Whaleback, NH
February 24, 2002
On my way up to Jay Peak, VT, I stopped by a ski area on I-89 that is no longer in operation. Whaleback stopped operations after it's 2000-2001 ski season, and has not yet been sold. According to their web page (www.whaleback.com), the ski area is still currently for sale.
I had never skied Whaleback; but looking at the mountain, I sure wish I had had the opportunity! Whaleback does have rather limited Vertical, but they make excellent use of what little they do have! From the base area, a number of interesting trails are visible; including a couple of decently pitched and fairly narrow trails (including a sweet looking glade trail). The trails seem to have a decent pitch and are cut into the natural fall lines. Although probably not the most challenging terrain, given the right conditions I'm sure Whaleback offered tons of fun.
As far as their facilities, they are all in tact and surviving a winter of inactivity just fine. As seen in the picture below, an American Flag (albeit torn and frayed) still flies over the Base Lodge. The blue double chairlift (seen below) still looks to be in fine condition, and none of the trails have really grown in. In a matter of fact, several of the trails featured ski and snowmobile tracks! Had I some company, I would have gladly earned some turns myself!
For more information on Lost Ski Areas in New England, please consult the New England Lost Ski Area Project.