With its current owners looking to sell, California's Bear Valley Mountain could soon be purchased by a co-op of devoted skiers. As the closest major ski area to the Bay Area, the ski area has a loyal following and those same skiers could now own a slice of their skiing heaven. California residents or businesses can buy one share each for $2,500, which gives shareholders the right to vote, member benefits, and a say in mountain operations. The co-op has a cap of 4,000 members and is modeling itself after the only other resort in the country currently owned by a co-op, Vermont's Mad River Glen. The co-op is in the process of making an initial offer for the mountain, village, and lodge, so stay tuned.
· Bear Valley Mountain Cooperative [Official Site]
· Locally Owned Skiing: Co-op formed to potentially purchase California's Bear Valley Mountain [Powder]