Maine USA School Ski Trips
The largest skiable area in east of the Mississippi there is something for all abilities.
Located on Sugarloaf Mountain in Carrabassett Valley, western Maine. This resort has the friendly atmosphere of the US with a varied range of slopes.
The important facts:
- 160 runs
- 1,240 acres of slopes
- 18 lifts
What its like to be a Sugarloafer and why we want to go back…
It was a couple of years ago that I was first invited up to Sugarloaf to accompany our Maine USA School Ski Trips. So I took a look for myself what all the fuss was about. I particularly wanted to see how it worked for children I took my family along and we had an absolutely fantastic time.
The scenery
It started with the scenery on the way up from Boston; I hadn’t travelled in Maine before and was struck by its sheer beauty, then as we got nearer to Sugarloaf we could see the imposing shape of the mountain growing before us. But it wasn’t until we arrived and stood in its shadow and looked up at all the trails that we began to understand why this ski resort has such a following in the US. A definite must for school ski trips…
The skiing at Sugarloaf
Well I can tell you that Sugarloaf really lives up to its reputation for school ski trips. We were all at different levels but had no difficulty in finding plenty of thrills. Our youngest daughter was just starting out and we let her join in a lesson which gave her great confidence. So much so we struggled to get her off the hill. Our intermediate went looking for some of the great rollers which make you feel like you are really starting to get it. And me? well I went looking for White Nitro and it was a fair tussle!
The other bits
The food in Sugarloaf was typical of US ski resorts and was plentiful and well priced. I really enjoyed the clam chowder in a bread bowl at lunch time. In the evenings there was a lot to do if you weren’t content with a swim and a meal. The Anti-Gravity Center was a blast. There is the option for a school group to take it over and spend a night using the courts or the trampolines. The snowshoeing was fun although we didn’t try the cross country skiing which also looked good. There was even an option to go back up the hill in a Snowcat but tubing held more sway that day.
Maine USA School Ski Trips
- Duration: 7 days
- Board: Full board
- Passengers: 40
- Free Staff Places: 4 free staff
Inclusions
Lift Pass, Equipment Hire, Lessons & Evening Entertainment
Where it’s held
Sugarloaf
We were struck by the sheer beauty of the Maine region, then as we got nearer to Sugarloaf we could see the imposing shape of the mountain growing before us. But it wasn’t until we arrived and stood in its shadow and looked up at all the trails that we began to understand why this ski resort has such a following in the US.
Sugarloaf certainly lives up to its reputation for school ski trips. We were all at different levels but had no difficulty in finding plenty of thrills even for beginners or intermediate skiers.
Sample Itinerary for Maine USA School Ski Trips
Day 1 Depart from USA
Depart from London airport bound for Boston. Your group will be met by a member of the Activ4 School Tours destination team and escorted to your coach for the transfer to Sugarloaf. Located in the heart of Sugarloaf Village, the Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel captures the spirit of mountain hotels of yesteryear.
Day 2 Ski Fit, First Lessons, Quiz Night
The Mountain Hotel is directly opposite the main base lodge and before skiing today your group can walk across to the ski fit. Right outside the ski shop your instructors will be ready to go. As with all areas of Activ4 School Tours programmes, evening entertainments will be carefully planned for your group and a day skiing you may want a quiz.
Day 3 Skiing, Snowshoeing
Head out for another full day of fun in the snow. Tonight might be just the night to visit the Outdoor Centre, Sugarloaf’s Nordic centre for cross country skiing, skating or a snowshoe safari. Or stay in the Mountain Hotel at the excellent facilities including a Spa and bar area suitable for a games night.
Day 4 Active Day Skiing, Evening Activities
Another active day and everyone starts to feel that they are making progress. Although it is all on one mountain, Sugarloaf is the largest ski area east of the Rockies so your group will have plenty to keep them occupied. A great end to your day is to head over to the Anti-Gravity Centre to enjoy a variety of activities.
Day 5 Exciting Day of Skiing, Ice Skating
Set off for another exciting day skiing. Head on up the mountain for the start of the ski lessons. By now the students will have gained confidence and will be eager to show what they can do! A great end to your day will be to head over to the Sports centre where you can all enjoy an evening of Ice Skating.
Day 6 Last Day in the Snow, Presentation
The last day to make the most of the snow, so head on up the mountain. After a hectic week of intense lessons the students will be desperate to show you what they can do! After saying your good-bye’s on the mountain. You can round off your tour with a presentation evening bringing everyone together and recognising improvement throughout the tour.
Day 7 Departure Day
Unfortunately all good things come to an end. A popular option is to hit the Outlet Mall and do some shopping. Then over to Boston Logan Airport for the flight home. Your tour officially ends when you get back to the UK, but with a trip this great we are sure that it will live long in the memory.