The AlpineZone Ski Area Challenge was designed to provide a method for our forum members to get official answers to skiing-related questions directly from a ski area representative.  A Marketing representative of Saddleback in Rangeley, Maine, took the AlpineZone Ski Area Challenge and provided the following responses on 7/26/2004:

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loafer89: Where is the new quad chairlift being installed, and what lift does it replace?

The new quad chair is going to replace the South Branch t-bar

loafer89: I have heard that a slope side hotel may be built. Is this true? If so, can you provide specifics as what to expect?

The slope side hotel is slated for 2005/2006 season, it will have 125 rooms, a confrence room, restrauant, and 2 pools.

loafer89: What is the location and ability level of the 6 new trails being cut this year? Will they all have snowmaking, and will snowmaking efficiency be improved on the mountain as a whole?

The 6 new trails will be 2 intermediate and 4 beginner.

loafer89: Will lift ticket rates rise considerably from last year due to the improvements?

As of right now the ticket price will be the same as last year.

uphillklimber: Are there any plans to speed up the uphill ride on the ski lifts?

The Rangeley will be faster.

uphillklimber: Any plans to increase snowmaking to increase number of trails available early in the season?

Snowmaking will go from 50% to 80%.

uphillklimber: Are there plans to increase the size of the lodge? Any plans to pave the access road? Are there any other infrastructure improvements/upgrades in the works?

The lodge is going to triple seating capacity of 530. The access road is scheduled to be paved this fall.

riverc0il: Saddleback is unique in regards to other larger resorts in that a t-bar still accesses the summit and tougher trails. Will Saddleback retain the t-bar in its long term plans?

We will keep the 2 t-bars.

riverc0il: Saddleback’s distance from the majority of the skiing population centers is clearly its largest hurdle to overcome. The press about the new ownership really helped to increase publicity. What marketing approaches is Saddleback using to increase awareness of Saddleback and get more customers there?

We have done alot of press coverage of the new construction in the last week.

riverc0il: Because Saddleback is so far removed from population centers, an overnight stay is almost a requirement for most skiers. What types of discounts and special offers do you have to draw in people for a full weekend? Do you have any special weekend stay offers for single skiers or are you aware of any nearby hostels?

We have a weekend special – stay two nights, third free, either Friday or Monday.

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To view forum comments on this Challenge and the Challenge Results, please visit the following page: