Sugarloaf Mountain in Maine is known for offering some of the most unusual skiing in the eastern United States. From exposed alpine snowfields to sprawling glades and remote hiking terrain, the resort has several areas that sometimes feel more like the Rocky Mountains than New England. Unfortunately getting the chance to experience all of them in one visit can be pretty rare.
PeakRankings recently shared footage from a February 2026 trip to Sugarloaf with the ambitious goal of skiing three of the resort’s most distinctive areas. The trip coincided with the opening of the Backside Snowfields for the first time in three years, while Bracket Basin was skiing well and Burnt Mountain was accessible to hikers.
Sugarloaf’s Backside Snowfields Offer a Unique Experience
The Backside Snowfields were the first stop on the group’s itinerary. Reached by a short hike from the summit, the exposed terrain offered spectacular views and an experience unlike typical East Coast skiing.
However the skiing itself proved challenging. Rocks, shrubs, uneven snow coverage and wind exposure made it difficult to find a consistent rhythm. The experience really highlighted why Sugarloaf rends to be cautious about opening the terrain, which can remain inaccessible for entire seasons.
Bracket Basin Delivers Remote Glade Skiing
Bracket Basin offered a different experience. Located on the far skier’s right side of the mountain, the expansive network of glades provided sheltered skiing and better snow preservation.
Even after the group encountered severe winds and widespread lift closures on their second day, they managed to reach the area during a brief window when some lifts resumed operating. The resulting run through the woods was an isolated adventure involving difficult traverses, hiking and careful navigation.
Burnt Mountain Provides the Ultimate Reward
The final day brought the group to Burnt Mountain, where reaching the summit required climbing more than 1,000 vertical feet. The demanding hike was rewarded with sweeping views and distinctive upper-mountain terrain.
Below the exposed summit, the route transitioned into exceptional glade skiing. The experience can be one of the most rewarding parts of the entire trip, with a remote, backcountry-like atmosphere despite remaining within Sugarloaf’s resort boundaries.
Ultimately, PeakRankings found that Sugarloaf’s unusual terrain lives up to its reputation, particularly in Bracket Basin and Burnt Mountain.
