The Past
Thunder Mountain, Part 1
Arthur Parker decided that Mt. Institute should play host to a ski area. On November 18, 1953, Parker signed a lease for the property on the northwest face of Mt. Institute. Thunder Mountain was born.
Thunder Mountain was hailed as a 'first of its kind' ski club in the December 20, 1953 New York Times, with its similarity to a golf club payment model. Memberships were offered for $30 (family) and $20 (single), with $2 day passes available for non-members. The area offered 3 trails and one slope, served by two rope tows. A skating pond was also available.
Legend has it that in 1954, after one day of skiing, the rains came - and thieves; Thunder Mountain was closed and the rope was stolen off the rope tow. Hurricane damage in 1954 was cited as the reason for the end of operation. The area was considered 'dismanted' in 1958.
Dispite these difficulties, Art Parker wouldn't be deterred. Thunder Mountain would return soon, bigger and better than ever...
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A sheave from the original Thunder Mountain rope tow
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