In 1999 the Big Tupper ski area located near Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks was forced to close due to shifts in demands which brought on financial difficulties.

A few years later, a large development project was proposed for the mountain yet stalled due to the process of getting a permit from the state Adirondack Park Agency. The Adirondack Club and Resort planned to replace and upgrade all the lifts and buildings at the ski area on Mount Morris and add about 600 housing units, a restaurant and a marina on the land around it. The lack of skiing facilities forced many to visit neighboring areas including Whiteface Mountain for their winter fun.

However, in an effort to preserve their town and not be destroyed by a failing economy, members of the Adirondack community came together to restore and reopen Big Tupper. From retirees to high school students, this dynamic community volunteered their time and money to clear about 30 slopes located on Mount Morris, which is about 3130 feet elevation. In the end, these local volunteers re-vamped the mountain over a four-month period in 2009. And despite not being open for over 11 years, everything is running along smoothly. To welcome skiers back, Big Tupper Ski Center in Tupper Lake is offering $15 lift tickets (good all day) on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The site is managed by over 60 community volunteers.




Sun streaming through big trees at Big Tupper




The mountain has no snow-making facilities, thus making it very dependent on natural snow falls for skiing.  But even if you do not ski, it is still worth the trip just to enjoy the beautiful scenery there. The gorgeous mountain views and lake fronts make it a perfect destination for camping, hiking, and any other outdoor activity you could want, and some great indoor activities as well.

One of their other main attractions, the Wild Center, will be offering a free pass starting Feb. 29th to visitors who purchase a lift ticket for Tupper. Rentals are available for just $20.




Trio on summit at Big Tupper




Fore more information please visit SkiBigTupper.org.

Photos courtesy of VisitAdirondacks.com