THUNDERBOLT SKI TRAIL In the 1930s, skiing meant trudging uphill for two hours carrying equipment, all for the thrill of a two minute run. Still, the new sport quickly gained popularity, and in 1932, after studying all the hills in the area, local skiers chose this spot for an expert ski trail. Thirty men from the Civilian Conservation Corps, armed with 300 pounds of dynamite, cleared the trail and built this warming hut in 1934.

The trail’s maximum gradient is 35 degrees, with a vertical descent of 2,175 feet. The course winds across three bridges, many bumps and turns, and the harrowing “Needle’s Eye.” Orin McCarty of the Mt. Greylock Ski Club chose the name “Thunderbolt” because the thrill of the ride reminded him of another the Thunderbolt roller coaster at Boston’s Revere Beach.

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