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From Loggers to Ski Bums: The Fascinating History of Snowshoe, WV

Updated: Jun 6, 2023

Snowshoe, WV is a popular ski resort located in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. But have you ever wondered how this beautiful place came into existence? In this blog post, we'll take a look at the history of Snowshoe, WV and how it was founded.


The history of Snowshoe from tree logging to an amazing ski resort and mountain biking resort


Snowshoe, WV was first discovered in the late 1800s by a group of loggers who were looking for new areas to harvest timber. At that time, the area was heavily forested and difficult to access due to the rugged terrain and lack of roads. However, the loggers were determined and soon began to clear the land, which made it easier to traverse.


As the logging industry grew in the area, so did the need for transportation. In 1899, the West Virginia Central and Pittsburg Railway was built to transport lumber from the area. The railroad also provided access to the remote region, which would prove to be beneficial in the future development of Snowshoe, WV.


In the early 1900s, the area began to attract tourists who were interested in the natural beauty of the region. Some of the first visitors were hunters and fishermen who were attracted to the abundance of wildlife and fish in the area. Soon after, the first tourists began to arrive by train to take in the stunning scenery of the region.


By the 1920s, the area had become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers, campers, and skiers. The first ski trails were developed in the 1940s and 1950s by a group of local residents who were passionate about skiing. These early trails were simple, with no lifts or lodges, but they provided the foundation for the development of the Snowshoe Mountain Resort.


In 1974, Thomas E. Stoner, Jr. purchased the land that would become Snowshoe Mountain Resort. Stoner was a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential of the area as a ski resort. He invested heavily in the development of the resort, building lifts, lodges, and other amenities to attract skiers and snowboarders.


Over the years, Snowshoe Mountain Resort has continued to grow and expand. Today, it is one of the premier ski resorts on the East Coast, attracting thousands of visitors each year. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers a wide range of activities, including mountain biking, hiking, golfing, and more.


In conclusion, Snowshoe, WV was founded by a group of loggers who were looking for new areas to harvest timber. Over time, the area grew to become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and eventually, Thomas E. Stoner, Jr. saw the potential of the area as a ski resort. Today, Snowshoe Mountain Resort is a thriving destination that attracts visitors from all over the world, and it all started with the hard work and determination of a few passionate individuals.



Visit our properties today to see the Snowshoe beauty! 107D Summit: https://www.frangoulesproperties.com/107d-summit-drive



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