Vermont — Bear Den Partners had two exciting announcements yesterday. The first was the acquisition of Berkshire East and Catamount Resort from the Schaefer family. The second announcement was a season pass that will appeal to Vermont skiers and riders.
Yesterday, Burke Mountain Resort and Smugglers’ Notch announced a joint season pass for the 2026-27 season. The pass includes unlimited access to Burke Mountain and Smugglers’ Notch. It also gives two days of access to Berkshire East and Catamount Mountain each, and 50% off additional days. There are also buddy tickets, with 50% off a lift ticket for three days at Burke and Smuggs. Lodging discounts are also available during non-peak periods.
What’s also notable about the pass is the affordable prices. It’s only $699 for adults, $349 for ages 6-29, and $199 for Seniors. These price points will be available until May 25th (a.k.a. Memorial Day).
The new Berkshire East and Catamount pass is also worth noting. The AIM HIGH pass includes unlimited access to two Massachusetts resorts (one of which is also in New York). These passes include two days of weekend access to Burke and Smugglers’ Notch each, plus 50% off additional visits. Also, it offers unlimited midweek days at Burke from March 2027 to the end of next season. These also offer lodging discounts at Burke and Smuggs. This pass is priced at $599 for adults, but this offer is only available until April 15th.
About Bear Den Partners
Bear Den Partners was founded in 2025 to acquire Burke Mountain Resort from a federal receivership. The new company purchased Burke Mountain in April 2025 and has since invested millions in upgrades, including lots of snowmaking equipment. In February, it was announced that Smugglers’ Notch would transition to ownership by Bear Den Partners. Yesterday, it was announced that Bear Den Partners has acquired the two ski resorts previously run by the Schaefer family: Berkshire East and Catamount.
Three of the four mountains with Bear Den Partners are on the Indy Pass, so we’ll see if the fourth, Smugglers’ Notch, joins in 2026-27.
Image/Video Credits: Burke Mountain Resort, Smugglers’ Notch
