The 1932 Olympics in Lake Placid inspired the locals of North Creek, New York to build ski trails on the slopes outside of town. Logging roads were cleared and widened on the flanks of Gore Mountain.
On March 4, 1934, the first North Creek snow train, transported nearly 400 enthusiastic skiers from Schenectady to the station in North Creek. The dedicated train spent the weekend in town and included dining and lounge cars. The round trip ticket was $1.50.
Early in 1934 the Mount Mansfield Ski Club formed a safety committee to act as hosts and guides on the mountain. They informed skiers about trail conditions and waxing techniques. Members wore a triangular yellow shoulder patch that became a badge of distinction, and many volunteered to wear the emblem. By spring, the club learned that an educated squad with first aid training was essential requirements for an effective patrol.
That season, skiable snow was in short supply in the southern Adirondacks. Finally in late winter significant snow fell, and on March 4, 1934 the first ski train headed to North Creek from Schenectady carrying members of the Schenectady Wintersports Club.
“On the gondola ride up, we discussed strategy. I was skeptical about conditions at the top, based on yesterday’s ski. EDeO said “today is not yesterday” and he pushed us to hit Lies right away. When we saw the corduroy above the headwall, we hit it full speed. The entire length of Lies was in incredible shape. Carvable to a full ski width…”
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