Sunday River, Maine Weather Cams
Jordan 8 View Cam
Peak Lodge View Cam
White Cap View Cam
Baker 6 View Cam
Golf Course View Cam
The Evolution of Sunday River: Maine’s Premier Ski Destination
Sunday River, Maine Weather Cams. Sunday River Ski Resort, located in Newry, Maine, is one of the largest and most visited ski resorts in the Northeast. With its expansive terrain, innovative developments, and rich history, Sunday River has grown from a small local ski area into a world-class resort.
The Beginnings: 1958–1960
The origins of Sunday River date back to February 1958, when the Bethel Area Development Corporation was formed to promote winter business in the region. The corporation explored multiple locations before settling on Barker Mountain, also known locally as Bald Mountain. Plans for a ski area were announced in April 1958, with construction beginning shortly thereafter.
Sunday River officially opened on December 19, 1959, with a single T-Bar lift and a few trails. The resort’s early years were marked by steady growth, as new lifts and trails were added to accommodate increasing demand.
Expansion and Innovation: 1970–1990
The 1970s and 1980s saw significant expansion at Sunday River. In 1971, the Barker Double chairlift was installed, marking the resort’s first chairlift. The resort changed ownership multiple times, with Les Otten taking control in 1980 and spearheading aggressive expansion efforts. Under Otten’s leadership, Sunday River grew from 40,000 skier visits per year to 500,000 annually.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Sunday River added new peaks, lifts, and trails, transforming it into one of the largest ski resorts in the East. The introduction of high-speed quads and advanced snowmaking technology further solidified its reputation as a premier destination.
Modernization and Growth: 2000–Present
In 2007, Sunday River joined the Boyne Resorts family, bringing fresh investment and modernization. The resort continued to expand, adding new terrain, lifts, and amenities to enhance the skiing experience. Today, Sunday River boasts 135 trails across eight interconnected mountain peaks, serviced by a network of 20 lifts.
Sunday River remains a leader in the ski industry, offering night skiing, terrain parks, and year-round activities such as golf and mountain biking. The resort’s commitment to sustainability and innovation ensures its continued success for generations to come.
Conclusion
Sunday River’s history is a testament to vision, perseverance, and growth. From its humble beginnings in the late 1950s to its current status as a world-class resort, Sunday River has remained a cherished destination for skiers and outdoor enthusiasts. With ongoing investments and a commitment to excellence, the resort is poised to thrive well into the future.
For more information, visit the Sunday River ski area, Maine official website.