Chasing Icons : Cat Skiing Courtesy of Sugarloaf
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At Sugarloaf we decided to ditch the lifts for something even better: cat skiing. Just unveiled by the resort this spring, Burnt Mountain Cat Skiing is Sugarloaf's latest addition for the more adventurous skiers and snowboarders.
Say hello to our sweet new ride courtesy of Sugarloaf. TGR Photo
The only resort in New England to offer such an experience, the inbounds cat skiing expands the access of Burnt Mountain. Before, it was only accessible to those determined enough make the hike or skin up. Now every 30 minutes guests have the chance to hitch a ride up for effortless access to the open western-style glades and some classic eastern tree skiing. No more having to earn your turns.
"Shooting the cat was rad. Always fun to mix things up and shoot some machinery that allows us to play even harder and access better terrain." - Mayers. TGR photo.
Taking snow-cat laps was definitely a major highlight of the day, but it's not all that Sugarloaf has to offer.
Since opening in 1951, the resort has steadily grown throughout the years. It's a big mountain, which means there's a significant variety in its terrain. It's also the only resort back East that offers lift service access above treeline.
Nestled away in Maine's Western Mountains, the resort is just one component of a popular year-round destination. Thanks to recent development of trails for biking, Sugarloaf has become one of the most popular destinations for biking in New England, with over 80 miles of cross-country trails weaving throughout the valley.
"Everyone in Maine seems really nice and really passionate not just about Maine but about the people that live there. I think that says a lot about the community and the community is what makes a mountain town special. Sugarloaf definitely has a special community!" - Engerbreston. TGR photo.
Catching attention worldwide for hosting a World Cup race in 1971, the narrow Gage trail is also where they've hosted the FIS downhill.
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Scarf and all, Captain Kip is a local legend. TGR photo.
With deep roots in competition, the area produced an impressive roster of high caliber alpine athletes. Partially thanks to the Carrabassett Valley Academy—an award-winning USSA club near the mountain—the resort has fostered Olympians ranging from Bode Miller, Seth Wescott, Sam Morse, and Kirsten Clark, many of whom have brought home gold.
"Everyone on the mountain was really friendly, excited to come back to Maine and take a sail on Captain Kip's boat!"- Ligare. TGR photo.
As we transition into spring, the fun doesn't end out here in Maine. Not only is Sugarloaf legendary for its spring skiing, but more so for its springtime parties. The Reggae Festival is local favorite, and we unofficially end the season with the Mountain to Mug race. In which you bomb down from the top of the mountain to The Rack BBQ. Whoever is first to get a beer wins.
"The views from the top were a highlight, so cool to be able to see all the way to Mt. Washington and to see Sunday River in the distance" - Ligare. TGR photo.
Overall, Sugarloaf is a stoked and quirky community, who love to ski hard and get their après on over at the Widowmaker-popular for its live music-which will have you dancing in your ski boots until last call.
