flashback The first Sugar Slalom was held on the Nose Dive trail in 1939, organized by the Mt. Mansfield Ski Club. Our flashback dates back 36 years, to 1980.
The annual two-day race is a celebration of both spring and Vermont’s famous maple syrup season, when racers and spectators enjoy sugar on snow, pickles, and doughnuts at the finish area. “One of the most recognized alpine races in America,” according to the ski club, the Sugar Slalom features a “Mardi Gras atmosphere complete with music, barbecue on the hill, fantastic ski racing, and festive costumes—from pink tutus to ape suits!” The race can attract up to 1,000 racers and as many as 600 spectators. Despite the carnival atmosphere, the Sugar Slalom is an official USSA race, open to registered USSA skiers ages 10 and up. This year’s race will be held April 8 – 9.