Mad River Glen is poised to commemorate a significant milestone: 30 years of cooperative ownership and enduring skier-driven independence. To mark this momentous occasion, the iconic Vermont ski area will host a celebratory gala on Saturday, March 28th, featuring a silent auction packed with exclusive memorabilia. The event, which also serves as a fundraiser for the vital Stark Mountain Foundation, underscores the mountain’s unique legacy and its commitment to preservation and community.
The genesis of Mad River Glen’s cooperative ownership dates back to 1995, a period when the future of many cherished, independently owned ski areas hung in the balance. Facing potential sale and development, a passionate group of skiers and enthusiasts rallied to form the Mad River Glen Cooperative. This bold move ensured the mountain’s distinctive character, its challenging terrain, and its unwavering commitment to a pure skiing experience would be preserved. Thirty years later, this model of community stewardship has not only endured but thrived, solidifying Mad River Glen’s status as a beacon of authentic skiing.
The upcoming anniversary party and auction are more than just a celebration; they are a testament to the cooperative’s successful thirty-year journey. Tickets for the event, priced at $125, are still available through Mad River Glen’s online store, with limited quantities remaining. The celebration is scheduled to take place from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM in the Basebox, promising an evening of reconnection, reminiscence, and a shared toast to the mountain’s future.
"Saturday, March 28th marks a monumental achievement for Mad River Glen as we proudly celebrate 30 years of cooperative ownership," read a statement from the resort. "Three decades of preserving not just a mountain, but a mission and a way of life. What began as a daring vision in 1995 has blossomed into one of the most successful skier-owned cooperatives in the nation. Our gratitude extends to our dedicated shareholders, staff, and our loyal community, whose unwavering commitment has allowed Mad River Glen to remain fiercely independent and true to its motto: ‘Ski It If You Can’." The statement further invited all, from long-time shareholders to newcomers, to join in the festivities, reconnect with friends, forge new memories, and raise a glass to the enduring spirit of Mad River Glen.
A highlight of the anniversary celebration will be a silent auction featuring a curated collection of historical Mad River Glen memorabilia. The vast majority of these unique items will be available for in-person bidding at the event, offering attendees a chance to own a piece of the mountain’s storied past. However, two exceptional pieces have been designated for online bidding, extending the opportunity to a broader audience and a wider collector base.
The first of these exclusive online auction items is an original Niehues trail map. Measuring a substantial 4 feet by 4 feet, this piece represents a significant artistic and cartographic contribution to Mad River Glen’s history. Artist James Niehues is renowned for his detailed and iconic ski area maps, and an original of this size from Mad River Glen is a rare and highly coveted collector’s item.
The second, and perhaps most striking, online auction item is an original single chair from Mad River Glen’s legendary single-chair lift. This particular chair, identified as chair #149, is not merely a relic; it is in working order and retains its original pole hook. The single-chair lift itself is a defining feature of Mad River Glen, embodying the mountain’s commitment to a traditional and unhurried skiing experience. With the ongoing modernization of ski resorts, the preservation of such historically significant infrastructure is paramount, and owning an operational piece of this iconic lift is a truly unique prospect for any skiing aficionado or collector. Online bidding for these two exceptional items will remain open until 8:00 PM on Saturday, March 28th, allowing ample time for interested parties to participate.
The proceeds from all auction items will directly benefit the Stark Mountain Foundation (SMF), a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of Mad River Glen and its surrounding environment. The SMF plays a critical role in supporting the mountain’s infrastructure, ecological health, and community programs.
The Enduring Legacy of the Stark Mountain Foundation
Established in 2000, the Stark Mountain Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that has become an indispensable partner in Mad River Glen’s continued success. Over its more than two decades of operation, the SMF has channeled nearly eight million dollars into vital projects at Mad River Glen. These grants have funded crucial upgrades to the mountain’s infrastructure, including lifts, snowmaking equipment, and building renovations. Furthermore, the foundation has been instrumental in supporting trail work, historic preservation efforts, and the acquisition of new equipment, all of which are essential for maintaining the mountain’s operational integrity and unique character.
Beyond its role in infrastructure development, the Stark Mountain Foundation is deeply committed to the ecological stewardship of Stark Mountain, the mountain that is home to Mad River Glen. The foundation actively works to protect the diverse wildlife and delicate ecosystem of the area. This commitment is exemplified by its support for the Kent Thomas Nature Center and a variety of educational programs designed to foster an appreciation for the natural world. These initiatives aim to raise awareness about the rich biodiversity of plants, birds, and animals that inhabit Stark Mountain. In 2023, the SMF is supporting a comprehensive wildlife and plant inventory, a crucial step in understanding and safeguarding the mountain’s natural heritage.
The foundation also actively promotes outdoor recreation and access for the younger generation. It sponsors the "Skiing for Scholars" program, which provides Friday afternoon skiing opportunities for students in the Harwood and Addison Union school districts. Additionally, the SMF offers a Children’s Ski Scholarship program, providing lessons, lift privileges, lunches, and gear to deserving young skiers. Their commitment to the broader outdoor community extends to supporting the ongoing maintenance of the Long Trail and the Stark’s Nest shelter, integral parts of the Green Mountains’ recreational network.
The Stark Mountain Foundation’s mission is clear and comprehensive: "To preserve and protect the environment and ecosystem of General Stark Mountain, including its recreational access and historic value, and to support programs that promote and sustain that environment for the enjoyment of present and future generations." This mission aligns perfectly with the cooperative spirit of Mad River Glen, ensuring that the mountain remains a place of "particular magic" for generations to come. For those wishing to learn more or contribute to the foundation’s vital work, donations can be made at starkmountain.org. Further information about their mission can also be found in their explanatory video, and they maintain active presences on Facebook and Instagram.
The preservation of Mad River Glen as a skier-owned cooperative is a significant achievement in an era often dominated by corporate consolidation in the ski industry. The success of this model offers a compelling alternative, demonstrating that a community-focused approach can not only sustain but enhance a beloved recreational destination. The anniversary celebration and auction serve as a powerful reminder of the community’s dedication to Mad River Glen’s unique legacy and its commitment to ensuring that "Ski It If You Can" remains more than just a slogan, but a living reality for many years to come. The funds raised will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing efforts to maintain the mountain’s charm and functionality, securing its place as a cherished icon of independent skiing.
