The McFerrans will be relocating to Idaho to start up operations. Matt, who grew riding at Mt. Bachelor, Ore., said, “I've just got a soft spot in my heart for smaller mountains from the days when I was race training in high school … and it's always just been a lifelong dream of mine. I grew up skiing and that's definitely part of our lives.”

The couple plans to open the resort this winter, although an opening date has yet to be announced. Their long-term goals include adding mountain biking trails as early as summer 2016 if possible, and offering year-round activities and lodging.

Solider Mountain, founded in 1947, is located near the southern part of the Sawtooth National Forest. The ski area has 36 trails located on 1,147 acres of skiable terrain.