A powerful storm at Belleayre Mountain Resort in New York led to a tree falling on one of the resort’s main ski lifts, causing significant damage and operational delays.

The incident occurred on Monday, February 19, 2025, as strong winds swept through the area, impacting lift operations and skier accessibility. Resort officials confirmed the damage, stating that they are working with Doppelmayr, the lift’s manufacturer, to assess the situation. However, as of now, there is no estimated timeline for when the lift will be operational again

Tree Collapse Shuts Down Belleayre Express Lift

The Belleayre Express Lift, one of four major chairlifts at the resort, was struck by a falling tree during the storm. The impact damaged the haul rope and left chairs hanging dangerously low to the ground. Fortunately, no skiers or staff were on the lift at the time, and no injuries were reported.

Belleayre Mountain Resort addressed the incident in a social media post, assuring visitors that they are actively working on a repair plan. They also urged skiers to follow updates on their website and social media channels to stay informed about the lift’s reopening.

How This Affects Skiers at Belleayre Mountain

The temporary closure of the Belleayre Express Lift is expected to cause some disruptions for skiers. Since this lift provides access to a large portion of the mountain’s terrain, its absence could result in:

Longer wait times at other lifts as more skiers rely on fewer available lifts.

Reduced access to certain trails, making it harder for visitors to navigate their usual routes.

Potential overcrowding in certain areas of the resort, particularly during peak hours.

Despite these challenges, Belleayre Resort remains open, with other lifts still operating. Resort officials are advising skiers to plan ahead and check for real-time updates before arriving.

Weather Challenges Impacting Ski Resorts Across the East Coast

Belleayre Mountain Resort is not the only ski resort facing issues due to extreme weather. Several East Coast ski destinations have experienced strong winds, power outages, and lift malfunctions in recent days. Some of the major disruptions include:

New Hampshire: Over 100 skiers had to be rescued after a ski lift malfunction left them stranded.

Stratton Mountain, Vermont: The resort was forced to shut down on Monday due to dangerously high winds.

Sugarloaf & Berkshire East (Maine & Massachusetts): Both resorts lost power, disrupting their operations.

Loon Mountain & Attitash (New Hampshire): Several ski lifts had to be put on hold due to extreme winds.

These incidents highlight the ongoing weather-related challenges that ski resorts face every winter. While it can be disappointing for skiers, safety remains the top priority, and resorts must act cautiously to prevent accidents.

What’s Next for Belleayre Mountain Resort?

Belleayre Mountain officials are evaluating repair options and working with lift experts to assess the full extent of the damage. The resort has not yet announced when the Belleayre Express Lift will reopen, but they have assured visitors that updates will be provided as soon as possible.

In the meantime, the resort is encouraging skiers to use alternative lifts and plan for potential delays. Visitors are also advised to check weather conditions before heading to the slopes, as additional storms could further impact operations.

This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of winter weather and its impact on ski resorts. While Belleayre Mountain Resort works to restore full operations, skiers should remain patient and prioritize safety while enjoying the slopes.

With more winter storms expected in the coming weeks, ski resorts across the East Coast will need to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of visitors and staff.