Industry News
In the ever-changing ski world, where mega passes have taken over and remaining independent as a resort is increasingly challenging, Smugglers Notch and Burke Mountain in Vermont have united to stay afloat. The investment group, Bear Den Partners, purchased Burke in 2025 and, as of February 2026, is running Smugglers Notch in collaboration with the long-running family owners.
Bear Den Partners was established in 2025 to purchase and run Burke Mountain. The two partners include Kenny Graham, a Burke local and the primary investor, and Jon Schaefer, a ski industry veteran and longtime Berkshire East owner. They intended to rescue Burke from its turbulent ownership history and undertake a mountain-wide refurbishment to ensure its long-term success. After a successful season with Burke, they expanded to Smugglers Notch. Bear Den aspires to improve infrastructure, such as snowmaking and lifts, and to avoid the nearly inevitable acquisition of a mega pass.
Bear Den Partners recognizes the power of a multi-resort pass and knows the only way to compete is to have a competitive offer. Available now and for the 2026-27 season is a dual-season pass to both Burke and Smugglers’ Notch. For season-long access with no blackout dates, this two-mountain pass is available for $349 for ages 6-26, $649 for ages 27-69, and $199 for seniors 70-79, with a free pass for everyone else. This pass comes with a myriad of perks, including 3 buddy tickets at 50% off, 2 days at both Berkshire East and Catamount (also affiliated with Bear Den Partners), and discounts for mountain lessons, rentals, and retail. For those with a flexible schedule who think $649 seems steep, there is a midweek pass for just $399 with similar benefits.
As ski passes ascend the $1,000 mark for what feels like days spent endlessly in line, the independently run resorts become increasingly attractive. The independent resorts still standing have been forced to get creative, shift their business strategies, or change ownership to stay running. Bear Den Partners are proving to be a community-focused organization while staying afloat amidst these trying times. This affordable partner pass between two beloved Vermont mountains, Smugglers Notch and Burke Mountain, is an amazing alternative to the mega passes while still offering plenty of top-notch skiing.
