Home Views from the Notch The 8-Ball says, “Outlook Good”

The 8-Ball says, “Outlook Good”

October 23, 2025

In my extensive exploration of all things related to winter weather, as someone who depends on snow in the winter for both employment and recreation, I have noticed a recurring theme recently. I would like to take a moment to address that common concern and then provide some pieces of information to help get your winter spirits stirring.

First, let’s discuss the trepidation that the uncharacteristically dry end of summer and fall might result in insufficient water for snowmaking due to drought conditions. The short and sweet of it is – fear not. As I write this, we’ve just received nearly two inches of rain in a single day, and the local Lamoille River is flowing far more energetically than it was earlier in the week. Additionally, we’re looking at multiple chances for more rainfall over the next ten days (and maybe even mountain snow flurries), suggesting that our extended dry spell might finally be coming to an end. Vermont’s weather is famously unpredictable, but in my experience, it always finds a way to balance itself. The wet weather we need seems likely to arrive right on cue. As for here at Smuggs, our snowmaking ponds are replenished by both rainfall and an offsite river source, essentially guaranteeing a steady and reliable water supply for snowmaking operations. That river water is also why you may not want to let your kids eat machine made snow… Given Vermont’s fickle weather, maintaining a strong and efficient snowmaking system is crucial to ensuring consistently good conditions throughout the season. Fortunately, we have both the water and the technology to keep the snow guns pumping. So, to those who worry, it’s time to shift your focus to temperatures, because that’s the one factor we can’t control. When you dance with Mother Nature, she always leads – so, turn up your favorite tune and start those cold temps and snow dances!

For the long-range forecast enthusiasts out there, this season’s expected weather pattern is classified as a “weak La Niña.” That term might not mean much at first glance, but generally, it signals a trend toward warmer and wetter conditions, and a jet stream that pushes storms our way. While “warmer and wetter” might not sound ideal, remember, snow requires precipitation. A wetter pattern could very well translate into strong snowfall totals. I took some time to review past snowfall data from other years that shared this same “weak La Niña” pattern. Interestingly, many of those seasons saw excellent snowfall, some even ranking among the top ten all-time snowfall depths. Betting can be risky, of course, but if I were a gambling man, I’d put my money on a solid snow year.

Lastly, the word from Mountain Operations is that brush cutting has been completed on all of our trails. Apparently, it’s the best quality work that’s ever been witnessed. Also amazingly, this team of 16 workers completed our entire network in just five and half days, which is truly incredible. As a former member of the brush crew, it would take our team sometimes a whole day to complete just one trail. So, kudos to the brush cutting crew this year, the true “GOATS” of trail maintenance.

We’ve got another pricing deadline coming right up on October 31st, so if you haven’t purchased your Seasons Pass or Bash Badge yet, sooner would be better than later.

Our hours of operation on the resort and available activities have changed for our late fall season. Please refer to the buttons below for the most up to date information.