Coming to Sunday River is a complete vacation for most families, but some of us have family members or friends that may not love the sport as much as we do. Have no fear, however: here is a reminder of the many other activities available to try on-mountain as well as off for your family and friends to enjoy!
On-Mountain
Sno-Go Bikes
Want to hit the slopes, just not on a pair of skis or a board? Introducing Sno-Gos, AKA Ski biking. Sno-go bikes are the perfect option for the reluctant skier. Bike rentals are available with advanced reservations outside the Adult & Private Clinic office in the SnowSports School. For your first time out, you’ll take a 90-minute lesson with a coach from our SnowSports School with a half-day rental. Lift ticket is not included, and advanced reservations are required.
Jordan Spa
If you’re hoping to relax the day away instead of shredding pow, look no further than the Jordan Spa. Located conveniently in the Jordan Hotel, the Spa offers luxurious body treatments and massages, with add-ons such as a hot oil scalp massage, a hot stone treatment, and aromatherapy available as well. Try the classic Mountain Serenity treatment to rejuvenate your skin and relax your body.
Options for Foodies
Here at Sunday River, we have plenty of options across the resort for good eats. There are even special themed nights that everyone, skiers and non-skiers, have to check out. Visiting us on a Monday? Head over to Camp for Local’s Burger Night, where you can snag a $5 beer with your tasty burger – and there’s vegetarian options too. Tuesday means tacos at Foggy Goggle, where you can build your own taco or nosh on the famous Foggy Nachos and margaritas. On Wednesday it’s time for some Italian comfort food at Sliders, where you can find appetizer and pasta specials all night.
Fireworks
Celebrate with us every Saturday night at South Ridge lodge. Sunday River offers fireworks displays each week during the winter season, as well as during some holiday weeks. On select Saturdays, Amelia from Black Diamond Entertainment brings us a fire dancing show unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Catch Amelia twice, at 6:15 and 6:45PM, and then stick around for the fireworks at 7PM.
Off-Mountain
The town of Bethel has been in the Top Ten Ski Towns in the USA for years now, and offers lots to do for the non-skier. Check out some of these options in town and at nearby Grafton Notch State Park.
Gem Theater
Open this season with lots of COVID-19 precautions, the Gem Theater offers new releases and family classics for all to enjoy. The Gem is part theater, part gallery, part live music venue, and serves the best popcorn in town. Tickets can be purchased online in advance to secure your spot. Masks must be worn during the show.
Maine Mineral and Gem Museum
Perfect for a day in-town, the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum offers free admission daily except when closed on Tuesdays. Check out the Meteorite Gallery, the Discovery Gallery, or the Museum Store for a perfect take-home trinket to remember your Bethel visit.
Nordic Skiing, Snowshoeing, and Fat-Tire Biking
While we here at Sunday River Real Estate are partial to downhill skiing, there is plenty of fun to be had on cross-country skis, snowshoes, or on a fat-tire bike, as well. There are two Nordic centers in Bethel – Carter’s XC Ski Center on Intervale Rd, and the Bethel Village Trails, found right behind the Bethel Inn on Broad St. Both can outfit you in a full cross-country set up, and you can also rent snowshoes and fat-tire bikes. Lessons are available for all skill levels. Bethel is Maine’s Nordic and snowshoe capital, so you definitely don’t want to miss these awesome trails.
Ice Climbing
Just outside Bethel, in Grafton Notch State Park, Equinox Guiding Service offers full-day adventures for beginning climbers and those more experienced in the sport. All gear is provided by the guides. This is one way to experience winter you won’t find on a ski hill!
