CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine – Sugarloaf/USA may be nestled in the wilds of the Maine mountains, but remote doesn’t have to mean cut off from the comforts and connectivity of home. Sugarloaf now offers FREE Wi-Fi Internet service throughout the resort and is fast becoming one of the most unwired winter resorts in New England.

Sugarloafer Bob Moore of Freeport calls the service “the perfect escape hatch.” “There are some days when the snow is falling and you just have to be at the mountain, and there are some times when you have to be connected. Now you can have it all.”

Wireless Internet access at hotels in metropolitan areas is fairly common but is typically offered at an additional cost. At Sugarloaf, wireless access is being offered free of charge as an amenity to all guests whether they are staying at the resort, skiing, or just hanging out in the base lodge.

“Guests will now be able to get out and ski for a while and then fire up the laptop to get a little work done when they come in for a break. This could redefine the concept of working remotely,” said Karen Greene, Sugarloaf’s brand manager. “Who knows, some of your associates may not even know you’re not in the office.”

The Base Lodge, Grand Summit Resort Hotel, Sugarloaf Village, Sugartree I, Sports and Fitness Center, and the Sugarloaf Inn all have access to wireless Internet service. Additional wireless portals will be added in the future to make free, wireless Internet service available to all or most buildings, homes, and condos on the resort.

Sugarloaf’s wireless Internet service is provided by Blue Streak and TDS Telecom. Most Windows and Mac laptops and handhelds with wireless capabilities can connect to the service automatically. For some, Sugarloaf’s remote location is part of its appeal because it is a place where you can leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind. While that’s still true, those who need to stay in touch have that option available. At Sugarloaf, you can be as connected as you want to be.