RUMFORD — Black Mountain ski resort will open on Dec. 26, one week later than originally planned, due to a lack of snow and mild temperatures, Marketing Director Deanna Kersey said.

The mountain’s opening date is “snow dependent, not unlike any other resort,” she said.

“When Mother Nature decides that she doesn’t want to show up in time for winter, it sort of throws things a little off,” Kersey said. “As Mainers, we’re all used to having a white Christmas, so this is a little different.”

When the temperatures allow, the resort will make snow, she said.

“I’m sitting at the base of the mountain right now and can see some of the snow guns on,” Kersey said. “The goal is to stick to the current schedule, which is to hold the Hill Climb on Dec. 19 and open on Dec. 26.”

The Hill Climb, also pushed back from its original start date, invites snowmobilers to drive up Black Mountain and compete for the fastest time. Interested parties may preregister online, over the phone or at the lodge at a discounted rate of $15. Registration costs $20 the day of the race.

Snowmobilers will also have the opportunity to participate in grudge matches, where snowmobile riders have the chance to race head-to-head with friends or other riders for a $5 fee.

Registration begins at 11 a.m.; event begins at 1 p.m.

Kersey said that despite the lack of snow heading into the start of winter, she remains “positive that Black Mountain will have a great season.”

mdaigle@sunmediagroup.net

Copy the Story Link