In “the early days” Sunday services at Sugarloaf were held in the
base lodge basement. As the mountain grew, so did it's need to use
the basement space. With the support of ski club members, Dick
Bell spear-headed a major fund raising
campaign
to build a chapel. He wanted it to be interfaith, and “ski-in,
ski-out”. In 1968, the Sugarloaf Chapel became a reality, and
in 1986 was renamed to honor Dick and his tireless efforts. The chapel
continues to be held and maintained in a trust by a board of
directors composed of Bell family members and other interested
persons.
Over
the years, the chapel has been the site of many weddings and continues
to be a sought after location for celebrations and ceremonies. The
simple, rustic, yet elegant natural wood interior lends itself well
to gatherings of all kinds. Carrabassett Valley Academy holds their
graduation ceremonies at the Chapel each spring, and the lower level
of the chapel is used as the home for the Sugarloaf Mountain ski patrol
and first aid facility. It is also a popular back-up location for outdoor
events in the event of inclement weather.