Wednesday, December 3, 2025, NewEnglandSkiIndustry.com
The rebirth of Black Mountain is gaining traction, as areas of contention with the Town of Jackson appear to be resolved.
One of the longest running ski areas in the country, Black Mountain had announced its closure in 2023 when Erik Mogensen, owner of the Indy Ski Pass, stepped forward to provide assistance in maintaining operations and finding a new owner. One year later, Mogensen announced that Indy Pass would purchase the ski area and transition it to a cooperative ownership model.
Through extensive changes in snowmaking, marketing, and event planning, Black Mountain has drawn large crowds, making waves in the Town of Jackson. Mogensen and Jackson Police Chief Chris Perley had a number of well-publicized run-ins, resulting in legal action. Some landowners also had issues with the events, including one who reportedly spread odorous maneuver along the property line near the base lodge during the ski season in retaliation.
A series of escalating town actions resulted in Black filing state and federal lawsuits. Matters included the town ticketing vehicles parked outside of Black's parking lots, revoking the ability to serve alcohol at the Alpine Cabin, and attempting to halt snowmaking operations due to noise. Black Mountain's snowmaking history dates back to the 1957-58 season.
According to the terms of the settlement, Black is expanding its parking capacity, will install restroom facilities at the Alpine Cabin by next season to maintain the liquor license, and will receive at least two fireworks permits per year. The ski area will also have a new point-of-contact with the Jackson police department. Black will drop its state and federal lawsuits.
After being the last ski area to close in New Hampshire in May 2025, Black offered the first lift-served turns in the state this season. Significant upgrades have been made to the snowmaking system, while facility improvement announcements are forthcoming.
