Located on California’s Highway 88, Iron Mountain is one of the most famous abandoned ski resorts in the United States.
Opened in 1971, Iron Mountain offered 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 its proximity to the mighty Kirkwood Mountain, a lack of marketing for most of its history, and various financial issues led to closures and multiple ownership changes.
In 1991, Iron Mountain’s owner decided to cut trees for an expansion without the US Forest Service’s approval, which led to his arrest. The mountain was closed from 1991-94, before reopening for one more season. The mountain closed for good in 1995; the US Forest Service revoked the special use permit in 1998, and removed it as a winter sports site 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 from Skier72. 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.
The ski area is currently for sale, as it’s been on the market since 2025. You can view the listing here.
Image/Video Credits: Skier72/Ben Eminger, Skimap.org
