Hey families, Emma here! We need to talk about what is happening up in Juneau, Alaska. If you follow my tips on skiing on a budget, you know I am always on the hunt for affordable ways to get the kids on snow. Well, Eaglecrest Ski Area is dropping a deal that sounds too good to be true, but it comes with a bit of a reality check.
The Good News: A $7 Anniversary Celebration
First, let’s start with the fun stuff. It is Eaglecrest’s 50th anniversary weekend! To celebrate, they are offering $7 lift tickets. Yes, you read that right. For a family of four, that is less than the price of a single lunch at most mega-resorts.
Even better, the Ptarmigan chairlift is finally open for the first time this season. If you are in the area, this is the time to pack the car, grab the hand warmers, and get the little ones out there. Opportunities like this are exactly how we build a love for the sport without breaking the bank.
The Reality Check: Infrastructure Struggles
Now, for the "mom-to-mom" talk. While the snow has been fantastic (one of the snowiest Decembers ever!), the operations have been having a really rough time.
We all know that skiing with kids requires logistics, and the most important one is usually... the bathroom. Unfortunately, a massive water main break recently left the base lodge and bathrooms inoperable for a couple of weeks. Can you imagine trying to manage potty training or cold toddlers without a functioning lodge? It’s been a challenge, to say the least.
On top of that, the Black Bear chairlift is permanently closed because repairs were just too expensive, and their snow groomers have been out of commission (though repairs are coming soon). It feels a bit like when you own an old house—just as you fix the roof, the furnace goes out.
The Money Talk
It’s not just broken pipes; the financial picture is a bit worrying. Reports show that season pass sales are down, and the ski area is facing a potential deficit of $7-8 million by 2028.
There was a plan to install a used gondola purchased in 2022 to help turn things around, but the installation costs keep growing. Local officials are getting nervous about the price tag, and a final decision on whether to move forward with it is coming up in March.
Changes at the Top
To add to the uncertainty, there has been quite a bit of movement in leadership. Board member Hannah Shively had to resign for health reasons, and the General Manager, Craig Cimmons, stepped down last week.
Because of all this, Mayor Beth Weldon is looking to change how things are run. The proposal is to shift the Eaglecrest Board to an advisory role, giving the City of Juneau final say on big decisions. The Mayor has been clear that this isn't personal against the staff or board, but rather a move to ensure more oversight given the financial stakes.
Why This Matters to Us
I share this not to discourage you from visiting—actually, quite the opposite! Community-owned hills like Eaglecrest are vital for families. They are the places where our kids learn to pizza-wedge without the pressure of $200 lift tickets.
If you can, go support them this weekend. Enjoy the $7 turns, be patient with the facilities, and show them that local ski areas are worth fighting for.
See you on the slopes,
Emma
Source: Unofficial Networks
