Sugar and Summertime

Hiking, Mountain Biking, Views and More 

Story by Justin Grimes c/o High Country Press

Whether its mountain biking, hiking or view-seeking that suits your fancy, Sugar Mountain Resort offers it all this summer.

How sweet it is at Sugar Mountain Resort in the summertime. You may not see the great Gleason’s ghost, but you will see families, hikers and mountain bikers enjoying the splendor of the venerable mountain’s summer blossoms.

From weekend lift rides to downhill mountain biking, locals and tourists flock to Sugar in the summertime. “Our goal is to keep Sugar Mountain Resort’s name in front of people all year long,” said Kim Jochl, director of marketing for the resort. We have splendid summer amenities to share with our visitors.”

To plan your trip, this is what you need to know:

Weekend Scenic Lift Rides began July 3 and go through Sunday, September 6, and are available every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Bring the whole family, a picnic lunch, your mountain bike or just a friend and enjoy a breathtaking 45-minute roundtrip lift-ride to Sugar’s 5,300-foot peak. The majestic scenery is worth it.

For bike riders, specially made hooks on the backs of the lift chairs carry your bike to the top. Just hand your bike to the lift attendants at the bottom of the Gray Lift, jump on the chair and enjoy the ride. The attendants will hang your bikes on the hook, and when you get off the lift another attendant will get your bike down for you, either at the 3/4 station, or at the top. A Village of Sugar Mountain ordinance requires helmets to be worn by all bikers.

Lift ticket prices are $10 for a one-time ride, and $22 for an all day ticket. Kids ages 4 and under ride free with an adult.

Groups of 20 or more can buy one-time ride tickets for $5. Advanced reservations are required by calling 828-898-4521, extension 261.

Hiking and biking trails intertwine throughout the Village of Sugar Mountain. Trail access is free of charge May through October during daylight hours. Trail maps are located in a black, marked mailbox at the base of the Flying Mile slope. Trails are constantly being maintained so please be cautious. Also keep in mind that weather and other variables can change the condition of any trail.

For more information, click to www.skisugar.com/conditions.

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