It’s been a busy summer at Liberty Mountain Resort. The Pennsylvania ski area has upgraded the Eastwind Quad Chairlift, increased the amount of automated snowmaking, and made a number of improvements both on and off mountain.

Beginning skiers and boarders will find it a bit easier to board the First Class Area Quad Chairlift. Over the summer, Liberty remounted the bottom lift station, raising it four feet higher than it has been in years past.

On the backside of the mountain, Liberty has replaced the old Eastwind Quad Chairlift with a new Doppelmayr CTEC chairlift. The newer chairlift design will provide more comfortable seating.

Eastwind Quad replacement. Photo provided by Liberty Mountain Resort.

In recent years, Liberty has begun rolling out state-of-the-art automated snowmaking across the mountain. That trend continued during the summer of 2009, with the addition of automated snow guns on the Sneaky Pete, Lower Nova, Snow Cat Alley, and Mid-Blue Streak trails. 60% of Liberty’s terrain has now been converted to automated snowmaking. Computers monitor key locations across the slopes and continuously make adjustments, allowing optimal snow to be made more efficiently and quickly. This newer snowmaking system also reduces the energy required to make snow.

Liberty has also purchased a brand new, top-of-the-line Pisten Bully 600 groomer. Liberty has filled in its halfpipe, and will instead use the area as a “progression” area, providing additional lesson space for the ski and snowboard schools.

Off the mountain, Liberty has also made a number of capital improvements.

The Alpine Room has been renovated with freshly painted and oak-paneled walls, wood beams accenting the ceiling, and new carpet. The Bakery has also been redesigned with warm colors and wood accents, and will offer Starbucks and freshly-baked goodies. A new seating area provides a view of the mountain.

Debuting last winter season, the popular Alpine Patio has been expanded to offer room for more guests.

Advantage Card Holders will now have the option of purchasing their lift tickets in advance on-line.

Liberty has also significantly increased its inventory of rental helmets.

Ed Fowler contributed to this story.

Photo provided by Liberty Mountain Resort.

Remount of First Class Quad. Photo provided by Liberty Mountain Resort.