Tamarack Resort Spends $1.5 Million on Automated Snow Systems
New mobile guns and a revamped Nordic lodge aim to boost reliability at the Donnelly ski area ahead of the 2026-2027 season.
By Aiko Nakamura ·
Tamarack Resort in Donnelly, Idaho, has committed approximately $1.5 million to expanding its snowmaking infrastructure.
The resort purchased six mobile Techno Alpin TR 9s and twelve TT 10s to address snow shortages experienced during the previous winter. Installation of the equipment will take place over the next three years.
The new systems feature automated controls that activate and deactivate based on temperature conditions. This technology allows operators to maximize snow production during cold spells without constant manual monitoring.
Mason Finley of Tamarack described the upgrade as massive. He noted that the automation system helps staff utilize every available degree of cold weather for snow creation.
The new guns will be positioned from the mid-mountain area down to the base. The primary goal is to ensure consistent coverage on Waltz, a beginner run, and Serenity, an intermediate run.
The installation requires laying a 1,500-foot pipeline to transport water from on-site wells. Precise placement of the equipment is designed to reduce diesel consumption for snowcat operations. Finley stated that snowcats cost about four times as much to run as the new automated guns.
Tamarack has not yet announced a specific opening date for the 2026-2027 season. Staff are currently working on final preparations for the mountain and the new amenities.
The resort is reintroducing Nordic skiing as part of its expansion. The Lodge at Osprey Meadows will serve as the base for this activity. The area also includes an ice skating rink, the Miracle Bar, and holiday-themed decorations. Kara Finley, the resort's CEO, said the completed work on the new golf course paved the way for these additions.
Finley described the Osprey Meadows area as a winter wonderland. She emphasized that the lodge will feature a full holiday experience for guests.
Tamarack is also revamping the Rendezvous in the village area. The space, which previously operated as a food court with a coffee shop, will retain its coffee service. The dining section will now serve breakfast all day, every day.
Kara Finley explained that the change responds to guest requests for a more robust day lodge experience. The new menu will include brunch offerings 365 days a year.
The resort continues to develop terrain exposed by last year's wildfire. While the fire opened new areas for skiing and snowboarding, limited snowfall in the previous season restricted guest access to those zones. Tamarack expects to offer more access to this terrain this winter if conditions allow. The resort will host a pray for snow party on Saturday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. as the season approaches.
