Sugar Mountain Reopens for Third Time This Season

To say it's been a rocky start at Sugar Mountain would be putting it lightly.

Like much of the mid-Atlantic region, the resort experienced cool temperatures at the beginning of the month proving fruitful for snowmaking and the mountain opened for the first time on Nov. 11, only to shut down four days later due to rising temperatures.

Again on Nov. 18, they spun up the lifts and celebrated the season anew. However, the warm temperatures soon returned and melted away their surface prompting a second closing on Nov. 21.

On Nov. 30, Sugar will again fire up the lifts and reopen the mountain for the third time. Acknowledging the fledging start to the season, their latest press release opens: "Mother Nature's in charge! And Sugar Mountain Resort is hoping the third time's a charm."

Snowmakers have been working round the clock since temperatures dropped back to the 20's and with local forecasts calling for three inches of fresh snow to blanket the slopes, this may be the one.

On Wednesday the Upper and Lower Flying Mile slopes will be open, providing a run of one mile long. Summit #1 lift will operate to the 3/4's station servicing both slopes for the day and half-day sessions. Lift ticket prices will be $30 (Adult full-day) and $25 (Adult half-day).

Sugar's 10,000-square-foot outdoor ice skating rink is planned to open as well.

The ninth annual Sugarfest is coming up Dec. 10-11, a two-day festival complete with ski clinics, fireworks, demos and a rail jam. If you're looking for an early season deal, take advantage of one of their Winter Value Packages.

For the latest conditions call 800-784-2768 or visit skisugar.com.