“We think our guests from Chicago and Milwaukee will be thrilled with the investments we are making at Wilmot for the 2016-17 ski season, which represents one of the biggest transformations ever undertaken for a Midwestern ski area,” said Rob Katz, chairman and CEO of Vail Resorts.

On hill, three new four-passenger chairlifts will replace existing lifts, a new rope tow will be installed in the terrain park, and the beginner area will have two new conveyor lifts. The new lifts will increase uphill capacity by up to 45 percent.

Snowmaking system upgrades include the addition of new energy-efficient snow guns and pumps to increase capacity. Improvements to both the race arena and timing systems will be made to better support the local ski clubs and racing programs, and attract bigger races in the region.

Vail Resorts will upgrade the terrain park, too, adding “unique and innovative features” created by the staffs at its Western resorts, according to the company.

A new state-of-the-art children’s ski and snowboard center will feature an open space for kids to play, along with their own lunch and break room. The center will be located adjacent to the learning terrain, which is to be re-graded, making it more suitable for teaching beginners.

The base lodge will see the addition of 400 seats, and the food and beverage offering will be upgraded. The facility will be modernized to offer seating for families, groups, and adults, including a new bar and Wi-Fi throughout. The Iron Kettle restaurant will be completely redesigned to include a new lounge and bar for parents.

Wilmot Mountain will also be added to Vail Resort’s Epic Pass family of products ($609, 10-area restricted, and $809, unrestricted), as well as have an unlimited Wilmot-only pass ($379, $809 for a family).