Sun Valley Ski Resort: Who Founded It?
Sun Valley Ski Resort is a premier ski destination located in the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho. The resort was founded in 1936 by Union Pacific Railroad chairman W. Averell Harriman and is the oldest ski resort in the United States. Harriman had a vision of creating a luxurious winter playground for celebrities, dignitaries, and other wealthy travelers who ventured out to the western part of the country.
Harriman was inspired by the European-style resorts he had visited during his travels, and wanted to create something similar for Americans. He purchased 3,000 acres of land in Sun Valley with an eye towards transforming it into a world-class ski destination. He enlisted Hollywood legend Greta Garbo, who happened to be one of his closest friends, to be the face of Sun Valley’s first advertising campaign.
Garbo’s involvement helped to quickly make Sun Valley a household name across America.
In addition to being recognized as the first major ski resort in North America, Sun Valley also set several other important milestones throughout its history. It was one of the first resorts to offer chair lifts, gondolas, and night skiing; as well as being home to the world’s first “aerial tramway” (now known as a gondola). Over time Sun Valley has continued to add new amenities and attractions while staying true to its original roots as a premier ski destination.
Conclusion:
W. Averell Harriman founded Sun Valley Ski Resort in 1936 with a vision of creating an upscale winter playground for travelers from across America and beyond. His efforts helped make Sun Valley one of America’s most iconic ski destinations and set several milestones throughout its history including being one of the first resorts with chair lifts, gondolas and night skiing.
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