Ever wonder why it’s called Seven Springs?

No, there weren’t seven ski runs when it opened. And it wasn’t the seventh resort in Pennsylvania, either. The answer is much simpler than that…and it’s been flowing through the mountain long before the first skier ever showed up.

Turns out, the name is just about as straightforward as it gets. Long before ski lifts, snowmaking, and mountain adventures, this hillside was known for something much simpler: seven natural springs that flowed from the property. Those springs helped shape the land, attracted early settlers, and eventually inspired the name that’s become synonymous with one of Pennsylvania’s best-loved mountain destinations.

Today, Seven Springs is one of Pennsylvania’s favorite mountain escapes. People come for the skiing, festivals, hiking, golf, and fresh mountain air, but the story behind its name is one many visitors have never heard.

It All Started with Seven Springs

Back in 1932, Bavarian immigrants Adolph and Helen Dupre purchased 275 acres of farmland in the Laurel Highlands. While surveying the property, Adolph Dupre discovered seven natural springs that supplied water to the farm. The springs inspired the name Seven Springs Farm.

At first, there wasn’t a grand plan to build one of the East Coast’s premier four-season resorts. It was simply a working farm tucked into the mountains.

As skiing began growing in popularity, the Dupres saw an opportunity. Adolph Dupre built one of the country’s earliest mechanical rope tows, powered by a Packard automobile engine. What started as a small family operation gradually expanded into chairlifts, lodging, restaurants, golf courses, and year-round attractions that now draw visitors from across the country.

It’s funny to think that one of Pennsylvania’s most recognizable vacation destinations owes its name to something many visitors drive right past without even realizing.

More Than a Winter Destination

If you only think of Seven Springs as a ski resort, bless your heart…you’re missing half the fun. The mountain comes alive long after the snow melts.

Summer and fall bring scenic chairlift rides, mountain biking, hiking, sporting clays, golf at Highlands Golf Club, and family-friendly festivals that fill the calendar. Signature events like Autumnfest, the Wine Festival, Rib & Wing Festival, and Fireworks & Food Trucks have become annual traditions for both locals and visitors.

The changing seasons are part of what makes Seven Springs so special. One visit might include fresh mountain air and colorful fall foliage. Another might revolve around powder days and cozy evenings by the fire. Either way, the mountain always seems to have something going on.

A Name That Stuck

There are plenty of places that could have been renamed as they grew. Not Seven Springs.

Even as the little farm transformed into a world-class resort and later became part of Vail Resorts in 2021, the original name remained. Honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s simple. It’s memorable. And it’s a reminder that some of the best destinations never lose sight of where they came from.

Pressed for time? Here’s the Breakdown:

• Seven Springs gets its name from the seven natural springs found on the original property.
• The resort began as Seven Springs Farm after Adolph and Helen Dupre purchased the land in 1932.
• Today, Seven Springs is a year-round destination known for skiing, festivals, golf, hiking, and mountain adventures.

Whether you’re coming for fresh powder, colorful fall weekends, or a summer escape in the mountains, there’s something special about visiting a place with a story behind its name.

And when you’re ready to experience Seven Springs for yourself, SNOWBALL PROPERTIES gives SNOWBALLERS a comfortable home base close to everything the mountain has to offer. Backed by the trusted experience of BEACHBALL PROPERTIES, including recognition as an Airbnb Superhost and Vrbo Premier Partner, we’re proud to help guests create mountain vacations worth coming back to.

Come Have A Ball In The Laurel Highlands!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson