Deer Valley East Village rendering (DVEV) Photo: DVEV

DENVER — Alterra Mountain Company announced Tuesday it will pour more than $400 million into its resorts this year, with a majority of the money aimed at transforming Deer Valley Resort in Utah into one of the largest ski destinations in North America.

The capital program, which also includes lift upgrades, new lodges, and employee housing across Alterra’s portfolio, continues the company’s push to improve both the guest and employee experience.

“The comprehensive investments we are putting into our destinations, including the exceptional Deer Valley East expansion, are a testament to our longstanding commitment to providing our guests and employees with industry-leading mountain experiences,” said Jared Smith, Alterra’s president and CEO, in a statement.

Deer Valley’s Massive Expansion

Deer Valley’s “Expanded Excellence” project is on track to double the resort’s size by the 2025/26 season. Last winter, the East Village debuted with 20 new runs, three lifts—including the resort’s first six-person bubble chair—and a new base area anchored by the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley.

This year, the build-out continues with nearly 80 additional runs, six more lifts, and the East Village Express gondola, which will connect the new terrain to Park Peak. When completed, the project will add 3,700 acres, making Deer Valley one of the largest ski resorts in the country.

Other Resort Upgrades

Alterra’s $400 million program also touches several other mountains in its portfolio:

Snowshoe, West Virginia: A new Shavers Center skier services building will replace a nearly 50-year-old lodge, featuring ski school space, dining, and event facilities.
Crystal Mountain, Washington: The Rainier Express lift, in place for nearly four decades, will be replaced with a high-speed quad, increasing uphill capacity by about 50%.
Stratton, Palisades Tahoe, and Steamboat: New premium lounges will offer upscale food and beverage options.
Winter Park, Colorado: A two-year overhaul of snowmaking infrastructure is underway, already reducing energy consumption by nearly half.
Mammoth Mountain, California: The Westin Monache hotel will debut a renovated lobby, restaurant, and marketplace.

Focus on Employees

Alterra also pledged ongoing investment in employees, with initiatives ranging from new health coverage for seasonal workers to expanded training programs for ski patrollers and lift mechanics. Workforce housing remains a priority, with plans to renovate existing units, add more than 200 new beds, and launch housing projects at several resorts, including Deer Valley, Mammoth, and Palisades Tahoe.

The company said the combined investments aim not only to elevate the guest experience but also to address the workforce challenges that continue to affect the ski industry.