Improvements

Planning for the Future
Our Continued Investment in Guest Experience

At Belleayre, we believe a mountain getaway is about more than great snow, it is about creating unforgettable moments from the time you arrive until your last run of the day. We’re excited to share the improvements underway that will make your time here even more comfortable, exciting, and memorable.

Discovery Lodge Expansion 

One of the most anticipated projects is the 28,000-square-foot expansion of Discovery Lodge. This thoughtfully designed addition enhances comfort, convenience, and services for our guests while supporting the future growth of Belleayre.

  • Lower Level – A brand-new Rossignol Experience Center rental shop, featuring over 1,200 Rossignol skis, 300 Burton snowboards, plus a fleet of demo equipment so you can test gear before you buy. The shop also houses a cutting-edge Wintersteiger Jupiter tuning machine, with advanced stone grinding, ceramic disc edge finishing, infrared waxing, and more.
  • Main Level – An expanded and redesigned Marketplace cafeteria for more dining space.
  • Upper Level – Additional seating, restrooms, lockers, and new food & beverage offerings, including a carved sandwich station and espresso bar. 

Overlook Lodge Renovation & Restoration

Originally built back in the 1950’s, Overlook Lodge has been there throughout the eras, watching entire generations grow up within its walls. It is now undergoing a critical process of restoration and renovation, preserving its history and rustic charm while bringing it up to speed and introducing modern comforts to you.

Highlights include:

  • Entryway & Architecture – A welcoming covered entry, natural light from high dormers, and a fully opened interior showcasing stunning log trusses.
  • Fireplaces & Flooring – Restored blue stone flooring and upgraded fireplaces with energy-efficient inserts.
  • Accessibility – New main-level restrooms and an elevator for easier access.
  • Lower Level – Expanded seating, floor-to-ceiling mountain views, a modernized cafeteria, upgraded restrooms, and a state-of-the-art HVAC system.

The Overlook Lodge renovation and restoration began in March 2025, and crews have been working tirelessly to bring this transformation to life! It is an incredibly involved process to ensure the preservation of the building’s original charm and feel, while bringing it up to speed for the needs of those who make Belleayre their wintry home today. This project is expected to continue into the 25/26 Season, and the lodge will not be accessible to the general public during this time, other than Overlook Club locker holders.

During renovations:

  • Overlook Club locker holders will access lockers through the back entrance of the club.
  • Breezeway Lockers have been relocated to Longhouse Lodge, now featuring new flooring, an open layout, and direct to snow access from the brand-new back deck.

As construction moves forward, we will continue to update you! We appreciate your patience during this exciting transformation and can’t wait to welcome you back to an improved Overlook Lodge experience.

Other Mountain Improvements

Belleayre is also investing in upgrades across the mountain to enhance snow quality, sustainability, and convenience:

  • Snowmaking: 20 new HKD tower guns, one HKD fan gun, and 20,000 feet of new snowmaking pipe (adding to the 150,000 feet upgraded in recent years). Better snow, better coverage, greater efficiency.
  • Grooming: A new snowcat joins the fleet, bringing more precision and reliability to grooming trails and shaping terrain parks.
  • EV Charging: 20 new Integra EV chargers in Lot B at Discovery Lodge. Just scan the QR code, download the Integra app, plug in, and charge while you ski.
  • Sustainability: Electric vehicles and equipment are being added to the Belleayre fleet, including an electric van for our maintenance team, and a battery-powered lawn mower as part of our continued commitment to reducing our environmental footprint.

Belleayre is proud to keep investing in the guest experience. From expanded lodges and modernized facilities to snowmaking, grooming, and sustainable practices, these improvements are all about making your time on the mountain more memorable than ever.

 

Past Mountain Improvements

2024-2025 Continued Investments in Snowmaking – The addition of 20 full automated SMI Polecat fan guns were added to the Dot Nebel Trail.  30,000 feet of snowmaking pipe replacement.

2024-2025 A Reimaged Learning Experience – A new novice learning area was added to the summit of the mountain featuring a wide open space and and new carpet surface lift.

2023-2024 New Trail – The Goat Path trail was modified and expanded, allowing for a new intermediate trail off the summit.

2023-2024 Lift Upgrades – Replacement of the Triple Chair #7 lift with a new Quad Chair Lift.  This project also called for a skier bridge over the Overlook Lodge parking lot to provide skiers descending multiple trails easy access to the relocated loading area of the new lift.

2023-2024 Snowmaking – The addition of 250 HKD Impulse R5 tower guns, 5 SMI Super Polecat fan guns, and 27,000 feet of snowmaking pipe.

2022-2023 Snowmaking Upgrades – We added 300 HKD lower-engergy snow guns, 60,000 feet of new pipe, and a new energy-efficient pump in the pumphouse.

2021-2022 Snowmaking Pumphouse & Pipe – A state-of-the-art pumphouse was built and is the home of all of our electric compressors and 4 pumps.

2021 – 2022 Snowguns – 235 HKD Impulse R5 tower guns were installed, replacing old high-energy guns.  These guns allow us to make snow with minimal air consumption to better utilize our water pumping capabilities.

2021-2022 Snowmaking Pipe – 13,000′ of snowmaking pipe was installed across the mountain.  12″ feeds were installed from the new pumphouse to the top of Dot Nebel, across the summit to Roaring Brook.  The pipe will allow the mountain to pump water up the mountain using two main lines and will down feed to the individual trail lines increasing efficiency and allowing the mountain to utilize more out on the hill.

2020-2021 Snowmaking Upgrades – New pumps and a new compressor were added to the snowmaking infrastructure.  The pumps will boost pressure within the system allowing for increased snowmaking capacity and expanded water delivery. An energy efficient compressor is also being added to the system. Replacing old diesel units, the new compressor will help improve coverage.

2020-2021 Phase 2 of the Discovery Lodge renovations – An additional 2,700 square feet of indoor space has been added to the 3rd floor and is available for private group functions as well as daily use for all guests.  The additional indoor area incorporates large windows that overlook the main floor. This allows for natural light and adds to the aesthetics.

2019-2020 Discovery Lodge Modernization & Renovations – The project continues New York’s investment in the Highmount ski area, designed to increase year-round visitation, enhance customer experience and be a catalyst for the tourism industry in the Catskill region. Alleviating long lines and overcrowded spaces, the improvements will increase the seating capacity in the cafeteria and lounge areas and will add restrooms conveniently located at the main level of the lodge. The children’s programmatic space for families will be expanded and modernized. A new patio area will be added along with a new outdoor ticketing area.

2019-2020 Lightning Quad Lift – The Lightning Quad replaced the former double Lifts #1 and #2 in the beginner area. This state of the art lift has a conveyor entrance. The loading gates and the conveyor are timed with the chair interval to make for an easier loading process and allowing for the maximum loading capacity.

2018-2019 Bigger & Better Terrain Parks – Area 51 and Area 15 will be getting some TLC this winter. That’s right, the terrain parks will be getting some new jumps, ramps, boxes, rails, pipes, and other features for you to explore. The new features will surely keep you jibbing and jumping throughout the season.

2018-2019 Snowmaking – The snowmaking team is just as busy during the warmer months as they are when they are out making snow. They are hard at work adding to our existing snowmaking capabilities with the addition of 50 low energy tower snowguns to the fleet and 4 new 1500 cfm compressors. These new additions will help with snowmaking efficiency, which means we will be able to make more snow with fewer resources.

2018-2019 Kidscamp Area – The trail maintenance crews are making the Kidscamp Learning Area bigger & better. Trees have been removed between Lifts #1 & 2 and the kidscamp park, the magic carpet will be replaced with a longer 220′ magic carpet, and the entrance to the area will be regraded making it easier to access the available terrain. The newly expanded area will be more efficient for teaching and fun on the snow for all those who participate!

2018-2019 Medical Building – A new state of the art ski patrol building will be constructed in the lower area next to the Teepee Flats teaching area. The main floor will include a trauma room, waiting area with a nurse’s station, and additional bed space for patients. The building will also contain a locker room and storage for much-needed supplies.

2018-2019 Overlook Lodge Deck/Locker Room – Ongoing Overlook Lodge renovations are continuing. The deck will be replaced for our guests to enjoy during the winter and can be used for weddings & special events during the summer & fall months. The locker room will also be expanded allowing for extra storage and season-long rentals.

2018-2019 NYSEF Extends Programming to Belleayre – The New York Ski Educational Foundation (NYSEF) is excited to announce its growing partnership with the Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) by offering competitive alpine and freeride programming at Belleayre.

2018-2019 Aqua Trikes at the Belleayre Beach – Fun at the Belleayre Beach has just gotten more enjoyable with the addition of two NEW Aqua Trikes! Anyone in the family can just hop on a trike and pedal out into the water for a unique experience at the lake. The trikes are a great addition to the facility and a big hit with everyone, especially with the kiddos. The Beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

2017-2018 Catskill Thunder Gondola – “Catskill Thunder” will be comprised of 60 cabins that will transport up to 8 adult guests per cabin at a maximum speed of 1000 feet per minute. Patrons will be able to load the lift just above the Discovery Lodge and ride it to the peak of the mountain just towards the east side of the Tomahawk Lift. This project is slated to be completed by December of 2017. It will also allow for future cross-country skiing across the summit, year-round scenic rides, lift-serviced mountain biking, and wedding and party rentals at the summit.

2015-2016 Dreamcatcher Glade – The addition of the Dreamcatcher Glade was a huge hit with skiers and snowboarders. We are going to continue our efforts in widening and clearing out the glade this summer. The Dreamcatcher glade was added to the west side of the mountain, right off of the Deer Run trail. The trail was cleared out and in early November and was opened to the public on February 11, 2015. This new trail was a great addition to the mountain and showcased the variety of terrain that Belleayre has to offer.

Catskill Thunder Fun Facts

  • Number of man-hours to install gondola: Over 5,500
  • Total number of cabins: 60
  • Spliced length of cabling: 13067.09 ft
  • Top speed: 1,000 ft per minute
  • Uphill capacity: 2,000 people per hour
  • Number of tons of concrete pour for both top & bottom terminals: 200 tons each/400 tons total
  • Number of towers installed: 16
  • Tallest tower: 58 ft
  • Date construction began: July 1, 2017.
  • Bull wheel size: Drive (bottom) 15.75 ft and the Return (top) 17.06 ft.
  • Motor size: 600hp electric primary, a 600hp diesel auxiliary & a 130hp tertiary diesel engine

What To Expect This Winter

What To Expect This Winter

This winter marks an exciting chapter as we invest in your experience with major enhancements at both the Discovery and Overlook Lodges.  For a full recap of the improvements happening at the mountain, make sure to visit the improvements tab.

While renovations and restoration continue at the Overlook Lodge, we’ve created a helpful guide outlining what to expect at each of our lodges and the services available to help you make the most of your visit.

Discovery Lodge — Fully Open With All Services!

This Discovery Lodge will be your one-stop hub for mountain access.  This winter, Discovery will be ready to welcome guests with exciting new features, including:

  • Lower Level:  A brand new state-of-the-art rental & tuning shop.
  • Main Level:  A redesigned Marketplace offering a full food menu.
  • Upper Level:  Expanded seating, new lockers, and new food & beverage options.

Additional services in the lodge will include:

  • Guest services and ticket sales.
  • Bar/lounge.
  • Snowsports lessons.
  • Retail shop.
  • Restrooms on all levels.
Overlook Lodge — Continued Renovations & Restoration

Renovations and restoration of the Overlook Lodge will continue throughout the season. Access for now will be limited to Overlook Club locker holders only.  We would recommend using the Discovery Lodge or your vehicle as your home base while enjoying the mountain.

  • Overlook Club locker holders will have access through the back entrance of the club.
  • Breezeway season long locker holders have been moved to main level of the Longhouse Lodge.
  • Ticket sales & guest services will be available at the outside ticket booth.
  • Restrooms will be located on the main floor of the Longhouse Lodge.
  • Please Stay Tuned:  As additional services become available in the Overlook Lodge Area, we will make sure to update this page, the snow report, and social accounts.
Longhouse Lodge

At the Longhouse, you will find the following:

  • Upper Level: Restrooms, limited seating, and the Breezeway Locker holders that were previously located in the Overlook Lodge.
  • Lower Level:  The lodge will continue to be home to NYSEF.
  • Season Long Programs: All season long programs will meet behind the Longhouse Lodge as usual, unless otherwise notified.
Sunset Lodge

At this time, the Sunset Lodge is only open for warming.  Restrooms and food options are not available at this time.

Lift Tickets, Lessons, & Rentals Capacity Limits

As in prior seasons, daily capacity limits remain in place. Lift tickets, lessons, and rentals may sell out in advance and will not be available to purchase at the mountain if sold out online.  Plan ahead and secure your visit by purchasing online, to guarantee your spot!

We thank you for your patience and support as we work through this exciting time of transformation. Our mission remains the same: to make sure every time you visit Belleayre, you have an incredible experience from start to finish.

Belleayre is going cashless

Starting this year, Belleayre is moving to a Mitten Friendly (cashless) payment experience across the resort. To help make your visit faster, easier, and glove-on convenient, we will no longer accept cash for purchases resort-wide. We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and our Olympic Authority’s (ORDA) in-house gift cards at every point of sale.

Guests who prefer to use cash can visit any Guest Service location to convert their cash to a gift card at no cost into one of our two Mitten Friendly payment options:

1. In-House Gift Cards – Available at all Guest Service locations and purchasable with cash or credit card. These cards can be used anywhere throughout Belleayre, Gore, Whiteface, Mt Van Hoevenberg, and other ORDA venues.

2. Pass-Pay™ – ORDA’s Pass-Pay program allows Adult Season Passes  (ages 20+) to sync any credit card to their pass for quick, cashless payments at the mountain.  Season passes for guests ages 19 & under can be set up as an in-house gift card. Both options are available in person at any Guest Service location.

These two Mitten Friendly options ensure a smooth, convenient, and glove-on payment experience for all guests.

For additional information of why Belleayre and the Olympic Authority is heading in this direction or to read FAQs, please visit here.

Storing Gear

We’ve added lockers in the Rental Shop at the Discovery Lodge to help make your day on the mountain even better. Locker rentals range from $12–$22, depending on the size.  These lockers help create a more comfortable lodge experience for everyone by keeping common areas clear and accessible. We kindly ask guests not to store bags or personal items under or on top of tables.

If you do not wish to utilize the lockers and need to store items, please utilize the complimentary bag storage area seating area next to the Marketplace in the Discovery Lodge.  Thank you for helping us keep the lodge welcoming and enjoyable for all guests.