Exploring the Adirondack Legacy of North Creek’s Ski Bowl
An iconic Adirondack ski destination on Gore Mountain.
Photo courtesy North Creek Ski Bowl
In the Adirondack Mountains is a gem cherished by outdoor enthusiasts and winter adventurers—the North Creek Ski Bowl. This historic destination carries a legacy steeped in skiing folklore, weaving through time to offer a blend of nostalgia and modern-day thrill. Today, it provides Nordic and Alpine skiing, snowboarding, freestyle fun, snowshoeing, and more. It’s important to appreciate how the humble North Creek Ski Bowl was the gateway to winter recreation in the Adirondacks. Pay attention.
A glimpse into Adirondack winter tourism history.
The Ski Bowl's history traces back to the pre-WWII 20th century when it emerged as a premier skiing destination. In 1934, the first Ski Train arrived in North Creek, delivering close to 400 ski enthusiasts from Schenectady, NY (mostly General Electric white-collar workers — but that’s another story), marking the beginning of a legacy. This may not seem like a significant milestone, but think about it for a minute.
Can you imagine driving this car on your ski trip to the ADK?
Only two out of three families owned cars in the early 1930s.
Four-wheel drive vehicles were available to only a small, select group of car enthusiasts.
There was no Adirondack Northway, so travel was mostly on two-lane roads, by rail, or horse-drawn sleigh, and that was in good weather.
In other words, if you were anyone other than an Astor, Vanderbilt, or Morgan, there were few ways to access the Adirondacks to enjoy the newly fashionable winter sporting life. Luckily, a few visionary individuals saw the possibilities and acted on them.
Ski trains to North Creek made winter sports accessible.
The early Ski Train travelers were carving new paths for winter sporting fans. Eventually, the Ski Trains would bring close to 1,000 skiers a day to North Creek to enjoy winter sports.
North Creek rope tow, one of the first, if not the first, in the US.
The tranquil location of North Creek was transformed into a bustling winter paradise with the development of ski infrastructure and trails.
In the 1940s and '50s, the North Creek Ski Bowl was popular among avid skiers looking for the perfect slopes and the thrill of the descent. The Adirondack Ski Center was established in the 1960s, which elevated the status of the ski bowl and attracted visitors from far and wide.
However, popularity is a double-edged sword. The success of the North Creek Snow Bowl drove the development of the Gore Mountain Ski Area (the North Creek Ski Bowl is sometimes referred to as “Little Gore” while the larger present-day Gore ski area is known as “Big Gore”).
As visitors skied at “Big Gore” Mountain, the “Liltte Gore” Ski Bowl faced difficulties keeping up. Although the Ski Bowl advertised and highlighted its shorter lift lines and uncrowded trails, the new “Big” Gore Mountain quickly became the area’s premier ski site.
Ownership of the Ski Bowl changed hands over the next few years, and attempts to transform it into a four-season resort failed. This was the start of a challenging period for the Ski Bowl as the main t-bar lift was left to decay, and the base lodge burned down.
A local Adirondack destination breathes new life.
XC skiing at North Creek Ski Bowl.
Luckily, in 2003, Gore Mountain partnered with the Town of Johnsburg and opened a snow tubing park at the Ski Bowl near the site of the first ski tow. Since then, the Ski Bowl has had a rebirth. Ski Bowl Village, a ski-in/ski-out site, was established, public skiing has returned, there is a terrain park, and the Hudson Chair ski lift now connects Gore to the Ski Bowl.
The North Creek Ski Bowl’s present-day charms.
The North Creek Ski Bowl regained its allure, blending its historical significance with modern amenities and a captivating ski experience thanks to the financial support of the local and New York State governments. This support brings crucial jobs to the area and sustains the local economy.
Renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse terrain, Gore and the North Creek Ski Bowl cater to skiers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.
Visitors can indulge in various winter activities beyond skiing, including snowboarding, tubing, and snowshoeing, ensuring there's something for everyone.
In recent years, the Ski Bowl has undergone significant revitalization efforts. Upgrades to chairlifts and snowmaking technology have enhanced the skiing experience, ensuring optimal conditions throughout the season. Additionally, the expansion of amenities such as cozy lodges, dining options, and equipment rental facilities caters to the comfort and convenience of visitors.
The Nordic Center at the North Creek Ski Bowl features snowmaking and lighting to extend skiers’ on-snow time into the evening hours.
Trail map for the North Creek Ski Bowl Nordic Center.
The stadium layout provides an ideal training and racing venue and allows guests to explore a scenic overlook, challenging hill climbs, and different loops to lap the best distance for their goals. The venue recently received four FIS certifications, which means its courses meet the criteria for hosting a range of high-level racing events.
It goes without saying recreational users are always welcome. Customize your cross-country ski outing with varying inclines, natural wooded routes, and lighted tracks for evening fitness. If you’re just getting started, ask about equipment rentals and lessons – they are happy to introduce you to this beautiful sport. Snowshoers are welcome along the sides of the trails too.
Helping to make North Creek a year-round destination.
What sets North Creek Ski Bowl apart is its seamless integration with the surrounding natural beauty of the Adirondacks. The resort takes pride in its commitment to environmental sustainability, implementing eco-friendly practices to preserve the region's pristine wilderness.
While the winter months offer an array of snowy adventures, the North Creek Ski Bowl transcends seasons. In the warmer months, the area transforms into a haven for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the scenic trails that unveil the Adirondacks' splendor.
North Creek Ski Bowl stands as a testament to the timeless allure of winter sports and the enduring charm of the Adirondacks. Its rich history intertwines seamlessly with contemporary offerings, inviting enthusiasts to partake in an exhilarating journey through snow-laden slopes and picturesque landscapes.
Backcountry snowshoeing
Visitors to this cherished destination leave not only with amazing memories of thrilling runs but also with a profound appreciation for the natural wonders that grace the Adirondack Mountains. Whether you seek adventure on skis or simply yearn to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, North Creek Ski Bowl promises an unforgettable experience—one that echoes through generations, embracing the spirit of winter's embrace in the heart of the Adirondacks.
Learn more about how the Ski Bowl connects to Gore Moutain. We are also thrilled about the planned improvements to the Ski Bowl and its integration into Gore.
Gore Mt. featured on ADK Talks podcast.
On a recent episode of our podcast, we spoke with the folks at Gore about the upcoming ski season, North Creek Ski Bowl’s enhancements, and the history of this winter sports destination.
Places to eat, shop, stay and things to do in and around North Creek in the Adirondacks.
Authentic Irish pub with an Adirondack twist in Schroon Lake.