Sugarbush and Mad River Glen Jobs

Sugarbush is the classic major resort area which caters to all skiers. Mad River Glen, just five miles north, is home to some of the best ski terrain in North America and attracts serious skiers who want to avoid big crowds. There are two mountains at Sugarbush (Sugarbush North and Sugarbush South) and one at Mad River Glen. The main towns near the mountains are Waitsville and Warren, which are both near the mountain bases and offer entertainment and lodging, though guests won’t find any big hotel chains or restaurants. Vermont boasts a strong association of independent innkeepers and the Mad River Valley fiercely adheres to it. There are also plenty of condos, however, and these offer the most updated amenities. Skiers are serious, and the natives live up to the Vermont reputation for big-hearted friendliness.

Winter Activities

Skiers used to conditions in the Western states must adapt to the difference in Eastern skiing. Rain and ice are much more abundant, and the weather in general is more finicky. Sugarbush is evenly divided by level of skier, and offers ample challenge to everyone. Mad River Glen, however, is known best for its expert runs, glade skiing, and traditional attitude (no snowboarders are allowed – they might damage the trees). The mountain prides itself on being tough and completely natural (there is no snowmaking at all), and offers tons of out-of-bounds skiing. There are even bumper stickers printed about Mad River Glen stating “Ski It If You Can!” All together, the area has 386 acres of skiable terrain, most of which are in the Sugarbush Mountains. Sugarbush South has 2,400 vertical feet; Sugarbush North has 2,600 vertical feet; and Mad River Glen 2,037 feet. Excellent cross-country skiing can be found around Warren, Vermont, just outside Sugarbush South. Sugarbush itself has twenty-five kilometers of groomed Nordic trails.

The main non-ski activities in the area take place at the Sugarbush Sports Center at the base area of Sugarbush South. Sugarbush North has only a parking lot at its base area and a few shops in Fayston. The surrounding areas have horseback riding opportunities, skijoring, ice skating, snowshoe touring, and snowmobiling.

Summer Activities

The proximity of this area to the Green Mountain National Forest provides exceptional scenery and outdoor activities. Camping, biking, hiking, swimming, fishing, and horseback riding are just a few. Call the Forest Service at (802) 773-0300 for specific information.

Après-ski

The Blue Tooth has a lively early-twenties crowd and is located down the Sugarbush access road from the Sugarbush ski area. Chez Henri is an elegant French restaurant with a disco in the back room. At the junction of Route 17 and Route 100 in Waitsfield are Gallaghers and Mad Mountain Tavern; both offer live music during ski season. The Hyde Away on German Flats Road is a very popular ski bar, serves good, inexpensive food, and is the closest bar to Sugarbush North and Mad River Glen. Musical choices range from disco and rock to country and some bars have live entertainment on weekends. There are several affordable dining options in the area including California fern bars, romantic Italian restaurants, and authentic Indian food. The locals enjoy the Beggar’s Banquet. Despite its reputation as a natural ski area with no frills skiing, the food at the Base Box at Mad River Glen is the best in the area.

Transportation

A car is a necessity in this area because there is no public transportation and very few lodges offer shuttle service. Sugarbush Ski Resort is located in the town of Warren, and nearby Waitsfield is the commercial hub of the Mad River Valley.

Both ski areas are located about twenty miles south of Waterbury off Route 100. By air, the best bet is to fly into Burlington and rent a car or arrange for a friend to meet you for the hour drive to the Mad River Valley.

Housing

Rental units are available in the local area for approximately $200-$400 per month. Check the listings in the classified section of the papers and call a local realtor for rates and availability.

Employment

During the winter over 700 employees are hired and 175 employees are added in summer. Hiring takes place throughout the winter, but it is best to read the following listing and contact the resort prior to December. Sugarbush now has the same ownership as Sunday River Ski Resort in Maine, and new additions and facilities are in the works.

Sugarbush Website

Mad River Glen Ski Area Website