoing evaluation process. The development of this gondola is a testament to Loon’s commitment to expanding accessibility and creating a more cohesive experience for visitors and locals alike. It represents a forward-thinking approach to resort planning, recognizing the importance of seamless transportation and community integration in enhancing the overall guest experience and fostering local economic growth.
South Peak’s Ascent: Real Estate and Amenities Take Shape
The South Peak base area is experiencing a dramatic metamorphosis, with new real estate developments rapidly emerging. This surge in construction is fueled by the expansion of the Timbertown area and the anticipated pulse gondola, which will further enhance accessibility and desirability. A prime example of this residential growth is "The Heights," a new building featuring one- to three-bedroom residences positioned at the terminus of the Boom Run trail. This development signifies a growing trend towards integrated living at ski resorts, offering residents direct access to mountain amenities and activities.
Complementing the residential expansion, significant construction is underway at the South Peak base for "The Nest," a new members’ club designed to cater specifically to homeowners in the South Peak area. This exclusive facility will feature a lounge with a bar and fireplaces, alongside a golf simulator, providing a luxurious and convenient amenity for residents. Importantly, The Nest will also include a sit-down restaurant open to the public, extending its offerings and contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the South Peak base area. Looking further ahead, there are plans to eventually replace the Pemi base lodge, indicating a comprehensive vision for the revitalization and enhancement of the entire South Peak sector. These developments underscore Loon’s strategy to not only enhance its winter sports offerings but also to cultivate a year-round destination with robust real estate and hospitality components, attracting a diverse range of visitors and residents.
A Legacy of Growth and a Vision for the Future
Loon Mountain’s sustained investment in modernization and expansion reflects a strategic commitment to remaining a premier destination in the Northeast. The resort’s proactive approach to infrastructure development, from state-of-the-art lifts to expanded terrain and integrated community projects, positions it for continued success. The ongoing evolution of Loon Mountain promises an exciting future for skiers, snowboarders, and the surrounding community, cementing its status as a dynamic and forward-thinking leader in the ski industry. The cumulative impact of these projects suggests a resort that is not merely maintaining its standing but actively seeking to redefine the guest experience, ensuring its relevance and appeal for decades to come. The strategic planning evident in these initiatives indicates a deep understanding of market trends and a dedication to providing a world-class experience for all who visit.
