Whitcomb Summit Resort Open for the Winter
 Photos by Kathy Keeser
Whitcomb Summit owners Carol and Edward Drummond have entered into a partnership with James Pedro, center. Top, views from the highest point on the Mohawk Trail. |
The resort is located up the "hill" (Hoosac Mountain) from North Adams — and everywhere else. It's the first time in years that the restaurant and motel, with its access to recreational activities, will be open during winter season.
New manager Jim Pedro has a joint ownership agreement with Ed and Carol Drummond, with the goal for Pedro to eventually be the sole proprietor. Pedro took over the day-to-day operation of the resort at the end of August.
Pedro is starting with a tavern menu in the so-called upper restaurant. "The plan is to have the lower restaurant open with full, expanded menu in the spring," he said.
"Right now and through the winter, it is a good place for snowmobiles, hikers and others to come with the trails right here and loads of parking for the (snowmobile) trailers. Everyone can have a good time. We will have regular entertainment with local musicians and DJs."
Since the tavern reopened seven days a week, from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m, Pedro said that although late fall is usually a slow time, business has been good.
  The rooms and cabins at the summit motel are being completely refurbished. |
On a recent Saturday evening, about 50 people wandered in during the evening, filling the bar area and many of the tables in the restaurant area, where Al Bedini played a wide range of tunes and a couple danced. The pool tables in the game room had a steady usage. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, talking with friends and neighbors.
"It's my first time here," said Pat Macuso, a town resident. "I am having a great time and I really enjoying listening to Al Bedini's music!"
The Whitcomb Summit is at the highest point on the Mohawk Trail (Route 2). It began operations as a small tourist concession stand run by Charles Canedy around 1914; his brother son Donald ran it until 1983. The Drummonds purchased the property for $87,500 in 2002. While the structures have gone through a number of changes, the vista has remained popular through the years.
The Drummonds had planned many improvements; some have already taken place and Pedro says more are in store. The 18 motel rooms have been completely renovated and individually decorated by the Drummonds. Outside, a new picnic area with sweeping views has been set up near the Elk Memorial.
 Peter and Joyce Von Tilborg dance to live music in the motel's tavern. |
Two years ago the Drummonds, in partnership with Eric Rudd and Jae Chung, tried to turn the motel and cabins into condos. The venture never took off and Rudd and Chung are no longer involved. However, Pedro said the cabins are still available as condos if anyone's interested.
Pedro has some ideas of his own.
"The plans are for the original cabin ... to be moved next to the Lookout Tower, which will also be rebuilt, and make the cabin into kind of a museum for the seasons," said Pedro.
Margo Van Peterson, the public relations and events coordinator, said, "I am working on all kinds of special events including a ski weekend, incredible deal packages, Valentine sweetheart weekend deal, and a possible beer festival. The big event coming soon is the big New Year's Eve Extravaganza with three ways to join in on the fun."
The New Year's Eve deals range from a $139 motel, meals, drinks and party package to a $26 individual package of meals, drinks and party; to individual party price of $10. "How can you pass up such a deal, we have something for everyone and we hope you all come join us, it will be lots of fun!" said Van Peterson.
Edited at 11:34 a.m., Nov. 22, 2009, to clarify condo situation.
