Last week, I had an itch that needed scratching - I had an urge to roam and look for as much skiable terrain as I could access in the East, given that it was still early December. A review of ski resorts that were open led me to head northeast to Maine.
Both Sunday River and Sugarloaf were at the top of the list and, putting my faith in my Garmin, I headed out. Five hours later I was pulling into The Grand Summit Resort Hotel at Sunday River. A five hour drive means one thing - I get to stay at over at least one night. If you want to really ski and see all of Sunday River, you better set aside a couple of days.
Sunday River covers eight peaks and approaching it from the east is a bit deceiving ,because you only see the peaks as you drive past them until you get to the main South Ridge Lodge.
When you see the entire area all at once you will definitely be wowed, but by coming up as I did you get to save the wows until you start to ski the expanse. Advanced skiers will have a lot of challenging fun throughout the resort and especially on the west side. A lot of nice blue groomed trails for intermediate skiers are scattered among all 8 peaks and a variety of criss-crossing green trails for beginners allow easy going so everyone can a good feeling of on-and-on skiing.
Check out some photos and read more about Sunday River, where you'll find almost 700 acres of classic New England skiing.
More: Maine Ski Resorts
Image Copyright Mike Doyle
Comments
Unfortunately, Sunday River is now controlled by groomers and boasts of its wall to wall “Sunday River Courdoroy.” How boring! Even after yesterday’s 6 in powder, all trails were groomed overnight. The East doesn’t need more groomer resorts.