Our Priorities

Rooted in its independent spirit and welcoming culture, Whaleback is defined by a high-quality, approachable snow sports experience and a deep commitment to making participation broadly accessible. Sustained through a combination of earned revenue and ongoing community support, Whaleback invests in the infrastructure, facilities, and land in order to enable a reliable, year-round experience. It brings people together through a diverse mix of recreational, social, and community experiences that extend beyond the slopes and reinforce its role as a gathering place year-round.

Over the next five years, our work will focus on five key priorities: 

Building a Sustainable Financial Model 

After more than a dozen years operating as a non-profit, it has become clear that the future of Whaleback depends on more than good snow years. Whaleback is still operating as a ski area because the community has supported the mountain financially. We are committed to building a stronger, more predictable financial foundation through a combination of earned revenue, philanthropy, sponsorships, grants, partnerships, and responsible capital planning. 

Delivering a Reliable, High-Quality Snow Sports Experience 

Nothing matters more than providing a safe, dependable, enjoyable experience on the mountain. With more sustainable funding, we will be able to expand our investments in lift infrastructure, snowmaking, grooming, operations, staffing, and guest experience. 

Expanding Access and Participation 

Whaleback has always been a place where people can begin their journey in snow sports. We will continue supporting scholarships, youth programs, school partnerships, lessons, camps, and opportunities that make participation accessible to more members of our community. 

Strengthening Whaleback as a Year-Round Community Hub

Whaleback is not only a winter destination. Whaleback has five distinct seasons (winter, mud, spring, summer, fall) all with their own allure. We see tremendous opportunity to deepen our role as a gathering place through events, camps, outdoor recreation, community programming, and year-round use of the mountain and lodge. Even with this additional off-season programming, Whaleback likely will not generate enough revenue to cover operational costs – illuminating our continued need for community donations and grant funding. 

Investing in Operational Excellence 

Reliable operations are the foundation for everything we do. We will continue strengthening leadership, staffing, maintenance programs, systems, facilities, and long-term planning so that Whaleback can thrive well into the future.