Support Needed for Vermont's $5 Ski Hill
Known for its incredibly low-priced $5 lift tickets, the Brattleboro Ski Hill provides an affordable entry point for new skiers and local families.
A non-profit ski area in Brattleboro, Vermont, is asking for community support to overcome significant equipment challenges ahead of the coming winter. The Brattleboro Ski Hill, a cherished local institution run entirely by volunteers, has launched a fundraising campaign to ensure it can continue offering accessible skiing to the public.
A Community Pillar Facing Financial Hurdles
Known for its incredibly low-priced $5 lift tickets, the Brattleboro Ski Hill provides an affordable entry point for new skiers and local families. However, this accessibility comes with financial challenges. According to the hill's vice president, Todd Fahey, ticket sales cover only 30% of the annual operating costs, leaving the non-profit reliant on donations to bridge the gap.
To address pressing needs, the organization started a GoFundMe campaign in August 2025 with the goal of raising $35,000. So far, the effort has collected around $8,500.
Critical Equipment Upgrades Needed
The funds are earmarked for several crucial projects. The most immediate concern is the ski area's grooming machine, which is currently out of commission. Fahey noted that a new groomer could cost over $400,000, forcing the hill to explore more realistic options like used equipment or partnerships.
Furthermore, while a partnership with Stratton Mountain Resort for loaner snow guns has been a great help, Fahey stressed the "need to upgrade our own snowmaking infrastructure to high-efficiency snow guns." This is especially important as natural snow becomes less reliable. A long-term goal for the ski hill is a $70,000 electronic upgrade to its T-bar lift.
The Importance of Grassroots Skiing
Small, affordable ski areas like Brattleboro are vital to the health of the snowsports industry. They serve as "feeder" hills, where a new generation can discover a passion for skiing and snowboarding without facing the high costs of larger resorts.
"Your donation will not only help us become operational for the coming season, it will help ensure the continued operation of your local ski hill for many years to come!" Fahey wrote in the campaign appeal.
Hope Through Community Support
Fundraising campaigns have proven to be a lifeline for other small ski areas in similar situations. Earlier this year, Whaleback Mountain in New Hampshire was faced with a massive repair bill for its chairlift. Through the support of its community, the mountain successfully raised $250,000, saving its winter operations and demonstrating the power of collective action.
The future of Brattleboro Ski Hill now rests on similar community spirit to help it continue its mission for another season and beyond.
To donate to Brattleboro’s GoFundMe page, click here.