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Weekly Email

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (April 28, 2023)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Weekly Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox at the end of every week to highlight what’s happening with your Maine ski resort!

Mountain Report:

Mountain NameTrails OpenPercent Open
Saddleback0 / 680%
Sugarloaf95 / 16259%
Sunday River0 / 1390%
Pleasant Mountain0 / 470%

Trail of the Day: Tote Road (Sugarloaf)

Upcoming Events:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page, which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
Sugarloaf’s Closing DayMay 1May 1One Day
Sugarloaf MarathonMay 14May 14One Day
Mother’s Day Brunch @ Sunday RiverMay 14May 14One Day
Sugarloaf Golf Course Opening DayMay 26May 26One Day
Memorial Day WeekendMay 27May 29Three Days
5th Annual Rangeley Birding FestivalJune 9June 11Three Days
Sunday River Tough Mountain ChallengeJune 22June 22One Day
42nd Annual Sugarloaf Ski Club Classic Golf TournamentJune 23June 23One Day
Sunday River Mini Mountain ChallengeJune 23June 23One Day
12/OC Band @ SaddlebackJuly 5July 5One Day
Xterra Trail Run World Championships @ SugarloafOctober 1October 1One Day
Oktoberfest 2023 @ SaddlebackOctober 7October 7One Day

Closing Dates:

These warm temps sure are nice but it doesn’t help the snow pack. Take a look at the tentative closing dates for the big three.

MountainClosing Date
SaddlebackApril 14
SugarloafMay 1
Sunday RiverApril 23

BIG News From Sunday River:

Just announced – Two new lifts will be taking skiers and riders up the mountains of Sunday River. A new Merrill Hill Triple will access the back side of the mountain and add to the Real Estate options and ski-in, and ski-out house lots. Also, the most highly anticipated announcement, a brand new, Doppelmayr High-Speed, 6-Person Bubble chair will replace the Barker Mountain Express. Both lift upgrades are expected to open for the 2023-2024 ski season. For the latest on the Sunday River 2030 project, click the link below.

sundayriver.com

King Of The Mountain Hill Climb:

The King Of The Mountain Hill Climb is taking place on Friday, April 21, and Saturday, April 22. This two-day event is presented by Hight Family of Dealerships, BOSS Power Equipment, and WIN Waste Innovations. There is no more spots available in any race. Spectators are welcome! Click the link below for more information on this event.

saddlebackmaine.com

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You could go back in time if you missed the best part. Click the link below to see last night’s sunset!

saddlebackmaine.com

Last Chair:

We’re in the final stretch of the 2022-23 ski season. Go get after it and make the most of the great conditions. Soak up the sun and enjoy the corn harvest. Just save some for the rest of us 😉

If you’re ripping it up on the slopes this season, make sure to tag us on Twitter (@mainelyskiing) and we’ll repost!

Weather:

It’s Sugarloaf’s closing day weekend. Get out and enjoy the sunshine and warm temps. It will be another corn harvest.

Make sure to check out the Mountain Lift Status, as lifts and trails will be changing as the spring goes on. Click the link below for more.

mainelyskiing.com

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:57 57 49
Low:34 36 36
Based out of Rangeley

Make the most of it!

– Keegan

Categories
Weekly Email

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (December 23, 2022)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Weekly Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox at the end of every week to highlight what’s happening with your Maine ski resort!

Holiday Torchlight Parade & Santa Visit:

Join the Saddleback family on Friday, December 30 for a night of fun! While they were planning on this being today, the weather made it so Santa couldn’t come down from the north pole. Thankfully, he is able to be there the following Friday, December 30, and will be accompanied by the employee torchlight parade down Grey Ghost. This is free and open to anyone! For more information, click the link below.

saddlebackmaine.com

Mountain Report:

Saddleback: 51 / 68 Trails Open

Sugarloaf: 63 / 162 Trails Open

Sunday River: 60 / 139 Trails Open

Pleasant Mountain: 8 / 47 Trails Open

Trail of the Day: Lower Timberline (Sugarloaf)

Upcoming Events:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
Jordan 8 OpeningDecember 26December 26One Day
Christmas Vacation WeekDecember 26December 30Five Days
Horse Drawn Wagon RidesDecember 27December 27One Day
Climb For A Cure @ SugarloafDecember 29December 29One Day
Horse Drawn Wagon RidesDecember 29December 29One Day
Holiday Torchlight Parade @ SaddlebackDecember 30December 30One Day
New Year’s Eve @ The WidowmakerDecember 31December 31One Day
Vertical Challenge @ SaddlebackJanuary 8January 8One Day
Martin Luther King Jr. WeekendJanuary 14January 16Three Days

Jordan 8 Opening:

Sunday River will be spinning their new Jordan 8 Lift this Monday, December 26. Sunday River’s Jordan 8 lift, as part of the Sunday River 2030 plan, has an opening date of December 26. They are choosing to raffle tickets to ride this to benefit the River Fund, and Maine Adaptive. Tickets will be sold for $5 dollars and won’t be included in the cost of a normal lift ticket. This raffle is to choose the first 8 people, or first chair, to ride the lift. For all the special details, click here. To learn all about it along with purchasing a raffle ticket, click the link below.

sundayriver.com

Photo: Sun Journal

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You could go back in time if you missed the best part. While you can catch some pretty amazing sunsets, you also are able to watch crews working. This past week, they strung the haul rope and the aXess gates are installed. Click the link below to watch them build the new Sandy Quad.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Saddleback webcams base camera. Calm before the storm (Taken 12/15/22 @ 4:34pm)

Last Chair:

What a beautiful week for Maine skiers and riders. With Mother Nature generously dropping over 2 feet of fresh snow across many mountains, it made for good skiing. You still can find those special pow stashes if you know where to look! If you’re ripping it up on the slopes this winter, make sure to tag us on Twitter (@mainelyskiing) and we’ll repost!

Weather:

If you’re planning on going out for today or tomorrow, you might want to invest in some Gore-Tex if you haven’t already. Warm and dry is the name of the game. It’s shaping up to be a wet weekend with some areas calling for around 3 inches of rain. Don’t worry though, as man-made snow holds up better to rain and thaw events than natural snow.

Make sure to check out the Mountain Lift Status as the weather for this extended weekend might be interesting. Click the link below for more.

mainelyskiing.com

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:47 14 17
Low:9 7 11
Based out of Rangeley

Stay dry, Mainely Skiers!

– Keegan

Categories
Weekly Email

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (December 2, 2022)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Weekly Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox at the end of every week to highlight what’s happening with your Maine ski resort!

Photo: South Branch (taken 11/25/22)

Opening Day at Saddleback:

Mark your calendars! Saddleback Mountain opens on December 10! Crews are working around the clock to make sure we have a solid opening and season. Lift Maintenance strung the haul rope this week, and snowmakers have been blowing that beautiful white stuff we all love whenever temps allow. Plus, various updates around the resort:

  • Retail – Moved back to the original location (Open Friday – Sunday, 11:00am-4:00pm)
  • 15% Off Early Season Lodging – Use code MtnHolly at checkout. *Participating properties only.
  • Rental Shop – Open for pre-season tune-ups and binding checks (Open Midweek 8:00am – 4:00pm and on the weekend from 9:00am – 4:00pm)
  • The PUB is open with a new menu! Check it out at saddlebackmaine.com/dining
  • New Ski School Programs – FUNdamentals of Ski Racing

To view all the various improvements and updates, check out the latest Saddleback email.

Photo: Saddleback’s New Sandy Quad before getting the haul rope (taken 11/25/22)

Mountain Report:

Saddleback: 0 / 68 Trails Open

Sugarloaf: 20 / 162 Trails Open

Sunday River: 19 / 139 Trails Open

Pleasant Mountain: 0 / 47 Trails Open

Trail of the Day: Candyside (Sugarloaf)

Upcoming Events:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
Saddleback Mountain Opening DayDecember 10December 10One Day
Ski Patrol Christmas Dinner @ SaddlebackDecember 10December 10One Day
Pleasant Mountain Opening DayDecember 10December 10One Day
Holiday Tree Lighting @ SugarloafDecember 10December 10One Day
Sunday River Santa SundayDecember 11December 11One Day
Jordan 8 Opening (*tentative)December 17December 17One Day
Winterfest Weekend @ Sunday RiverDecember 17December 18Two Days
Christmas Vacation WeekDecember 26December 30Five Days

RLTC Joins Indy Pass:

The Rangeley Lakes Trails Center has officially been added to the Indy Pass roster. RLTC is on the Saddleback Access Road and is a perfect visit on those wind-hold days or if you’re looking for something else to do during the long vacation weeks. With roughly 30 miles of trails, they have what you’re looking for XC Trails, Fatbiking, Hiking, and more. For more information, click the link below! Congrats, RLTC – Welcome to the Indy Pass!

rangeleylakestrailscenter.org

Photo: Rangeley Lakes Trails Center

Jordan 8 Opening:

Get ready to ride Maine’s only High-Speed 8-Person Lift! Sunday River’s Jordan 8 lift, as part of the Sunday River 2030 plan, has a tentative opening date of December 17. They are choosing to raffle tickets to ride this to benefit the River Fund, and Maine Adaptive. Tickets will be sold for $5 dollars and won’t be included in the cost of a normal lift ticket. This raffle is choose the first 8 people, or first chair, to ride the lift. For all the special details, click here. To learn all about it along with purchasing a ticket, click the link below.

sundayriver.com

Photo: Sun Journal

Saddleback Ski Patrol:

As we gear up for an incredible ski season, consider sponsoring a Saddleback Ski Patroller! Did you know a volunteer ski patroller spends $87 on fees and registration plus gas and lodging for two days of training before even getting on the mountain? You can help offset that cost so our patrollers can keep doing what they do best! To donate, click the link below.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Andy Gagne Photography

Registration for Santa Sunday Is Now Open:

Signups for Sunday River’s Santa Sunday are open now! You don’t want to miss this special holiday event. The more the merrier and they’re always accepting people. Sign up by clicking the link below.

sundayriver.com

Photo: Sunday River – Santa Sunday

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You could go back in time if you missed the best part. While you can catch some pretty amazing sunsets, you also are able to watch crews working. This past week, they strung the haul rope and the aXess gates are installed. Click the link below to watch them build the new Sandy Quad.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Saddleback Base Camera Webcam overlooking the Rangeley Express and new Sandy Quad Construction. (Photo Taken 12/2/22 @ 7:50am)

Last Chair:

With Saddleback’s opening day less than 10 days away, are you ready? The base area is looking very busy with lots of guns going, people working on the haul rope, and more! If you’re ripping it up on the slopes this winter, make sure to tag us on Twitter (@mainelyskiing) and we’ll repost!

Weather:

This past week was pretty wild. Temps fluctuated from favorable to non-favorable within a few hours. This wacky weather pattern made the jobs of snowmakers almost impossible. On one hand, the wind has died down which will allow snowmakers to make snow on the trails, rather than in the woods, however, we are forecasting some non-solid precipitation on Saturday. Make sure to check out the Mountain Lift Status as more lifts are opening daily. Click the link below for more.

mainelyskiing.com

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:34 43 25
Low:26 23 22
Based out of Rangeley

Fingers crossed for solid, frozen, precipitation!

– Keegan

Categories
Weekly Email

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (November 25, 2022)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Weekly Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox at the end of every week to highlight what’s happening with your Maine ski resort!

Photo: Sunday River – New England is open for skiing!

The Pub at Saddleback:

The Pub at Saddleback welcomes us back today, Friday, November 25. They open at 11:00am. With a new menu and some new faces in the kitchen, it’s going to be a great year up in the pub! Click the link below to see upcoming hours along with a sneak peek at the menu.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Saddleback Maine – Buffalo Mac & Cheese

Mountain Report:

Saddleback: 0 / 68 Trails Open

Sugarloaf: 16 / 162 Trails Open

Sunday River: 16 / 135 Trails Open

Pleasant Mountain: 0 / 47 Trails Open

Trail of the Day: Lower Timberline (Sugarloaf)

Upcoming Events:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
Saddleback Pub Reopens for Winter SeasonNovember 25November 25On Day
Saddleback Cyber DealNovember 20November 29Ten Days
Ski Patrol Christmas Dinner @ SaddlebackDecember 10December 10One Day
Pleasant Mountain Opening DayDecember 10December 10One Day
Holiday Tree Lighting @ SugarloafDecember 10December 10One Day
Winterfest Weekend @ Sunday RiverDecember 17December 18Two Days
Christmas Vacation WeekDecember 26December 30Five Days

Cyber Deals:

Don’t miss out on the deal of the season! Saddleback came out with Buy One, Get One lift tickets. For $79 dollars, it’s a no-brainer if you’re planning on skiing with your best bud on the same day. With no blackout dates, this brings the ticket price down to $40 per person. Make sure you check this deal out before it runs out. Offer expires on 11/29. For more information and to purchase, click the link below.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Andy Gagne Photography

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You could go back in time if you missed the best part. While you can catch some pretty amazing sunsets, you also are able to watch crews working. This past week, they received delivery of the Bullwheels and the bottom terminal has started to take form. Click the link below to watch them build the new Sandy Quad.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Saddleback Base Camera Webcam overlooking the Rangeley Express and new Sandy Quad Construction. (Photo Taken 11/10/22 @ 11:22am)

Last Chair:

How about those temps this week? Snowmakers were really able to crank out that white gold. If you’re ripping it up on the slopes this winter, make sure to tag us on Twitter (@mainelyskiing) and we’ll repost!

Weather:

Thanks to Mother Nature, snowmakers were able to capitalize on the colder temps. Sadly, it looks like crews will need to halt production as this weekend’s temps and weather are not favorable for good snowmaking. Make sure to check out the Mountain Lift Status as things could change on a dime. Click the link below for more.

mainelyskiing.com

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:37 36 44
Low:23 31 34
Based out of Rangeley

Fingers crossed for solid precipitation!

– Keegan

Categories
Weekly Email

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (November 18, 2022)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Weekly Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox at the end of every week to highlight what’s happening with your Maine ski resort!

Photo: Sunday River – New England is open for skiing!

Opening Day:

Welcome to Ski Season! As Sugarloaf joins the race today, keep in mind, this is early-season skiing. Some resorts may not have beginner terrain. Check with your local mountain’s report before you hit the snow.

Photo: Andy Gagne Photography

Mountain Report:

Saddleback: 0 / 68 Trails Open

Sugarloaf: 6 / 162 Trails Open

Sunday River: 3 / 135 Trails Open

Pleasant Mountain: 0 / 47 Trails Open

Trail of the Day: Upper Sunday Punch (Sunday River)

Upcoming Events:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
Best of 207 VotingNovember 1November 18Every Day
Sugarloaf Opening DayNovember 18November 18One Day
Saddleback Pub Reopens for Winter SeasonNovember 25November 25On Day
Ski Patrol Christmas Dinner @ SaddlebackDecember 10December 10One Day
Pleasant Mountain Opening DayDecember 10December 10One Day
Holiday Tree Lighting @ SugarloafDecember 10December 10One Day
Winterfest Weekend @ Sunday RiverDecember 17December 18Two Days
Christmas Vacation WeekDecember 26December 30Five Days

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You can go back in time if you missed the best part. While you can catch some pretty amazing sunsets, you also are able to watch crews working. This past week, they received delivery of the Bullwheels and the bottom terminal has started to take form. Click the link below to watch them build the new Sandy Quad.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Saddleback Base Camera Webcam overlooking the Rangeley Express and new Sandy Quad Construction. (Photo Taken 11/10/22 @ 11:22am)

Last Chair:

It’s been a long time coming! Ski Season is finally here. Just because the snow has started flying, snowmakers are just getting started! Keep doing those snow dances, Mainely Skiers! If you’re ripping it up on the slopes this winter, make sure to tag us on Twitter (@mainelyskiing) and we’ll repost!

Weather:

Thanks for joining us Old Man Winter! With your help, Sunday River and Sugarloaf were able to open this week! These cold temps will allow snowmakers to really crank on production making more trails daily! Make sure to check out the Mountain Lift Status as it’s only getting better! Click the link below for more.

mainelyskiing.com

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:32 34 26
Low:20 19 10
Based out of Rangeley

Here’s to the 2022/23 Season!

– Keegan

Categories
Weekly Email

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (October 28, 2022)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Fall Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox whenever we release new emails. In this email, we will highlight all the fall activities in or around the Rangeley Area!

Photo: Quill Hill, Kyle Haley Photography

CRNEMBA Trail Work Day:

Join Sugarloaf and Carrabassett Valley Academy for the CRNEMBA Trail Work Day. Happening this October 29, help out by giving back to the trails. Bring the kids; trail work is a fun way for the family to get outside together and contribute to the community.

THE WORK: We generally work from 9:00 AM till 2:00 PM raking, lopping, trimming, and occasionally tackling more significant maintenance projects. Our focus is on safety and fun. We’ll tailor assignments to your comfort level and we’re glad to have you for only part of the day if that’s all you have to give.

ITEMS TO BRING: Water, sturdy gloves and footwear, safety glasses/protective eyewear, insect repellent, rain gear (just in case), lunch or snacks. We provide any specialized tools that may be needed but it’s helpful If you have hand tools that you can bring (such as leaf rakes, loppers, hand saws, hand shears). A cell phone is also a good idea so we can communicate on issues that may pop up.

Photo: CRNEMBA Trail Crew

Calendar Adds:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
CRNEMBA Trail Work DayOctober 29October 29One Day
Job Fair @ Pleasant MountainNovember 5November 5One Day
Rangeley Craft FairNovember 12November 12One Day
Ski Patrol Christmas Dinner @ SaddlebackDecember 10December 10One Day
Pleasant Mountain Opening DayDecember 10December 10One Day
Holiday Tree Lighting @ SugarloafDecember 10December 10One Day
Winterfest Weekend @ Sunday RiverDecember 17December 18Two Days
Christmas Vacation WeekDecember 26December 30Five Days

Competition Hill Construction:

Crews started groundwork on Sugarloaf’s newest lift, Competition Hill, A new Doppelmayr T-Bar in collaboration with Sugarloaf and CVA to create a world-class training environment. This new lift, paired with fully automated snowmaking equipment will help give racers the confidence to go big! Sugarloaf hopes this new lift will help take pressure off main lifts on busy days. Watch the project take form by clicking the link below.

gocva.com

Jordan 8:

The new Jordan 8 construction is moving nicely. The crew at Sunday River and Doppelmayr only have a few more things before the lift will be taking skiers to the top of Jordan Peak. Those items include Aligning Towers, Pulling the haul rope, and putting chairs on the line. For the latest video update, click the link below.

facebook.com/sundayriver.com

Photo: Jordan 8

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You can go back in time if you missed the best part. While you can catch some pretty amazing sunsets, you also are able to watch crews working. This past week, they received delivery of the towers and the bottom terminal has started to take form. Click the link below to watch them build the new Sandy Quad.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Sanday Quad construction from Saddleback’s Base Lodge camera. (Taken 11:33am 10/27/22)

Weather:

Maine saw another week of bad weather with rain clouds. Thankfully, we’re expecting a turn of events this weekend. Over the three days, we have sunshine and high temps. Plus, the lows are getting back down to prime snowmaking weather! Keep doing those snow dances!!

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:51 57 61
Low:29 34 39
Based out of Rangeley

Happy National Chocolate Day!

– Keegan

Categories
Summer Fun

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (September 23, 2022)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Summer Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox whenever we release new emails. In this email, we will highlight all the summer activities in or around the Rangeley Area!

Sugarloaf Uphill Climb:

Registration is now open for the Uphill Climb which returns Sunday, October 9th. Important Info:

  • Starting at the SuperQuad, racers will run/hike/trudge about 2400 vertical feet to the summit. 
  • There will be two water stops along the course, offering water only.
  • This race will occur rain or shine, so please plan accordingly and bring plenty of extra layers for the summit.
  • No racers will be allowed on-course who have not registered, received a bib, or signed a liability release.

Sign up and get ready for a great run! For more information and how to register, click the link below.

sugarloaf.com

Calendar Adds:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
Saddleback OktoberfestOctober 8October 8One Day
Sugarloaf Homecoming WeekendOctober 8October 9Two Days
Sugarloaf Uphill ClimbOctober 9October 9One Day
Sunday River Scenic Lift RidesJuly 3October 10Every Day

Jordan 8 Update:

Progress on Sunday River’s newest lift, Jordan 8, a Doppelmayr 8-person high-speed lift, is moving fast. The top terminal’s concrete foundations got poured last week. Typically, crews will work on one terminal at a time and they have almost completed the bottom terminal. They received the parts from Europe and the tower heads have been assembled. Just a few things left before it’s ripping us up the mountain. Check out this video from Sunday River’s Facebook Page.

facebook.com/sundayriver

Photo: Tower Heads for Jordan 8

Saddleback Oktoberfest:

The second annual Oktoberfest at Saddleback is happening on October 8, 2022. With a free pass holder BBQ, beer, and other Oktoberfest activities, you don’t want to miss it! For more information and to get tickets, head over to their website. Click the link below.

saddlebackmaine.com

Sugarloaf Pump House:

Throughout the off-season, crews at Sugarloaf have been busy building a booster pump house above Bullwinkle’s. During a press release, the mountain said “The new pump house, combined with the addition of 107 new high-efficiency HKD snowguns will increase the number of guns the resort can run simultaneously under optimal conditions from roughly 130 to nearly 230. This will allow the resort to cover and open more terrain earlier in the season.” All of this is working for a better western mountain experience with the upcoming West Mountain High-Speed Lift and Timberline replacement/upgrade in the following years.

Photo: Maine Drone Imaging
Photo: Maine Drone Imaging

Scenic Lift Rides:

Before summer started, we talked about various mountains offering lift rides throughout the off-season. Both Sugarloaf and Sunday River have picked it up again with rides up/down the mountain. The Chondola will be taking people from the base of the mountain to North Peak and the SuperQuad will be spinning to allow the use of the SuperQuad area of Sugarloaf. The Chondola is dog, kid, and grandparent-friendly, so you’ll want to pack up your whole family for this scenic adventure. Lift rides are available from 10AM-4PM on Saturdays and Sundays from early July to mid-October. You can buy tickets online in advance, but will need to pick up your tickets upon arrival. You can also purchase tickets on-site at the various lodges and base areas. Lift tickets will be issued until 3:30PM or until capacity is reached. If you plan to ride the lift back to the bottom, please load before 4PM. For more information, visit the links below.

sundayriver.com
sugarloaf.com

Photo: Sunday River

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You can go back in time if you missed the best part. While you can catch some pretty amazing sunsets, you also are able to watch crews working. This past week, they poured concrete for the bottom terminal and work is still going on. Click the link below to watch them build the new Sandy Quad.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Top of the World (8/1/22 @ 7:55pm)

Weather:

Temps keep dropping and we all are starting to get the snow twinkle in our eyes. Only a few more months, Mainely Skiers! For now, let’s take it one day at a time. The rain on Thursday carried in a cold front that is going to burn off by Sunday, resulting in a great day for those end-of-summer chores.

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:45 57 61
Low:36 43 47
Based out of Rangeley

Colder temps >>>

-Keegan

Categories
Summer Fun

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (August 26, 2022)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Summer Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox whenever we release new emails. In this email, we will highlight all the summer activities in or around the Rangeley Area!

Photo: Sugarloaf

Alec MacGillivary:

Don’t miss Alec MacGillivary and Band performing at Saddleback on Saturday, August 27. Bringing together Nashville style and Boston swagger, singer-songwriter Alec MacGillivray brings a party atmosphere with him, wherever he goes. With his dynamic live performances making him a “must-see” emerging artist, Alec has entertained audiences in theaters, clubs, and festivals across America and supported major touring acts such as Sam Hunt, Keith Urban, Kane Brown, Thomas Rhett, Old Dominion, and Cole Swindell. For more information or to get tickets, click the link below.

saddlebackmaine.com

Calendar Adds:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
Friday Fire and Marshmallow RoastMay 27August 26Every Friday
Kids Free Nature WalkMay 28August 27Every Saturday
Sunday Funday GeocachingMay 29September 18Every Sunday
Saddleback Lake Sunset Canoe TripMay 29September 18Every Sunday
Afternoon Common Loon PaddleJune 1August 31Every Wednesday
Haley Pond Sunset SUPJune 1September 14Every Wednesday
Free Kids Bike Group TripJune 2September 1Every Thursday
Morning Flow YogaJune 4August 27Every Saturday
Hatha YogaJune 5August 28Every Sunday
Sunday River Scenic Lift RidesJuly 3October 10Every Day

Jordan 8 Update:

Progress on Sunday River’s newest lift, Jordan 8, a Doppelmayr 8-person high-speed lift, is moving fast. The top terminal’s concrete foundations got poured last week. Typically, crews will work on one terminal at a time and they have almost completed the bottom terminal. They received the parts from Europe and the tower heads have been assembled. Just a few things left before it’s ripping us up the mountain. Check out this video from Sunday River’s Facebook Page.

facebook.com/sundayriver

Photo: Tower Heads for Jordan 8

Sugarloaf Pump House:

Throughout the off-season, crews at Sugarloaf have been busy building a booster pump house above Bullwinkle’s. During a press release, the mountain said “The new pump house, combined with the addition of 107 new high-efficiency HKD snowguns will increase the number of guns the resort can run simultaneously under optimal conditions from roughly 130 to nearly 230. This will allow the resort to cover and open more terrain earlier in the season.” All of this is working for a better western mountain experience with the upcoming West Mountain High-Speed Lift and Timberline replacement/upgrade in the following years.

Photo: Maine Drone Imaging
Photo: Maine Drone Imaging

Kids Bike Group Trip:

Saddleback’s bike trails are located in the South Branch area of the lower mountain. These gradually sloped trails include sections great for beginner riders. This weekly kid’s program will work on the transition from pavement riding to gravel and downhill biking. This program will run from June 2nd through the Thursday before Labor Day weekend.

  • BYOB – Bring Your Own Bike, or arrange to rent from the mountain.
  • Children will need to be registered and a waiver will be signed by a parent or guardian. Drop-ins are welcome, but participation requires a signed waiver.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Saddleback Maine

Scenic Lift Rides:

Before summer started, we talked about various mountains offering lift rides throughout the off-season. Both Sugarloaf and Sunday River have picked it up again with rides up/down the mountain. The Chondola will be taking people from the base of the mountain to North Peak and the SuperQuad will be spinning to allow the use of the SuperQuad area of Sugarloaf. The Chondola is dog, kid, and grandparent-friendly, so you’ll want to pack up your whole family for this scenic adventure. Lift rides are available from 10AM-4PM on Saturdays and Sundays from early July to mid-October. You can buy tickets online in advance, but will need to pick up your tickets upon arrival. You can also purchase tickets on-site at the various lodges and base areas. Lift tickets will be issued until 3:30PM or until capacity is reached. If you plan to ride the lift back to the bottom, please load before 4PM. For more information, visit the links below.

sundayriver.com
sugarloaf.com

Photo: Sunday River

Friday Fire And Marshmallow Roast:

Who doesn’t love a good marshmallow roast? S’mores anyone? Make sure you sign up for these special events so you can get out into the community with the people you normally ski with! Just like the marshmallow roasts they did in the winter just warmer, make sure it’s on your calendar!

saddlebackmaine.com

Yoga:

This summer, Saddleback will be hosting a range of yoga classes taught by various certified yoga instructors. See the list below for the difference in classes. To see what class fits your busy life, click over to our Events Page

  • Morning Flow Yoga – Saturday Mornings from 8:30 – 9:30 am
    This program is taught by Carrol & Robert and runs from June 4 to August 27.
  • Hatha Yoga – Sunday Mornings from 10:00 – 11:00 am
    This program is taught by Kristina and runs from June 5 to August 28.
Photo: Saddleback Maine

Nature Walk and Geocaching:

Are your kids itching to get out of the house? Maybe some geocaching is in their future! Or, something for the whole family, a good ol’ walk in our back yard! Whatever you fancy, Saddleback has your outdoor goals. As the time gets closer, we’ll go into more detail.

  • Nature Walk – Every Saturday starting May 28 Click here
  • Geocaching – Every Sunday starting May 29 Click here
Photo: Saddleback Maine

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You can go back in time if you missed the best part. While you can catch some pretty amazing sunsets, you also are able to watch crews working. This past week, they poured concrete for the bottom terminal and work is still going on. Click the link below to watch them build the new Sandy Quad.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Top of the World (8/1/22 @ 7:55pm)

Weather:

The cool days and rain were nice to keep our lawns in good shape, but it wasn’t very helpful to get outside and do something fun. However, mother nature is throwing us a bone here and sending warm weather our way!

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:68 69 75
Low:55 49 56
Based out of Rangeley

Enjoy one of the last weekends of summer!

-Keegan

Categories
Summer Fun

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (July 8, 2022)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Summer Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox whenever we release new emails. In this email, we will highlight all the summer activities in or around the Rangeley Area!

Photo: Town of Rangeley Firework Display

Outpost Adventure Center:

The Outpost Adventure Center is now open! Stop by or go to their website to sign up for Scenic Lift Rides, Zipline Tours, Disc Golf Rounds, and more! Click the links below to sign up.

Photo: Sugarloaf Mountain

Calendar Adds:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
Friday Fire and Marshmallow RoastMay 27August 26Every Friday
Kids Free Nature WalkMay 28August 27Every Saturday
Sunday Funday GeocachingMay 29September 18Every Sunday
Saddleback Lake Sunset Canoe TripMay 29September 18Every Sunday
Afternoon Common Loon PaddleJune 1August 31Every Wednesday
Haley Pond Sunset SUPJune 1September 14Every Wednesday
Free Kids Bike Group TripJune 2September 1Every Thursday
Morning Flow YogaJune 4August 27Every Saturday
Hatha YogaJune 5August 28Every Sunday
Sunday River Scenic Lift RidesJuly 3October 10Every Day
New England Forest RallyJuly 15July 16Two Days
Tough Mountain ChallengeJuly 23July 23One Day
3-Day Fly Fishing Experience (Women)August 3August 5Three Days
3-Day Fly Fishing Experience (August)August 24August 26Three Days

New England Forest Rally:

Welcome to the 31st running of the New England Forest Rally, the 2021 DirtFish rally of the year. Again in 2022, we expect a large and star-studded field. Taking place July 15 and 16, you can join the excitement in a number of ways; competing, volunteering, spectating, or by letting them do the driving and escort you to the best places to see NEFR on the Rally Bus.

Volunteer Registration is open! This is the safest way to be sure you see the action, along with helping to make the rally a reality. Please visit the volunteer page for more information.

Compete in this year’s New England Forest Rally (NEFR)! The rally will be held as a Friday/Saturday event counting toward the American Rally Association National Championship series. Sunday River will have a “Rally Village” display area on both Friday & Saturday. If you have sponsors or know of other companies who would like to be vendors or set up an exhibit at the village, please contact Karl Stone.

Spectate this incredible event. For access to the best viewing spots out on the stages, think about taking the spectator bus. Ride in style on the Rally bus, which includes food, beverage, and a knowledgeable guide. Most importantly, refer to the spectator guide for an events schedule, spectator locations, and everything else you may need!

Helpful Links:

Volunteer Registration: newenglandforestrally.com
Racer Registration: newenglandforestrally.com
Spectator Information: newenglandforestrally.com
Email Karl Stone: karl@teamoneil.com

Photo: New England Forest Rally

3-Day Fly Fishing Experience:

Enjoy a 3-day fly fishing experience led by our own Dr. Bill Richards, a Master Registered Maine Guide!

  • Day 1: Introduction to the “Art of Fly Fishing” – A little history of the Rangeley Region. An overview of fly fishing equipment and its application. Demonstration of the “overhead cast” and proper body position, fly rod grip, and mechanics, and begin to practice your skills with Coach Bill. Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Day 2: Student Practice Sessions – Coach will offer feedback and constructive tips to help improve and perfect your cast. Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Day 3: Guided Fly Fishing from a Canoe. Get an early start for a full morning on the water! Time: 5 a.m. – 10 a.m.

For more information and to sign up for this incredible opportunity, click the links below:

Date RangeLink To More Information
August 3-5 (Women)saddlebackmaine.com
August 24-26saddlebackmaine.com

Kids Bike Group Trip:

Saddleback’s bike trails are located in the South Branch area of the lower mountain. These gradually sloped trails include sections great for beginner riders. This weekly kid’s program will work on the transition from pavement riding to gravel and downhill biking. This program will run from June 2nd through the Thursday before Labor Day weekend.

  • BYOB – Bring Your Own Bike, or arrange to rent from the mountain.
  • Children will need to be registered and a waiver will be signed by a parent or guardian. Drop-ins are welcome, but participation requires a signed waiver.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Saddleback Maine

Scenic Lift Rides:

Before summer started, we talked about various mountains offering lift rides throughout the off-season. Both Sugarloaf and Sunday River have picked it up again with rides up/down the mountain. The Chondola will be taking people from the base of the mountain to North Peak and the SuperQuad will be spinning to allow the use of the SuperQuad area of Sugarloaf. The Chondola is dog, kid, and grandparent-friendly, so you’ll want to pack up your whole family for this scenic adventure. Lift rides are available from 10AM-4PM on Saturdays and Sundays from early July to mid-October. You can buy tickets online in advance, but will need to pick up your tickets upon arrival. You can also purchase tickets on-site at the various lodges and base areas. Lift tickets will be issued until 3:30PM or until capacity is reached. If you plan to ride the lift back to the bottom, please load before 4PM. For more information, visit the links below.

sundayriver.com
sugarloaf.com

Photo: Sunday River

Friday Fire And Marshmallow Roast:

Who doesn’t love a good marshmallow roast? S’mores anyone? Make sure you sign up for these special events so you can get out into the community with the people you normally ski with! Just like the marshmallow roasts they did in the winter just warmer, make sure it’s on your calendar!

saddlebackmaine.com

Yoga:

This summer, Saddleback will be hosting a range of yoga classes taught by various certified yoga instructors. See the list below for the difference in classes. To see what class fits your busy life, click over to our Events Page

  • Morning Flow Yoga – Saturday Mornings from 8:30 – 9:30 am
    This program is taught by Carrol & Robert and runs from June 4 to August 27.
  • Hatha Yoga – Sunday Mornings from 10:00 – 11:00 am
    This program is taught by Kristina and runs from June 5 to August 28.
Photo: Saddleback Maine

Nature Walk and Geocaching:

Are your kids itching to get out of the house? Maybe some geocaching is in their future! Or, something for the whole family, a good ol’ walk in our back yard! Whatever you fancy, Saddleback has your outdoor goals. As the time gets closer, we’ll go into more detail.

  • Nature Walk – Every Saturday starting May 28 Click here
  • Geocaching – Every Sunday starting May 29 Click here
Photo: Saddleback Maine

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You can go back in time if you missed the best part. While you can catch some pretty amazing sunsets, you also are able to watch crews working. Click the link below to watch them get ready for the summer season!

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Top of the World (6/27/22 @ 7:12am)

Weather:

Welcome back sunny weather! We missed the warm temps with bright skies and I am happy to report the sun is back! Who’s ready to party it up and spend some quality time either up in the mountains or out on the lake?

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:74 70 73
Low:46 44 51
Based out of Rangeley

Enjoy the sun!

-Keegan

Categories
Summer Fun

Mainely Skiing Weekly Email (June 17, 2022)

Welcome to the Mainely Skiing Summer Email! This email will be sent straight to your inbox whenever we release new emails. In this email, we will highlight all the summer activities in or around the Rangeley Area!

Vote Saddleback:

Vote Saddleback for the best ski mountain in Maine. By voting for Saddleback, this means they are featured in the Downeast magazine and on their website. Make sure you vote today – and, tell a friend! Voting ends on July 1.

vote.downeast.com

Graduation:

Last Saturday, I stopped by the graduation of Rangeley’s Class of 2022. We want to congratulate the entire class on their incredible achievement! Congratulations Logan, Chase, Keegan, Emily, Lily, Mya, Winnie, Lily, Abi, Bristol, Gabe, Jared, Jazmyn, Ella, Evan, Boden, Sage, and Emmarae! I also want to thank Mr. Timothy Straub for his years spent at RLRS and congratulate him on his retirement.

Photo: Graduating Class of 2022 on the Rangeley Builders Supply Building.

Calendar Adds:

Make sure to add these events to your calendar to keep yourself up to date with the local happenings. Of course, you can always visit our events page which is constantly getting updated so you can know about the event before anyone else! Click here

Event Name:Start Date:End Date:Occurrence:
Friday Fire and Marshmallow RoastMay 27August 26Every Friday
Kids Free Nature WalkMay 28August 27Every Saturday
Sunday Funday GeocachingMay 29September 18Every Sunday
Saddleback Lake Sunset Canoe TripMay 29September 18Every Sunday
Afternoon Common Loon PaddleJune 1August 31Every Wednesday
Haley Pond Sunset SUPJune 1September 14Every Wednesday
Free Kids Bike Group TripJune 2September 1Every Thursday
Morning Flow YogaJune 4August 27Every Saturday
Hatha YogaJune 5August 28Every Sunday
Tough Mountain Challenge Registration DeadlineJune 20June 20One Day
Sunday River Scenic Lift RidesJuly 3October 10Every Day
3 Day Fly Fishing Experience (July)July 6July 8Three Days
New England Forrest RallyJuly 15July 16Two Days
Tough Mountain ChallengeJuly 23July 23One Day
3 Day Fly Fishing Experience (Women)August 3August 5Three Days
3 Day Fly Fishing Experience (August)August 24August 26Three Days

Tough Mountain Challenge:

Registration for this year’s Tough Mountain Challenge is now open! Make sure you sign up early to guarantee your name on the list. The event is on July 23, 2022. This year, they are offering two different versions; The Tough Mountain Challenge, and The Mini Mountain Challenge. They are also doing three different age groups. See the table for more information.

Name:Tough MountainMini MountainMini Mountain
Age:13+7-124-6
Cost:$119$29$19

The deadline to sign up is June 20th. Make sure your name is added! To sign up or learn more about this challenge, head over to their website. Linked below.

toughmountain.com

Photo: Tough Mountain Challenge

3 Day Fly Fishing Experience:

Enjoy a 3-day fly fishing experience led by our own Dr. Bill Richards, a Master Registered Maine Guide!

  • Day 1: Introduction to the “Art of Fly Fishing” – A little history of the Rangeley Region. An overview of fly fishing equipment and its application. Demonstration of the “overhead cast” and proper body position, fly rod grip, and mechanics and begin to practice your skills with Coach Bill. Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Day 2: Student Practice Sessions – Coach will offer feedback and constructive tips to help improve and perfect your cast. Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Day 3: Guided Fly Fishing from a Canoe. Get an early start for a full morning on the water! Time: 5 a.m. – 10 a.m.

For more information and to sign up for this incredible opportunity, click the links below:

Date RangeLink To More Information
July 6-8saddlebackmaine.com
August 3-5 (Women)saddlebackmaine.com
August 24-26saddlebackmaine.com

Kids Bike Group Trip:

Saddleback’s bike trails are located in the South Branch area of the lower mountain. These gradually sloped trails include sections great for beginner riders. This weekly kid’s program will work on the transition from pavement riding to gravel and downhill biking. This program will run from June 2nd through the Thursday before Labor Day weekend.

  • BYOB – Bring Your Own Bike, or arrange to rent from the mountain.
  • Children will need to be registered and a waiver will be signed by a parent or guardian. Drop-ins are welcome, but participation requires a signed waiver.

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Saddleback Maine

Jordan 8:

Things at Sunday River are moving fast in anticipation of Jordan 8. This high-speed, 8-person lift will replace the existing Jordan Bowl Express, an aging Doppelmayr Quad. This new lift is expected to be complete this fall and the new lift is already starting to take place. Sunday River posted this photo to their Instagram on June 3.

Photo: Sunday River (Getting ready to pour concrete at the base terminal of the new 8-person lift)

Friday Fire And Marshmallow Roast:

Who doesn’t love a good marshmallow roast? S’mores anyone? Make sure you sign up for these special events so you can get out into the community with the people you normally ski with! Just like the marshmallow roasts they did in the winter just warmer, make sure it’s on your calendar!

saddlebackmaine.com

Yoga:

This summer, Saddleback will be hosting a range of yoga classes taught by various certified yoga instructors. See the list below for the difference in classes. To see what class fits your busy life, click over to our Events Page

  • Morning Flow Yoga – Saturday Mornings from 8:30 – 9:30 am
    This program is taught by Carrol & Robert and runs from June 4 to August 27.
  • Hatha Yoga – Sunday Mornings from 10:00 – 11:00 am
    This program is taught by Kristina and runs from June 5 to August 28.
Photo: Saddleback Maine

Nature Walk and Geocaching:

Are your kids itching to get out of the house? Maybe some geocaching is in their future! Or, something for the whole family, a good ol’ walk in our back yard! Whatever you fancy, Saddleback has your outdoor goals. As the time gets closer, we’ll go into more detail.

  • Nature Walk – Every Saturday starting May 28 Click here
  • Geocaching – Every Sunday starting May 29 Click here
Photo: Saddleback Maine

Saddleback Webcams:

Have you visited the Saddleback Webcams? With three cameras scattered across the mountain, you’re guaranteed to get the best sunset. You can go back in time if you missed the best part. While you can catch some pretty amazing sunsets, you also are able to watch crews working. You can see some prospecting stakes for the new Sandy Quad. Click the link below to watch them get ready for the summer season!

saddlebackmaine.com

Photo: Busy Base Area (6/8/22 @ 4:00pm)

Weather:

With the week we’ve been having temperature-wise, I hate to inform you that this weekend will be one heck of a curve ball. These highs are looking more like the lows from this past week but sadly, we don’t expect temps to get much above mid-forties this weekend. This weekend, work on those inside jobs so you can get right back at it next weekend!

Day:Friday:Saturday:Sunday:
High:74 49 48
Low:43 41 42
Based out of Rangeley

Congrats Class of 2022!

-Keegan