Maine Stories

With more than 550 trails at small slopes and big-mountain resorts, Maine is a winter playground for alpine skiers and snowboarders of all ages. The state is also home to some of the best cross country skiing on the East Coast with small family farms and large touring centers offering hundreds of miles of groomed and backcountry Nordic trails. From Aroostook County at the top of Maine to the Mid Coast hills or mountains of the Western part of the state, solo thrill seekers or families looking for a weekend of fun will find something to suit their taste.

Maine’s downhill ski areas are loved for their dependable snow, great trail conditions and family friendly environments. The state’s slopes are also snowboard friendly. Riders looking for new and challenging trails can sample terrain parks at more than 10 locations around the state, two of which have Olympic size Superpipes. Alpine resorts offer ski-and-stay packages and hold special events and theme weekends throughout the season.

Before or after enjoying a downhill rush or a quiet glide through the forest, visit the new Ski Museum of Maine in Farmington. The museum tells the story of the state’s skiing history through exhibits, photographs and memorabilia. The museum is located at 109 Church Street and is open Wednesday through Saturday 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information call 207-491-5481 or visit www.skimaine.com/SMOMpage.htm.