When most people think of skiing in America, they likely picture massive resorts with high-speed chairlifts and sprawling terrain parks. However, the sport has much humbler roots, dating back to the early 20th century when a handful of intrepid individuals began sliding down snowy hills on handmade wooden skis.
One such place where this tradition was born is the Suicide Six Ski Resort, which is the oldest ski resort in America. Located in the charming town of Woodstock, Vermont, Suicide Six has welcomed visitors since 1936 and continues to be a beloved destination for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
The origins of Suicide Six can be traced back to a group of local ski enthusiasts led by Wallace "Bunny" Bertram, who had previously worked as a ski instructor at the famous Stowe Mountain Resort. Bertram and his colleagues were convinced that skiing could become a popular pastime in rural Vermont and set about creating a resort that would offer a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
After scouting out several potential locations, the group settled on a small hill overlooking the picturesque village of South Pomfret. The site offered easy access from nearby highways and boasted an ideal slope angle for skiing, making it the perfect spot to build their dream ski area.
Over the course of several months, workers fashioned trails through the wooded terrain and constructed a small lodge where visitors could warm up and grab a bite to eat. Bertram and his team also introduced many innovations that would later become standard features of ski resorts, such as a rope tow to ferry guests up the hill and well-maintained slopes for a consistent skiing experience.
On December 30, 1936, Suicide Six officially opened its doors to the public, drawing a crowd of curious locals eager to try this newfangled activity. Despite the modest amenities and relatively basic terrain, the resort was an instant hit, offering a fun and accessible way to enjoy Vermont's snowy winters.
In the years that followed, Suicide Six continued to grow and evolve, adding new trails, lifts, and amenities to keep up with the changing times. During World War II, the resort played an important role in training soldiers for mountain combat, honing their skiing and survival skills in the rugged Vermont wilderness.
After the war, Suicide Six enjoyed renewed popularity, drawing famous visitors such as President Dwight D. Eisenhower and showcasing the latest advances in ski technology. In 1961, the resort hosted the U.S. National Alpine Ski Championships, cementing its reputation as a world-class destination for winter sports.
Today, Suicide Six remains a beloved fixture of the Vermont ski scene, offering a mix of classic New England charm and modern amenities. Skiers and snowboarders can tackle various terrain, from gentle beginner runs to challenging black diamonds, while families can enjoy sledding, ice skating, and other winter activities.
The resort has also undergone several recent upgrades, including the addition of a high-speed quad chairlift and expanded terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts. Yet despite these changes, Suicide Six has managed to maintain its unique character and sense of history, attracting visitors who appreciate its unpretentious atmosphere and commitment to preserving the traditions of skiing.
Of course, as with any long-standing institution, Suicide Six has faced its share of challenges over the years. The resort has weathered numerous financial setbacks, ownership changes, and the occasional natural disaster like the devastating flood of 2011.
However, through it all, Suicide Six has remained a testament to the enduring appeal of skiing and the resilience of the human spirit. Bertram and his fellow pioneers may never have imagined the impact their small ski area would have on the world of winter sports, but their legacy lives on in the thousands of skiers and snowboarders who have passed through its gates over the past eight decades.
In a world where ski resorts come and go with alarming frequency, Suicide Six is a reminder of the enduring power of community, perseverance, and a love for the snowy mountains. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time skier, visiting America's oldest ski resort will surely leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
