Trust for Public Lands Attempting to Purchase Gilbert's Hill Ski Area
Woodstock slope was first ever lift serviced ski area in United States.
Tuesday, August 18, 2015, NewEnglandSkiIndustry.com
According to a recent Vermont Standard report, a group including Trust for Public Lands and the Vermont Land Trust is attempting to purchase a 110 acre tract in Woodstock, which includes the former Gilbert's Hill ski area. Trust for Public Lands is also heavily involved in the ongoing Ascutney land acquisition.
Located down the road from Suicide Six in Woodstock, Robert and Elizabeth Royce hired David Dodd to construct a rope tow on Clinton Gilbert's farm to serve their inn's guests. The tow opened in January of 1934. Wallace "Bunny" Bertram soon took over operating the ski area. According to the New England Lost Ski Areas Project, the area operated through the late 1940s.
A member of the group, Woodstock Ski Runners coach Bill McCollom is reported as saying about restoring lift service, "I wouldn't rule anything out, but that's not in the game plan."
A hiking trail connecting to the Appalachian Trail could be constructed if the group moves forward with fundraising and acquisition.
