Climbing to Ski: The Allure of Uphill Skiing at New Hampshire Resorts

Ever thought of skiing up a mountain before gliding down? Well, many skiers in New Hampshire are embracing this challenge. This activity, known as uphill skiing, is getting popular. Instead of riding lifts, skiers use special gear to climb up. It’s not just for the thrill, but also to find consistent snow as climate change affects backcountry skiing. Resorts like Cranmore Mountain in North Conway have noticed this trend, even providing designated routes for uphill skiers. The COVID-19 pandemic boosted interest in uphill skiing as a socially distant outdoor activity. According to Snowsports Industries America, around 100, 000 people in New England tried it in the 2023-2024 season. Many resorts now offer uphill skiing passes. Uphill New England, an organization promoting access to the sport, has seen its multi-mountain pass grow in popularity. One passionate skier, Zach McCarthy, founded Inclusive Ski Touring to make the sport more accessible. The nonprofit offers programs to reduce barriers like cost and specialized knowledge. McCarthy’s efforts have seen participation grow from 220 to 750 in a few years. Advancements in gear have also contributed to the rise of uphill skiing. Special climbing skins and bindings make it possible to walk uphill and then ski back down. While the gear can be pricey, uphill passes are cheaper than lift tickets. Some resorts view uphill skiing as both an opportunity and a challenge. They welcome new visitors but need to manage traffic. Regulations for designated routes help manage the flow of skiers and ensure safety.