Sugarloaf Shares Mid Winter Update
With nearly 100 inches of snowfall already this season and prime conditions across the mountain just in time for February Vacation Week, Sugarloaf is gearing up for an exciting future with major infrastructure upgrades, a growing summer recreation scene, and a historic milestone on the horizon.
“We’ve had an incredible season so far, with all of our snowmaking terrain open and some of the best conditions in recent memory,” said Karl Strand, President and General Manager of Sugarloaf. “With the addition of Bucksaw Express and the West Mountain expansion, we’ve really stepped up our game—both for this season and for the long-term future of Sugarloaf.”
75 Years of Sugarloaf
Sugarloaf is set to celebrate its 75th anniversary during the 2025-26 season, marking seven and a half decades of unforgettable memories.
“We’ve come a long way since 1950, and it’s incredible to see how this mountain has evolved,” said Strand. “I’m honored to be part of this legacy, and we can’t wait to celebrate with all of you next winter.”
The season-long celebration will include special events, commemorative merchandise, and community storytelling initiatives to honor Sugarloaf’s past, present, and future.
“This place is more than just a resort—it’s a way of life,” Strand said. “Sugarloafers are what make this mountain special, and we can’t wait to share this milestone with you.”
Expanded Snowmaking & New Short Course Golf Project
Building on the success of recent snowmaking improvements, Sugarloaf has announced plans for a 4-million-gallon pond and a new pump house, increasing the resort’s pumping capacity by 2,000 gallons per minute.
“A few years ago, we could only make snow on one or two trails at a time,” said Strand. “Now, with these new improvements, we can hit six or seven trails at once. Our goal remains the same: to have all our snowmaking terrain open by Christmas every year.”
This new water source is part of a broader collaboration between Sugarloaf and the Town of Carrabassett Valley. The development will support both snowmaking and the proposed Par Three Short Course, an expansion of the Sugarloaf Golf Club that aims to bolster youth programs and create year-round economic opportunities.
“We’ve been working on this project for over three years, and we’re excited to see it moving forward,” said Strand. “This partnership with the town is what makes Sugarloaf so special, and we’re counting on the community’s support at the town meeting in March.”
New Health Clinic & Workforce Housing Coming to Sugarloaf
Sugarloaf is also partnering with the Town of Carrabassett Valley, Franklin Community Hospital, and the Maine Workforce Housing Coalition to develop a new health clinic and workforce housing project. The facility will include a medical emergency center and 1-2 bedroom apartments for employees and local residents.
“This is a major step in supporting both our team and the broader Sugarloaf community,” said Strand. “Having quality workforce housing and reliable medical services on the mountain is a game changer.”
Timberline Lift Upgrade & Expanded Summer Operations
Plans are also in motion to replace the Timberline lift, introducing a more wind-resistant six-pack lift that will offer a new Green Circle experience from the summit and improved summer lift access.
With Bucksaw Express now in operation, Sugarloaf is exploring expanded summer event opportunities at Bullwinkle’s, including weddings and meetings, with details expected soon.
Additionally, Sugarloaf’s first-ever Bike Park will debut on July 4, 2025, featuring lift-served downhill mountain biking from Whiffletree.
“We’ve always been known for incredible mountain biking in the Carrabassett Valley, and now we’re bringing that experience right to Sugarloaf,” said Strand. “It’s going to be a huge addition to our year-round offerings.”
