Belleayre Ski Center

Belleayre Ski Center, in Catskill Park in the United States, is owned and operated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Skier and snowboarder visits have grown from 70,000 in 1995 to more than 175,000 in 2007.

History

During the 1800s, Catskill and Adirondack deforestation had created massive siltation of New York City harbor and imperiled shipping up the Hudson river. In 1855 New York became one of the first states to create constitutionally designated “Forever Wild” preserves to prevent environmental and economic harms, to create a desperately needed water supply for New York City. In 1947, the people of New York passed a constitutional amendment by referendum to allow an intensive use ski center within this protected forever wild region.^[1]

Belleayre Mountain, located off State Route 28, a few 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.

Skiing enthusiasts in the 1940s 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 its 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 1950s. Major expansions were also made in the 60's and 70's, which brought the innovation of snow making technology. Throughout the 1980s, every year saw improvements, refinements, and other expansion. Between 1985 and 1993, 6 million dollars were spent to upgrade machinery and equipment.

Belleayre includes the Catskills’ only Cat-access skiing and a widened and improved halfpipe (which hasn't been open for 5 seasons) and Area 51 Terrain Park. With 55 trails, parks and glades and 8 lifts, including a new High Speed Quad, Belleayre Mountain has evolved from humble, yet promising beginnings into an efficient and growing organization.

Trails and glades