Snowshoe Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in West Virginia. It attracts visitors from all over the country who come to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
But when did Snowshoe Resort first open its doors to the public? Let’s take a look at the history of this iconic resort.
Early History
Snowshoe Mountain Resort was officially opened on December 13, 1974. The resort was built by Dr. Thomas Brigham, a local dentist who had a passion for skiing. He saw the potential in the area and decided to turn it into a ski resort.
The resort started small with just two lifts and a handful of trails. But over the years, it grew in size and popularity. Today, Snowshoe Resort boasts more than 60 trails and 14 lifts, making it one of the largest ski resorts in the Southeast.
Expansion
Snowshoe Resort underwent major expansions in both 1995 and 2006. In 1995, Intrawest Corporation purchased the resort from Dr. Brigham. Intrawest Corporation is a Canadian company that specializes in building and managing ski resorts around the world.
Under Intrawest’s ownership, Snowshoe Resort underwent significant upgrades and expansions. The company added new lifts and trails, as well as new lodging options like hotels and condos.
In 2006, Snowshoe Resort was acquired by IntraWest’s parent company – Fortress Investment Group LLC. This acquisition brought even more resources to Snowshoe Resort which enabled it to continue expanding its offerings.
Current Status
Today, Snowshoe Mountain Resort is still owned by Fortress Investment Group LLC but is managed by Alterra Mountain Company. Alterra Mountain Company operates several other ski resorts across North America including Steamboat Ski & Resort in Colorado and Squaw Valley in California.
Snowshoe Resort continues to expand and improve its offerings. In recent years, the resort has added new lifts and trails, as well as new restaurants and shops. It’s also become a popular summer destination with activities like mountain biking, hiking, and golf.
Conclusion
Snowshoe Resort has come a long way since it first opened in 1974. It’s grown from a small ski resort with just two lifts to one of the largest ski resorts in the Southeast. Thanks to its beautiful location, excellent amenities, and commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience, Snowshoe Resort is sure to continue attracting visitors for many years to come.