Sugar Bears
Big fun, big learning. Ski and ride lessons built just for kids ages 7 to 12.
Sugar Bears (7-12 Years Old)
The Sugar Bears program is designed to help kids ages 7-12 build skills, gain confidence and have a blast while skiing or riding at Sugarbush. Based out of our state-of-the-art Schoolhouse learning center at Lincoln Peak, this program offers a fun, supportive environment led by our most experienced children’s coaches.
Sugar Bears is open to all ability levels, from first-timers to kids confidently linking turns on blue trails. Groups are formed based on age and ability to ensure the right pace, support and challenge for every participant. Full-day programs include both morning and afternoon instruction as well as lunch. Half-day (morning only) programs are also available, except during peak holiday periods.
For more information, please call 802-583-6542 or email skiandrideschool@sugarbush.com.
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The Sugar Bears program is designed to help kids ages 7-12 build skills, gain confidence and have a blast while skiing or riding at Sugarbush. Based out of our state-of-the-art Schoolhouse learning center at Lincoln Peak, this program offers a fun, supportive environment led by our most experienced children’s coaches.
Sugar Bears is open to all ability levels, from first-timers to kids confidently linking turns on blue trails. Groups are formed based on age and ability to ensure the right pace, support and challenge for every participant. Full-day programs include both morning and afternoon instruction as well as lunch. Half-day (morning only) programs are also available, except during peak holiday periods.
For more information, please call 802-583-6542 or email skiandrideschool@sugarbush.com.
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At a Glance:
- Ages: Kids ages 7-12
- Ski/Ride Ability: All abilities, from first-timers to advanced, skiers and riders
- Location: The Schoolhouse at Lincoln Peak
- Format: Full-day or half-day (AM only) ski or snowboard lessons
- Note: Half-day lessons not available on peak days
- Dates: Daily, December 14, 2024 – March 30, 2025
- Times:
- Full Day
- Half Day
- Includes:
- Full-day programs include lunch
- Coaching and skill-based grouping
- Rentals and lift tickets are not included
| 25/26 Program | Times | Rate | Button |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekend Full Day | BOOK NOW | ||
| Weekend Half Day | BOOK NOW | ||
| Weekday Full Day | BOOK NOW | ||
| Weekend Half Day | BOOK NOW |
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Need to Know
- Full-day programs include lunch for all participants.
- All programs are out of the Schoolhouse at Lincoln Peak
- Program participants under age 14 are required to wear a fastened snow sports helmet.
- Program participants may use terrain features and jumps while skiing or riding in a lesson.
- If your child’s equipment fails during the day, Sugarbush staff may select and sign out rentals on your behalf from our rental shop.
- Sugarbush staff may supervise transport of children by van or public bus to other locations within the resort as needed.
- In the event of an injury or medical emergency, staff may contact emergency services and/or arrange transport to a medical facility. We will attempt to reach the emergency contact provided at the time of registration.
- Micro Bears must be 3 or 4 years old, potty trained, and ready to have fun!
- If your child isn’t quite there yet, we recommend exploring the Sugarbush Day School for full-day care options.
- If your child isn’t quite there yet, we recommend exploring the Sugarbush Day School for full-day care options.
- Sugar Bears drop-off/check-in is on-snow at the Schoolhouse:
- Monday–Friday (non-holiday): 9:30–9:45 AM
- Weekends & Holidays: 9:15–9:45 AM
- Mini Bears & Micro Bears drop-off/check-in:
- Monday–Friday (non-holiday): 9:00–9:30 AM
- Weekends & Holidays: 8:15–9:15 AM
- Please arrive early on your first day, during holiday weeks, and if renting equipment to allow time for check-in and prep.
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Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations made prior to 72 hours of the start date will receive a refund, minus a $50 cancellation fee per order.
- Cancellations made within 72 hours are non-refundable
- There is no fee to change (reschedule) lessons prior to 72 hours of lesson start date
- Changes made within 72 hours and at least by 4pm the day prior to lesson date will be charged a $50 rebooking fee per lesson
- Day of changes are not permitted
- If the resort is open for skiing/riding there are no refunds or cancellations due to weather, please plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which program is right for my kids or family?
We’ve created a helpful guide that breaks down age groups, skill levels, and goals for each program.
Check it out here: Which Seasonal Program is Right for Your Family?
Check it out here: Which Seasonal Program is Right for Your Family?
What should my kids wear?
Dress in waterproof layers, wear gloves or mittens, and don’t forget goggles or sunglasses. Helmets are highly recommended (and included with most rentals). No cotton, please, it doesn’t keep kids warm when wet.
Want to learn more? What to Wear Guide
Want to learn more? What to Wear Guide
Are lunches provided?
No. Please pack a nut-free snack and lunch each day. Many parents set up a resort charge linked to their child’s pass to make buying lunch easier. Learn more here:
How to set up a resort charge
How to set up a resort charge
What kind of pass does my child need?
A valid Ikon Pass or Sugarbush Premium Pass is required for all Lincoln Peak programs and Freeski Teams.
For Mt. Ellen Blazers and the Mt. Ellen Snowboard Team, a Local Pass is also acceptable, though Ikon and Premium Passes work too.
SEASON PASSES
For Mt. Ellen Blazers and the Mt. Ellen Snowboard Team, a Local Pass is also acceptable, though Ikon and Premium Passes work too.
SEASON PASSES
What is the Sunday Add-On?
The Sunday Add-On is available for select Sunday programs and gives your child a second day of coaching each weekend. It’s a great way to build skills faster and get more time with their group and coach. Availability varies by program.
Where do we meet on program days?
Detailed check-in instructions will be emailed before the season begins.
How are you groups determined?
The first two weeks of the season are crucial. Coaches evaluate each child’s ability, comfort and personality to build balanced groups that support learning and fun. Groups may shift slightly early in the season to ensure the best fit for everyone.
What if we miss a day?
We’re unable to offer make-up sessions or refunds for missed days due to weather, illness or other conflicts. Every weekend is unique, and our coaches do their best to keep the group progressing even when someone is out.
What happens in bad weather?
Seasonal programs run in most conditions... snow, sleet or shine! Make sure to pack and dress appropriately. We monitor forecasts closely, and in the rare case of extreme weather or dangerous travel, we’ll notify families.
My child is just learning. Is there a program for them?
Yes! Micro Blazers and Mini Blazers may be a great fit depending on age and comfort on snow. If your child is brand new to skiing or riding, we also recommend our Schoolhouse Programs, which are designed for first-timers and early learners.
