The Green Mountain State is an incredible playground for skiers of all ages and abilities. Each one of us has our own favorite pick for the best ski locale in the state. But the title to most unique undeniably goes to the old-school ski mountain, Mad River Glen.
Mad River Glen was founded in 1947 by Roland Palmedo with a commitment not to building a resort but rather creating a winter skiing community.
In 1948, the single chair lift made its first ascent up the mountain and five trails were open for skiing. Today, Mad River Glen is one of the last two resorts in the nation still operating a single chair lift.
Over the decades more trails and lifts were added. But as the rest of the ski industry began to change with the implementation of snow-making and grooming, this old-school mountain remained much the same.
Year after year, the ski area became more unique as others surged forward with advancements and amenities. One thing that did grow at Mad River Glen was the overwhelming sense of community and commitment to the mountain.
In 1995, the Mad River Glen Cooperative was formed and the devoted skiers of the mountain purchased it. Mad River Glen is the first and only cooperatively owned ski area in America, once again setting it apart from the rest.
The cooperative maintains independence and preserves the ski experience that earned its fame. Their mission includes " "… to forever protect the classic Mad River Glen skiing experience by preserving low skier density, natural terrain and forests, varied trail character, and friendly community atmosphere..."
As part of its inexpensive and very successful advertising campaign, the red and white "Ski It If You Can" bumper sticker has become a badge of honor for those who have conquered Mad River Glen. As part of a 30-year tradition, skiers take pictures all over the world with the sticker to have the photo hung on the wall of fame at the mountainside pub.
Mad River Glen is the only ski area in the nation to be recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. It has 1,800 individual skier-owners who have purchased more than 2,200 shares in the ski area. This mountain is one-of-a-kind, ski it when you can.
You can learn more about the history of this unique ski area and details on how to ski it by visiting their website.
Have you ever skied this old-school ski mountain? Or are you one of the owners? Share your stories and photos of this unique mountain if you have them in the comments section below. You can read more about Vermont’s fascinating skiing history here.
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