If you’ve ever tried to wrangle three kids, four sets of skis, and a rogue pole onto a shuttle bus while wearing ski boots, you know exactly why today’s news has me doing a happy dance in my living room.
It has been a wonderfully snowy winter for Sugarbush Resort so far, but this weekend marked a special milestone that many of us parents in the Mad River Valley have been waiting for. The Slide Brook Express Quad is officially spinning again for the first time since 2024!
Why This Is a Game-Changer for Families
For those who haven't visited, Sugarbush is massive—it actually scores a solid 65.8/100 on ShredIndex—but it's split across two main mountain areas: Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen. Usually, getting from one to the other involves that shuttle bus shuffle I mentioned earlier.
But with the Slide Brook Express open, you can now ski between the two peaks. It connects the resort into one giant playground, which makes logistics so much smoother when you're trying to keep the whole crew happy.
A Ride, Not Just a Lift
This isn't just any chairlift; it’s the world's longest high-speed quad. We're talking 11,012 feet—that is over two miles! The ride takes about 12 minutes, and honestly, my kids think it feels like a roller coaster. It dips through hills and valleys in the wilderness between the mountains.
Mom Tip: Since it's a 12-minute ride through unshielded terrain, it can get chilly. Before you load up, make sure everyone's zippers are up, buffs are pulled over noses, and hand warmers are activated. It's a beautiful ride, but you don't want frozen fingers halfway through!
The "Wild" Side of Vermont
The lift only runs when there is enough natural snowpack to allow for a safe evacuation if the lift stops (safety is always the priority!). That's why it often runs only on weekends and holidays during peak season.
Because it travels through such quiet, wooded areas, it's also a prime spot for wildlife watching. In fact, guests this weekend were treated to a moose sighting right from the chair! If you're heading up with the little ones, turn the ride into a game of "I Spy"—though maybe warn them that seeing a moose is a lucky bonus, not a guarantee.
Plan Your Trip
With 110 trails now open, including the steeps off the Castlerock Chairlift for the adventurous teens in your group, conditions are looking fantastic. If you are thinking of heading up to Vermont to experience this "roller coaster" lift for yourself, you can find accommodation for your family getaway here.
See you on the slopes (and keep an eye out for that moose)!
Source: Unofficial Networks
