Powder Ridge Ski Area on Besek Mountain in Middlefield, Connecticut, began in 1959 as Powder Hill, opened in 1961, and grew from a small surface-lift operation into a larger ski area with chairlifts, expanded terrain, and year-round attractions. Renamed Powder Ridge in 1970, it became linked that year to the failed Powder Ridge Rock Festival, when thousands arrived despite cancellation and Melanie Safka performed anyway. After decades as a local recreation center, repeated ownership changes, redevelopment disputes, and mounting debt led to its closure after the 2006–2007 season. Middlefield later acquired the property, and it reopened in 2014 under new ownership as Powder Ridge Mountain Park and Resort.