Ab Ali

The Ab Ali pist came into use around 1940 and was at first used mostly during the Nowrooz season or late winter due to the bad road conditions of the slope. Later it became the permanent replacement of Lashkarak due to the shortage of snow on the Telo hills. In the 1950s the snow lift from Lashkarak was transferred to Ab Ali and from that time on its popularity increased. New ski lifts were installed in Ab Ali and soon it became the main ski resort in Iran.
   


The first 'prize giving' ceremony at Ab Ali pist 1944

 


The 'Khalil' ski lift in Ab Ali, named after Khalil Abbasi (2nd from the left) who constructed it
 


Ab Ali 1961, notice the teenagers in the center left holding their prizes.
 

Shemshak

Though the Abali pist was better than Lashkarak in size and its snow lasted longer than the other slopes, for a number of ski fanatics this was not enough. These young skiers migrated out of the city and away from the two traditional slopes to prolong the season and find extra attractions elsewhere. Most people turned to Shemshak and Dizin to practice when the Abali snow had become depleted, especially at the end of the year (Nowrooz holidays). Shemshak, was home to steep slopes and became a favorite for advanced and expert skiers. Today it is still the place where you'll find Iran's best skiers.