Black Mountain to Cap Historic Comeback Season with Record-Breaking May Closing
13/May/2026
In a season that has redefined the possibilities for independent ski areas in New England, Black Mountain has announced it will officially cease operations for the winter on Sunday, May 17. The date marks the latest closing day in the resort’s storied history, punctuating a remarkable seven-month season that saw the mountain operate more days than the 2022-23 and 2023-24 winters combined.
The announcement marks the triumphant conclusion of Black Mountain’s first season under the leadership of the Black Mountain Community Corporation. The resort, which faced an uncertain future just two years ago, has emerged as the poster child for the "Indy" skiing revival.
A Record-Shattering Revival
The mountain’s turnaround began in 2024 when Erik Mogensen, CEO of Indy Pass, acquired the resort. Mogensen’s vision was to preserve the soul of New Hampshire’s oldest continuously operating ski area while proving that community-focused, independent hills could still thrive in a corporate-dominated industry.
"I am beyond thankful and grateful to everyone who has been a part of this remarkable season," said Mogensen in a recent press release. "Together, we smashed every record one could possibly find. I can tell you that this little mountain is nowhere near done making big news, and I have more coming soon."
Black Mountain is currently one of only three ski areas still spinning lifts in the Eastern United States, standing alongside Vermont titans Jay Peak and Killington. With Jay Peak also slated to close this weekend, Black Mountain’s late-May operations solidify its status as a heavy hitter in the regional spring skiing scene.
Closing Weekend: The "All-Star" Lineup
The forecast for the finale is calling for classic "corn snow" conditions, with clear skies and temperatures soaring toward 70°F. The resort will operate its Double and Triple chairs from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. both days.
Beyond the four groomed trails and soft afternoon bumps, the weekend features an expansive lineup of live music and events:
Day | Event / Performer | Time | Location |
Saturday | Matt & Friends (Live Music) | 12:00 p.m. | Base Area |
Champagne DJ Set ft. Matt Dolliver | 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. | Alpine Cabin | |
Country Ham | 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. | Back Deck | |
Motor Booty Affair & Fireworks | Dusk | Main Stage | |
Sunday | Joe Agnello | 11:00 a.m. | Base Area |
Diana’s Bath Salts | 1:30 p.m. | Base Area | |
Jonathan Sarty Band | Until 7:00 p.m. | Main Stage | |
Annual Champagne Toast | After Last Chair | Back Deck |
The resort is pulling out all the stops for its final 48 hours of the season:
Dining: The Alpine Cabin will offer sun-drenched fondue and champagne lounging. The Base Lodge will feature a non-stop buffet on Saturday (9 a.m. – 9 p.m.) and a "Headache Brunch" on Sunday morning.
Retail: The entire retail store will be 50% off all weekend for those looking to snag gear before the summer hiatus.
The New Model for Independent Skiing
Founded in the 1930s, Black Mountain has transitioned from a hill on the brink of disappearance to a model of year-round community engagement. By focusing on affordability and the authentic culture of the sport, the "little mountain" has proven that it can compete with much larger resorts through sheer grit and community support.
As the last chairs head up the hill this Sunday, the mood in Jackson will be one of celebration rather than sadness—marking not just the end of a long winter, but the beginning of a new, secure era for a New Hampshire legend.
