If altitude sickness and volatile weather deters you from exploring the high elevation ski resorts in the mountain west, surprisingly many ski areas on the east coast get reliable snow, even at base elevations well below 1,000 feet. So where really is the lowest elevation ski area in North America? After some research we learned that many areas exist primarily on the east coast with base elevations well below 100 feet.
Camp Fortune, Quebec:
Topping the list for the lowest elevation ski resort in North America, Camp Fortune near Ottawa is a mere 23 feet above sea level. While ski areas in the Rockies can exceed 10,000 feet at their base areas, Camp Fortune still gets roughly 60” of snow a year and offers riders a 650 foot vertical drop. Conveniently located only 15 minutes from Ottawa, Camp Fortune may be a low elevation ski area but has a terrain park, quad lifts and a passionate local scene.
Yawgoo Valley, Rhode Island:
As the only ski resort in the smallest state, Yawgoo Valley is often overlooked by the rest of the ski world. With a base elevation of 70 feet, Yawgoo Valley heavily relies on snow making to open and operate each winter. Providing only 245 feet of vertical drop, the runs may be quick at Yawgoo, but the ski hill has also generated some awesome talent like the famous local crew ‘The Yawgoons’.
Spring Mountain Ski Area, Pennsylvania:
Less than 40 miles from Philadelphia, Spring Mountain Ski Area is the lowest elevation base area among Pennsylvania ski resorts at only 78 feet. In addition to being close to a major metropolis, the small ski area has night skiing on its 45 acres and introduces many city slicker to snow sports. Spring Mountain is comparatively 400 feet below the next lowest base area in the state, and over 2000 feet lower than more famous Pennsylvania resorts like Seven Springs.
New Hermon Mountain, Maine:
At 100 feet above sea level, New Hermon Mountain in Maine lays claim to the lowest elevation ski resort in the Pine Tree State. Under 20 minutes from Bangor, ME; New Hermon Mountain is often the first exposure many Mainers get to skiing and snowboarding. With 100% snow making capabilities across their 70 acres of terrain, even at only a 100 feet above sea level, New Hermon Mountain helps to keep alive the spirit of small community ski hills.