Contributed photo/Tomi Henderson
BIG ROCK SKI AREA utilizes up to five ski lifts each season for skiers and snowboarders to access the 28 trails. Established in 1959, the mountain’s first means of transportation up the mountain was a ski tow built by the Cole family, who initially owned the area. The tow was attached to a trailer truck at the base of the mountain and in the 1960’s, Big Rock moved under the ownership of the Junior Chamber of Commerce.
Contributed photo/Tomi Henderson
MARS HILL MOUNTAIN has hosted many historical and patriotic events thanks to Big Rock Ski Area. From the 1960’s through the 1990’s, Wendell and Marie Kearney owned and operated the mountain and took part in events like the 1976 bi-centennial flag raising. And, when Hawaii and Alaska became the last two states to enter the Union, Mars Hill Mountain raised the first 50-starred flag. In 2000, the Maine Winter Sports Center purchased the Mountain and continues to operate and maintain the slopes 50 years since its opening. The mountain is also recognized as one of the first locations in the United States to see the sun rise. Skiers also have a view of the first wind farm to be constructed in the state.
