History

🏡 The Legacy of High Life Ski Club Lodge

In the early years, High Life Ski Club rented ski houses each winter to accommodate its growing membership. But as the community expanded, the desire for a permanent home became clear.

🛠️ A New Beginning

In October 1972, the club purchased a long-vacant farmhouse in Chittenden, Vermont for $32,000. The structure required a full renovation—including plumbing, heating, and electrical systems—before it could welcome guests. To make it ready in time for the 1972–73 ski season, dedicated members formed a construction crew and moved in to get the job done. Though there was still work to be completed, the lodge officially opened later that year.

That first winter brought its own charm and challenges. With only floor grates to distribute heat upstairs—a classic feature in old New England homes—members found their overnight water glasses frozen solid come morning.

🧰 Built with Heart

Much of the early renovation work was prepped in New Jersey, then transported to Vermont. Beds, kitchen upgrades, and countless other improvements were handcrafted by members who dedicated their evenings to building a future for the club.

Throughout the 1970s, High Life members set out to create something enduring—a space that would serve generations. And they did.

🔥 Fire Safety and Renovations

In April 1988, the lodge underwent inspection under Vermont’s newly introduced Fire Safety Code. It was the first building evaluated under the updated regulations, and the first to meet them. Once again, members rolled up their sleeves, completing the work themselves. The final cost? $32,000—the same as the original purchase price, 18 years earlier.

🏗️ Continuous Improvement

Since then, High Life has seen steady upgrades, thanks to the ongoing dedication of its members:

• Renovated bathrooms and kitchen
• Bright red metal roof
• New chimney and fireplace box
• Cedar siding for a fresh exterior

But the crown jewel is the remodeled barn: once a garage and boathouse, now a heated recreation center featuring:

• A cold room and summer deck
• A spiral staircase leading to a TV/reading loft
• Pool table and dance floor
• Four TVs—including a high-definition projection screen for wall-sized movies and sports

Both the barn and main lodge offer wireless internet access to keep members connected.

In 2009, members completed a major kitchen renovation to support shared meals and good company for years to come.

🌟 Our History Is Still Being Written

The story of High Life doesn’t end here. Every member continues to shape its legacy—with each renovation, ski run, and shared experience.