Wolf Creek Ski Area, the beloved mountain resort south of Pagosa Springs, Colorado, officially opened its gates this weekend after a brief closure caused by severe flooding earlier this season. A live webcam showed fresh powder coating the slopes as skiers and snowboarders began circling the lodge.
Emergency repairs underway
While guests enjoyed the reopening, the resort announced it will close again on Monday to let emergency crews complete critical flood‑damage repairs. CEO Davey Pitcher explained that the work focuses on restoring washed‑out roads, damaged lift infrastructure, and other essential facilities.
“They are assuring us that by next Friday emergency repairs will be done and they will be open for Thanksgiving week,” Pitcher said. He added that the goal is to have the lifts operating seven days a week as soon as possible.
Impact of the historic flooding
The season’s start was delayed when historic flooding swept through southern Colorado, destroying access roads and harming resort infrastructure. The damage forced Wolf Creek to postpone its opening, which had originally been scheduled for Halloween.
Local emergency management teams responded quickly, clearing debris and stabilizing the terrain. Their efforts have allowed the resort to resume limited operations while final repairs continue.
What this means for the community
Wolf Creek is a major economic driver for the Pagosa Springs area, drawing tourists from across the Rocky Mountain region. The resort’s reopening provides a boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and outfitters that rely on winter visitors.
Residents expressed relief at seeing the mountain back in action. “It’s great to see the slopes open again. The community depends on this resort,” said a local business owner who preferred to remain unnamed.
Looking ahead
Pitcher remains optimistic that the resort will be fully operational by the Thanksgiving holiday, giving families a chance to enjoy the season’s first major holiday on the mountain. He also indicated that the resort plans to maintain a full‑week schedule once repairs are complete, supporting both recreation and the local economy.
As the region continues to recover from the flood, Wolf Creek’s progress serves as a tangible sign of resilience and the community’s commitment to restoring normalcy.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.