Way back in 1953, a group of investors formed Ski Burke Mountain Inc. Unless they opted to climb, the first skiers’ only ride to the top was a SnoCat. By 1955, skiers could catch the new Poma Lift. In time, Burke Mountain Academy found the perfect environment, and located its internationally recognized school on Burke.

Fast forward to 2012. Jay Peak bought Burke, creating a dual-mountain resort system in Vermont’s north country. The new owner immediately set about making $108 million in improvements, including $1.4 million in snowmaking upgrades, and announced plans to create four rustic lodges modeled after Jay Peak’s Tram Haus Lodge, which have the look and feel of slopeside cabins — and which may provide lodging for up to 1,250 at various locations on the mountain.

Through all its years, Burke has remained the best-kept secret in New England — an uncrowded, natural paradise for downhill skiers and boarders, cross-country skiers and mountain bikers. Burke’s newest chapter looks to be the one that tells of a mountain where improved recreational and living opportunities co-exist in harmony with legendary unspoiled beauty and charm. And that chapter starts this December.

Burke Mountain Resort broke ground in June 2014 on the new hotel and conference center and the new facility open its doors in September 2016. Featuring 116 suites, a restaurant and pub, a cafe, and a full-service conference center, outdoor heated pool and hot tub, fitness center, shopping and arcade. The new hotel is just steps from the Mid Burke Express Quad and marks the beginning of Burke’s transformation into a destination resort.