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Belleayre Mountain, located off County Route 28, just hours from New York City, was declared “Forever Wild” by the New York State Forest Preserve in 1885. Early on, Skiers would side-step or hike their way more than 3,000 feet to be the first to make tracks down unnamed and woody trails. But since it’s first lifts were installed in 1949, each new year has brought improvements. From new lifts to new lodges to new trails, Belleayre strives to continually break new ground - and stay at the forefront of the Ski Industry - by successfully operating for over five decades with it’s extraordinary staff, state-of-the-art equipment, and constant vision of the future.
Since the very beginning of the American skiing experience, skiers gazed at the steep, rugged inclines of Belleayre Mountain and dreamed of refining them. Skiing enthusiasts in the 1940's pressured politicians to develop Belleayre, making it safe and fun for families and extreme skiers alike. Finally, in 1947, bills were introduced allowing the State of New York to create Belleayre Mountain. Construction began in 1949, and Belleayre began it’s premier winter season with five trails, an electrically powered rope tow, New York’s first chairlift, a summit lodge, a temporary base lodge with a cafeteria and dirt floors, and parking for 300. It would become the center for winter sports in the region and an economic catalyst for surrounding communities.
From the beginning, Belleayre was an immediate hit, and local residents still remember how skiers pitched tents outside the lodge to be the first in line. As business increased, Belleayre expanded, adding an additional 12 trails, 3 lifts, and a new base lodge in the 1950's. Major expansions were also made in the 60's and 70's, which brought the innovation of snow making technology. Throughout the 80's, every year saw improvements, refinements, and other expansion. Between 1985 and 1993, 6 million dollars were spent to upgrade machinery and equipment, assuring that Belleayre would maintain the quality and reputation of it’s important recreation program.
Belleayre now stands as a model in the ski industry. It’s continued improvements include the Catskills’ only Cat-access sking and a widened and improved halfpipe and Area 51 Terrain Park. Skier visits have grown from 70,000 in 1995 to more than 175,000 skiers and riders from over 40 States and even parts of Europe. With 47 trails, parks and glades and 8 lifts, including our new High Speed Quad, Belleayre Mountain has certainly evolved from humble, yet promising beginnings into an efficient and growing organization - perfection in progress.
