The owners and operators of Mammoth Mountain ski resorted purchased Southern California ski and snowboarding destinations Bear Mountain and Snow Summit for $38 million dollars. The long-anticipated acquisition gives Mammoth Mountain 4,000 more acres of skiable land, millions more visitors, and the option to pursue larger resort developments in Big Bear and Snow Summit.
Consolidation has been increasingly common in the ski-resort industry, with similar purchases in Tahoe. Consolidation has helped larger resorts maintain steady business during drier seasons, bringing an influx of capital into the towns that house the hotels and slopes. Those behind the deal say they’ll stay true to the “vibe and culture” of Big Bear, and that the new merger will offer skiers and snowboarders a great opportunity to hit the slopes with season passes. Critics argue that big resorts and condos could have a negative impact on the small ski towns.
How will Mammoth’s acquisition of Bear Mountain and Snow Summit change the ski and snowboard culture in Southern California? Can Bear Mountain be remade into an overnight destination?
Guest:
Rusty Gregory, chief executive of Mammoth Mountain
Pam Scannell, executive director of the Big Bear Chamber of Commerce