24-Hour Ski Challenge Returns to Sugarloaf, ME, for Its 25th Year

The 24-hour ski challenge hosted by Maine’s Sugarloaf Mountain is returning for its 25th season on February 26, 2026. In Carrabassett Valley, this skiing stamina challenge is in support of the charity WinterKids. Pursuing the health and wellness of Maine’s future generations, their goal is to get the kids of Maine outside and playing during the winter. 

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The revenue goal for the 24-hour ski challenge is $820,000. As well as the reward of supporting a good cause, all are welcome to attend Sugarloaf for a fun and unique challenge. On February 26, at 8 p.m., the 24-hour ski challenge kicks off. With a free 21+ show hosted at the WidowMaker (a bar above the Sugarloaf lodge), the local Maine band, North of Nashville, will be jamming out from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. All riders, whether skiers, boarders, or skinners, are welcome to see how long they can last in support of getting kids outside.

The benefits of children playing outside are numerous. Sunlight provides Vitamin D, supporting immune health as well as bone development. It also prompts the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and supports healthy sleep, which is especially important for developing youth. Exercise, especially done in collaboration with others, not only improves health but also social skills. Playing in nature allows kids and their imaginations to run wild, improving their creative processes as well as learning from their mistakes in real time, which solidifies the lessons learned. Finally, a love and appreciation of nature will last a lifetime, motivating the next generation to stay outside, care for our earth, and pass on this knowledge to their posterity. 

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WinterKids offers countless activity ideas for parents and communities to get their kids outside. With guides to make your own field day, playlists to get kids dancing, recipes for simple dishes, math made fun by puzzles, and so many more, this charity truly supports caretakers in keeping kids happy and occupied while simultaneously maximizing their development. These ideas are not exclusive to Maine or even winter, with a public site that posts Summer, Spring, and Fall activities as well.

This challenge is not only a fun event, but also in support of a good cause. Anyone who wants to help kids get outside can donate, and those curious about how long they can continuously ski are free to challenge themselves at Sugarloaf Mountain on February 26.