Bethpage State Park
Farmingdale, NY
Before 1951-At least 1971

History    Memories    Listings by the Year

History

A very small ski area with a tiny vertical drop once operated at Bethpage State Park (on the golf course) on Long Island. The area operated from 1951 until 1971, but may have been closed at some point in between as no guidebooks mention the area from 1951 to 1971. 

There was a 400' rope tow which served a 100' drop that operated only when sufficient snow was present. This area had no snowmaking. It likely closed due to its small size and lack of snow.

Directions to the area in 1949.

Memories 

Dr. David  Schoenfeld:Bethpage Golf Course had a rope tow hill that opened when there was natural snow. That was my first experience with skiing in the late 1950's.

Bob Podewils: Bethpage State Park had a rope tow on the 18th hole green course, the old rope motor house is still there.

Skileader: I can add that Bethpage did have snowmaking. When I first started working for a ski tour co. in 1970 I had to report in at 4 am. The co. Butternut Tours (one of the owners Wally Papo grew up in Great Barrington Ma.) was on Main St in Farmingdale. The Bethpage Park slope was off Round Swamp Road (Exie 48 LIE). I had to drive right by it every time I want to Butternut. Many a night in 70-71 maybe later they would have their 3 or 4 snow guns blasting. The motor house for the rope is still there. Right now its a bit hard to see as they have put in a ton of tents and bleachers for the US Open in June.

Bethpage by the Year

Year Lifts Trails Other Info Source
1948-1951 400' tow 400' slope, slight drop, needs 6" to ski, lighted Heated and lighted shelter, refreshments Ski New York Guides
1949 Same Same Admission cost 25 cents, no extra charge for tow, canteen. Operated by Joseph Burbeck Where to Ski
1970-1971 1 tow 1 slope 100' vertical drop, 75 cents to ski, open daily as snow permits Ski New York Guide

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