Vermont  has a lot to be proud of, including awesome cheese, good coffee and of course, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, but the Green Mountain state also boasts the first lift in the United States. Prior to 1934, skiing in the U.S. was not for the quadricep challenged. Skiers would have to hike in boots or climb up the mountain with sealskins, much like skinning today, for a few precious moments of downhill delight. With some encouragement from hiking-weary skiers in Woodstock, Vermont, Wallace “Bunny” Betram, the captain of Dartmouth’s ski team, contrived the U.S.’ first rope tow using a Model T Ford engine and a 900-foot rope. The entire system cost $500.
Ski Vermont pulled together a humorous video reenactment of how the innovative transportation came to be.
Experience U.S. skiing history at its roots and book your Vermont ski vacation today. Our 65 Mountain Travel Experts can help you customize and book your flights, rental cars, lodging and more. They’re standing by at 800-610-8911. You can also get started by filling out a form for a free custom quote.