Saddleback, a mountain known for its relaxed vibe with miles of terrain, hand-cut glades, and affordable skiing, kicks off opening weekend on December 13-14, with significant mountain improvements and even greater snow-making capacity.

Over the summer and fall, Saddleback expanded upon its popular glade terrain, adding more intermediate and expert-level glades custom designed by professional skiers and riders. The ski area also added new energy-efficient snowmaking guns to ensure deeper snowpack all over the 4120-foot mountain.

Saddleback boasts a 2,000-foot vertical drop, which is comparable to the best alpine ski mountains in the West.

Rangeley has long been known for its dependable and superior snowfall, which is caused by the lake effect of the surrounding region.

After the initial two-day opening weekend, the mountain will pause before reopening for good on Dec. 20. A barrage of holiday events are planned for Christmas week and the days leading up to it.

Holiday season highlights

Sunday, Dec. 14, Maine Day: Maine residents ski all day for only $39.

Sunday, Dec. 21 and Sunday, Jan. 11, Maine Teacher Days: Show your current Maine Teacher’s ID on one of these days and you can purchase two full day tickets for the price of one.

Wednesday, Dec. 31, New Year's Eve party: A marshmallow roast under the stars, live music and fireworks starting at 8 p.m.

Special student season passes

Peak season passes priced at $149, are available through Jan. 31 for any honor student (K-12). Promoting Education and Activity for Kids, is designed to encourage students to perform well in school, promote getting outside, and encourage the enjoyment of winter sports.

Maine college passes priced at $249, if purchased before Dec. 31. This pass is for full-time students enrolled in an accredited two or four-year Maine college or university. Proof of full-time enrollment and a picture ID from the institution is required when picking up the pass.

Limited time savings

Offer ends Friday, Dec. 12: Saddleback savings cards priced at $379 for 20 percent savings off the list price of a lift ticket. Cards are on sale as long as supply lasts. There are no blackout dates and the card can be redeemed for tickets for a family member or a friend.

Maine Days

Maine Days — the first Sunday of every month — throughout the season with $39 all-day skiing for Maine residents.

“Our Maine Days fall are just one way we say ‘Thank You’ to our Maine residents, who make up the vast majority of Saddleback skiers,” said Saddleback General Manager Christopher Farmer. “We are committed to preserving Saddleback’s laid-back atmosphere, and this includes keeping prices affordable in the restaurant, bar, rental shop and on the slopes.”

Last year, Saddleback was voted first in overall satisfaction, first in value, best family resort, and best grooming in the East by Ski Magazine, Snow East and other leading industry publications.

Saddleback, Maine, a family-owned ski area with a 4120-foot mountain nestled in the Rangeley Lakes Region. To learn more about ticket deals and events, go to www.saddlebackmaine.com.