Greek Peak Celebrates 65th Anniversary

On January 11, 1958, Greek Peak officially opened the mountain for skiing. Boasting four trails and two short rope tows, guests could ski all day for just $7. Skiers enjoyed picnic lunches in the A-frame lodge and warmed up cold fingers and toes around a crackling fireplace.

Locals were more than excited to embrace what New York Governor Averill Harriman called "a first-class development." Greek Peak's grand opening was ushered in by a tremendous parade down Main Street in downtown Cortland, followed by opening ceremonies, all presided over by the governor himself. 

In honor of its 65th anniversary, Greek Peak will offer $65 lift tickets all day long on Thursday, January 11. In addition, the first 65 guests at the ticket window that day will receive a special commemorative 65th-anniversary poster. Complimentary cake will be served at noon. 

Throughout the past 65 years, Greek Peak has created a space for making unforgettable memories. From day camps in the 70s, complete with an old painted bus, to the annual employee clam bake featuring air shows. In 1966, daredevils flew off the mountain's peak with kite-like wings, and for a few years, employees had the opportunity to ride on the Goodyear Blimp. In 1971, there was even a helicopter that ferried guests between Greek Peak and the local airport.

In the early '80s, Greek Peak helped take over downtown Cortland with the "hot dog ski jump" on Court Street Hill. Held during the first weekend in February, "Winter Magic Weekend" featured events around the county, including ski races at Greek Peak, Song Mountain, and Labrador Mountain; biathlon, figure skating, and hockey. Participants engaged in entertaining three-legged snowshoe races, and for added excitement, a ski jump was brought to Court House Park.

Then there was the short-lived Greek Peak Dude Ranch, complete with livestock and a rodeo. When it comes to big ideas and big fun, Greek Peak has never been afraid to take chances.

Over the past 65 years, Greek Peak Mountain Resort has developed into a cornerstone of Cortland County. Now home to 55 ski trails, six aerial lifts, two surface lifts, a ski shop, an ever-evolving terrain park, and a snow tubing center complete with a conveyor belt, Greek Peak has grown into Central New York's largest ski resort! 

More than just an amazing mountain, Greek Peak is also home to Hope Lake Lodge. This four-season family resort hosts 105 different lodge-style suites, sleeping anywhere from 2 to 10 individuals. Each suite has a fully equipped kitchen, spa-quality mattresses, complimentary pool and hot tub access, and in-room refreshments. The amenities at Hope Lake Lodge include an indoor water park, arcade and Waterfalls Spa, making it the perfect destination for the entire family.

Greek Peak also offers three delicious dining options: Carvers Steakhouse, Trax Bar & Grill and the brand-new Marty's Deli. The Bobcat Lounge serves up pints and cocktails to thirsty skiers. Across the road is Greek Peak's Adventure Center, where guests can sail along tandem zip lines and fly down the mountainside on the year-round mountain coaster. 

Along with ongoing snow-making infrastructure and improvements, Greek Peak has premiered three new guest-experience enhancements to the property. The Lookout at Hope Lake is a stand-alone indoor/outdoor event space located on the knoll above Hope Lake Park. Just below The Lookout is Hope Lakes' new 18-hole disc golf course, where two PDGA Tournaments are held annually. Its newest addition, the Campground at Hope Lake, situated at the base of the mountain, includes 26 full-service RV sights in addition to 15 small camper/tent sites, making Greek Peak Mountain Resort an outstanding year-round, all-occasion destination!

To learn more about Greek Peak's 65th-anniversary commemoration or to plan your next ski getaway, call 1-800-955-2754 or visit greekpeak.net.