How DCSki Began
More than three decades ago, learning about ski resorts wasn't particularly easy. You could call a resort for a conditions report — often a toll call — but somehow the conditions were always “excellent.” You might find a brochure at a ski shop or trade show, or ask friends for advice.
That frustrated M. Scott Smith, who had recently been bitten by the skiing bug. He thought other skiers could benefit from hearing about his experiences — good or bad — at Mid-Atlantic ski areas.
Scott launched DCSki in 1994, initially distributing it as an e-mail newsletter. Soon afterward, DCSki moved to the web. Since then, millions of visitors have turned to the site for ski news, resort information, historical features, firsthand reports, and community discussion.
DCSki launches as an independent source of Mid-Atlantic ski information, initially distributed by e-mail.
DCSki moves online and grows into a publication with original reporting, resort profiles, community discussion, and reader-contributed stories.
DCSki continues to document the region's ski areas — including the ones that disappeared — while connecting skiers and snowboarders across the Mid-Atlantic and beyond.
Independent by Design
From its humble beginnings, DCSki has retained its independent roots. Stories are written by DCSki's own writers, and editorial coverage is kept separate from advertising.
DCSki welcomes news tips, story suggestions, questions, and guest-column ideas. Contact Scott if there's something you think DCSki should know about.
About Scott
DCSki was envisioned and is operated by M. Scott Smith. Scott writes articles, takes photographs, designs pages, programs the site, pays the bills, and allegedly catches a wink of sleep now and then.
Scott majored in computer science at Drexel University and works full-time as a computer scientist and researcher. He also created the travel and adventure site Past Yonder and its YouTube channel.
An avid photographer and outdoor enthusiast, Scott loves to travel and explore. He occasionally documents those adventures on his personal blog and spends many weekends in Maryland's Catoctin Mountains.
DCSki Columnists
DCSki's columnists have contributed stories and experiences from local mountains and destinations farther afield. Explore their archives below.
Recognition
Over the years, DCSki has earned a loyal following and outside recognition. The West Virginia Division of Tourism honored DCSki with a “Stars of the Industry” award in the Best Web/Internet/E-Magazine category, and The Washington Post has described DCSki as “exemplary.”
The Fine Print
All rights reserved. You may not reproduce any portion of DCSki, in whole or in part, without prior written permission from DCSki's Editor. Reader comments do not necessarily represent the viewpoints of DCSki, LLC or its Editor. Although DCSki attempts to verify the accuracy of information it publishes, DCSki cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. Verify current operating conditions directly with a ski resort before visiting. If you discover copyrighted content on DCSki that you believe belongs to someone else, please notify us so we can investigate. Please read DCSki's Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Help keep DCSki independent
DCSki is a labor of love. Reader support helps cover the cost of keeping this independent publication and community online.
