Things to do / Travel Guide
Olympic skiers and snowboarders have made fresh tracks here on the Maine Coast for years and it's not difficult to figure out why—some of the best snow, which is in abundance, can be found here. With cold winds blowing in from the Atlantic Oceans and down from Canada (a very close neighbor), conditions are just right for winter enthusiasts.
Skiing in and around Penobscot County
Penobscot County holds some of the major cities on the Maine Coast and each provide their own distinct way to celebrate when the snowflakes blanket the area – specifically the cities of Bangor, Camden, and Orono.
Mount Jefferson in Bangor, mainly caters to local families from the surrounding towns. Their low prices reflect the type of clientele from large to single parent families which equals some huge savings for a nice day on the slopes without breaking the bank. A system of twlve trails serviced by two lifts are geared towards beginners, but throw in an advanced run here and there to try to please everyone. A halfpipe located in Mount Jefferson's terrain park cinch the deal for all riders.
In the bay, a truly unique way to ski is revealed where the mountain meets the sea, literally, at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, at Camden Snow Bowl ski area. This 1,300 foot summit mountain has ten named trails, an unnamed glades area for experts, and numerous cross-country and snowshoeing trails to keep anyone in the group occupied for hours on end. Most of the trails are on the intermediate level, but there is an even split between novice and advanced runs. Camden Snow Bowl's terrain park is serviced by its own T-bar lift to alleviate any crowding on the rest of the mountain, leaving enough space for everyone to enjoy the riding.
Cross-country skiers will enjoy Baxter State Park which has over 186 miles of trails marked out for all seasons and has warming huts at certain distance points. The welcome center has maps to give out to people looking to explore for the day or longer. Acadia National Park runs the same way and has ranger stations located at strategic points along the trail systems. Both parks are a short ninety minute drive from downtown Bangor.
When the time comes to turn in, there are plenty of choices for what to do after the mountains shut down. As Bangor is the main city in Penobscot County, most of the choices for lodging and eating are located there. Home to horror novelist Stephen King and known as the “Queen City of the East,” her royal highness presents over 25 lodges, hotels/motels and a tasteful 50+ eateries to satisfy even the most wildest of cravings. Early risers will enjoy the fresh bagels and kosher deli to be found at Bagel Central, while night owls are happy that Dysart's Restaurant is open 24 hours a day. Take a good look at the Lucerne Inn, complete with fireplaces, whirlpool bathtubs and stunning sunsets over the lakes and mountains which have been greeting delighted guests since 1814. Orono, the next town over, home to the University of Maine has familiar names such as Best Western and Marriot to add to the mix of accommodations. Sleep well, eat plenty and wake up refreshed to hit the slopes another day – this is Maine, where relaxation is a way of life.
Skiing in and around Aroostook County
As the northern most county in Maine and the largest east of the Mississippi River, Aroostook County is the perfect setting for four major ski areas in the region.
Big Rock Ski area located in Mars Hill pays heavy attention to detail on instruction for all levels and is truly a “learner's mountain.” Catering to never-evers to advanced riders looking to finesse their skills, Big Rock accommodates guests at every turn. Recently overhauled, Big Rock's 28 trails are reaching for higher visitor satisfaction. Snowboards are allowed all over the mountain in efforts to make up for the lack of a proper terrain park. Cross-country and snowshoe trails are also onsite which pointedly makes Big Rock an all access ski center.
Quoggy Jo ski area has some pretty strong inclinations towards families and beginner riders with the five trails almost completely dedicated to the novice level. There is a small terrain park with a natural halfpipe and rails to keep those on snowboards occupied.
Presque Isle's Nordic Heritage Center provides cross-country skiers over 20km of trails in addition to a terrain park which is free and open to the general public daily. Olympic skier John Morton designed all trails at the center which proves to give riders a more than pleasant day in the powder. Traverse the “Over the Mountain” or “Presque Isle Loop” which are both over three miles long and give a nice workout for young and old alike. The spacious lodge serves up hot and cold snacks and gives a warm place to relax by the roaring fire.
Continuing on the cross-country circuit of places to visit in Aroostook County, one will find themselves in Fort Kent, at the 10th Mountain Ski Center. 25km of trails are groomed daily and 3km are lit for nighttime runs. Ranging from 0.7km to 6.5km, all trails are linked together and it is possible to ski continuously if one so desires. Beginners will love the “Violette Settlement” track which travels 6.4km past meadows and through patches of evergreen forests. Settle down with a hot toddy in the lodge which also boasts ample seating, a small food stand and a welcoming sauna to warm up.
Aroostook County offers guests a choice of 136 different and enticing lodging facilities. Try the Midtown Motel or the High Meadow Outfitters Sporting Lodge for a warm place to rest the head. Eat heartily at over 120 restaurants and fast food chains just waiting to take an order, be it delivery, take out, or sit down. Sit down Al's Diner is a Mars Hill staple just as much as Shirley and Harold's homecooking is to Presque Isle, but there are plenty more options from Asian, Mexican, fresh Maine Seafood and everything in between. The choices are endless and plentiful.
No matter the equipment, Maine's Coast has a fit for everyone. Weather perfect for just the right snow conditions, courtesy of its close proximity to Canada and the ample northern exposure of the Atlantic Ocean produce some of the best snow on the East Coast. Olympic aspirations or a relaxing family or friends' getaway – the Maine Coast bestows some of winters greatest pleasures on its guests time and time again.
Ski Resorts in Portland, Bangor, Acadia, Bar Harbor and the Maine Coast
Skiing
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