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| Sagebrush Ski Tow |
Operation Dates: 1936-1938
Area Stats:
* Elevations: Vertical Drop: ~200'
Lifts: 1 rope tow using rock cribs for counterweights
History:
This rope tow operation opened in 1936 by the Gunnison Valley Ski Club
with help from the WPA. The area was constructed close to downtown
on a sagebrush covered slope. Due to its low elevation and poor snow
conditions, the ski club abandoned it a few seasons later and moved their
operation to the Pioneer Ski Area up valley.
Directions: From Gunnison, take US 50 west to Brookside Drive. Turn
right on the US 50 Frontage Road. Turn right at CR-17 and travel for
about 2 miles. If you reach the "Skito" power substation, you've gone too
far. See the location map for more details.
Please Note: This area is on private property.
If you have any additional information, please email us.
Area Stats:
* Elevations: Vertical Drop: ~200'
Lifts: 1 rope tow using rock cribs for counterweights
History:
This rope tow operation opened in 1936 by the Gunnison Valley Ski Club
with help from the WPA. The area was constructed close to downtown
on a sagebrush covered slope. Due to its low elevation and poor snow
conditions, the ski club abandoned it a few seasons later and moved their
operation to the Pioneer Ski Area up valley.
Directions: From Gunnison, take US 50 west to Brookside Drive. Turn
right on the US 50 Frontage Road. Turn right at CR-17 and travel for
about 2 miles. If you reach the "Skito" power substation, you've gone too
far. See the location map for more details.
Please Note: This area is on private property.
If you have any additional information, please email us.
| Area Pictures: If you live by this area or have any pictures to share, please email us! |
| Have you ever skied at this area? If so, contact us with your memories! Memories: |
| Copyright © coloradoskihistory.com All Rights Reserved. |
| "In 1993 we recorded the site of what is referred to as the Gun Club or Practice Ski Course near Gunnison. It was the forerunner of the Pioneer Ski Area. It was constructed in the winter of 1936-7 or early 1939 by WPA and volunteer workers using WPA funds. The Gunnsion County Ski Club was formed to secure the funding. The rope tow was operated by a 6-cylinder Buick engine. The cable and wooden support structures are still in place on the ground and there is an area that appears to have served as a snack bar. It seems to have operated unto at least the late 1940s and maybe into the early 1950s." - Jon H. [Editor Note: Sagebrush Hill only operated until 1938] |
The lower return station using a counterweight of rocks built in a crib. Notice
the bullwheel still intact.
the bullwheel still intact.
| The tow had three intermediate towers, all have collapsed. |
| The upper tow station. It appears this was the drive terminal, but the motor is missing. |
