Sugarbush doesn’t chase trends—it defines them. Nestled in Vermont’s Mad River Valley, this beloved East Coast mountain blends authentic ski culture with modern comfort. With two distinct peaks, 2,600 vertical feet, and a tight-knit community, Sugarbush captures everything that makes New England skiing special: steep woods, cozy lodges, and a timeless respect for the craft. It’s where locals, weekend warriors, and families all find their rhythm on the snow.

Quick Stats

• Location: Warren, Vermont (Mad River Valley)
• Elevation: 1,483 ft base / 4,083 ft summit
• Vertical Drop: 2,600 ft
• Skiable Terrain: 581 acres (plus 2,000+ of sidecountry access)
• Annual Snowfall: ~250 inches
• Number of Runs: 111
• Lifts: 16 (including the high-speed Slide Brook Express between Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen)
• Vibe Check: Local, soulful, and beautifully balanced

The Vibe

Sugarbush is classic Vermont with a modern heartbeat. It’s a place where you’ll ski powder in the morning, share beers with strangers at Castlerock Pub in the afternoon, and spot your ski instructor from 20 years ago still ripping laps. The terrain has range—Lincoln Peak delivers steeps, trees, and bowls; Mt. Ellen brings flowy cruisers and fast laps. Off the slopes, the valley is pure charm: covered bridges, general stores, and a community that lives for winter.

Must-Ride Runs

🟢 Greens

• Pushover – mellow, scenic run with wide turns and perfect corduroy.
• Rumble Road – gentle trail that weaves through the trees near the base.

🟦 Blues

• Snowball to Spring Fling – iconic Sugarbush combo for long, fast, perfectly pitched turns.
• Rex’s Run – family-friendly favorite with gorgeous Green Mountain views.
• Cruiser – smooth, rolling descent off Mt. Ellen for effortless flow.

♦︎ Blacks

• Rumble – narrow, technical, and one of the most famous tree runs in New England.
• Paradise – true expert terrain: moguls, drops, and relentless pitch.
• FIS – classic racecourse-style run with speed and precision.

Après + Town Stays

Sugarbush après is warm, friendly, and full of character—less glitz, more grit. Think fireplaces, Vermont IPAs, and long dinners that stretch into storytelling.

• Castlerock Pub – Sugarbush’s signature après bar with local brews and live music.
• Fit to Be Thai’d – hidden gem serving some of the best Thai food in the valley.
• American Flatbread (Waitsfield) – wood-fired pizza legend with a loyal following.
• The Mad Taco – creative tacos and craft beer in a no-fuss setting.
• The Hyde Away Inn – classic Vermont inn with hearty comfort food and local whiskey.
• Clay Brook Hotel & Residences – slopeside luxury with ski-in/out access and mountain-modern rooms.
• The Pitcher Inn (Warren) – award-winning boutique hotel blending rustic charm and refinement.

Travel Tips

Fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV)—about 1 hour and 15 minutes from the resort. If you’re driving, Route 100 runs right through the Mad River Valley and offers one of the most scenic drives in New England. Sugarbush is on the Ikon Pass, but its local vibe stays strong. Weekdays offer shorter lift lines, and spring skiing here is legendary. Pro tip: plan a dual stop with Mad River Glen just down the road—it’s the ultimate Vermont combo.

Fun Facts

• Sugarbush opened in 1958 and was once called “Mascara Mountain” for its NYC weekend crowd.
• The resort was purchased by Alterra in 2020 but has kept its independent charm.
• The Slide Brook Express is the longest and fastest detachable quad in the world.
• “Castlerock” terrain is famous for its natural snow and old-school challenges.
• Sugarbush’s founding motto still holds: “Be Better Here.”

Why It Made Our Top 50 List

Sugarbush made the list because it captures the best of East Coast skiing—challenging, beautiful, and full of heart. It’s where generations of skiers come to carve, connect, and recharge. In a region full of history, Sugarbush stands out for staying true to what matters most: great snow and great people.