US Ski Resort Damaged by Wildfire
16th August 2026
A chairlift, the ski area and ski shack were damaged at Maverick Mountain in Montana but it could have been worse. NEW
Despite the destruction at the ski area, firefighters have been able to protect the lodge, Elkhorn Hot Springs, and other structures in the area.
Firefighters, bulldozer crews, and hotshot crews have saved homes across the road from the ski hill.
Fire planes also strategically dropped fire retardant along ridges to protect homes in the area.
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The blaze is out in the resort and the damage is being assessed.
All structures in the base area have been saved as well as snowcats and equipment.
“A huge thanks goes out to all the firefighters and crews on the ground actively fighting the Sand Creek Fire,” said the owner of the resort, Erik Borge.
“Unfortunately our only chairlift sustained extensive damage and will most likely be inoperable for this coming ski season.
“We will provide an update once the smoke settles and we are able to assess all damages.
“Maverick Mountain is more than just a ski hill.
“Maverick is a community and a place of gathering where families, locals and tourists come together.
“Maverick is about stories, friendships that are more like family, and unforgettable days on the mountain.
“Unfortunately the fire has burned our Mountain but our community is still in tack, and you can’t burn that up with fire.
“At this point, our road forward is undefined but we will keep our commitment to our local communities, the kids, families and other passholders that make up the MavRat family.
“We are already actively looking at how to rebuild Maverick.
“The terrain will not be quite the same but we will embrace new turns.
“We are currently in a whirlwind of emotions, its been a very tough few days but with the support of our local community and others from afar we will get through this, we will rebuild.”
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Earlier this summer a wild fire went through Eagle Point ski resort in Utah causing widespread destruction.
It has announced it will not re-open for next season but it is hopeful for the future.
Wild fires in North America. Image © PlanetSKI
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