Sugarloaf Sidecountry

Because places worth visiting are worth the effort it takes to get there.

• Know Before You Go

  This terrain is new to all of us. Even those who have ventured into this area before will not recognize the new landscape. Familiarize yourself with the Sugarloaf trail map before you enter, and use your first trip into Brackett Basin to familiarize yourself with the area.

• Ask Questions

  If you're unfamiliar with Brackett Basin and Burnt Mountain, unsure if you're ready to try it out, or have any questions before you venture in, stop in at the Ski Patrol building on Spillway Crosscut and talk with a patroller.

• Safety Signage

  There is a giant sign at the entrance to Brackett Basin with a safety message. Read it. Keep your eyes open for trail signs marking the different glades, and orange discs marking the ski area boundary.

• The 3 & 3 Rule

  The 3 & 3 Rule is simple: Never enter Brackett Basin with a group of fewer than 3 people, and never enter Brackett Basin after 3pm.

• Have a Meet Up Plan

  Make a plan with your group for where you will meet if you get separated. That way if you get lost and don't show up, your friends can notify Ski Patrol.

• Know Your Landmarks

  When you're in Brackett Basin, make mental notes of distinct landmarks as you pass them, and be aware of your location. If you should become lost, this will help you identify your location to Sugarloaf Ski Patrol.

• Never Ski Outside of the Ski Area Boundary

  The Sugarloaf ski area boundary is marked with brightly colored orange signs. When skiing or riding in Brackett Basin or on Burnt Mountain, you should actively look for these boundary markers. Skiing outside of Sugarloaf's boundary is strictly prohibited.

• Carry a Cell Phone

  A cell phone will not save you in every situation, and there is no guarantee you will have service, but it can be a valuable tool if you ever need to call for help.

• What do I need to know?

  Ski Patrol reserves the right to close the mountain to these activities at any time due to severe weather, dangerous surface conditions, or other factors. Also, Ski Patrol may, at any time, change the approved route of uphill travel based on mountain operations.

  Any changes to these policies due to weather, mountain operations, or other factors will be posted on a signboard located on the trail map sign at the bottom of the SuperQuad. All climbers should plan to check this board prior to setting out.  Ski Patrol will be at the bottom of Double Runner Chair from 6:45-7:00am to answer any questions.

• What do I need for a ticket?

  All uphill skiers and riders are required to have a valid season pass or day ticket, and it must be visible. If you do not intend to ride a lift at any point during the day, you can purchase an Uphill Access day ticket for $10 at Guest Services.

• When can I start climbing?

  • The mountain opens to uphill travel at 7am, and to downhill traffic at 8:30am. Please note that no downhill traffic is permitted prior to 8:30 am. As always, downhill traffic is limited to open terrain only.
  • Ski Patrol clears the mountain of all guests and employees at the end of operating hours every day. If you are on the mountain at this time you will be asked to ski down.

• Where can I climb?

  Due to active logging operations during the week, all trails west of Windrow are closed Monday-Friday (including the crosscuts from the West Mountain trail). Windrow is NOT open to uphill traffic.

  For your safety, please respect all posted terrain closures. Patrol will have a presence in these areas, and anybody found in closed areas regardless of the reason will have their pass revoked.

  • Burnt Mountain is available for touring, but please note there is no Ski Patrol Coverage unless Cat Skiing is active. 
  • Spillway Crosscut is closed to uphill traffic at all times.
  • Climbers who wish to skin above Spillway Crosscut are required to check in with Ski Patrol at the top of the Skyline lift.
  • When traveling uphill, please climb in a single file and ensure that you are visible to downhill traffic at all times.

• What kind of equipment can I use?

  • Uphill travel equipment is required to have metal edges, a restraining device or brakes, and an industry-approved binding (AT skis, teleskis, splitboards, and snowshoes are all fine).
  • Nordic equipment is not permitted above the Base Lodge.
  • Bicycles are not currently permitted on Sugarloaf's alpine trail network, except as part of designated, resort endorsed bicycle events.

• Can I bring my dog?

  Sorry, for the safety of pets and other guests, pets are not permitted on the mountain trail network during winter months above the base lodge.