Maine Stories

It isn’t common for New England cross country skiing events to be confused with 19th century battles for Western U.S. territory, but Carter’s Last Stand in Bethel, Maine, comes close.

Bethel X-C Ski Center owners Anne and Dave Carter thought the play-on-words title for their annual “celebration of nordic skiing” would attract attention to the event. It was a good idea, considering the gathering takes place on New Year’s Day each year. But, the beautiful scenery from the Carter’s ski trails alone has been enough to draw cross country enthusiasts of all ages from near and far for the past 23 years.

“On a clear day you can see Mt. Washington in New Hampshire, the peaks of the Presidential Range and the trails of Sunday River ski resort,” said Anne Carter.

The current “Last Stand” on skis has changed since its early years. The event was originally an official race with 5k and 10k starts. People came to kick off the year with a physical challenge on snow and awards were given to male and female age group winners.

Now, a formal competitive race isn’t offered, but skiers can race a friend around the course or set out for a leisurely tour at their own pace. The ski center’s 55 kilometers of groomed trails pass through fields and woods before reaching the highest elevation on Farwell Mountain, a great rest stop with spectacular views of the nearby Mahoosuc Mountain range.

One thing that hasn’t changed over the years is the quality of the snow and the food. The Carter’s facility faces Grafton Notch and often gets snow from squalls that pass through the notch but don’t touch down three miles away in the center of town. Reliable natural snow means better trails and happy skiers, but even if the skiing isn’t the best participants will likely be pleased with their choices at the pot luck dinner and cookout.

Families bring their favorite hot meals and desserts from home to share with everyone and the Carter’s cook up hamburgers, hot dogs and chili. Hot chocolate and coffee are also offered.

The ski courses will open at 10:30 a.m. and food will be served at 1:00 p.m. Snowshoeing will also be allowed at the event. Skis, boots, poles and snowshoes will be available for adults and children to rent.

For more information about Carter’s Last Stand contact Anne Carter at 207-539-4848 or visit Carter’s X-C Ski Centers online at www.cartersxcski.com.