Inspired by better snowmaking technology and growing attendance, ski resorts in the Northeast are spending millions of dollars in what industry officials call the region's greatest expansion since the 1960s.
They have a point, but many people have learned to ski quite happily in Bormio, and it gets considerable repeat business among an affectionate clientele. Facilities - particularly lifts and snowmaking - were spruced up for the 1985 World Championships.
But small ski areas without adequate snowmaking facilities are hurting.
Burke Mountain in East Burke, Vt., is making more than $1 million in improvements to the 25-year-old ski area, including construction of 100 condominiums and a 20 percent expansion of snowmaking capabilities.