One Dog's Writer: Mount Prospect Ski Tow and Glades

Saturday, August 1, 2020

Mount Prospect Ski Tow and Glades

I nearly drove off Route 3 when I saw the sign for Mount Prospect Ski Tow and Glades as I headed toward Weeks State Park and a hike up Mount Prospect. How cool is this place? I loved the little ski slope that is about the same size as Rumford's 1950's Scottie's ski area. The following is taken from the Mount Prospect Ski Tow and Glades website:

Located south of Lancaster, New Hampshire, Mt. Prospect is a small, state-owned, club leased ski area. Lift served skiing on the northern slope of Mt. Prospect likely dates back to the early 1940s. The initial operation was likely short lived, however, as the area closed during part or all of World War II. It likely reopened for the 1946-47 season and operated when natural snowfall allowed during subsequent decades. Mount Prospect Ski Club, Inc. was formed as a non-profit corporation in the fall of 1982. In February of 1989, the State of New Hampshire Executive Council approved a five year lease for the Mount Prospect Ski Club's ski area in the state park.

Closure

The ski area likely closed following the 1996-97 season due to lack of snowfall. The base building collapsed the following year, further complicating the situation.

Rebirth

After sitting idle for over a decade, locals rallied and reopened Mt. Prospect during the winter of 2007-08. The ski area continues to operate when natural snow allows with a 1957 Chevrolet powered rope tow, three trails, grooming, and a warming yurt. Volunteers staff the area, while the Town of Lancaster provides funds to cover liability insurance.