#MAPLE VALLEY FREE#

Due to financial issues, much of the area's infrastructure was run off diesel generators.Ī new intermediate trail was reportedly added for the 1990 season, which also saw a renovated lodge. On June 13, 1989, the 370 acre Maple Valley ski area was sold via a satellite auction for $1.2 million. By the end of the 1980s, Maple Valley was on the ropes. Over the next decade and a half, apart from incremental snowmaking and night skiing improvements, the ski facilities neither grew nor were significantly updated. While big mountain resorts were growing and Interstate highways were being completed around New England, Maple Valley became somewhat stagnant. Maple Valley circa the 1960s or early 1970s

#MAPLE VALLEY FREE#

Ski instructors were on the slopes offering free lessons to the beat of disco music blasting from loudspeakers.įormer manager Charles Purinton passed away in 1981 at the age of 59. Maple Valley made regional headlines in December 1978, when it offered disco nights. Purinton likely completed his time as manager circa 1978. Significant lodge improvements were reportedly made for the 1976-77 season, including a new ski shop, gift shop, and improved food service. Unfortunately for Maple Valley and the rest of New England, the following season was terrible weather-wise, resulting in the worst financial results in years. In addition, the ski jumps were removed for that season, making way for a larger practice slope.įor 1972-73, a cross country ski course was added, as was a novice surface lift. Corresponding with a real estate development, more changes took place for the 1969-70 season, as an expert trail was added, the main lodge expanded, and other base area buildings constructed. Obtaining $125,000 from shareholders, Purinton was able to purchase 75 acres of leased land circa the 1968-69 season, paving the way for future development, including a proposed motel. Reflecting at the time, Purinton stated, 'We're not glamorous and we don't even want to be.' The elementary school group program a focus, providing both a community service and keeping the slopes in use on slow weekdays. The area played host to what was billed as the first night ski jump meet in New England history in February of 1967.įor Purinton's second season, snowmaking was expanded and the jumps improved. Montreal native Daniel Denis was named Ski School Director. In addition to snowmaking, efforts were made to spread out Maple Valley's revenue generating potential by adding night skiing. The lack of natural snowfall was addressed with installation of a Larchmont snowmaking system on the lower mountain, Though the West River (coupled with a low base elevation) created a suboptimal microclimate, it was an excellent source for snowmaking water.

Unfortunately, a lack of natural snow postponed opening day until the end of December, with only the T-Bar initially open.īig changes took place at Maple Valley in 1966, as Connecticut banker Charles 'Chuck' Purinton became General Manager of the ski area. The area's second chairlift, the North Double, was added for the 1964-65 season.

Though the area did not initially have a snowmaking system, it did employ the use of a shaved ice product called Summer Snow in the fall of 1964, allowing for ski jumping competitions. Terry Tyler served as General Manager for the first few seasons, while Ed Dunklee, son of former Dutch Hill ski school head Alan Dunklee, served as ski school director.Ī lack of snowfall delayed the opening of the ski area until Christmas. In addition to the downhill facilities, the area also sported 25 and 45 meter ski jumps. In terms of terrain, the ski area debuted with 5 trails of all abilities.

Tyler and the construction company designed and built the ski area.įor its debut season of 1963-64, Maple Valley featured a lift network consisting of a pair of Hall brand installations - a 3,038 foot long double chairlift and a 775 foot long T-Bar. In 1963, Tyler teamed with brothers Angelo, Joe, and Frank Pirovane of North Haven Construction Company to develop a larger ski area in West Dummerston. Bigger prospects existed for this skier and competitive ski jumper, however. Terry Tyler Develops Ski Areas in Dummerstonĭuring the 1950s, Dummerston native Terry Tyler developed two rope tow areas in town, Little Prospect and Big Prospect (not to be confused with Prospect Mountain near Bennington). While there have been attempts to reopen it, the ski area has remained closed since 2000. Located northwest of Brattleboro, Maple Valley was a mid-sized ski area that operated for nearly 40 years.

Maple valley