The base building houses lounges, restaurant and bars, rental and repair shops, locker facilities, and offices.

The idea for the ski resort emerged from developer Karl Hope's need to supplement his existing summer investments in the area.

[8] In October 1974, construction began on Shawnee Mountain with the cutting of four original trails and the installation of two lifts.

Designed initially as an upside-down mountain, the lodge and parking were situated at the top, allowing skiers to descend and then take the lift back up.

This design provided unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the resort.

[9] During the first season, the Summit Lodge was not fully completed, so operations such as rentals, ticketing, and food service were conducted from a trailer.

He established the Jean-Claude Killy Ski School, which operated from 1975 to 1980, using trained international instructors to offer private and group lessons.

Killy's involvement was a strategic marketing move, but he genuinely contributed to the mountain's development and spent significant time there each winter.

By combining his expertise and celebrity status, Jean-Claude Killy played a crucial role in the growth and reputation of Shawnee Mountain as a premier ski destination.

The initial phase involved clearing land and marking spaces for buildings, parking, and a snowmaking pond.

Guests would enter via a footbridge into a base area designed to create an immediate aesthetic experience, with parking lots arranged to enhance the visual appeal.

[13] The original footbridge was constructed using oak and maple planks cleared from the mountain during trail cutting.

In the 1983-84 season, Shawnee Mountain introduced night skiing by installing lights along most trails and extending operating hours.

Under Shawnee Mountain's leadership, significant improvements were made, including the installation of new lifts, snowmaking equipment, and lodge renovations.

The Winter Season Shawnee Mountain is typically open from the end of November (post Thanksgiving) through mid to late March, depending on conditions and weather.

Programming Shawnee Mountain offers a variety of ski and snowboard lessons tailored to different age groups and skill levels.

[17] For both adults and children, Shawnee Mountain offers group lessons[18] using the progressive American Teaching Method.