The continuing saga over Whitetail ownership may be nearing a conclusion, as Pennsylvania’s youngest ski resort reviews proposals from several bidders. Last year, Whitetail’s ownership decided to sell the resort following a string of unseasonably mild winters. Initial attempts to sell the resort to local counties failed, after competing ski areas complained that the sale might result in unfair competition. This spring, an attempt was made to sell the resort to the Mercersburg General Purpose Authority, but this fell through in June after the county was unable to sell $42 million worth of bonds to fund the sale. Shortly thereafter, most of Whitetail’s full-time staff was laid off and the resort was placed on the auction block, with bids due July 31. The resort is currently reviewing several offers and expects to announce whether a bid has been accepted within the next few weeks.

The continuing drama has remained largely behind the scenes. The mountain biking season is alive and kicking at Whitetail this summer; Whitetail spokeswoman Rachel Nichols reports that visits have been strong throughout the summer season. An 18-hole golf course and conference center remain under development, with an expected opening in 2000. Despite the uncertainty over where Whitetail ownership will ultimately land, all plans are “go” for the upcoming winter season.