When Did Cataloochee Ski Resort Open?

Cataloochee Ski Resort, located in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina, first opened its doors in 1961. The resort was created to provide a place for skiers to enjoy winter sports and activities. At the time, the resort was one of only a few ski areas in the Southeast United States.

The ski area was originally developed by a local entrepreneur, Herman “Ski-King” Smith and his wife Pearl. Smith had grown up skiing in Wisconsin and wanted to bring the same experience to his home state of North Carolina. After securing land from the federal government, he began constructing the ski area, which included two chairlifts, two T-bars and five slopes.

In its early days, Cataloochee Ski Resort attracted skiers from all over the region and became known as “the little resort that could” due to its growing popularity and success. The resort began making improvements over time such as adding more terrain, lifts and snowmaking capabilities. By 1976, Cataloochee had become one of the most popular ski resorts in the South East with over 100 acres of terrain and five lifts.

Since then Cataloochee Ski Resort has continued to expand with new lifts and trails being added each year. Today it is one of the largest ski resorts in North Carolina with nearly 50 trails spread across 170 acres of terrain. It also features multiple chairlifts, two surface lifts and a tubing park for non-skiers or snowboarders who want to join in on the fun.

Conclusion: Cataloochee Ski Resort opened its doors in 1961 with just two chairlifts, two T-bars and five slopes. Over time it has grown into one of the largest ski resorts in North Carolina with nearly 50 trails spread across 170 acres of terrain making it a popular destination for skiers from all over the region.

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Samantha Mckinney