From Tubes to Chairlifts: What’s New This Fall

It feels like ages since the last issue, yet somehow time has flown by. I can’t believe we’re getting into another September issue and heading into the colder months, again. Fall is in the air and resorts everywhere are getting ready for another busy winter season. It’s that exciting time when plans turn into action – new lifts open, safety systems get tested and crews work hard behind the scenes to make sure guests have their best days on the mountain.

This issue is packed with stories about how our industry is improving and finding smarter ways to keep the slopes running smoothly. I hope you enjoy the stories featured here!

We’re celebrating more than 25 years of tubing fun with Tube Pro Inc. This Ontario-based company has changed the game with their durable hard-bottom snow tubes – the same design that made summer tubing a reality. Today, they’re not just about sliding down snowy hills, but also about rafting, kayaking and water parks. See how this family business is keeping the thrills alive year-round.

We’re also taking you to Idaho’s Bogus Basin, a non-profit recreation area built by the community, for the community. This is not your typical resort, it’s a place where affordable access and generational ties keep locals coming back, season after season. Learn more about their unique story.

Former Olympian Beat von Allmen shares smart advice for resorts thinking about shiny new lifts. Jim Timlick’s piece “Stop Before You Splurge” reminds us that trail capacity matters just as much as uphill capacity.

And if you want to see what smart planning looks like in action, check out Big Sky’s new Madison 8 chairlift – the world’s longest eight-seater, complete with heated seats and all the bells and whistles.

These are just a few highlights of this issue. We are also featuring articles on risk management, sustainability and how digitization is reshaping food and beverage services on the slopes.

As always, don’t forget to stay in touch. Follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook, or sign up for our free newsletter. And if you have a story idea, I’d love to hear from you – drop me a line at editor@snowopsmag.com.

I wish you all a successful and safe winter season! I will see you again in 2026!