The family-owned Smugglers’ Notch Resort in Jeffersonville has been purchased by Bear Den Partners, the group that bought Burke Mountain Resort out of receivership last May.
Smuggs has been the subject of sale rumors for years, especially as other prominent Vermont ski areas — including nearby Stowe Mountain Resort — have been bought up by bigger ownership groups amid consolidation within the industry. Wednesday’s announcement will end 29 years of ownership by Bill Stritzler, who said in a statement that he and his family will retain an ownership stake in the midsize mountain, which has long been a family-friendly attraction in northern Vermont. It’s become a year-round destination, with mountain biking, disc golf, zip-lining and water parks.
Bear Den Partners is led by board chair Ken Graham, a financier who has skied for decades at Burke, and CEO Jon Schaefer, who was described as a ski industry veteran. Aside from Burke, Bear Den operates two ski areas in western Massachusetts, Berkshire East and Catamount Mountain Resort.
“This new ownership will be observing ways that they will be able to enhance the guest experience over time, including mountain lifts and snowmaking, along with potential new trails,” Stritzler wrote in a message to Smuggs skiers.
Burke Mountain was in receivership for nine years after it was caught up, along with Jay Peak, in the EB-5 investment scandal. Its sale to Bear Den for $11.5 million was finalized in May 2025. The owners have since invested millions of dollars in upgrades at Burke, including for snowmaking.
The sale price of Smuggs was not disclosed.
Bear Den owners sought to reassure loyal skiers that the mountain will maintain its appeal.
“Smuggs represents everything we believe skiing and riding should be,” Schaefer said in a statement. “This is not about changing Smuggs, it’s about supporting what already works, investing thoughtfully, and protecting the experience that families have cherished for generations.”
Got something to say?
Send a letter to the editor and we'll publish your feedback in print!