BURSTSilverStar is swapping hands just ahead of ski season.
Pacific Group Resorts (PGR) announced Tuesday, Nov. 25, it has acquired SilverStar Mountain Resort in Vernon from POWDR.
The purchase marks a significant milestone in the international company’s continued growth across North America, with two of its six resorts now located in Canada.
“SilverStar is an extraordinary resort with a loyal community and a spirit that aligns perfectly with PGR’s values,” said Mark K. Fischer, PGR president and CEO. “In 10 years of operating Mount Washington Alpine Resort on Vancouver Island, we’ve developed a deep appreciation for what it takes to thrive in the British Columbia mountain resort landscape. SilverStar is a natural extension of our resort family and reflects our long-term commitment to embracing the mountain culture and the communities that make each of our properties unique.”
The addition of SilverStar follows PGR’s acquisition of Powderhorn Mountain Resort in Colorado earlier this year and Jay Peak Resort in Vermont in 2022.
SilverStar joins PGR’s expanding portfolio as one of Canada’s premier mountain resorts, recently ranked the No. 3 Ski Resort in Canada for 2025 by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. With over 3,300 acres of skiable terrain, a modern lift fleet, and a vibrant mid-mountain village, SilverStar ranks among the 15 largest ski areas in North America.
Herwig Demschar, general manager of SilverStar Mountain Resort, welcomes the transition with optimism and appreciation.
“We are deeply thankful to POWDR for their stewardship, vision, and significant investment in SilverStar. Their commitment to this mountain set the foundation for its continued success. As we look ahead, we’re excited to join Pacific Group Resorts, whose values and operational philosophy align seamlessly with ours. Our leadership team is staying on, and we look forward to reinforcing what makes SilverStar so special while elevating the guest experience for years to come.”
Fischer has known Herwig for nearly 20 years and has “considerable respect for what he and the rest of the team have built at SilverStar.
“Our approach is to listen, learn, and support the team in doing what they do best” he said. “We’re happily aligned on the objectives of preserving the charm and character that make SilverStar so beloved while helping it continue to grow.”
PGR says no changes are expected to operations for the 2025-26 season. The existing SilverStar leadership team will remain in place, and all current season passes, programs, and resort services will continue uninterrupted. Guests can expect the same warm hospitality, celebrated terrain, and strong community spirit that define the SilverStar experience.
“This mountain fits squarely within our strategy of expanding into high-quality regional destinations with strong local roots. We firmly believe SilverStar is one of those rare places where families and friends can build and renew bonds that enrich their lives in ways few other environments can,” said Fischer. “Our hope is to expand the reach of the resort so more people across Canada and the U.S. can experience SilverStar.”
Justin Sibley, CEO of POWDR also shared, “SilverStar is a special mountain with a passionate community, and we are grateful for the years we’ve had stewarding this destination. On behalf of everyone at POWDR, I want to thank the SilverStar team and the Vernon community for their partnership and pride in the resort.”
A lack of snow has delayed SilverStar’s season opening a week until Friday, Dec. 5.