Program & Guidelines for “SkiClipse” at Sugarloaf, ME

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Sugarloaf will experience a total eclipse on Monday. | Image: Sugarloaf

Experience the once in a life time Total Solar Eclipse at Sugarloaf, Maine. On Monday, April 8, 2024, the moon will completely cover the sun and the eclipse’s path of totality will only be visible in several states including parts of Maine. This is the last total solar eclipse in this hemisphere for 20 years and you won’t want to miss it!

While all of Maine will be able to view the eclipse, only some communities are in its path of totality, including Carrabassett Valley.  Sugarloaf will experience approximately three minutes of darkness the day of the event, plus live music with Skosh, Tom Faunce Floyd Experience playing Dark Side Of The Moon,  DJs Max & Dana, and more leading up to the big event. Join us for a full weekend of celebration sponsored by Orono Brewing Company.

Sugarloaf received 20 inches of snow in the last 5 days. | Image: Sugarloaf Facebook
Time Event Details
11am-5pm
DJ Party at the Beach
Join us on the Beach for the most conveniently located party at the base of the mountain. The outdoor beach bar will be serving up food and beverages during the day while Max & Dana keep the music going.
11am-3:45pm
DJ Party at Bullwinkles
For those who want to ski/ride the mountain, join Orono Brewing Company and DJs Max & Dana in celebrating the total eclipse at Bullwinkles during the day. Food and beverages will be available for purchase inside and outside. The kitchen will be serving food until 3pm and the outside grill will be serving a limited menu until 3:30pm. Last call will be 3:45pm.
2:20-4:40pm*
Total Eclipse
During this two hour time span, the moon will pass in front of the sun, first blocking the sun partially and then totally for about 3 minutes at approximately 3:30pm. Viewing glasses will be available to purchase at all retail outlets.
3:50pm & 4:20pm
Lifts Close
All lifts will open & close as per their normal operational schedule, 8:30am to 3:50pm with the exception of Super Quad which will remain open until 4:20 pm. Lift access is only for skiers and snowboarders

Spectator Information:

The total eclipse on Monday will be visible from anywhere on the mountain. While admission is free, there will be a security check at the Beach and Bullwinkles, and a lift ticket is required for anyone planning to ski/ride the mountain that day.

Safety is the number one priority when viewing a total solar eclipse. Pleast note Uphill travel is not permitted. This includes skinning, snowshoeing walking, and hiking above the base area. Sugarloaf branded solar eclipse glasses will be available to purchase at all retail outlets on mountain. Be sure you’re familiar with when you need to wear specialized eye protection designed for solar viewing by reviewing these safety guidelines.

Conditions at Sugarloaf are amazing right now. | Image: Sugarloaf Facebook

Spectating Locations

  • The Beach: Located at the base of the mountain, the beach grill will be open with DJ music.  No tickets or hiking are required and all ages are welcome.
  • The Outdoor Center will also be open for spectators. No tickets or hiking are required and all ages are welcome. Located south of Sugarloaf along the shuttle route. Limited parking available.
  • Bullwinkle’s: Located mid-mountain accessible by skiing or snowboarding only. A lift ticket or season pass is required. In April, spring skiing conditions are expected, so please respect all trail closures. Also note: All lifts will be on their normal operating schedule with no closures during the eclipse. Super Quad will stay open until 4:20pm.
  • The Summit is a great option for those planning to ski/ride. A lift ticket or season pass is required.
Come on down to Sugarloaf for spring skiing. | Image: Sugarloaf Facebook

Important to note

  • Absolutely no walking/hiking uphill.  Uphill route will be closed Monday. Anyone planning to be on the mountain above the base area must have a lift ticket or season pass to ride the lift,  and must have proper equipment to ski or ride down.
  • Parking is limited and intended for those staying on the mountain and those who will be skiing, riding and participating in our SkiClipse event.  Sugarloaf access road and Outdoor Center parking lots will be closed once capacity has been met.  No busses or tow behinds of any kind will be allowed up the access road.  Please make other arrangements for parking if you are not here to participate in our activities.
  • Sugarloaf anticipates an influx of traffic. Please use the Access Road to get to the mountain. To respect surrounding neighborhoods, do not use Brackett Brook or Town Line Road via Elderberry or Boynton if you are traveling from RT 27.
SkiClipse Trail Map. | Image: Sugarloaf

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