Shawnee Mountain History: Shawnee Peak

Welcome back to our series on Shawnee Mountain history! In these posts, we’ll cover the founding and expansion of Shawnee Mountain over the years.

Last post: We talked about the original expansion into the base area. If you missed it, check out the post here.

This week we’re discussing our brief foray into Maine.

Did You Know? From 1988 through 1994, Shawnee Mountain owned a partner mountain in Maine called Shawnee Peak. Now known as Pleasant Mountain, it is the oldest ski area in Maine, deeply embedded in the local culture of Bridgton, ME.

Shawnee Mountain: A Young Mountain with a Storied Past

Here in Pennsylvania, Shawnee Mountain might be one of the youngest mountains at 48 years old, but it boasts a vibrant history of its own. Since our creation in 1975, we have been family-owned and family-focused, cultivating a close-knit community that has made skiing and snowboarding accessible for families and first-timers alike. This commitment to our guests is a cornerstone of our identity and independence.

The Acquisition of Pleasant Mountain

In 1988, Shawnee Mountain’s ownership sought to branch out and researched areas to expand their influence. They acquired Pleasant Mountain in Bridgton, Maine, and renamed it Shawnee Peak to align with their branding. Under Shawnee Mountain leadership, significant improvements were made, including the installation of lifts, new snowmaking pipes, and lodge renovations. These enhancements led to a remarkable increase of 65,000 skier visits in the first year.

Both Shawnee Mountain and Pleasant Mountain share a strong emphasis on community involvement. In Bridgton, the local residents play an integral role in the ski area, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that resonates with skiers of all ages. Similarly, at Shawnee Mountain, we see generations of families returning year after year, making memories and enjoying the sport together.

We are proud of our independence, both as a ski resort and as a community. This independence allows us to maintain a family-focused atmosphere and offer personalized experiences for our guests. Whether it’s in the heart of Pennsylvania or the slopes of Maine, the spirit of community and the joy of skiing remain at the forefront of our mission.

In 1994, Shawnee Mountain sold Shawnee Peak to Chet Homer, the founder of the brand Tom’s of Maine. This transition marked a new chapter for the mountain, but the legacy of Shawnee Mountain’s impactful improvements and community-focused programs continued to resonate. In 2022, Shawnee Peak reverted back to the name Pleasant Mountain in order to pay homage to their own rich history (and, we have to admit, it did confuse some customers to have two east coast mountains named ‘Shawnee’).

As we reflect on our shared history with Pleasant Mountain and celebrate our unique legacy at Shawnee Mountain, we are reminded of the importance of community, family, and a deep-rooted passion for skiing. Here’s to many more years of winter adventures and cherished memories!

Upcoming: Part 5 will cool things off with a dive into the Shawnee Play Place waterpark!

Written on: May 31, 2024  |  Written by: Michaela K., Marketing Asst.