Fall/Winter 2022 A Special Advertising Section of the Bangor Daily News • Friday, August 26, 2022 A Trail of GLACIAL PROPORTIONS TRAVEL BACK IN TIME ON THE MAINE ICE AGE TRAIL FAMILY-FRIENDLY MAINE SLOPES HOW & WHERE TO GET STARTED SKIING FALL CAMPING UPGRADE ENJOY A YURT OR GLAMPING ADVENTURE Photo: Moxie Pond can be seen from the top of Pleasant Pond Mountain near the town of Caratunk during peak fall foliage season. PHOTO BY AISLINN SARNACKI
Apple Picking Maine has stunning orchards peppered all across the state. Even if you aren’t looking to pick a bushel of apples you can take the family on a hay ride or enjoy lunch under the apple trees.
Treworgy Family Or chards is located in Levant, and you can enjoy a corn maze, a petting zoo, ice cream and a cafe, and pick a pumpkin to carve. Conant Orchards is located on Stage Road in Etna and offers over 1,000 apple trees featuring more than 20 varieties of apples. Along with rows of apple trees, you can pick up some fresh apple cider, honey and their famous Johnston’scheese.AppleOrchard is located on Branch Pond Road in Ellsworth, and if you aren’t interested in picking your own apples no need to worry — Johnston’s Orchard always has prepicked apples as well as apple cider, aged cheese and produce for you to pick up and enjoy.
Outdoor FAMILY
2 MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022
The whole family will have a blast at the many agricultural fairs Maine offers throughout the fall season. There are animals to visit, local food to taste and area crafters to Thesupport.Common Ground Fair will be held from Sept. 23-25 on Crosby Brook Road in Unity. There’s delicious food, local farm stands, crafters, and many animals to meet. The Cumberland Fair will be held from Sept. 25 to Oct. 1. Bring the family to explore the impressive exhibits, animal pulls and harness racing. The Fryeburg Fair will be held Oct. 2-9. It’s Maine’s largest agricultural fair, and not only will you get to experience the exhibit halls, museum and animals, the FUNto Explore This Fall
Agricultural Fairs
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There is nothing more magical than exploring the Maine outdoors in autumn. The air is clean and crisp and the foliage creates a stunning backdrop. This last season before winter presents us with a golden glow in which to explore our great state with the family, whether you are looking to take them on a day trip or just want to get out and stretch your legs for a few hours. Here is a list of things you can do with your family from September through November.
BY KATIE SMITH
STOCKFUDIO/ADOBEINC.,IDEABUG,SERENKONATA,PHOTOS:
SUPPORTING ADVENTURE IN THE NORTH WOODS COURTESY OF THE FOREST SOCIETY OF MAINE
Whether you’re leaf-peeping around Moosehead Lake, hunting moose near the West Branch of the Penobscot River, or dogsledding in Grafton Township, Maine’s 12-million-acre North Woods offer a stillness and naturalness that are unique. Three and a half times the size of Connecticut, Maine’s forestlands are the largest contiguous region of undeveloped lands east of the Mississippi and more than 90% are privately owned. The legacy of private landownership in Maine has fostered unique opportunities for conservation and the continued use of land for economic, cultural, ecological, and recreationalLivelihoodsvalues.and recreation in Maine rely on the longstanding and unique tradi tions of private land ownership and public access. The practice of conserving forest land ensures that opportunities for open public access on that land will remain forever. The conservation work of the For est Society of Maine (FSM), based out of Bangor, has helped bring Maine’s con served lands to a total of near ly 22% of the entire videstrivessible,Wheneverstate.posFSMtopropermanent pedestrian access to their conserved lands, ensuring the continued ability to utilize these lands for hiking, snowshoeing, hunting, skiing, and foster ing a sense of wonder. The more than one million acres of forestlands that FSM has helped conserve feature upwards of 180 ponds, 2,000 miles of river and stream shoreline, 780 miles of lake and pond shoreline, and 25 mountains. Combining this with other conserved land and the open access practice of many generous landowners, approximately 10 million acres of adventurelandThat’srecreation.openforestlandsMaineareforpublicalotofopenforand quiet moments of discovery!
Upholding the recreational, cultural, economic, and ecological values of Maine’s forestlands is the mission of the Forest Society of Maine (FSM)—Maine’s land trust for the North Woods.
Upholding the recreational, cultural, economic, and ecological values of Maine’s forestlands is the mission of the Forest Society of Maine (FSM)—Maine’s land trust for the North Woods. Using conser vation easements, FSM works with will ing landowners to conserve tracts of pro ductive forestland and to promote the wise stewardship of these lands. FSM also works to safeguard the ecological integri ty and distinctive character of Maine’s millions of acres of forests, while main taining the critical role these lands play in Maine’s economy and for recreational opportunities. FSM strives to actively in volve people whose lives and livelihoods rely on Maine’s forests. FSM continues to keep Maine’s forests as forests, enabling people to experience the naturalness of the Maine North Woods that we know today, for generations to come. The sense of adventure that Maine’s North Woods offer is available in every season. With FSM’s help, these opportuni ties will increasingly be ensured as more of Maine’s great forestlands are conserved.
MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022 3
For the first look at Maine’s beautiful foliage, head north to Aroostook County where the colors peak around the last week of September into the first week of October. Later in October, try the Acadia National Park Loop Road. This is about a three-hour drive that will take you by Sand Beach, Jordan Pond House and Thunder Hole.
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The Maine Harvest Festival takes place each November at the Bangor Cross Insurance Center. This year’s date is set for Nov. 19-20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta happens every year during Indigenous People’s Weekend. It starts off with a parade and offers lots of fun family events like the Pumpkin Regatta Race. Windswept Gardens in Bangor will have its second annual Fall Festival October 1-2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy a pumpkin carving workshop, music and lots of great food. These events are a great way to see Maine’s fall beauty and get the entire family together for a day of bonding during one of the most glorious seasons that Maine has to offer. FROM
OUTDOOR FAMILY FUN, CONTINUED
If you are looking for something more strenuous you can try the Pemetic Mountain Loop which is over 4 miles long with views of the ocean.
The Essex Woods Loop is located in the Essex Street Recreation Area in Bangor and is perfect for kids of all ages since it’s under a mile and a nice, easy hike.
Bangor City Forest offers 17.5 miles of networked trails and has easy to moderate hikes. You can even bring the family dog to hike along with you as long as you keep them leashed.
Acadia National Park offers lots of trails whether you are looking for a full day of hiking or want to take your kids for a shorter stroll.
Foliage Rides
4 MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022
Scenic Hikes
The Belgrade Lakes drive is another pretty route (at its peak in mid-October), starting on Route 201 in Augusta and leading you through Winthrop and the Belgrade Lake region.
There are many harvest festivals around the state to visit. This is a great place to support local crafters and farmers as they prepare lots of yummy goodies.
fair takes place during the start of our wonderful foliage season so you are sure to have a lovely drive there no matter where you are coming from.
Some of the best hiking trails are right here in Maine and they are breathtaking in the fall. Pack a picnic and get the whole family excited to explore some wilderness and see all the beautiful colors as we transition from summer to fall.
Festivals
PHOTOS: HALFPOINT, F11PHOTO, GOLDENEDEN/ADOBE STOCK
There are many options to choose from like the short 1.5-mile hike that starts at The Bubbles and offers great views of the landscape.
If going for a family drive to look at the changing leaves (remember that colors progress from north to south) sounds like the perfect adventure for you, here are some great areas to check out.
COLLECTING SAP: Sometimes when the sap starts to pour, the path is still rough. With a TYM tractor you can get yourself to the taps faster, which could mean more buckets to fill, which could mean more maple syrup to share and sell!
MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022 5
LOGGING: If you’ve got trees on your land, you’ve got potential fuel for your fire! Your TYM tractor can be outfitted with a portable log splitter so you can split wood and move it easily!
SNOW BLOWING, PLOWING, AND REMOVAL: All in one amazing package! With the right attachments, managing the snow can actually be fun and easy when using a TYM tractor. Use a plow attachment to stack up the snow, then use the front end loader to bucket it away. If you really want to get it done fast, a snowblower attachment will clear swaths of snow up to 10 feet wide all at once!
These are just a few ideas on how you can benefit from having your own TYM tractor during the fall and winter months. If you need a new or used tractor, make your way to Scott’s Recreation, Maine’s #1 Independent Tractor Dealer! It’s worth the drive!
LEAF REMOVAL: Once the fall comes it’s time to start getting the bulk of your leaves taken care of so that by spring you’ll have less mess and fewer bugs flying around. A TYM tractor can make this process much easier. Not only could you get a mid-mount mower with the power to mulch, you could also pull tarps full of leaves with ease.
A REASON FOR TRACTORS ALL SEASON COURTESY OF SCOTT’S
HAULING SUPPLIES: Do you have livestock that needs to be fed? Do you have some potentially treacherous land once the snow and ice starts to build up? Gone are the days of dreading barn chores when you purchase a TYM tractor! It makes hauling and unloading bags of feed and other supplies practically effortless! RECREATION
Having a tractor during the fall and winter months in the state of Maine can be an enormous benefit. Scott’s Recreation and TYM Tractors would like to make sure you get the most use of your tractor all year round. Here are some ideas for fall and winter tractor use:
6 MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022
Acadia Yurts: Another MDI favorite with a variety of yurts (and a handful of tiny homes) on its Southwest Harbor property. These circular dwellings are 24' or 30' and can sleep up to 6 people. Another perk of staying here is the year-round wellness center with yoga, an infrared sauna, massage therapy and floatation room.
In Maine, there is no shortage of options for those who want to sleep under the stars in the comfort of their AC (or heated) structure. Here are some local favorites:
Going Upta Glamp FORGET SLEEPING ON THE GROUND. THESE MAINE CAMPING SITES OFFER ALL THE LUXURY AND COMFORTS OF HOME — AND THEN SOME.
Northeast Whitewater Yurts: If you find yourself at Moosehead Lake with the desire for a quintessential Maine wilderness experience, Northeast Whitewater offers yurt accommodations (traditional camping also available) as well as the opportunity to book a variety of activities. Rafting, moose safaris, waterfall hikes, wildlife photography and bird watching are just some of the ways to occupy your time outside of the yurt.
BY ERINNE MAGEE
Activities include trivia, fireside chats, painting, scavenger hunts, music and more. UnderCanvas also takes its culinary offerings to heart, serving up locallysourced meals to fuel your adventures.
While Mainers love going upta camp, more local accommodations are showcasing the state’s outdoor culture by enticing locals and visitors to embrace going upta glamp. Glamping is for those who want something more than a traditional tentout, including a few luxuries of home (a real bed and full bathroom). Since this way of traveling has become a global hit, the creativity and unique features of glamping tents and yurts has exploded to keep up with the demand and ultimately have a leg up on competition.
UnderCanvas Acadia: The whole mission of UnderCanvas is easy access to the outdoors with all locations in close proximity to National Parks. Here in Maine, the luxury tents are located in Surry with seven different layouts to accommodate solo travelers, couples, friends and families. The Cadillac Mountain suite, for example, is two tents connected by a common porch, ideal for families with kids or those traveling together who want separate sleeping quarters.
Terramor Outdoor Resort: Located on the outskirts of Bar Harbor, Terramor’s tents sleep up to five people, some with bunk bed options. A handful of the accommodations also have indoor and private outdoor showers. The stunning main lodge houses a restaurant where guests can dine-in or order their food “picnic style” to bring along for your MDI explorations or to throw on one of the communal grills at leisure. There’s a full events calendar featuring stargazing, yoga, s’mores, live music and more. Families love the on-site pool and hot tub.
Sandy Pines: In Kennebunkport, this property truly has something for every type of camper or glamper. Stay in a conestoga wagon, decked out Airstream, VW Van, a glass hut, modern a-frame, cottage or more traditional glamping tent. The couples safari tents make for a romantic getaway for two, complete with king bed, indoor seating area and an outdoor deck with firepit. Sandy Pines is known for fun themed weekends, so check the calendar before you book. Located on the marsh, kayak rentals are also available.
MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022 7
(Left) Courtesy of Sandy Pines in Terramor(Above)Kennebunkport.CourtesyofOutdoorResortnearBarHarbor.
your next starts here! Cottages GuestSuites RestaurantCampgroundBar Shop Hiking Polaris Rentals On-Premise & Kayak& Canoeing Baxter StatePark Katahdin Woods ~~&Waters~Gift~Fishing 1489 Shin Pond Road Mountshinpond.comChase,ME04765
Glamping Hub: If you are looking for a glamping experience in a particular area of Maine or seek more seclusion than that of a traditional glampground, Glampinghub. com is like Airbnb, allowing travelers to find their desired location, price and amenities. Happy glamping!
(Above) Courtesy of Acadia Yurts on Mount Desert Island. (Left) A yurt in Lebanon, Maine, courtesy of Glamping Hub.
“Thereach.first stop is the top of Cadillac Mountain,” said Hall, referring to the tallest mountain in Acadia National Park. “I’d say that’s the most scenic spot, and you can see all sorts of things there for glacial erosion features, and you can see rocks that were left by the ice.”
“I worked really closely with Hal [Borns], and that was really fun because we were in the field a lot to make this map,” said Hermann, who was a cartographer at UMaine at the time of the project.
This is just one of the 46 stops on the Maine Ice Age Trail, which spans from Ellsworth to Lubec. “Down East, you can see a lot of these features really well because they aren’t covered in trees. A lot of these landforms are blueberry fields now,” said Brenda Hall, professor of glacial and quaternary geology at the University of Maine. “The blueberries actually like the type of material the glaciers left behind.”
8 MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022
BY AISLINN SARNACKI
“As a graphic designer, [the Maine Ice Age Trail] was a really interesting project,” Hermann said. “I had to come up with a pretty color pallet that actually conveyed all the information, so people could get a sense of where the ice sheet sat.”
housands of years ago, in what is now the small town of Cutler, a glacier dumped a hill of sediment into the ocean. At the time, the ocean was 250 feet higher than it is today. The Maine coast, as we know it, was underwater. Today, that hill — known as a moraine — can be viewed from driving along Route 191. Scientists have collected fossils of marine creatures and seaweed from it that are more than 15,000 years old.
Approximately 25,000 years ago, the Laurentide Ice Sheet flowed southeast across Maine. Measuring over a mile thick, it pushed the land downward, and as that glacier moved and melted — over the course of a thousand years — the ocean rushed in and the land slowly rebounded to where it is today.
Evidence of these geological events can be seen throughout the Down East region. The history is written in hills of sand and gravel, fields of boulders, marine fossils and gouges in the bedrock left by the migrating glacier.
Travel Back in Time on THE MAINE ICE AGE TRAIL
T
Geologist Harold “Hal” Borns, Jr. and cartographer Michael Hermann worked together to create the trail, which was published as a map and guide in 2006. Borns, who died in March of 2020, was an internationally acclaimed glacial geologist. He was the founding director of the University of Maine Institute for Quaternary Studies, which is now called the Climate Change Institute.
The recipient of numerous design awards, Her mann also led the development of the award-winning Historic Atlas of Maine. In 1997, he founded Purple Lizard Maps, an independent cartographic design firm that creates detailed maps for outdoor recreation.
The Maine Ice Age Trail leads to landmarks that can easily be accessed by the public. Some stops can be viewed from a road, while others require a walk or hike to
“We have some of the best of what are called glacial marine-type landforms in the world,” Hall said. “Those are landforms that are created by the interaction of the glacier and the ocean.”
Step back in time into si x “o the grid ” authentic wilderness lakeside housekeeping cabins – each with its own unique personality. The cabins have no electricit y but are fully furnished for comfor t -with homemade quilts , games , coz y spots to relax , and warm wood stoves. We accommodate hunters for deer, moose & grouse at our cabins on Spencer Pond and can accommodate groups for ice f ishing on Big Duck Cove of Moosehead L ake with our cabin there, as well as snow rentals and guide ser vice for ice f ishing or snowmobiling.
Step back in time into si x “o the ” , as well as snowmobile HOME OF C Spencer Pond Road Beaver Cove Maine, 04441 207-745-1599 reser vations@spencerpond.com • spencerpond.com
MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022 9
SPENCER POND
While much of the Maine Ice Age Trail explores events that happened thousands of years ago, some stops highlight more recent events. At the Machiasport Historical Society, for example, you can compare the shoreline to historic photos to see that the sea level has risen 5 feet since 1900. Major storms now bring seawater up past the historic building, leaving seaweed around its foundation.
PHOTO COURTESY BY MICHAEL HERMANN. (This page, top) Recent sea level rise has allowed marsh grasses to grow on top of an old dock, which becomes exposed at low tide, in Machias.
THE
Photos: (Left, top) Cartographer Michael Hermann and professor Margaret Pearce from Ohio University examine points on a map in 2008.
AMPS 806
In addition, the website features a Google map with links to information and photos about each stop on the trail. You can also watch YouTube videos of Borns, on location, describing each landmark.
Also, Josh Plourde designed a free iPad app for the trail that launched in 2015. He was in his senior year as an undergraduate in the UMaine School of Earth and Climate Sciences at the time. “If you have any interest in under standing how the landscape around you formed, this is a really good place to see that,” said Hall. “With the information and the maps and so forth, you can really get a better understanding of how the Maine landscape was formed.”
PHOTO COURTESY BY MICHAEL HERMANN. (Left, middle) Geologist Harold Borns in his office at the University of Maine with the Maine Ice Age Trail map. PHOTO BY ROBIN CLIFFORD WOOD. (Left, bottom) Bouldery moraines left by a glacier during Maine’s last ice age are common throughout eastern coastal Maine. Blueberries grow well in the sandy soils of the moraines and deltas.
Copies of the printed Maine Ice Age Trail map and guide are scarce, though they can currently be found at the University of Maine Bookstore in Orono. However, a PDF version is available online at iceagetrail.umaine.edu.
PHOTO COURTESY BY MICHAEL HERMANN. (Above) A retreating glacier deposited on the summit of Cadillac Mountain. BDN FILE PHOTO.
aine moose-hunting season, which runs from roughly midOctober to the end of November, is imminent. The rise of big-game style expeditions has made moose-hunting increasingly popular in recent years, and Maine (and particularly, the northwestern region) is a highly desirable destination for moosehunters across the United States as the combination of remote wetlands and commercial forestry render the state’s species population numerous and robust. Guides and accommodations tend to be reserved quickly, so if you have ever fantasized about pursuing that formidable creature known formally as Alces alces the time is now to prepare. Here’s what you need to know to plan your hunt (though unfortunately when it comes to target accuracy, that’s all on you).
If Lady Luck has smiled upon you and you have a permit, you can certainly set off on your own this fall and continue to test your chances with regards to successfully stalking a moose. For those desirous of increasing the likelihood of securing prey as well as less interested in roughing it by your lonesome, there are options for more frou-frou moose experiences. Allagash Guide Services, for example, offers packages that come with assistance from a seasoned hunter familiar with the moose migration patterns in specific zones as well as comfortable lodging and home-cooked meals. Transportation, private land access fees, carcass retrieval, skinning services and cold storage are also included, which means you can focus on the thrill of the chase rather than be distracted by pesky logistics. Other notable moosehunting venues include the lovely Northern Pride Lodge, whose enviable mountain views and top-notch pie selection (try the rhubarb meringue) make their packages that much sweeter. However you choose to organize your hunt, remember to prioritize safety above all else. Dress appropriately for the ever-shifting weather, practice sensible firearm precautions, and always alert friends and family of your specific routes.
BY JOANNA O’LEARY
To hunt moose in Maine, you will need a special permit (4,080 permits were issued for the 2022 moose hunt); applications are available as early as the January preceding the start of that year’s season. Permits are issued via a lottery and entrance is based on points depending on age and prior application history. For example, persons 10 years of age or older on the opening day of moose-hunting season can apply for a permit, while those under the age of 10 can apply to earn a point in the lottery system but are not eligible for a permit. Maine residents ages 65 years or older with 30 or more points in the lottery system are guaranteed a permit. Also, should you receive a permit and are feeling extra generous and/or patriotic, you may transfer your permit to a disabled veteran of your choice or remit the permit to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) so that they may transfer it to another veteran.
A Guide to Maine MOOSE HUNTING M
Finally, the state wildlife commissioner is also empowered to allocate up to 2% of moose-hunting permits for a special lottery (separate from the regular lottery) to outfitters who meet specific requirements as defined by law. Securing a permit via the lottery is not guaranteed though easier if you call Maine home. Last year, approximately 49,000 residents filed for the 3,647 resident permits, giving rise to a 1 out of 13 chance for Mainer moose-hunters. In contrast, of the 23,000 non-Maine resident applicants, only 321 were granted a permit (1 in 73 odds). The moose permit lottery is usually held in June prior to the start of the season and this year’s lottery (June 11) coincided with the launch of the first-annual Jackman Region Moose Lottery Festival (replete with live music, food vendors and moose-themed activities); results can also be viewed online at mefishwildlife.com.
10 MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022 BAD NEWS, BULLWINKLE, YOU HAVE A BULLS-EYE ON YOUR BACK.
MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022 11
The ocean view from the top of Camden Snow Bowl.
12 MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022
Ready to hit the slopes? Here are a few of our favorite family-friendly hills and mountains to check out for yourself. Story adapted in part from a Bangor Metro January-February 2022 article.
Vertical Drop: 1070' • Lifts: 1 triple chair, 1 double chair, 1 surface Trails & Glades: 26 • Location: 20 Barnestown Road, Camden For rates, trail map and more: camdensnowbowl.com
Hit the SLOPES M
“This past season, ski areas nationwide saw a record number of visitors,” said Dirk Gouwens, Executive Director of the Ski Maine Association. He said 61 million people visited U.S. mountains last winter (an all-time high according to the National Ski Areas Association). In Maine, however, it was a little different — after Covid restrictions severely impacted visits in 2020-2021, Gouwens said Maine slopes were finally back to normal capacity last winter.
y family loves downhill skiing — it’s a great way to get out during the winter, explore our state and spend time together. As the kids have gotten older, we’ve made an effort to branch out and try as many Maine mountains as the winter will allow. With lots of snow and long seasons the past few years (and little else going on thanks to the pandemic), we’ve done pretty well — and we weren’t the only ones.
“While weekends were busy at most ski areas, there was plenty of capacity during the mid-week period,” Gouwens said, “and we encourage anyone who has the ability to ski mid-week to take advantage of these opportunities. We expect visitation to continue to normalize across New England as Covid restrictions are eliminated. We are always watching out for what happens with Covid and are prepared to implement safety strategies if necessary.”
Camden Snow Bowl Camden Snow Bowl’s tagline is Ski the Sea — trails are cleverly dubbed with oceanthemed names like Spinnaker (the longest trail at 1 mile), Windjammer and MusselRidge — and for good reason. The ocean view from the top is stunning, overlooking the island-dotted Penobscot Bay.
STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
As things get back to normal (fingers crossed), now is a great time to plan for the upcoming ski season. The Ski Maine Association offers Ski Maine Mountain Passes, which Gouwens said are a group of tickets to each of the alpine ski areas in Maine. “They will go on sale just after Labor Day and include two unrestricted, transferrable tickets to each of Maine’s alpine ski areas. They are a treat for people who want to explore all that the state has to offer, rather than just one or two ski areas. We limit sales to just 150 for the season and they sell out quickly.”
The mountain offers two chairlifts, plus a carpet lift for newbies. The lift to the right is a long one, heading up 850 feet to a pretty steep descent and several immediate and black diamond trails and glades. The day we were there, it was freezing cold — which is my favorite kind of skiing weather (though not my favorite kind of chairlift weath er), making the trails fast and fun. To the left, a shorter double lift will drop you off at the top of a couple of easier, wider trails, where my younger son and I enjoyed taking it a little easier but getting in lots of runs.
Plan a family ski adventure in Maine BY AMY ALLEN
Here are a few examples of what you may carry with you when you move firewood:
What’s in your firewood?
So, what’s in your firewood? Maybe the next threat to Maine’s pristine lakeshores and great trout habitat, to Maine’s tourism, recreation and forest economies, to Maine’s scenic mountains and shores, to Maine’s way of life and the way life should be—to the reasons you traveled here in the first place. The scars left from firewood-borne pests are more devastating than the cost of buying local firewood or bringing heattreatedMainefirewood.bansuntreated firewood from outof-state, but it is important to use local or heat treated firewood even within Maine. If you have questions, check out the Don’t Move Firewood FAQ’s at dontmovefirewood.org.
• If you’ve already moved firewood, don’t leave it or bring it home – burn it!
OAK WILT s a deadly disease of oak trees, especially those in the red oak group. This disease is found as close as New York and could easily be brought to your neighborhood or favorite camping spot through infected firewood.
FIREWOOD?YOUR
DontMoveFirewood_posterBrochure.indd 5-8 5/16/19 9:23 AM
• oak wilt fungus that threatens our oak trees; • the colorful planthopper and expert hitchhiker the spotted lanternfly, that threatens not only trees, but also important crops and certain adult beverages; • the devastating Asian longhorned beetle that can kill many of our hardwood trees, including the sugar maple; and
• If you can’t burn it all within 24 hours, bring it to the nearest drop-off site. Please, enjoy what Maine’s outdoors have to offer and use local or heat-treated firewood. Leave your firewood at home. Learn more www.maine.gov/firewoodat
Time spent beside a crackling campfire or a radiating woodstove improves many outdoor pursuits in Maine.
ASIAN LONGHORNED BEETLE loves to eat red maple but can feed on over 20 species of trees. The arvae of this beetle into trees, making it an easy pest to transport in firewood.
• the rash-causing tree-defoliator, browntail moth. These invasive pests are just a few of many forest health threats that we know can move with firewood. Even apparently pest-free firewood can harbor hidden hitchhikers.
Unfortunately, tree-killing pests that can destroy our forests can hitch a ride with firewood. Help protect our forests: use localFirewoodfirewood.movement contributed to the rapid spread of the emerald ash borer, a devastating invasive insect that has killed billions of ash trees in North America. Many other invasive pests can also hide on or under the bark of, or within, firewood.
WHAT’S IN
COURTESY OF MAINE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION AND FORESTRY
MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022 13
The EMERALD ASH BORER—the infamous killer of ash trees—is already found in parts of Maine This insect rapidly spreads when firewood s moved. Prevent this killer from destroying all the state's ash trees. Keep your firewood at home.
The LDD (formerly known as gyspy moth) is a devastating pest of oaks and other trees. Female moths tan patches of eggs on firewood, campers, vehicles, atio furniture—anything outside! When these items this pest gets a free ride. The SPOTTED LANTERNFLY sucks sap from dozens of tree and plant species. This pest loves tree-of-heaven but will feed on black walnut, white oak, red maple and grape. Like the gypsy moth, this pest ays clusters of eggs on just about any smooth surface, from landscaping stone to firewood!
Maine’s forests are at risk from these pests.
The Allen family atop Big Rock Mountain in Mars Hill.
Vertical Drop: 2,340' • Lifts: 18 total — 1 high-speed chondola (gondola/chair lift), 4 high-speed quads, 5 fixed quads, 3 triple chairs, 1 double chair, 4 surface lifts Trails & Glades: 135 • Location: 15 South Ridge Road, Newry For rates, trail map and more: sundayriver.com
Sunday River
Shawnee Peak
For rates, trail map and more: bigrockmaine.com
Hermon Mountain Hermon’s become our home hill — it’s min utes away from our house and just big enough to keep everyone entertained but small enough that I feel comfortable letting the kids go off on their own with friends (and bonus — that means I get a little skiing me-time). And I can personally vouch for the amazing and affordable lessons being offered at Hermon Mountain.
Saddleback Mountain
Vertical Drop - 1,300' • Lifts: 1 quad, 3 triples, 2 surface lifts Trails & Glades: 47 • Location: 119 Mountain Road, Bridgton For rates, trail map and more: shawneepeak.com
Big Rock
Vertical Drop: 980' • Lifts: 1 triple chair, 1 double chair, 1 surface Trails & Glades: 29 • Location: 37 Graves Road, Mars Hill
Vertical Drop: 2,000' • Lifts: 6 total — 1 High-Speed Quad, 2 Quad Chairs, 1 Rope Tow, 1 T-bar, 1 surface lift • Trails & Glades: 68 Location: 976 Saddleback Mountain Road, Rangeley For rates, trail map and more: saddlebackmaine.com
My kids have yet to ski Sugarloaf and I’m yet to hear the end of it. It’s been a few years since my last adventure there (a birthday trip for some spring skiing and the Loaf’s annual Reggae Fest — highly recommended), but as arguably Maine’s most famous ski mountain, it really speaks for itself. Sure, it’s usually packed, but there are so many lifts (13!) and trails (162!) and restaurants (slopeside bloody marys at Bullwinkles, don’t mind if I do!) … oh my!
Vertical Drop: 2,820' • Lifts: 13 total — 2 high-speed quads, 3 quads, 5 doubles, 1 triple, 2 surface • Trails & Glades: 162 • Location: 5092 Access Road, Carrabassett Valley • For rates, trail map and more: sugarloaf.com
We drove by Shawnee Peak on our way to Cranmore Mountain in North Conway, New Hampshire (also lots of fun for the whole family) three years ago and we’ve been talk ing about going back ever since. It’s a beautiful hill that slopes down toward Moose Pond in Bridgton, and claims to be the longest operating ski resort in Maine. We might have to make it an overnight adventure, as Shawnee Peak also lays claim to offering the most night skiing in New England. There’s something extra special about skiing under the yellow glow of trail lights and the moon and seeing the slopes all lit up.
Vertical Drop: 350' • Lifts: 1 double chair Trails & Glades: 20 Location: 441 Newburgh Road, Hermon For rates, trail map, lesson details and more: skihermonmountain.com
On a clear day, the views from Hermon Mountain stretch for miles, including nearby Hermon Pond.
PHOTOS BY AMY ALLEN
We heard great things from friends who made the trek to Rangeley to check out the newly revived Saddleback Mountain last winter. We’re excited to visit this winter and check out all the trails, the terrain parks and the incredible views of western Maine and the surrounding frozen lakes. Sure, it’s a hike to get there (about 2.5 hours from Bangor), but we know it will be well worth the trip.
Sugarloaf
As an Aroostook County native, Big Rock and Quog gy Jo Ski Area (in Presque Isle and another excellent though smaller familyfriendly hill) were my home ski turf growing up. Big Rock may seem a little off the beaten path, but I promise it’s well worth the drive. Big Rock’s main chairlift is not for the faint of heart — it’s sky high and leads to Comet, a trail that’s equally steep coming down. But it’s wide and fun if you’re looking to pick up a little speed. If you’d rather leave those faster trails for someone else, Big Rock has expanded in recent years to add a second lift to the right of the mountain leading to a pleasant swooping beginners trail and a fun terrain park.
14 MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022
Sunday River boasts eight interconnected peaks and 135 trails (and counting) way out in western Maine, so an overnight stay is the way to go. We take a couple of days when pos sible, staying at the Grand Summit hotel, which offers a heated outdoor swimming pool plus ski-in/ski-out access to the mountain (highly recommended!), from the peak to the furthest left. During our last visit, my daughter and I mapped out a plan to traverse across the entire mountain range and back, weaving our way up and down each peak and getting distracted by a few particularly fun trails, terrain parks and a food truck serving waffles.
Just Getting Started
• Go with an open mind and stay calm. Being in a new environment is con fusing to kids so make sure they are comfortable and stress free. Learning to ski or snowboard is a life-long family activity and before you know it, everyone in the family will be counting down the warm days of summer waiting for the snow to fly in the fall.
MAINE OUTDOORS • FALL/WINTER • Bangor Daily News Special Advertising Section • August 26, 2022 15
If you’re brand new to skiing (or snowboarding) and looking for lessons for you or the kids, almost all Maine mountains offer convenient and often af fordable lessons. Teaching kids to ski is back-breaking work — seasoned in structors make it look easy and get kids up and running in no time.
“Mid-sized and smaller mountains are great for families who are either just getting into skiing or utilizing the resources in their own backyard,” said Dirk Gouwens, Executive Director of the Ski Maine Association. “It is easier to park, organize your gear and get on the slopes. Our larger ski areas offer some of the best skiing and riding in the country, and for families that like to explore, we have everything anyone could want.”
• Kids get cold quickly so make sure they are dressed right and stay warm.
Just getting started skiing with the kids? Maine is the perfect place for that with tons of kid-friendly slopes and engaging lessons.
“Bringing kids — especially younger ones — requires some planning to make the day less stressful,” Gouwens said, offering the following tips.
• Utilize the drop off areas when arriving to drop all your gear close to the lodge, and then one person can stay with the gear and the kids while the other person parks the car. Schlepping gear and kids across the parking lot is never fun.
Here are a few tips to get your family slopeside this winter
• Organize the night before and make sure you have all the necessary gear in a closeable backpack or duffel bag. Losing a mitten can ruin an entire day.
PHOTO: COLIN FIELD/ADOBE STOCK
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