Welcome to Beyond the Slopes, our new series taking you behind the scenes of the resorts, riders and moments that make winter so addictive.
First stop: Powder Ridge Park, Connecticut. It’s the kind of hill you can lap all day and still find something new to hit. You’ve got rails to jib, jumps to send, and a full-size halfpipe waiting for anyone chasing air. Throw in serious snowmaking and night sessions that light up the whole mountain, and you’ve got a spot that keeps people coming back, whether they’re linking their first turns or lapping park until the lifts close.
We sat down with the team to find out what’s new for 2026/27, how they’re getting more riders strapped in and progressing faster, and what’s got them hyped for Snowbound Expo.
Give us a few facts about Powder Ridge Park
- Powder Ridge features one of the largest snowmaking operations in North America, with a snow factory capable of producing snow in temperatures up to 60 degrees, helping provide reliable conditions throughout the season.
- Guests can count on a strong start to winter with a guaranteed opening on Black Friday.
- Powder Ridge is home to the largest terrain park in Connecticut, offering exciting features and challenges for skiers and snowboarders of all ability levels.
- Powder Ridge has Connecticut’s largest snow tubing experience, featuring up to 20 lanes stretching more than 500 feet long. The snow tubing experience includes an unforgettable nighttime atmosphere with interstellar lights and music, creating a unique adventure for families and groups.
What is new at Powder Ridge Park for the 2026/27 season?
For the 2026/27 season, Powder Ridge Park is excited to complete its full restoration and welcome guests back to an enhanced winter experience. A major highlight is the expansion of our snowmaking capabilities with over 175 snow guns and the snow factory, helping provide more consistent conditions and a longer season for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
This restoration represents a new chapter for Powder Ridge, with a renewed focus on creating a premier family-friendly destination where guests can learn, ride, and enjoy everything the mountain has to offer.
What do you offer for families and beginner skiers/snowboarders?
For families, beginner skiers and snowboarders, Powder Ridge offers the Sculpted Learning & Snow Play Area, a fun and approachable way to build confidence on the snow.
Our Sculpted Learning experience uses specially shaped snow features to naturally help guests control speed, improve body position, and learn the fundamentals of skiing and snowboarding in a comfortable environment. By reducing the common fears and challenges of getting started, beginners can focus on having fun while developing their skills.
The Snow Play Area gives children the opportunity to experience winter activities at their own pace. Kids can try skiing and snowboarding, enjoy snow tubing on a smaller run, or simply play in the snow and build snowmen. Instructors are available to provide guidance, and all equipment is included, making it an easy and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
What are you most looking forward to at Snowbound Expo?
We’re most looking forward to showcasing Powder Ridge Park in its fully restored state and sharing the incredible progress of its revitalization. Snowbound Expo is a great opportunity to connect with the winter sports community, celebrate the return of a beloved destination, and highlight everything Powder Ridge has to offer for skiers, riders, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Come say hi. Come get shredding. Don’t miss Powder Ridge Park at Snowbound Expo in 2026! powderridgepark.com