Claude F. Jones

Using a pioneering spirit steeped in grit and gumption, one-time auto mechanic Claude Jones, born in 1905, established southern Idaho’s Magic Mountain Ski Area in 1940.  For the next 33 years, he nurtured the neighborly ski area near Twin Falls, ID by building its tows, plowing its roads, serving its hamburgers, and supervising its ski patrol and ski instruction.  A native of Turley, MO, he worked with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the U.S. Forest Service in drafting and implementing the area’s master plan, including erecting its first jig-back sled lift.  His “iron hand” work ethic and love of skiing inspired close associates to pursue successful careers in the industry.

Claude Jones was an early supporter of the Intermountain Ski Instructors Association, the Northern Intermountain Ski Instructors Association, the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA), the National Forest Recreation Association, and the Intermountain Ski Areas Operators Association.  Magic Mountain Ski Area serves as a lasting tribute to Claude Jones’s pioneering spirit.