Snow Making

Our snowmaking crews can and will make a lot of snow as temperatures allow. In fact, they work constantly during the season … so a lack of natural snow is no cause for concern for skiers and snowboarders at Terry Peak.

We try to begin making snow on or before November 1st, as temperatures allow – a maximum of 28°F and 75% humidity. Ideally, snowmaking is done in less than 18°F with humidity levels less than 60%. With cold temps and humidity levels of 50-60%, 12-hour sessions can produce huge piles known as "whales". “Whales” can be as big 70 feet long and 25 feet deep. In single-digit temps, snow can be made at any humidity level.

Some relatively recent changes have made all this snowmaking possible. In 2002, Terry Peak Ski Area gained access to an additional 15+ million gallons of water and two large holding ponds. Coupled with additional upgrades of top-of-the-line pumps, compressors and snowmaking guns, Terry Peak has enough water and conventional technology to push 1,000 gallons per minute for extended durations of time. That means crews can cover 60% of the mountain with quality man-made snow, so that opening day is sweet and on time!