In 1947, Skiing Hall of Fame member, Walt Schoenknecht, created Mohawk Mountain Ski Area amidst the beauty of the Southern Berkshire Mountain. The following winter he invented snowmaking, which is currently used at winter resorts throughout the world. Mohawk Mountain has remained a family business and a favorite destination for succeeding generations of families. Mohawk Mountain Ski Area is a private corporation working in partnership with the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection at Mohawk State Park. Mohawk State Forest has cross-country trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at the top of the mountain but are not maintained or connected with the Ski Area. Access is obtained off of Rt. 4 in Cornwall CT.