A rider enjoys Sugarloaf’s new zip line attraction. (Ethan Austin photo) CARRABASSETT VALLEY — There’s a buzz in the community over two new summertime offerings at Sugarloaf.

The Superquad is now open on weekends for scenic lift rides providing access to the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains from Maine’s second highest peak.

For the adventurer, Sugarloaf is also now offering one-and-a-half to two hour zip line tours starting Aug. 7.

Visitors can enjoy a thrilling high speed cruise through the woods on a brand new course. The rides start near the top of the Skidway lift and take riders across wintertime landmarks such as the depths of Rookie River and over fabled Gondi Line. The zip line tour takes riders, securely fastened in a harness, through the woods at speeds upward of 25 miles per hour and at heights of 20 to 25 feet. The resort expects to offer six individual zip lines, up to 240 feet in length.

The zip line adventure is just $39 per person and the Superquad Scenic Ride is only $12.

“Both of these attractions offer a different way to experience the mountain during the summer months, and offer a fun activity for people of all ages,” said Sugar- loaf spokesman Ethan Austin. “The zip line is a high speed thrill for the younger or more adventurous type, while the lift rides are lower impact and ideal for anyone looking for a somewhat lower impact way to enjoy the mountain.”

Zip line riders must weigh at least 60 pounds and not more than 275, and riders must be at least three feet tall. Hiking boots are recommended and a helmet will be provided with each ride. Officials say that riders should be in good physical health. Some hiking and light climbing is required when moving from line to line. Other rules, precautions and recommendations are available on Sugarloaf’s Web site.

The scenic ride on the Superquad opens many doors for visitors in our area. Now any level of outdoor enthusiast can experience a mountain climb without having the knowledge of skiing or riding or be in top physical condition to summit a mountain peak by foot.

The lift started turning on July 24 during the HOG rally and over 170 tickets were sold in the scenic ride’s debut.

“The feedback we’ve received from the community and from our guests has been very encouraging,” Austin explained. “People are excited to try a new summer activity and love the idea of utilizing the mountain more during the summer months.”

Sugarloaf just announced that the zip line will also be offered during the winter months as well to add to the variety of offerings that’s available.

“What this does is it just adds one more outlet for family activities,” said Carrabassett Valley selectman Bob Luce. “We are a destination resort and this adds one more piece of the puzzle to open the doors for more family activity.”

Fellow selectman and Carrabassett resident John Beaupre agreed. “This is a giant step toward the continued efforts to enhance our offerings within this community during all four seasons,” Beaupre said.

“This will be great for corporate outings, birthday parties, family and other group gatherings so that people can have fun, bond and enjoy one of Maine’s most spectacular views.”