A-LIST-December 2012
By Joe Hebert

01 White Nitro Trail
The steepest trail at Sugarloaf, White Nitro, also boasts one of the best views on the mountain. A double black diamond, it’s not for the faint of heart. The trail is best skied after it is freshly groomed early in the morning. Far fewer skiers head up that high in the morning, so you’ll likely have plenty of space to enjoy the trail. It gets more challenging as the day progresses—with the sun hidden behind the mountain, the snow gets progressively firmer.

02 Grand Falls
A classic horseshoe falls, this beautiful site is accessible only by a dirt road called Kibby Camp Road. An adventure in itself—complete with wooden bridges, short hikes, and zero car access—the reward is well worth it. Remember to respect the natural environment by carrying out whatever you bring in.

03 Narrow Gauge Pathway
The Pathway is six miles of riverfront, which you may hike, bike, or cross-country ski. Best experienced during springtime, the water is high and colder after the post-winter rain and snowmelt. Sitting at the foot of Sugarloaf, this river is one of the most beautiful sites in Maine. 04 Bunawabskeg (Redington Pond) Loop
This 6.1-mile loop, part of the 60-mile network of cross-country ski trails at the base of Sugarloaf, lets the more casual skier tag along with speed-driven friends. Let them tackle the downhill trails while you enjoy a more leisurely trip complete with views of the neighboring Bigelow Range. Also available is an eight-mile round-trip climb to Burnt Mountain reserved solely for snowshoe enthusiasts.

05 Hole #11
The tee box sits about 125 feet above the green, and tee shots are hit from 150 yards. A number of things make the hole challenging—the elevation change is dramatic, making club selection difficult. The green is guarded on the left by the West Branch of the Carrabassett River and on the right and back by bunkers. The green also slopes toward the river, and shots missed a little to the right could end up wet.

06 Antigravity Complex
Owned by the town of Carrabassett Valley, the AGC features a trampoline center, a 35-foot indoor climbing wall, and one of the largest indoor skate parks in the state. Located at the base of Sugarloaf, this is the perfect excuse to take a break from the slopes and enjoy the aforementioned features, as well as yoga, Pilates, spinning, and fitness and conditioning classes.

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