Arts, Dining & Entertainment

Spring thrills and bumps: Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge returns to Killington

By Jerry LeBlond Scenes from past Bear Mountain Mogul Challenges at Killington Resort, showcasing the high-energy competition, vibrant spring atmosphere, and thrilling moments on the Outer Limits trail.

Saturday, April 5 at 7 a.m. — KILLINGTON — Killington Resort’s Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge returns for a full day of high-energy mogul competition and vibrant springtime celebration. One of the resort’s most anticipated annual events, the Mogul Challenge will once again bring together amateur skiers, live music, and a festive tailgate atmosphere at Bear Mountain’s Outer Limits trail.

The competition invites 150 pre-registered amateur skiers to test their skills on one of Killington’s steepest runs. After morning qualifiers, the top 32 men and 16 women will enter an exciting head-to-head bracket showdown to determine the champions. Contestants will be judged on their turns and line (60%), aerial maneuvers (20%), and speed (20%), with trophies awarded to the top finishers. The winners’ names will be engraved on the coveted Mogul Challenge Cup.

Schedule highlights:

7-8:30 a.m. – Competitor check-in at the Fuel TV Lounge (3rd floor of Bear Mountain Lodge)

9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. – One-run qualifiers for all divisions

Noon-4 p.m. – Finals, featuring head-to-head dual mogul runs

2:30-4 p.m. – Live performance from Jamie’s Junk Show on the Bear Mountain deck

Awards ceremony follows the finals at the base of Outer Limits.

Live music lineup:

Adding to the celebration, Liz and the Mogulmen will get the party started during the midday break, performing upbeat favorites to keep the energy high. Later in the afternoon, Jamie’s Junk Show returns with their signature blend of rock, reggae, bluegrass, and jazz to close out the event in style.

Tailgating and party tips:

Guests are encouraged to arrive early, carpool, and consider skiing in from other base areas, as parking is limited at Bear Mountain. Tailgating is permitted starting at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, but no Friday setup is allowed. Outside alcohol is permitted for personal consumption, but sharing, kegs, and hard liquor bottles are prohibited. Food vendors and a BBQ on the deck will also be available.

Registration details:

The entry fee for competitors is $50, not including lift tickets. Registration is limited and available online. Discounted lift tickets are available for registered participants. Helmets are required, and participants must sign a risk waiver.

Volunteer opportunities:

Volunteers receive lunch and a Killington lift ticket voucher for a future date. Shifts include both indoor and outdoor roles and advance signup is required.

This year’s challenge also serves as a tribute to the community spirit that fuels spring at Killington—combining friendly competition, live entertainment, and a shared love for the mountains.

For more information, visit: killington.com/culture/mogul-challenge.

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