10 fun facts about Shawnee Mountain that you probably didn’t know!
Think you know Shawnee Mountain? Think again! Whether you’re a long-time visitor or planning your first trip, there’s more to our mountain than just great skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. From hidden history to behind-the-scenes secrets, we’re pulling back the curtain to share 10 fun facts about Shawnee Mountain that might just surprise you. Read on to learn something new before your next adventure on the slopes!
1. Shawnee Mountain Used to Be a Cattle Farm
Before the ski trails and chairlifts, this land was home to cows! Shawnee Mountain started as a working cattle farm before transforming into the ski destination we know today. The views have always been great, but we think the current residents (skiers and snowboarders) enjoy them a little more than the cows did.
2. We Started as an Upside-Down Mountain
Believe it or not, Shawnee Mountain originally operated as an “upside-down” ski resort, meaning the lodge was located at the top of the mountain instead of the base. Skiers would arrive, strap in, and immediately head downhill. Today, the lodge sits at the base, but we still love a good throwback to our upside-down days!
3. Our Iconic Fireplace Came Straight from the Mountain
That massive stone fireplace in the lodge? It’s not just a cozy après-ski spot—it’s a piece of Shawnee history. The rocks used to build it were pulled directly from the land during base area construction, making it a true part of the mountain.
4. Pigs Once Called This Place Home
Skiers and snowboarders aren’t the only ones who have lived at Shawnee—pigs did too! Some of the barns still on the property were once used for raising pigs back when the land was farmland. Next time you ride the lift, just imagine a very different kind of “run” happening here years ago.
5. We Once Had a Sister Mountain in Maine
Did you know Shawnee Mountain once had a twin? For a few years we owned Shawnee Peak in Maine, another East Coast ski destination that shared our name and spirit for adventure. While the two resorts eventually went their separate ways, Shawnee Peak remains a beloved mountain (it’s now called Pleasant Mountain).
6. One of the Largest On-Site Rental Shops in the Country
Need gear? You’re in luck—Shawnee Mountain has one of the largest on-site rental shops in the country. With thousands of skis, snowboards, and boots available, we make sure first-timers and returning guests alike have everything they need to hit the slopes. Plus, with fast and efficient service, you’ll spend less time in the shop and more time on the mountain.
7. We’re a Family-Owned Mountain in a Corporate-Dominated Industry
While many ski resorts have been taken over by large corporations, Shawnee Mountain has remained independent and family-owned (seriously, have you seen cousins Rachel and Josh on Instagram??). This allows us to focus on a community-driven, welcoming atmosphere that keeps generations of visitors coming back year after year.
8. Olympic Legend Jean-Claude Killy Helped Develop Our Ski School
In the 1970s and early 1980s, Jean-Claude Killy, one of the most famous Olympic skiers of all time, played a role in shaping Shawnee Mountain’s ski school program. Killy, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and World Cup champion, helped develop instructional techniques that introduced countless new skiers to the sport—some of whom may still be skiing here today!
9. The View from the Top is Worth the Trip Alone
Skiing and snowboarding are obviously the main attractions, but even if you don’t hit the slopes, the panoramic views from the top of Shawnee Mountain are absolutely stunning. On a clear day, you can see the rolling Poconos stretching out for miles—making for some of the best photo ops around.
10. We Used to Have a Waterpark
Where our fire pit sits today was once home to something completely different—a waterpark! Years (and years) ago, Shawnee Mountain had water slides and pools where guests could cool off during the summer months. While the waterpark is long gone, we think gathering around the fire pit after a day on the slopes is a much better way to warm up.
What’s Your Favorite Shawnee Mountain Fact?
Did any of these surprise you? Have a favorite memory from Shawnee Mountain? Let us know or share your photos with us on social media!
Written on: March 12, 2025 | Written by: Michaela K., Marketing Asst.
