CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine — In preparation for the opening of the 2007-08 winter season, Sugarloaf awakened the western mountains of Maine on Sunday with the familiar sound of snowguns echoing through Carrabassett Valley. With temperatures in the low to mid 20s, snowmakers blanketed the Sluice trail under a barrage of snow for more than 18 hours.

Sugarloaf is Maine and New Hampshire’s largest ski resort; with an elevation of 4,237′, and 2,820′ of vertical skiing and riding, coupled with the only lift-serviced, above treeline skiing & riding in the East. That elevation, combined with its northern latitude, means winter arrives early and stays late at Sugarloaf.

“We have made substantial headway toward getting enough snow on the ground to open for the season,” said Frank Guerriero, Sugarloaf director of marketing. Sugarloaf’s tentative opening date is Nov. 16 but with favorable weather conditions, the resort is prepared to open earlier.

Sugarloaf enters the winter season with greater snowmaking capacity, enhanced grooming, facility upgrades, and a new learning surface / carpet lift. The $4 million investment includes a new public transit system and a major expansion and renovation to the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center.

Sugarloaf awakens the senses and captures the spirit as advanced skiers and riders find the trails as awesome as the mountain’s stature, and novices enjoy top-to-bottom skiing that winds down three miles of rolling green trails. From meticulously groomed, snow laden slopes to fine dining, lodging and spas, Sugarloaf is ready for the 2007-08 season.

With Sugarloaf’s skiing and riding season set to begin, now is the time to get your Maine Pass. For as little as $299, the Maine Pass gets you season long access to the slopes of Sugarloaf and Sunday River. Buy your pass online at sugarloaf.com or call 1.800 THE LOAF.

About the Sugarloaf Resort – Located in Carrabassett Valley, ME, Sugarloaf is recognized as one of the top winter and golf resorts in the world and is home to the only lift-serviced above treeline skiing and riding in the East and one of Golf Digest’s America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses. Sugarloaf is a member of the Boyne USA Resorts family of resorts and attractions.