According to the Otsego Chamber of Commerce 50th Anniversary History: In 1954, a Detriot investor began to develop the AuSable Ski Ranch. In 1956, Jerry Fairbanks of Gaylord purchased the property and began promoting it heavily. It operated until the mid 1970′s when it closed because of a fire. A few years later the land was sold and the ski area reopened as Michaywe.
Teachski.com has the following postcard from AuSable Ski Ranch. On the back it says:
Au Sable Lodge Ranch and Ski Club, Gaylord, MI NEW POMA LIFT AT AU SABLE LODGE RANCH AND SKI CLUB 6 miles South of Gaylord, Mich. New I-75 Expressway servicing the area. 2 Poma Lifts, new slopes and trails for beginners to expert. Lodge features package ski weeks Sunday thorugh Friday. Excellent food and entertainment. Families, groups and conventions are our business during four seasons.
