Sam Handy

Sugarloaf, located in the Bigelow Range of Northwestern Maine, is a hardcore skier/rider's paradise. With better-than-average snowfall (200+ inches), above tree line skiing, an extensive 'sidecountry'* gladed ski area, AND a cat skiing operation, "the Loaf" offers an experience unlike anywhere else in New England. While Sugarloaf is a trek, you will quickly find it is well worth the drive. Skiers and riders who brave the journey are greeted with the most terrain (1,200+ acres and 2,800 feet of vertical) of any resort east of the Rockies and the bonus of extremely manageable lift lines. If you're lucky enough to visit mid-week, you'll practically have the place to yourself!

Sugarloaf features a small but lively mountain village, complete with the Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel, several fantastic dining options, and a laid-back but energetic aprés scene. There are also plenty of lodging options within the village and the surrounding towns of Kingfield and Eustis on platforms like AirBnB. If you want the best skiing around and don't mind travelling for it, this is your spot. Sugarloaf is part of the Ikon Pass and the New England Pass (along with Sunday River & Loon).

*The Brackett Basin and Burnt Mountain areas offer backcountry-style skiing, though they are maintained and patrolled. See Sugarloaf's website for more details.