Spruce Mountain is a family-friendly skiing on the banks of the Androscoggin River in Central Maine. Beyond its natural beauty, Spruce Mountain has a unique history tied deep into the roots of the Livermore, Jay, and Livermore Falls communities. It has been the focal point for the community for over 60 years. To really understand the value of the property, you must know the history of how a town moved a mountain. 3 skiers for the 10th Mountain Division of the U.S. Army returned home from World War 2 wanted a place to ski. They obtained permission to develop a ski area on the actual Spruce Mountain about 12 miles from its current location. It operated for two years before the ski area was moved because of access issues. In 1959, they moved Spruce Mountain to a cow pasture on the Dion Farm in Jay/Livermore Maine, where it still operates today
With a bit of a bumpy start Spruce Mountain became the focal point of the community. In 1989 the surrounding towns Jay, Livermore, and Livermore Falls purchased the ski area from the Dion family so the community could continue to enjoy downhill skiing. The Spruce Mountain property was the training ground for some of the world’s best Nordic skiers, including Dan Simoneau. Dan spent many years training on the Spruce Mountain property. Later he would compete with three other Spruce Nordic skiers for the NCAA Championship and would later represent the United States in three separate Olympics in 1980, 1984, and 1988. Spruce Mountain was also one of the first areas to allow women to compete on a Nordic ski team. The local high school and middle school, named after Spruce Mountain, still train at Spruce Mountain, competing at top levels in their division. The glory that Spruce Mountain once was is still present. With a little elbow grease and a lot of determination, Spruce Mountain has once again become the pillar of the community.
To celebrating recent upgrades and improvements to the Mountain and Lodge from Maine Cabin Masters, Jay Recreation Committee, Spruce Mountain Ski Club and Androscoggin Land Trust is excited to announce the inaugural Rock the Mountain Event. This free community event aims to showcase our collective efforts and thank the community and business leaders like you who have played a vital role in enhancing this valuable outdoor resource. The festivities will start with a little snow in September. The terrain park will come to life after it’s summer slumber with incredible Rail Jam. Some pre-season fun for skiers and boarders to try out their new skills. The celebration will continue with several local live bands, games, community connection and amazing food. We welcome you to get loose at Spruce.