Bolton Valley, Vt., Dec. 17, 2010-The owners of Bolton Valley, Doug Nedde and Larry Williams, are seeking an equity partner or outright sale of the resort.

The resort encompasses 700 acres, including six chairlifts and some commercial space-the administrative offices, retail and rental shops, and ski school. The resort leases a sports center and banquet facility in the base area, as well as the base lodge and cafeteria. Last year, the area recorded about 170,000 visits, most via passes and group sales to school and college groups.

Future development plans include improvements to the existing base area, lift upgrades and snowmaking expansion. Among the other options being considered are summer activities including a canopy tour, ziplines, mountain biking. Bolton could install a second wind turbine, one capable of producing up to five million kWh a year. And establishment of a primary or second-home community is possible as well. But the owners have other projects that are consuming their time and resources, and none of these projects can move forward without additional capital.

The owners have retained Mirus Resort Capital to advise them on how to best advance Bolton's plans. Mirus hopes to start site visits soon, and to receive bids by the end of February, Mirus director Mike Krongel told SAM. \