Conditions Report
Report from Friday, January 10, 2025
We arrived at Smugglers’ Notch (or “Smuggs,” as the locals call it) in the early afternoon. The drive was easy, and we found parking conveniently in the front of Lot Three, just a short walk to the Madonna & Sterling Base Lodge.
The resort spans three mountains: Morse, Madonna, and Sterling. We began our day by skiing down to the Village Lift on Meadowlark at the base of Morse, the farthest point skiers right.
At the base of the Village Center, we met Hugh Johnson, the legendary host of Smuggs’ snow conditions blog, originally called “Hugh’s Views” and now “Views From The Notch.” Hugh has been running the blog for years and proudly serves as the snow forecasting face of Smuggs—a title he’s held for over 30 years.
We took the Village Lift up and headed toward Madonna Mountain. Everywhere we went, locals and employees enthusiastically greeted Hugh, shouting his name. His signature move? Tossing Hershey’s Kisses at every lift station as a gesture of gratitude to the lifties, who all clearly held him in high regard. Throughout the season, Hugh goes through more than 1,000 Kisses, thanks to Costco’s bulk bags.
We lapped the Madonna I lift, where the snow was nothing short of incredible—the type of Utah powder where your skis glide right through. It was so light on the skis that it felt almost effortless to carve through it.
Hugh led us to secret stashes of snow that no one had touched for days. As he hiked to get a shot, he sunk waist-deep into the powder. We continued exploring untouched lift lines and glades, with snow occasionally reaching our knees. Even Hugh admitted that conditions like these weren’t typical for Smuggs, but locals cherished them deeply when they occurred.
The season was truly in full swing. Up until this point in January, there had only been two snowless days. Bitterly cold temperatures had kept over two feet of light, untouched snow in many areas.
Despite the challenging weather conditions across the Northeast, Smuggs’ location ensured all open lifts were operational, even during a three-day stretch when other resorts were on wind hold.
As we skied, Hugh shared Smuggs’ fascinating history. The jagged cliffs in the valley leading to Stowe, snaking up Mount Mansfield, were once used to smuggle goods from Canada during British occupation in the 1700s. The area later became a hotspot for bootleggers during Prohibition in the 1920s. Some believe hidden treasures from these eras still lie within the Notch’s rocky terrain.
Hugh also showed us the connection between Smuggs and Stowe. At the top of Sterling Lift lies a frozen pond, Sterling Pond, with a semi-official trail called Snuffy’s Trail leading across it. This connection means that skiers with a Smuggs Pass and an Epic Pass can access one of the largest ski areas in the East when the resorts are linked.
From Sterling, we skied to scenic lookouts over Mt. Mansfield and “The Notch,” a steep, rocky valley between Smuggs and Stowe where bootleggers once hid their goods.
Overall, Smuggs delivered an experience that rivaled the snow of Utah. With its light snow, steep terrain, and breathtaking views, we often forgot we were in Vermont. Thanks to Hugh’s extensive knowledge and passion for the mountain, every lap felt like a fresh, deep treat.
If you visit, you’ll likely spot Hugh around the mountain. Be on the lookout for Hershey’s Kisses flying your way!
We want to thank Hugh and Smugglers’ Notch for giving us a glimpse into a truly special side of Vermont last Friday. The incredible conditions and warm hospitality left us eager to return.
The Resort
Smugglers’ Notch is a ski resort in the Green Mountains of Vermont, offering a picturesque escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Located just 30 minutes from Burlington International Airport, this family-friendly resort spans over 1,000 acres of skiable terrain. With a peak elevation of 3,640 feet and a vertical drop of 2,610 feet, Smugglers’ Notch boasts 78 trails catering to all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to exhilarating expert runs. The resort’s longest trail, Rumrunner, stretches over three miles, providing stunning views of Mount Mansfield and the surrounding valleys.
Renowned for its glade skiing, Smugglers’ Notch attracts adventurers seeking untouched powder and tree-lined trails. The resort features a modern lift system, including eight chairs and two surface lifts, ensuring smooth access to its three interconnected mountains: Morse, Madonna, and Sterling. Beyond skiing, the resort shines as a year-round destination, with activities like hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining available during the warmer months.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Smugglers’ Notch is a top choice for families, offering award-winning kids’ programs and various on-site accommodations. Whether hitting the slopes, enjoying après-ski at a cozy lodge, or exploring Vermont’s natural beauty, Smugglers’ Notch promises a memorable mountain getaway.
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