Located on California’s Highway 88, Iron Mountain is one of the most famous abandoned ski resorts in the United States.
First opened back in 1971, Iron Mountain had a solid variety of terrain. The peaks were serviced by multiple chairlifts and surface lifts. Over the years, it went through various names: Silver Basin, Ski Sundown, Iron Mountain, and Carson Ski Area. Factors like being near the mighty Kirkwood Mountain, a lack of marketing through most of its history, and various financial issues led to various closures and ownership groups coming through.
In 1991, Iron Mountain’s owner decided to cut trees for an expansion without the US Forest Service’s approval, resulting in his arrest. The mountain was closed from 1991-94, before reopening for one more season. The mountain closed for good in 1995, the special use permit from the US Forest Service was revoked in 1998, and it was removed from being a winter sports site by the US Forest Service in 2000. It hasn’t reopened since, and the lifts and lodge haven’t been removed, leading it to become an eerie sight.
Enjoy this detailed history of Iron Mountain. The video goes into how it became a ski resort, what led to its decline, and the topography of the slopes. After hearing this story, I want to go check this place out someday.
Image/Video Credits: Skier72/Ben Emniger, Skimap.org
