3. Go Dogsledding
Exploring the trails of Maine’s backcountry by dogsled is an experience like no other, and tourists have several excellent options to choose from. In Bethel, New England Dogsledding has a team of Alaskan Huskies that bring guests on a tour of local trails at the Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge, as well as operating tours at Sunday River Ski Area in Newry and in the nearby White Mountains of New Hampshire at the Balsams and North Conway. Ultimate Dogsledding Experience, which is headquartered in Oxford, also runs tours out of Bethel, as well as Hebron and Casco.
Mahoosuc Guide Service offers full-day dogsledding trips in the Mahoosuc Mountains and along the shores of Unbagog Lake, which include a campfire-cooked lunch and extra warm boots and outerwear. Those who are extra adventurous can book one of their two- or three-day trips that fully explore the area by dogsled, as well as snowshoe and cross-country ski. Multi-day trips include all sports equipment, food, and winter camping equipment along with the knowledgeable guides. Women’s-only excursions are available for an adventurous girls’ weekend.
4. Ski & Board with an Ocean View
Camden Snow Bowl is the only ski area on the East Coast that offers slopes with a view of the ocean, providing a truly unique experience. Located only about five miles from Penobscot Bay, the resort offers over 20 trails for all skill levels. This smaller, locally-run ski area is a great option for families.
Maine offers several other ski resorts, and although they may not have views of the Atlantic they have plenty to offer. Many of these boast over 200 inches of snowfall annually, ensuring a long ski season and plenty of fresh flakes to keep the slopes covered in powder.
Among these is Sugarloaf Mountain, the East Coast’s second-largest ski area, with 161 trails and six terrain parks. The longest trail is 3.5 miles, and this mountain boasts the only slopes that start well above the tree line. The resort offers plenty of other activities as well, including cross-country skiing, skate-skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-skating.
