A cabane du sucre, or “sugar shack,” is a tradition featured prominently in Eastern Canada, but one that has now taken root at Four Seasons Resort Vail. Sugar shacks are small cabins where sap collected from sugar maple trees is boiled into maple syrup. Four Seasons Resort Vail brings a modern take to this classic tradition with its own version of cabane du sucre, located on the outdoor pool terrace. Instead of collecting syrup from trees, the Resort collects fresh snow, and at the end of the 75-foot (23 metre) heated pool, situated by the roaring outdoor stone fireplace, the Sugar Shack station is set up.

Guests can warm up by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate and the Resort’s very own Sugar Shack lollipops.  A classic wooden trough filled with Vail’s fresh snow is set in front of the fireplace. An attendant pours hot maple syrup onto the snow in crisp lines, and hand-rolls a maple syrup lollipop. Snow is transformed into the ultimate treat, which based upon preferences, can be enhanced with sea salt or chili. Complimentary hot chocolate also is provided. Servers wear winter jackets and white fur hats, adding to the overall experience.

The Sugar Shack is offered poolside daily from 3:00 to 5:00 pm, as a complimentary service to Four Seasons Resort Vail guests.

Teen Program

Teen guests at Four Seasons Resort Vail are in for some fun, thanks to a new program the Resort has rolled out called the Epic Teen Après Ski.

In addition to a separate teen centre, which boasts games such as billiards, air hockey, Nintendo Wii, two computers and more, the Epic Teen program at Four Seasons Resort Vail provides teens with an opportunity to mix and mingle with each other, discuss their day on the slopes, enjoy some fun and games and perhaps even learn a thing or two.

The Resort has a Teen Concierge who attends the scheduled Epic Teen Après Ski mixers, typically held on Friday and Saturday nights from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. The Teen Concierge offers tips and fun facts about the mountain trails, happenings around Vail, input on the latest snowboard gear and more, while teens enjoy treats such as hot chocolate, soda and popcorn. Teens also enjoy friendly competition, such as a prize awarded for the coolest photo of the day.

Teens also are encouraged to rent out one of the Resort’s Go Pro helmet cams to capture their day’s footage on Vail Mountain. Upon return of the camera, the Resort’s concierge is able to create a CD for each teen. The video highlights their best runs, and provides the perfect souvenir of their time on the slopes.