Industry News
This winter, Sugarbush Resort in Vermont is rolling out an all-new luxury upgrade designed to take mountain access and comfort to the next level. The Sugarbush Reserve Pass gives guests a way to make the most of every day on the slopes with no lines, no waiting, and a private club space to unwind between runs. It is available as a seasonal add-on to any existing Sugarbush or Ikon Pass for $2,000. It offers skiers and riders a smoother, more exclusive experience on busy weekends and holidays.
At the heart of the amenities is priority lift access on the Super Bravo Express Quad, one of Sugarbush’s main arteries to the mountain. Reserve Pass holders can skip the regular line and head straight to the summit, guaranteeing more laps, fresh tracks, and less time standing around. The pass also unlocks entry to The Fifty 8, a brand-new, ski-in-ski-out lounge located in the Valley House Lodge. Open Fridays through Sundays, The Fifty 8 offers a relaxed, upscale atmosphere, complete with complimentary hot drinks, pastries, and snacks throughout the day, as well as a full bar and curated food menu.
Seasonal membership also includes a $100 food credit, two Friends & Family Discounted Day Passes ($99 each), and exclusive access for guests ages 21 and older. The seasonal pass is capped at 275 memberships for its inaugural year, keeping the experience intimate and uncrowded. For visitors who prefer a shorter commitment, daily Reserve upgrades will be available for $199, providing the same lift and lounge access on select days.
The Sugarbush Reserve Pass mirrors a growing trend in the ski industry toward premium experiences with a way for frequent visitors to bypass the crowds and enjoy added comfort on the mountain. Whether it’s grabbing an espresso before first chair or relaxing with a cocktail after a few runs, the Reserve Pass offers something few ski upgrades can: more time, more ease, and a little extra luxury in the heart of the Green Mountains.
- Related: How Premium Season Passes with Exclusive Amenities are Quietly Influencing the Ski Industry
The Reserve Pass at Sugarbush, ME, has sparked controversy among skiers and riders on Reddit. Some people are outraged, feeling it’s unfair to pay that much additional for a ski pass when regular season passes are pricey already. Others are skeptical about the pass’s value, citing Sugarbush’s history of maintenance issues and crowded lifts as well as only offering priority access to one lift. Some locals are particularly upset, feeling the pass targets wealthy outsiders and will make the mountain less accessible to regular skiers. A few commenters are embracing the opportunity to poke fun at the wealthy skiers who will buy the pass.
Whether seen as a smart convenience or an unnecessary divide, the Sugarbush Reserve Pass highlights a clear shift in skiing culture where access and experience are increasingly tied to price. As resorts continue to experiment with premium tiers, the debate over what it means to “elevate” a ski day will likely grow louder. For now, Sugarbush’s newest offering stands as both a luxury perk for a select few and a reminder of the tension between exclusivity and community that’s reshaping the modern mountain experience.
