Beartown Ski in Lee on Pine Street was built by the Civilian Construction Corps-CCC’s as a recreational Ski Train destination in the mid-1930’s, Beartown Ski Area growth, popularity and longevity (1935 to 1966) grew from (1) open slope and (2) trails to become one of the largest ski areas in Southern New England with (2) open slopes, (5) trails served by (3) rope-tows spanning 820 vertical feet.

In 1951, Al Prinz, who also operated nearby Oak-N-Spruce resort, took over operations extending a rope-tow to the summit and some trail expansion. During the late 1950’s a lack of snow and increased competition from newer ski slopes provided little incentive to invest or operate the Beartown Ski area. The other ski area’s installed more comfortable and faster chairlifts along with snow-guns that were able to produce good ski conditions when Mother Nature would not. Eventually it would be surpassed by Jiminy Peak, Catamount, Bousquet and Brodie Mountain Ski areas.

From 1961-1966 the slopes were operated by William T. McCormack president of Beartown Associates, Inc. a.k.a. as the Beartown Ski Club, Inc a non-profit organization. By the end of 1966, the lack of resources and expansion led to the demise of this area to be reclaimed by the woodland forest as we find it today. The Western Mass Backcountry Alliance – WMBA has been clearing the old ski runs for back country skiing and they look great! Panda, Grizzy, Kodiak and two tow rope runs are clear with new signage from DCR noting it’s historical significance.

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