Pennsylvania’s Laurel Mountain ski area has experienced many ups and downs since opening shortly after World War II. In 1989, the resort closed its doors, only to re-open ten years later in December, 1999. Significant investments were made to the resort to prepare for its 1999 re-opening, including chairlift upgrades, snowmaking installation, trail regradings and lodge renovations. However, despite an enthusiastic response by visitors to the resort, the resort has struggled with limited attendance and challenging weather conditions. The owner of Laurel Mountain has placed the resort on the auction block, and the results of this auction will determine whether Laurel Mountain opens this winter.

Tranzon, a nationwide auction and sales company, recently listed Laurel Mountain for auction. The listing includes approximately 387 acres of property located in Ligonier Township, PA, including the ski area and 327 acres of undeveloped property. 380 undeveloped mountain home sites are also included.

Closed bids on the area will be accepted through October 15, 2003. The winning bidder will receive ownership of the resort’s 12,500 square foot ski lodge, a 10,000 square foot maintenance and ski patrol building, snowmaking equipment, quad and double chairlifts, a snowboarding half pipe, a tubing park, 500 sets of rental skis and snowboards, slope lighting system, water supply and underground electric utilities, parking for over 550 cars, and all furniture, fictures, equipment, vehicles, customer lists, domain names, and phone numbers associated with the resort. $2.5 million has been invested in upgrades to the resort over the past four years.

According to the Tribune-Democract, the resort’s current owner, George Mowl, has attempted to obtain the $1 million in financing necessary to upgrade and re-open the resort for the upcoming winter season. However, attempts to raise financing have so far been unsuccessful. If a buyer is found on the October 15 auction, it is expected that there would be enough time for the new buyer to keep the resort open for the 2003-2004 winter season, although there probably would not be time to make capital investments.

The Tribute-Democrat reports that Mowl is looking for a bid of at least $7.5 million.

Photo provided by Laurel Mountain Ski Area.