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Writer's pictureGerry Caron
Nov 46 min read

Experience the Ultimate Winter Getaway: Top 8 Maine Towns for Skiing, Snowmobiling & Seasonal Fun


Snow covered lake and view of the mountains at a distance

The Ultimate Winter Getaway: Top 8 Maine Towns for Skiing, Snowmobiling & Seasonal Fun

Winter in Maine is nothing short of magical. As snow blankets the landscapes and icy lakes freeze over, Maine transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting adventure seekers, families, and those in search of scenic escapes for the ultimate winter getaway. From bustling ski towns with world-class resorts to quaint villages offering charming winter festivals, Maine’s diverse winter destinations have something for everyone. Whether you’re a skier, snowmobiler, ice fisherman, or simply looking for a cozy spot to enjoy the season, Maine’s winter towns offer activities that make the cold weather a time of excitement and beauty. Here’s a closer look at the top winter towns and everything they have to offer, from outdoor adventures to memorable winter events for your ultimate winter getaway at the top 8 Maine towns.


1. Bethel: A Winter Sports Haven with Small-Town Charm

Bethel is often considered the heart of winter sports in Maine, offering a perfect mix of adrenaline-pumping activities and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Located near Sunday River Ski Resort, one of Maine's premier ski destinations, and Mt. Abram to the west, Bethel has something for every level of skier and snowboarder.

  • Activities: Sunday River features a diverse range of terrain spread across eight mountain peaks, making it ideal for everyone from beginners to expert skiers. After a day on the slopes, Bethel’s après-ski scene offers cozy taverns, restaurants, and lodging options. Mt. Abram, a smaller resort with a friendly vibe, is a great spot for families and those looking for a more relaxed skiing experience.

  • Highlights: Downhill skiing, snowboarding, après-ski, and local dining

    • Contact: Sunday River

    • Website: Sunday River

    • Phone: (800) 543-2754


2. Carrabassett Valley: Home to Sugarloaf and Unmatched Ski Terrain

Carrabassett Valley is known for Sugarloaf Mountain, which boasts the most skiable acres of any resort in Maine and is the only place in the state offering above-tree-line skiing. Nestled in the western mountains, Sugarloaf is a winter destination with a loyal following.

  • Activities: In addition to its expansive downhill skiing, Sugarloaf offers an extensive network of cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing routes for those who want to experience the quiet beauty of Maine's forests. The resort also has a lively base village with restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a complete winter getaway.

  • Highlights: Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, après-ski, snowshoeing

    • Contact: Sugarloaf Mountain

    • Website: Sugarloaf

    • Phone: (207) 237-2000


3. Fort Kent: A Cross-Country Skiing Paradise in Northern Maine

Located in northern Maine near the Canadian border, Fort Kent is known for its snow-packed winters and abundant outdoor activities. The town features over 30 kilometers of Nordic ski trails at the Fort Kent Outdoor Center and the gentle alpine slopes at Lonesome Pine Trails.

  • Activities: Fort Kent is a popular destination for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, attracting both casual enthusiasts and competitive skiers. Lonesome Pine Trails offers a relaxed atmosphere with gentle slopes perfect for beginners and families, while advanced skiers can enjoy scenic views of the St. John Valley.

  • Highlights: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, family-friendly alpine skiing, scenic vistas


4. Greenville: Snowmobiling & Ice Fishing at Moosehead Lake

Nestled along the shores of Moosehead Lake, Maine's largest lake, Greenville is a winter paradise for snowmobilers and ice fishing enthusiasts. Known for its stunning lake views and surrounding wilderness, this area is perfect for those who want to experience Maine's outdoors to the fullest.

  • Activities: Greenville is a hub for snowmobiling, with miles of groomed trails leading through dense forests and open landscapes. The lake is also a popular spot for ice fishing, where anglers can set up ice shacks and fish for salmon and trout. Additionally, Greenville offers access to downhill skiing and snowboarding slopes.

  • Highlights: Snowmobiling, ice fishing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, scenic lake views

    • Contact: Moosehead Lake Chamber of Commerce

    • Website: Moosehead Lake

    • Phone: (207) 695-2702


5. Rangeley: Winter Festivals and Snowmobile Enthusiasts' Haven

Rangeley is famous for its winter festivities and snowmobile-friendly atmosphere. The annual Snodeo draws thousands each year, celebrating snowmobiling with parades, races, and fun events that bring the whole community together.

  • Activities: In addition to the Snodeo, Rangeley offers excellent snowmobiling trails through scenic mountain terrain, along with opportunities for ice fishing and snowshoeing. The area’s cozy lodges and cabins provide a perfect base for a winter getaway, making Rangeley a vibrant spot for winter visitors.

  • Highlights: Snowmobiling, Snodeo festival, winter racing events, ice fishing, snowshoeing

    • Contact: Rangeley Lakes Chamber of Commerce

    • Website: Rangeley Maine

    • Phone: (207) 864-5571


6. Millinocket: Nordic Skiing and Snowmobiling Near Mt. Katahdin

Millinocket, located at the base of Mt. Katahdin, Maine's tallest mountain, offers a peaceful yet adventurous winter experience. This town is ideal for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, with a vast network of trails that wind through pristine landscapes.

  • Activities: With expansive cross-country ski trails and abundant snowmobile routes, Millinocket is a haven for winter sports. The nearby lakes and rivers also offer ice fishing opportunities, making it a popular spot for those who want a quieter, nature-focused winter escape.

  • Highlights: Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice fishing, scenic mountain views

    • Contact: Katahdin Chamber of Commerce

    • Website: Discover Katahdin

    • Phone: (207) 723-4443


7. Camden: Coastal Skiing with Atlantic Views

Camden combines the charm of a coastal town with the excitement of winter sports. Known for the Camden Snow Bowl, it’s one of the few places where you can ski with views of the Atlantic Ocean.

  • Activities: The Camden Snow Bowl offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and even tobogganing, with trails that overlook Penobscot Bay. This unique setting makes it a must-visit for those who want a different type of skiing experience. Camden also hosts the U.S. National Toboggan Championships each year, attracting participants and spectators from around the country.

  • Highlights: Ocean-view skiing, tobogganing, snowboarding, coastal charm


8. Kennebunk & Kennebunkport: South-Coast Winter Festivities and Ice Skating

Located on Maine’s southern coast, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport offer a cozy winter experience with quaint shops, festive decorations, and covered outdoor ice skating. The area is especially lively in winter, making it a great destination for family-friendly fun.

  • Activities: In Kennebunk, the Waterhouse Center downtown has a covered ice skating rink, perfect for a winter outing with family or friends. Both towns are known for their holiday events, light displays, and cozy inns, providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere even in the colder months.

  • Highlights: Ice skating, holiday events, coastal charm, family-friendly activities


Make the Most of Winter in Maine

Each of these Maine towns offers a unique experience for winter lovers, whether you’re hitting the ski slopes, exploring snowmobile trails, or simply enjoying the scenery and seasonal events. With so much variety across the state,


What to Do in Moosehead Lake

Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.

  • Boating: Explore the lake's serene waters.

  • Hiking: Explore the the wilderness.

  • Fishing: Discover prime fishing spots.

  • Camping: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.

  • Local Attractions: Learn about must-see sights in the region.


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit

Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!



Maine’s winter destinations provide countless ways to embrace the beauty and excitement of the colder months. So grab your gear, bring your sense of adventure, and discover the magic of a Maine winter.

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