Bogus Basin First In US To Pilot Snow Secure technology

Just ahead of the 2025/26 ski and snowboard season, Bogus Basin has shared new information about their experiment with Snow Secure, an innovative snow storage technology from Finland that has been used successfully in Scandinavian countries for over a decade.

Snow Secure, named one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2025, is a modern solution for ski and snowboard areas that are interested in having greater control over snow conditions. White polystyrene mats insulate the snow while simultaneously shielding it from the summer elements. The technology functions as a safety net, ensuring reliable opening dates in an era of unpredictable climate patterns and late snow arrivals.

Snow preservation — storing snow from one season to use the next — helps reduce the water and electricity required to create machine-made snow. On average, the technology cuts early season water and electricity consumption by 70%.

“We learned a lot with the Snow Secure pilot program. We intend to expand, using this innovative technology to eventually allow us to open up our first chairlift on stored snow on a planned date each year.”  Austin Smith, Director of Innovation and Marketing

In April, mountain officials gathered available snow from around the mountain and created a giant mound on the lower Coach’s Corner run. The snow pile measured 300 feet long, 80 feet wide, and 30 feet deep when it was covered with the insulation panels. Despite the fact that surface temperatures of the reflective panels reached 119º over the summer, the underlying snow remained at or around freezing temperatures, demonstrating the effectiveness of the technology.

When the team uncovered the stored snow on October 9th, the majority of the original pile remained, proving that the concept will work at Bogus Basin. Although it’s not enough snow to cover Coach’s Corner this year, the mountain operations team is now confident in the technology’s potential and is working on a plan to expand the program.

“Both environmentally and economically, this is the next innovation for the North American ski industry.” added Nate Shake, Director of Operations

November has been warmer than usual on the mountain, and the recreation area is excited about the potential impact of the Snow Secure technology. By expanding the program, guests can expect a set opening date on an annual basis.

“To supplement the stored snow, the snowmaking team is prepared to work around the clock as soon as temperatures allow.” Rob Harms, Slopes Manager

After many years in development, Snow Secure is making the jump to North American ski areas! Bogus Basin is one of the first two areas in the United States to debut this industry-leading technology. As a non-profit, Bogus Basin is fortunate not to answer to private owners, equity groups, or shareholders, who may not see the obvious ROI of saving snow season to season. Their mission, which focuses on providing recreation to the local community, is the cornerstone that enables innovations like this to reach the Treasure Valley.