Pico's History
ON THANKSGIVING MORNING IN 1937, PICO MOUNTAIN CAME TO LIFE WITH A 1,200 FOOT ROPE TOW, POWERED BY A HUDSON MOTOR CAR ENGINE, AND A LOT OF LOVE.
Much has changed since then, but the love that began ninety years ago for this mountain still lives today – and it’s as strong as ever. No other big mountain has as much small mountain charm, and no athletes love their mountain quite like Pico skiers and riders.
Families, ski racers and locals-in-the-know now enjoy 58 trails serviced by seven lifts, including two high-speed detachable quads. Gentle learning terrain, smooth cruisers and classically-narrow New England steeps can all be found at Pico Mountain. Even the most discerning skiers and riders will be impressed by Pico’s vertical drop of 1,967’ – taller than 80% of Vermont ski areas.
Whether you prefer gorgeous glades or gentle, winding trails, Pico Mountain has it all. And, if you’re willing, we can teach you how to enjoy it even more. Our Mountain Sports School offers specialized learning programs for everyone from children and first timers to seasoned pros, all created with quality and value in mind.
Pico’s central base area features a cozy lodge and stone fireplaces – just another reason why this mountain is so special. With all trails converging into one area, it’s easy to stay connected with friends and family throughout the day. And when it’s time to recharge, you’ll find a variety of tasty treats, including homemade waffles, sandwiches, kid-friendly favorites and more.
For those seeking a social atmosphere, Last Run Lounge on the third floor of the lodge is the spot for lunch and après entertainment on the weekends. With its laid-back pub atmosphere, crackling fireplace and views of the sun setting on the mountain, it’s the perfect place to end a day of skiing in Vermont.
VISIT THE VERMONT SKI AND SNOWBOARD MUSEUM AT PICO
Pico Mountain’s rich racing history dates back to 1937, when Brad and Janet Mead first opened the mountain. It’s here they raised their daughter, ski prodigy and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Andrea Mead, skiing the same trails we race on today. Pico now hosts a collection of memorabilia from the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum to commemorate this tradition, located on the third floor of our base lodge across adjacent to the Long Trail Pub.
Pico Mountain locals have donated to the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum's collection over the years, and we are proud to display their memorabilia in one-of-a-kind celebration of skiing and snowboarding history. Guests at Pico Mountain can learn first-hand how Pico impacted the fabric of ski history and explore nearly 150 items on display, from vintage equipment and ski lifts to clothing and accessories.
We hope our guests and local ski and snowboard historians appreciate these displays and gain an understanding of Pico's deep connection to the history of skiing and ski racing. Those inspired to learn more can also visit the official Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum at One South Main Street, in Stowe, Vermont.
