By David Schissler
(January 2013) After first tracks in fresh powder one of the things that excites me the most about skiing is when an area I enjoy announces an expansion. During a recent trip to Waterville Valley I was fortunate enough to combine both! I had the pleasure of making some first tracks with Bob Fries, Waterville’s President and GM and with Bobby Foster, Waterville’s Director of Marketing.
On the way up they briefed me regarding their proposed expansion onto Green Peak. While still in the permitting process with the US Forest Service, Waterville is anticipating the addition of a high speed quad and eight trails comprising 60 acres of new intermediate and advanced terrain. Looking up the mountain, the new lift will run to the left of Valley Run and the Quadzilla high speed quad reaching the 2,800 foot summit of Green Peak. It will be approximately 4,000 feet in length with a vertical rise of 1,000 feet.
Once the Forest Service approves the plan, breaking ground will still be dependent on how soon the lift company awarded the business can begin construction. Two companies are under consideration. Poma and Dopplemayr. It will take roughly 9 months to a year to fully develop the project.
In addition to the expansion Waterville is also planning a return to its racing roots. Bob Fries informed me he’s actively campaigning to have the resort host the US Nationals and the NCAA Championships in 2015. Homologation of a new Super G course for the events is also in the planning stages. www.waterville.com.
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