The ski lifts at Ålidberget in Nordmaling have been taken down after a winter with insufficient snow for skiing operations. According to SVT Västerbotten, despite hard work and hopes until the last moment, there was no skiing season at the popular local slope this year.
Kari Åström, chairperson of Friluftsfrämjandet Nordmaling, expressed disappointment about the situation. "It feels really bitter," Åström said, noting that the lack of natural snow along the southern coast of Västerbotten made skiing impossible. The organization had to act quickly to remove the lifts while snowmobiles could still be used for access.
it felt unfair and that they had to remove the lifts quickly while snowmobiles could still be used
The contrast in snow conditions is stark across the region. While coastal areas like Nordmaling and Umeå have almost no natural snow, mountain areas reportedly have up to one meter of snow. Marcus Boije, CEO of HK-Fjäll, confirmed excellent conditions in mountain resorts like Klimpfjäll.
Ålidberget's newly purchased snow groomer remained unused indoors throughout the winter. Despite the financial strain of fixed monthly costs, including electricity and the new machine, the organization received support from members who purchased virtual lift tickets to help sustain operations. "It's very grateful and quite a few have sent in some money," Åström said, expressing hope for better conditions next winter.