The Descent to Rise Above
A ski and ride challenge to reach a billion vertical feet
How much any one of us and to what degree we will have to grapple with a challenge that strains our mental and emotional reserves will vary. But the universal nature of the fight asks for as many opportunities to talk about and provide resources for something we all experience.
The Descent to Rise Above looks to be such an opportunity.
At its most basic, it is an invitation to participate in a challenge to raise up to $50,000 for mental wellness and resilience by skiing and riding a BILLION vertical feet in a single season. (Is that even possible? We’ll get to that in a bit.) But on a slightly more purposeful level, the Challenge looks to create chances to connect and possibly share some of the less-than-comfortable stories we all may carry. Lift rides and long runs tend to be great conversation starters. They’re also great for showcasing a boundless remedy that’s right beneath our boots: the infinite healing power offered by the outdoors. It has a potency that has been penned about by poets and proved by scientists—getting outside provides enormous restorative effects to our states of mind. And we have plenty of ‘outside’ up at Sugarbush.
The snows have already arrived at Sugarbush. It’s time to get ready. Be One of a Billion this season.
IS THIS EVEN POSSIBLE?
It’s simple: download either the Sugarbush or Ikon App and start tracking. (Need a little help with the app?)
Skiing and riding a billion vertical feet in a single season is a big lift. But we can do it. Remember to fire up your app and track your vertical every day you make turns. Doing so will get us closer to raising $50,000 for mental wellness and resilience. We’ll post updates on the Challenge’s progress every week and award Descent shwag to participants, whether it be for their vertical, braving a particularly un-fun weather day, or simply for sharing their experience.
Thank you for being a part of the Descent to Rise Above.
THE WHAT
SOMETHING FOR THE EFFORT
The Descent to Rise Above Challenge is, at its heart, an opportunity for us to work together to support something we believe in by doing something we love. Since ‘Challenge’ is in the title though, there will be some elements of appreciation.
The top 3 vertical getters from each New England state and New York will receive:
1st place An Ikon or Sugarbush season pass
2nd place A Quad Pack
3rd place A $250 Sugarbush Gift Card
But more to the heart of the Challenge, each getter will receive a commemorative Descent to Rise Above trail sign with their vertical accomplishment burnished into it along with some Challenge SHWAG.
Be One of a Billion
The Descent to Rise Above: a ski and ride challenge to reach a billion vertical feet for mental health.
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Lincoln Peak and Gadd Peak Area
Castlerock and Gate House Area
Mt Ellen Area
#1 - NEW Heaven's Gate QuadVertical Rise: 1449'
Intermediate to expert terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#2 - Super Bravo Express Quad
Vertical Rise: 1529'
Intermediate to expert terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#3 - Valley House QuadVertical Rise: 1245'
Intermediate to Expert Terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#4 - CastleRock Double
Vertical Rise: 1670'
Expert Only terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#5 - North Lynx Triple
Vertical Rise: 857'
Intermediate to expert terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#6 - Gate House Express Quad
Vertical Rise: 832'
beginner to advanced terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#7 - Village Quad
Vertical Rise: 275'
Beginner terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#8 - Welcome Mat
Vertical Rise: 100'
Beginner terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#9 - Summit Quad
Vertical Rise: 1041'
intermediate to expert terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#10 - North Ridge Express QuadVertical Rise: 1690'
intermediate to expert terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#11 - Green MTN Express Quad
Vertical Rise: 1495'
Beginner to intermediate terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#12 - Inverness Quad
Vertical Rise: 1098'
Beginner to advanced terrain
rich-text, responsive-table#13 - Sunshine Quad
Vertical Rise: 473'
Beginner to intermediate terrain
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Download either the Sugarbush or Ikon app.If you’re new to the app or just clicking on it for the first time this season, you’ll be asked what you’re looking to get from it this season. Select the ‘Descent to Rise Above’ in addition to what else you’d like.
When you come to the mountain to contribute your vertical to the Challenge, open the app and click on “TRAIL MAP & TRACKING.” And then simply click on “START TRACKING.” rich-text, responsive-tableOr you can use the Ikon Pass App. Same idea, when you come to the mountain to contribute your vertical to the Challenge, open the Ikon Pass App and hit Start Tracking.
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Life’s journey often brings us to challenging descents before we rise above. As part of the Descent to Rise Above Challenge, we invite you to share your story about navigating mental health challenges. Whether it's a moment of vulnerability, a breakthrough, or a small step toward healing, your experience can help inspire others on their own path. Your story can be shared anonymously, allowing for openness and honesty in a safe space.
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