A collaborative ownership transition to Bear Den Partners was announced today.
Wednesday, February 11, 2026, NewEnglandSkiIndustry.com
Smugglers' Notch announced a "Collaborative Ownership Transition" to Bear Den Partners today, with the Stritzler family retaining a stake in the mountain.
In a press release, William Stritzler stated, "We were intentional about finding an operator who truly understands what makes Smuggs special. We sought out Bear Den Partners as an equity partner because they share our belief that this resort is about families, employees, and community, not trends or shortcuts. This transition is about continuity and stewardship, and we’re confident Smuggs is in the right hands."
Established as a Vermont business entity on April 4, 2025, Bear Den Partners LLC acquired Burke Mountain last year, immediately investing in snowmaking infrastructure improvements. The company's chairman is Kenneth Graham and CEO is Jon Schaefer. The Schaefer family owns Berkshire East, Catamount, and Big Red Cats, and operates of Bousquet.
In a press release, Schaefer stated, "Smuggs represents everything we believe skiing and riding should be. 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. It goes without saying that the terrain at Smugglers Notch is some of the best in the east, and the resort receives some of the most snowfall east of the Rockies."
Located adjacent to Stowe Mountain Resort, Smugglers Notch has been operating for over 70 years. William Stritzler was named managing director of Smugglers' Notch 39 years ago, acquiring the resort ten years later. At present, Smugglers Notch's entire chairlift fleet is vintage Hall doubles. A plan emerged three years ago to connect the resort to Stowe Mountain Resort via a gondola, but was subsequently shelved.
