From Sugarbush to You: A Locals Inspired Gift Giving Guide

With the holidays right around the corner, we rounded up some members of the community to ask what’s been checked off their wish lists. From familiar faces at Sugarbush to members of the Mad River Valley, we’re sharing some of their favorite items with you. So, if you’re over scrolling through the endless abyss of online shopping – we’ve got some ideas ready to slap a bow on.

Turtle Fur

This year Milo from the Sugarbush Ski School is pumped on Turtle Fur beanies and helmet liners. His family absolutely loves this brand, and they have something for all ages. As a family of skiers, it’s a great one-stop-shop. They have the perfect accessories to keep you looking cool and feeling warm so you never have to come off the mountain! It’s the perfect gift for the die-hard skier in your life.

von Trapp Flowers

Recently Molly from the Sweet Spot was gifted a fresh bouquet from von Trapp Flowers. I know you’re probably not thinking of fresh flowers in the middle of winter, but local florists have seasonal varieties to offer all year long. There’s nothing better than a beautiful arrangement of colorful tulips to brighten up your home! Fresh flowers are the perfect gift for those who enjoy the little things in life if you’re looking to avoid the materialistic route.

Yeti Travel Mug

To Benny, our very own snow reporter, there’s nothing better than his Yeti travel mug. When his day is starting in the snow at 6 am, he loves having a hot cuppa that lasts him all morning long. His go-to size is the 24 oz. travel mug for more sipping and fewer refills. When you leave to get some turns in you know you’ll be coming back to a perfectly hot bevvy. Sustainable, durable, and customizable – what more could you ask for?!

Locally Made Jam

When visiting with a friend, Kirstin from Mad River Outfitters sampled some homemade jam that she just fell in love with. Not long after, her favorite sour cherry preserve was delivered to her doorstep! Every time she eats it she’s flooded with memories of her friendship. The gift of food is never a bad idea. Add locally made and shareable for holiday festivities and you’ve got a lovely gift right there.

Sunset Cabin Cat Ride

Ron from Sugarbush had trouble narrowing his list of favorite gifts down. From local syrups and beer to new power tools, he has a lot of new goodies he’s been enjoying. One that stuck out was a sunset cabin cat ride which you can do right here at the resort! You can enjoy breathtaking views while riding to the summit of Lincoln Peak, perfect for a romantic winter date night. Experience gifts are always a little more exciting, aren’t they?

cabin cat groomer ride at sunset with mountain views - experience gift idea

Paddleboard

Is anyone else reminiscing on those long, toasty summer days? Karen from our Mountain Operations team is. She received the best surprise gift, a new paddleboard. It gives her something to do with her friends, or she can enjoy a solo relaxing paddle on the lake. But mostly, she loves that it’s something that gets her outdoors and exercise. And what’s better than a holiday gift you can get excited about all over again when it’s time to use in the summer!

Sheepskin Mittens

Keeping things cozy this winter has never been easier. Audrey from the Artisan’s Gallery says everyone raves about their sheepskin products. From hats to mittens and slippers, they’ve got you covered. Everything they offer is made by Vermont based artists. And what’s more thoughtful than a hand-crafted locally sourced gift? If you’ve got snow-lovers in your life, this is the way to go!

The Tourist Pack

There’s nothing better than sharing Vermont with your out-of-state relatives. John from our Communications team typically gives out bottles of homemade maple syrup. But when he wants a true local assortment he heads down to Mad River Taste Place to curate a selection of local cheeses, jams, honey, and beer. His top picks as of late are Hermit Thrush beer (if you’re a sour lover), the Von Trapp Farmstead Mad River Blue (if you’re a blue cheese lover), and the Champlain Valley Creamery Triple Cream (if you’re looking for a soft cheese). Charcuterie board holiday host gift? I think yes!

Quality Time

I have to admit, this might be the most heartwarming gift of all. Spending time with your loved ones. Seems simple right? But JP, our lift manager, loves nothing more over the holidays than getting extended time with his family. Working on Christmas isn’t ideal for most, but there isn’t always an option. The bags of cookies or candy his team often get from guests in lift lines brighten their day, but coming home to a house filled with holiday cheer tops it off perfectly.

Shopping for a local? Check out this awesome list of experience based gifts around the Mad River Valley!