What to Do on Wind Hold Days
If you’ve ever caught the last chair before a lift goes on wind hold, you know why they’re a necessary evil. While we always aim to keep as many lifts spinning as possible, placing a lift on hold is sometimes the safest choice for you, our team, and our equipment.
Wind-hold thresholds vary based on wind speed (typically around 40 mph) and direction, as chair swing is often the deciding factor. Our Mountain Operations team is constantly assessing wind conditions. For the most up-to-date information, be sure to check Lift Status on the Mountain Report.
In the meantime, don’t let wind holds keep you down (figuratively speaking). There are plenty of other ways to enjoy your time at Sugarloaf.
Events
Check out our Events Calendar for a full lineup of activities and entertainment happening around the resort.
Sugarloaf Outdoor Center
When alpine skiing is off the table, Nordic skiing is a natural alternative. Just minutes from the Sugarloaf base, Maine’s largest Nordic center offers 50 kilometers of expertly groomed trails for both classic and skate skiing.
Beyond Nordic skiing, the Outdoor Center invites you to explore winter in all its forms, with snowshoeing trails, an NHL-sized outdoor skating rink, and select trails open to fat biking. Various equipment rentals and lessons are available, making it easy for guests of all ages and ability levels to try something new.
Keep an eye out for special events like guided snowshoe tours, hockey nights, and more. While you’re here, browse the full retail shop or warm up with a bite or drink at Bull Moose Café.
Ticket Exchange Program: Swap your 1-day winter lift ticket for access to the Outdoor Center's Nordic trails, skating rink, or snowshoe trails with rental equipment included.
Sports & Fitness Center
The Sports & Fitness Center offers more than just a great workout. In addition to a full gym, you’ll find an indoor swimming pool, saunas, hot tubs, massage services, and racquetball and wallyball courts. Check out the menu at the Sports & Fitness Center Café, too.
Dining
You’re on vacation! Indulging in food and drink is part of the fun. Whether it’s a big ol' pile of fried food and a Tubular or a chef-driven plate paired with a craft cocktail, one of our many dining outlets is ready to fill your belly and your soul. You might even catch some live music while you’re at it.
Shopping
From the latest ski and snowboard gear to Sugarloaf swag and treats for tots, the Village has something for everyone. Browse stores like The Sugarloafer Shop, L.L.Bean, Sugarloaf Cap Co., Amos & Friends, and more. Not skiing or riding today? Drop your gear at Downhill Supply Co. for a tune while you shop.
Winterstick Snowboards
Did you know there’s a full-blown snowboard factory right here on the mountain? Winterstick has been making world-class snowboards by and for real riders since 1972. Stop by their retail shop and factory, located just uphill from the Sugarloaf Golf Course Clubhouse, to take a tour of where the magic happens. Just call ahead to confirm availability. Skiers, don’t fret: West Mountain Ski Company has you covered with fully custom skis at the same location.
Maine Ski & Snowboard Museum
Celebrate Maine’s skiing and snowboarding heritage at the Maine Ski & Snowboard Museum, located on the access road. Explore equipment, photos, and stories spanning from 1870 to the present.
Maine Huts & Trails
Discover over 50 miles of free, year-round, multi-use trails winding through the Western Maine mountains, perfect for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, hiking, and trail running. These thoughtfully designed trails connect a network of eco-friendly huts and lodges, offering a unique way to explore the region at your own pace.
The SugarBowl
Enjoy family fun at the local bowling alley & pub, featuring eight bowling lanes, a lively arcade, and a top-notch golf simulator.
Carrabassett Valley Library
Located at the bottom of the access road, this full-service library offers free Wi-Fi, a children’s area, workshops, book talks, rotating art exhibits, and more.
Carrabassett Valley Anti-Gravity & Recreation Complex
The Anti-Gravity & Recreation Complex features a skate park, giant trampolines, a climbing wall, basketball court, track, and gym, along with yoga, fitness classes, and more.
Hiking
Winter hiking can be incredibly rewarding, just be sure to come prepared. Visit our hiking page for local hikes and trail information.
Snowmobiling
We’re surrounded by hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Full- and half-day rentals and guided tours are available in nearby Stratton, Maine.
Stanley Museum
Located in Kingfield, the Stanley Museum celebrates the ingenuity of the Stanley family, best known for inventing the Stanley Steamer automobile. Exhibits include historic steam cars, photography, violins, and family memorabilia, offering a fascinating glimpse into Western Maine’s innovative past.
New Portland Wire Bridge
Spanning the Carrabassett River in New Portland, the Wire Suspension Bridge is a rare historic landmark and the only surviving 19th-century wire suspension bridge in Maine.
Local Businesses
Stratton and Eustis to the north, and Kingfield to the south, offer a variety of local shops, galleries, and more.
While the Western Maine mountains may feel remote, there’s even more to do than what’s listed here. Visit mainesnorthwesternmountains.com for additional ideas and inspiration.
We hope you’ll come back to join us on a less windy day. Until then, please enjoy all that Sugarloaf and Western Maine have to offer.
