[ad_1]
Treasure Hunt for Lost Ski Areas Celebrates Vermont’s Slopes History
Stowe, VT – The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum opened its new exhibit, “Searching for Vermont’s Lost Ski Areas,” exploring over 180 forgotten ski spots across the state. Curator Poppy Gall, who led a dedicated team of historians, uncovered remarkable stories while researching past ski areas, such as the little-known Fra-Mar Farm in Mendon, a precursor to Pico Mountain, which was started by notable figures Brad and Janet Mead.
This exhibit builds on last year’s focus on southern Vermont ski areas by extending the narrative statewide. Gall emphasized that these lost ski areas once served as communal hubs for families, offering safe spaces for children to enjoy winter sports. "You could just drop your kid off at the tow for the day,” she recounted, highlighting the sense of community these areas fostered.
The mid-20th century marked a boom in Vermont’s ski culture, fueled by returning World War II veterans, yet this growth began to stagnate in the 1970s due to rising insurance costs, changing skier preferences, and more stringent safety regulations. Gall noted that many ski areas could not afford the necessary improvements to stay operational.
Today, Vermont’s ski industry is predominantly managed by large corporations, like Alterra and Vail, which own a significant portion of the state’s mountains. However, community-focused operations like Cochran’s and Northeast Slopes reflect the spirit of Vermont’s past.
The exhibit, featuring maps and artifacts, encourages visitors to reflect on a bygone era in skiing and understand how the landscape has transformed. Gall expressed nostalgia for the charm of the “lost” areas, underscoring the importance of remembering these community-centered histories in a changing ski industry.
Source
Photo credit www.vermontpublic.org
