Woodstock, Vermont — In terms of historical significance, the most important piece of land in America’s ski industry is back on the market.
Priced at $2,395,000, Gilbert’s Hill is home to the site of the USA’s first rope tow. The around 112 acre estate features various buildings on the property. However, you clicked this article for the ski history, so let’s focus on that first.
Back in January 1934, Clinto Garbin put a ski tow in his backyard. What he ultimately created was arguably the beginning of the United States ski industry. The old lift towers remain, as does the old ski area warming hut. While its lift-served days are behind it, it’s still possible to ski, Nordic ski, and snowshoe around the property thanks to a conservation easement. For skinners, it looks like a great slope to lap.
There are a few buildings that you can live in on the property. The main residence features four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The attached barnhouse could be converted into more living space. The former warming hut for the ski hill has been converted into a residence with two bedrooms and a full bathroom. Various facilities on the property underwent a comprehensive restoration from 2017 to 2020, including the farmhouse and warming hut.
Another key focus of the land is for agricultural use. Other buildings on the property include a dairy house, milk house, and a greenhouse pavilion. There’s also an equipment shed with four bays for those who like big green tractors. The current owners have also planted a vineyard. There are also several flower gardens and many trees in the forest that are suitable for maple syrup production (this is Vermont after all). The property is probably best suited to someone who wants to use it for agricultural purposes but also appreciates skiing and Vermont history.
You can view the listing here. More photos of the property are below.
Image/Video Credits: Bravynia, Vermont Historical Society
