Snowmaking Master Planning

A detailed engineering layout of the Konjiam Snowgun, showing snowmaking equipment, piping, electric lines, and layout of the ski slopes and lifts, including technical specifications and legend.

At SMI, our focus is on providing master plan solutions that enhance coverage, increase efficiency, and prioritize your investment for long-term success. We believe that everything we do should be viewed as a 30+ year investment, and we plan with this in mind.

We specialize in terrain expansions, new resort planning, and upgrading existing systems. Our services include designing and laying out pumping, piping, electrical systems, and equipment placement. We prioritize evaluating your operational goals, existing infrastructure, and climate conditions to create the most effective solutions.

Our Master Planning Services

  • Option 1

    Foundational Planning

    Best for single-phase projects and system expansions

    • Snow gun layout and coverage plan for defined trails.
    • Preliminary pipe and cable sizing based on target capacities.
    • Basic water and air demand calculations
    • Equipment recommendations and system sizing
    • Conceptual layout drawings with budget range
    • Direct access to the SMI Engineering Team for questions during planning.

    Ideal For:
    • Trail expansions
    • Equipment upgrades
    • Smaller system improvements
    • Early planning discussions

  • Option 2

    Comprehensive Planning

    For multi-phase projects and complex system retrofits

    • Multi-phase snowmaking and coverage strategy across your mountain.
    • Existing system performance evaluation
    • Pumping, air, power, and pipeline layouts and planning
    • Automation and system optimization recommendations
    • Phase-based capital budgets with supporting CAD exhibits

    Ideal For:
    • Multi-year system improvements
    • Complex retrofits
    • Infrastructure upgrades

  • Option 3

    Master Planning Partnership

    Complete snowmaking master plan and engineering support

    • Full-mountain snowmaking master plan aligned with your operating goals
    • GIS / GLS mapping coordination
    • Detailed engineering and infrastructure planning - including pumping, air, power, and pipeline.
    • Phased capital planning and budgeting
    • Bid-ready engineering packages
    • Coordination with industry partners
    • On-site engineering visit & planning support

    Ideal For:
    • Major resort expansions
    • New resort development
    • Full system modernization
    • Long-term capital planning

SMI Construction

Need construction or project management support?

Planning is just the first step. SMI also delivers complete turnkey snowmaking solutions, including construction, infrastructure, and project management. Our team partners with you from concept through installation to ensure your snowmaking system performs reliably for years to come.