On the subject of ski resorts, the identify on the signal may be as memorable because the slopes themselves. Whereas many resorts boast basic, picturesque names, others take a far quirkier method, selecting names that increase eyebrows, spark laughter, or encourage curiosity.
We requested our readers: What ski resort has the weirdest identify? These had been the resorts that proved that a bit of eccentricity could make an enormous impression. Let’s take a journey down the slopes of the ski world’s weirdest-named locations the place they evoke intrigue, confusion, or only a good snigger.
Hoodoo is a peculiar identify for a ski resort, conjuring pictures of mysticism and folklore reasonably than snow-covered slopes. Nevertheless, the time period can also be outlined as a wierd column or pinnacle-like weathered rock formation, making the identify make full sense given the massive hoodoo subsequent to the ski hill. Whereas the identify would possibly depart first-time guests questioning in the event that they’re stepping right into a winter wonderland or a magical realm, the time period does have geological roots, and its uncommon and barely eerie connotations make it an unforgettable identify for a ski vacation spot.
Positioned in Michigan, Nub’s Nob identify is alleged to derive from the nickname of its founder, Norman “Nub” Sarns, and the phrase “nob,” an outdated English time period for a small hill or knoll. Whereas the identify is rooted in historical past and allure, it typically leaves newcomers scratching their heads, questioning why a ski vacation spot would go for such an eccentric title. It’s an ideal instance of how a novel identify could make a spot unforgettable, even earlier than you hit the lifts.
Conjuring pictures of religious limbo and struggling reasonably than snowy peaks and joyous descents, Purgatory is undeniably an uncommon identify for a ski resort. The identify, nevertheless, stems from the close by Purgatory Creek and its rugged environment, giving it historic and geographical roots. Nonetheless, whereas most ski resort names evoke grandeur, journey, or pure magnificence, Purgatory carries a way of foreboding that feels at odds with the enjoyable and rest sometimes related to the enjoyment of sliding on snow.
The identify “Bogus” traces again to the area’s Nineteenth-century gold rush days, when counterfeiters arrange store within the space producing faux gold, subsequently, the time period “bogus.” Whereas the identify has historic roots, it will possibly strike newcomers as an odd alternative for a spot recognized for its pure magnificence and genuine mountain experiences. The juxtaposition of the phrase “bogus,” typically related to falsehoods, and a ski resort that delivers real out of doors journey is each ironic and unforgettable, making it a very distinctive moniker on the earth of snowboarding.
Our readers nonetheless can’t wrap their heads round Palisades Tahoe rebranding from its former identify, Squaw Valley in 2021, which already had sturdy historic and cultural ties to the area. The brand new identify could purpose to merge grandeur with native identification, nevertheless it nonetheless leaves many in bewilderment. In the end, Palisade is outlined as a line of daring cliffs. The identify references and honors two of the resort’s beloved terrain areas. In Olympic Valley (now referred to as Palisades), iconic granite partitions rise looker’s left of Siberia Specific the place generations of freeskiers made their mark within the legendary area. The terrain with the identical identify alongside the historic Alpine Bowl Chair in Alpine Meadows (now referred to as Alpine) is barely extra hidden, but in addition a proving floor for skiers and riders and a powder day favourite for these within the know.
Ultimately, irrespective of the place you’re using, the weirdest ski resort names present that the snowboarding world may be greater than having a good time—it might include embracing a little bit of quirkiness. These distinctive names make every resort stand out, sparking curiosity and dialog earlier than you even strap in your skis. Whether or not they’re humorous, complicated, or simply plain unusual, these names add character and allure to the mountains we love. So subsequent time you’re heading to a resort with a weird identify, take a second to understand the story behind it as a result of it’s all a part of the journey.
Honorable Mentions
- Sugarbush, VT
- Schweitzer, ID
- Loup Loup, WA
- Crotched Mountain, NH
- Mt. Baldy, CA
- Brian Head, UT
