SAM Magazine—Broomfield, Colo., Oct. 19, 2023—Vail Resorts (VR) has chosen Trent Poole to become vice president and GM of Hunter Mountain Resort, effective Oct. 30. He succeeds Russ Coloton, who is retiring after serving 44 years as president of Hunter.

An 18-year VR veteran, Poole has a background in finance, project management, and mountain operations. Poole began with financial roles at Keystone Resort and Breckenridge, Colo., eventually serving as director of finance at each resort.

In 2019, the Ohio native transitioned to management and operations as a general manager—first at Mad River Mountain, Ohio, and then at Jack Frost and Big Boulder (JFBB), Pa. At the latter, he headed the “Epic Lift Upgrade” project, which brought five new chairlifts to the two resorts. 

“I am honored to become a part of the exceptional team at Hunter Mountain Resort," Poole said. "My respect and admiration for Russ Coloton and his dedicated team run deep. Hunter Mountain has a rich history, and it is a privilege to be part of that legacy while helping to steer it towards a bright and exciting future.”

“Trent’s appointment as the new GM of Hunter Mountain is a testament to his exceptional leadership," said Tim Baker, VR Eastern region VP and COO. "I am confident Trent is the right leader with the right vision for this job, who will work toward preserving the resort's legacy while embracing innovation as we welcome returning and new guests to Hunter Mountain."