MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR Winter Fun
WE’VE GOT COLD-WEATHER EVENTS & FESTIVITIES TO KEEP YOU BUSY ALL WINTER LONG
BY JOANNA O’LEARY
WHEN SWEATER (and boots and mittens and hats) season comes in Maine, it can be tempting to snuggle in for a long winter’s nap. However, there are ample reasons to be out and about, for festivals, sporting events, and celebrations for all ages and interests. Here are a few of our favorites — just don’t forget your booties ’cause it’s cold out there.
BOOTHBAY LIGHTS
BOOTHBAY & BOOTHBAY HARBOR / NOV.-DEC. 2024
Mark your calendars for the 2024 Boothbay Lights season. This spectacular celebration comprises multiple happenings including but not limited to a fire truck and first responders parade, lighting displays at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, a boat parade, gingerbread house competition, spectacular fireworks, and the annual lighting of the giant “buoy tree.” Local vendors, artisans, and shops also host their own special activities and sales, making it convenient (and dare we say, even fun) to tackle holiday shopping in between events.
BOOTHBAYHARBOR.COM/BOOTHBAY-LIGHTS
LONG LAKE ICE FISHING DERBY
ST. AGATHA / JAN. 25-26, 2025
At the Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby participants are fishing for more than just compliments. The intense competition, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, welcomes anglers to try their hands — er, lines — for prizes in excess of $45,000 and a “significant” cash purse.
LONGLAKEICEFISHINGDERBY.COM
U.S. TOBOGGAN CHAMPIONSHIPS
CAMDEN / JAN. 31-FEB. 2, 2025
When Groundhog Day comes around (again) what better way to mark the occasion than to attend the U.S. Toboggan Championships. The only formal contest of its kind in the United States, the championships are open to all ages and are not confined to Maine residents. (In 2007, legend has it that folks from Tennessee who had never seen snow before received second place!)
CAMDENSNOWBOWL.COM/TOBOGGAN-CHAMPIONSHIPS-2025
A team competes in the National Toboggan Championships at the Camden Snow Bowl.
BDN FILE PHOTO
The two lead sled dogs of Diane Marquis at the start of the Can-Am 30 on Main Street in Fort Kent in 2023.
PAUL BAGNALL | THE STAR-HERALD
FEB
MOOSESTOMPERS WEEKEND
HOULTON / FIRST WEEKEND IN FEBRUARY 2025
When the “Moose Is Loose,” it’s time to shake your caboose at Moosestompers Weekend. Enjoy 72 hours of family-friendly activities, ideal for young athletes looking to sharpen their skills in a range of sporting events such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, hockey, and ice fishing. But if you and your crew are more into snuggling than sweating it out, Moosestompers Weekend also provides many opportunities for relaxing in the form of a kids’ coloring contest, hay rides, free film screenings, bonfires, and, of course, free-flowing hot chocolate.
MOOSESTOMPERS.COM
CAN-AM SLED DOG RACES
FEBMAR
FORT KENT / FEB. 28-MARCH 3, 2025
Don’t get cold feet about heading north for some winter fun. At the Can-Am Sled Dog Races the dogs are literally barking—but out of excitement. This annual race series and Iditarod qualifier draws spectators from all over the world, eager to cheer on mushers and their powerful pooches as they sprint through slush across distances ranging from 30 to 250 miles. Races (all of which are free and open to the public) begin on Main Street and finish at Lonesome Pine ski lodge. Check the official website for more information including a map of viewing points for those on foot as well as snowmobilers.
CAN-AM-CROWN.NET
REGGAE FEST
APR
SUGARLOAF / APRIL 10-13, 2025
And when you’ve had it just about up to here with snow and ice, channel the tropics at Reggae Fest. The base of Sugarloaf Mountain becomes the home of four straight days of reggae music performances, DJ sets, and theme parties. Tickets increase in price closer to the Fest, so if you have your heart set on turning up the heat, purchase a pre-sale “Weekend Good Vibes” pass.
SUGARLOAF.COM
Snowmobiling For Beginners
SEE MAINE FROM A DIFFERENT ANGLE THIS WINTER
BY KATIE SMITH
WHETHER YOU’RE AN experienced snowmobiler, a beginner, or thinking you’d like to see what all the talk is about, with over 14,000 miles of trails, Maine is one of the best places to ride. This is all thanks to private landowners, snowmobile clubs, and the volunteers who donate their time to keep the trails groomed.
If you’re a veteran snowmobiler, you already know that from December to March snowmobiling is an amazing opportunity to see Maine in a whole new way. And if you’ve never tried the sport, here are a few things every beginner should know.
Chris Carroll, an avid supporter of the sport and a snowmobile-safety advocate, says one of the first things beginners should know is that it can be hard to get your feet wet — but don’t let that discourage you. The gear is expensive and snowmobiles aren’t always easy to insure. But if you’re willing to make the commitment, there are tons of resources available to you.
“Trails are well marked, well maintained, and the snowmobile community takes safety very seriously,” Carroll said. “If someone wants to try, there are so many people who’d love to help them.”
Carroll is passionate about snowmobile safety. “These machines are dangerous if used improperly,” he said. “Use caution, ride safe, ride right (to the right of the trail), and slow down. It’s important to know where you’re going, and tell someone where you're going. A helmet is a must, and ride to the skill level of the people in your group. And never, ever drink and drive your snowmobile.”
The sense of community seems to be everyone’s favorite part of snowmobiling. It takes lots of hard work from volunteers, and thanks to that snowmobiling is the largest tourism industry for Aroostook County.
“Snowmobiling can bring a great sense of community; the land owners work with the MSA (Maine Snowmobile Association) as well as all the clubs to make snowmobiling possible in Maine,” Carroll said. “It really is an amazing community.”
The best way to stay up-to-date on the trails and conditions is by joining the Maine snow reports and snowmobile trail conditions Facebook groups.
Maine winters are long and cold, and snowmobiling is a wonderful outlet and way to enjoy all of Maine’s snowy beauty. If you’ve never come down a trail on a cold day with snow stacked on the tree branches, and the sun shining through, you haven’t seen the best of Maine, says Carroll.
“It’s not about getting from point A to point B; it’s about enjoying the trail, stopping and talking, and enjoying Maine’s beauty,” Carroll said.
WHERE TO RIDE & RENT
Snowmobilers across the board agree that Aroostook County has the best snowmobiling in the Northeast.
AROOSTOOK VALLEY TRAIL offers 28 miles of groomed trails that connect Presque Isle, Caribou, Washburn, Woodland, and New Sweden. Riders can view the Aroostook River, stunning woods, and various streams.
DEAN’S MOTOR LODGE , located at 2075 Portage Road in Portage, has a big snowmobiling community. On any given day in the winter, you’ll see more snowmobiles than cars in their parking lot.
SHIN POND VILLAGE , at 1489 Shin Pond Road in Mt. Chase, is another crowd favorite. As a full-service outfitter, they have snowmobiles to rent as well as helmets and other gear.
THE SLED SHOP INC. , located at 108 Maine St. in Presque Isle, is known for its amazing staff and inventory.
BIRCH POINT INN in Island Falls is a great place to rent a cottage and a sled, making for a snowmobiler's dream weekend.
For more ideas, check out the map of Maine’s Interconnected Trail System (ITS) at mainesnowmobileassociation.com/theits-map.
PLAN A FAMILY-FRIENDLY Snowshoe Adventure
AS SNOW PILES UP on the landscape, blanketing fields and forests in white, the wilderness takes on an entirely new appearance. It’s simpler. Softer. And it sparkles.
Snowshoeing is a great way to explore that stunning winter world. Strapping right onto your boots, snowshoes help you stay afloat, so you aren’t sinking down into the snow with each step. Although, fair warning, you’ll still sink a little. They aren’t magic.
If you’re new to snowshoeing, have no fear. It’s an easy outdoor activity to learn. Snowshoeing is similar to walking, but you might need to place your feet a bit farther apart to avoid stepping on your own snowshoes. Also, you’ll want to use trekking poles, equipped with snow baskets, to aid with your balance and allow you to add a little arm power to your stride.
For thousands of years, people have worn snowshoes to walk through the snowy wilderness. Originally, they were built of wood and hide. Today, you can still purchase traditional snowshoes, but there are more modern designs, constructed of plastics and metals. And different styles of snowshoes are built for specific activities, such as trail running and climbing steep slopes.
When hitting the trails on snowshoes, plan and prepare, just as you would with any outdoor adventure. Be sure to carry a backpack with the necessary survival gear, plus a thermos of hot chocolate or cider. It’s wonderful to rest with a warm beverage while enjoying the silence of a snowy winterscape.
Snowshoeing is a great family activity because it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s something young children can learn. And it’s fairly low-impact, making it a great activity to continue with as you age. It’s also relatively low cost, with rentals available at several Maine sports stores, gear hubs, and recreation centers.
Many of Maine’s hundreds of hiking trails become snowshoe trails in the winter, which means you won’t run out of options of places to visit. To get you started, here are a few great family-friendly snowshoe hikes, from the coast to the mountains of western Maine.
FLYING MOUNTAIN IN ACADIA NATIONAL PARK
MODERATE
Of the many peaks in Acadia National Park, Flying Mountain is one of the smallest, yet it offers a wonderful view of the nearby Somes Sound. If there’s enough snow, this makes for a great, short snowshoe. From the parking lot, the climb to the top (284 feet above sea level) is just 0.3 mile, and the trail is mostly gentle, with a few short, steep sections near the summit. You can lengthen the hike by continuing past the summit and descending to Valley Cove, which is absolutely beautiful. You can then return on a wide trail called Valley Cove Road for a loop that is 1.4 miles long.
To visit the park, you must purchase an Acadia National Park pass and display it in your vehicle. A standard entrance pass is $35 and is good for 7 days, while an annual park pass is $70. Dogs are permitted but must be on leash no longer than 8 feet. For more information, visit nps.gov/acad.
DIRECTIONS: From the intersection of Route 102 (Main Street) and Fernald Point Road in Southwest Harbor, drive on Fernald Point Road for about 0.9 mile, and the trailhead and parking area will be on your left. If it isn’t plowed, park on the same side of the road as the parking lot, well out of the way of traffic.
MOUNT BLUE STATE PARK IN WELD MODERATE
Maine’s largest state park, covering about 8,000 acres, is a particularly great place to visit in the winter. The park’s extensive trail network includes trails designated for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and crosscountry skiing. Plus, you can sled at Center Hill and skate on the outdoor ice rink at park headquarters.
The park’s two snowshoeing trails, Rock Lookout Trail and Center Hill Trail, total about 2.6 miles and lead to scenic overlooks. Both are fairly easy with a few moderate sections.
The park entrance fee varies from free to $7, depending on your age and whether or not you’re a Maine resident. Dogs are permitted on snowshoe trails if kept on leash (no longer than 4 feet). They are not permitted on groomed skiing trails. For more information maine.gov/mountblue.
DIRECTIONS: At the intersection of ME Route 142 and Route 156 in Weld, turn onto Center Hill Road. Drive about 0.4 mile, then bear left at the fork and continue up Center Hill Road for another mile. Both snowshoe trails start at the Center Hill Parking Area, which is on the right side of the road beside park headquarters.
EASY TRAILS FOR WINTER EXPLORATION WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY
STORY & PHOTOS
BY AISLINN SARNACKI
PINELAND FARMS IN NEW GLOUCESTER
EASY TO CHALLENGING
This 5,000-acre winter wonderland is home to a vast network of trails that are maintained for snowshoeing, skiing, and fat-tire biking – just be sure to stay on the right trails for your chosen activity. Carry a trail map to navigate the 18-plus miles of trails. Throughout the property are warming huts and fire pits, plus an ice skating rink and sledding hill. Purchase food and drinks at the Pineland Market, and eat in one of their snowglobes. The Outdoor Center on the property offers rental skis, snowshoes, and fat-tire bikes.
The snowshoe day pass is $12, while a half-day pass is $9. Snowshoe rentals range from $6 to $14, depending on your age and how long you plan to spend snowshoeing. Dogs are not permitted. For more information, visit pinelandfarms.org.
DIRECTIONS: The address is 15 Farm View Drive in New Gloucester. You can park right at the Outdoor Center.
VILES ARBORETUM IN AUGUSTA
EASY TO CHALLENGING
On the outskirts of the bustling city of Augusta, Viles Arboretum is a beautiful place to explore year round. Covering 224 acres, the property features 20 unique botanical collections with tree species from around the world. During the winter, snowshoeing is permitted on more than 6 miles of trails on the property, while about 1.5 miles are groomed for cross-country skiing when snow conditions permit.
This is a great spot for people who are new to winter activities. The arboretum offers snowshoe and ski rentals, which are $15 for adults and free for those under the age of 18. The equipment is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so be sure to show up with a plan B. And, if you’re interested in instruction or a tour, those services are also available, for an additional cost.
Trail use is free. Dogs are welcome but must be on leash at all times. For more information, visit vilesarboretum.org.
DIRECTIONS: The arboretum is located at 153 Hospital St. in Augusta.
MOUNT TUCK IN STOCKTON SPRINGS
MODERATE
If looking for a peaceful preserve to snowshoe, take a trip to Mount Tuck, which was conserved by Coastal Mountains Lake Trust in 2019. A 1.75-mile trail travels gradually uphill to an overlook on this small peak, which rises just 565 feet above sea level. Once you hit the summit sign, be sure to continue past it another 0.36 mile for the view. The overlook offers a partial view of the surrounding area, including the Penobscot River and islands in Penobscot Bay.
Trail use is free. Dogs are permitted but must be kept on leash. For more information, visit coastalmountains.org.
DIRECTIONS: From the intersection of Route 1 and Meadow Road in Stockton Springs, drive 0.6 mile on Meadow Road, the park on the side of the road or in the dirt pull-off by the kiosk. Do not block the road.
This story was originally published in the winter 2023-24 issue of Bangor Metro magazine.
RANGELEY, MAINE: A WONDERLAND OF WINTER DELIGHTS
COURTESY OF ALEXANDRA KAISER, RANGELEY LAKES REGION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT WINTER GETAWAY?
Look no further than Rangeley, Maine. This charming town offers a plethora of snowy adventures and activities that will make your next vacation truly unforgettable. From snowmobile and skiing adventures for your thrillseeking side to snowshoeing and relaxing by the fire, Rangeley has something for everyone in your group.
Snowmobile enthusiasts will delight in the miles and miles of trails waiting to be explored. Rangeley has something for everyone, whether you're an experienced rider or a first timer. You can rent snowmobiles at one of our local shops and even hire a guide to help you navigate our vast trail system.
If skiing and snowboarding are more your cup of cocoa, head up to Saddleback for an alpine adventure you won't soon forget. Saddleback Mountain is a short 15-minute drive from town and offers 68 runs, 600+ skiable acres of terrain, and a 2,000-foot vertical drop!
From meandering beginner terrain to the exhilarating Kennebago Steeps, Casablanca Glades, and everything in between, there is plenty of terrain for everyone in your group to explore. Are you thinking of learning to
ski or ride, or maybe it’s been a few years, and you’re feeling rusty? Saddleback offers lessons and seasonal programs to help you learn or improve your skills.
For those seeking a more serene winter experience imagine gliding through a winter wonderland, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Western Maine mountains. The Rangeley Lakes Trail Center offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat biking. Entertain the kids with the whimsical gnome homes scattered throughout the expansive trail system. When your nose and toes get chilly, warm up in the yurt with a bowl of delicious soup!
Looking for classic winter activities? Lace up your skates and spin on Haley Pond's ice-skating rink. Skates are available to borrow from the Rangeley Skating Club inside Rangeley Adventure Company. On most Saturday afternoons, enjoy a horse and wagon ride downtown, followed by a movie at the Lakeside Theatre or a fun-filled evening of bowling at Moose Alley. If you prefer to escape the cold, explore the shops in Rangeley's village, perfect for finding unique souvenirs or gifts.
When it comes to accommodations, choose from cozy rental cabins, welcoming inns, and slopeside condos for those seeking the ultimate ski-in/ski-out experience. The town also offers diverse dining options, from quaint coffee shops to family-friendly restaurants and fine dining experiences, ensuring there's something to satisfy every craving. So, if you're ready to embrace the magic of winter, pack your bags and head to Rangeley, Maine. Its snowy adventures and cozy charm make it the ideal destination for your next winter escape. For more information about activities, events, lodging, dining, and all things Rangeley, visit www.RangeleyMaine.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SADDLEBACK
Use Local Firewood on your
FIREWOOD TIPS FOR YOUR NEXT OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Firewood moved long distances can spread tree-killing insects and diseases.
Insects like the Asian longhorned beetle and pathogens like oak wilt disease can spread in or on firewood.
Firewood Tips for Your Winter Adventures
The next time you head out on an outdoor adventure, follow these firewood tips:
Courtesy of Maine DACF
Firewood moved long distances can spread tree-killing insects and diseases.
• If you’ve already transported firewood, don’t leave it or bring it home – burn it!
Leave firewood at home.
Insects like the Asian longhorned beetle and pathogens like oak wilt disease can spread in or on firewood.
Buy firewood as close to your destination as possible.
Certified heat-treated firewood is the best choice. Buy firewood with a state seal stating the wood has been HEAT-TREATED to 160 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 75 minutes to ensure it is pest free.
• Also burn any small pieces of bark and debris that have fallen from the wood.
When you head out on your winter adventures, follow these firewood tips:
• Leave firewood at home.
• Buy firewood as close to your destination as possible.
If certified firewood is not available, purchase your firewood locally. Wood harvested within 10 miles of your destination is best!
• If certified firewood is not available, purchase your firewood locally. Wood harvested within 10 miles of your destination is best!
• If you can’t burn it all within 24 hours, follow directions for firewood disposal and drop-off at maine.gov/firewood.
• If you’ve already transported firewood, don’t leave it or bring it home – burn it!
At some sites, you may be able to gather firewood on or near the site. Check local rules.
• At some sites, you may be able to gather firewood on or near the site. Check local rules.
Find local or heat-treated firewood sources at firewoodscout.org.
• Certified heat-treated firewood is the best choice. Buy firewood with a state seal stating the wood has been heat-treated to 160 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 75 minutes to ensure it is pest free.
• If the wood you find locally is not heat-treated and you don’t burn it all, don’t take it home with you or to your next destination.
• Also burn any small pieces of bark and debris that have fallen from the wood.
• If the wood you find locally is not heat-treated and you don't burn it all, don't take it home with you or to your next destination.
Find more tips at maine.gov/firewood.
Help prevent the spread of insects and diseases that harm our forests.
• Find local or heat-treated firewood sources at firewoodscout.org.
• If you can't burn it all within 24 hours, follow directions for firewood disposal and drop-off at maine.gov/firewood.
Find more tips at maine.gov/firewood.
What exactly is local?
Leave your firewood at home.
When it comes to untreated firewood, 50 miles is too far, 10 miles or less is best.
Help prevent the spread of insects and diseases that harm our forests.
For more information, visit maine.gov/firewood