Best Winter Outdoor Activities in Maine

Maine may be known for its iconic summers, but it is also one of the best states to enjoy the winter season – especially if you love the outdoors! There is no shortage of winter outdoor activities in Maine, so trust us when we say there is truly something for everyone. Need some inspiration on what to do first? We’ve put together some of our favorite places to enjoy the outdoors during a Maine winter!

1. Pineland Farms

If you love cross-country skiing – or even if you’ve never been and want to give it a try! – Pineland Farms in New Gloucester is a great place to take advantage of this wintery sport. With more than 30 miles of perfectly groomed trails that will take you through their working farm and the surrounding forests, it’s the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon. Equipment rentals are available!

2. Bradbury Mountain

There are so many positive aspects of a hike on a crisp winter day! Not only will you experience the breathtaking scenery of mountain tops covered in snow, but you will likely be one of the only hikers on the trail, so no crowds to worry about! Winter hiking is also quite safe as long as you take the proper precautions: hike only in the daytime, be wary of the weather, and know your route. Another great place to start is by investing in shoe spikes (which all Mainers should have, really!) and perhaps some trekking poles. Otherwise, let a smaller local spot like Bradbury Mountain in Pownal whisk you away into the beautiful winterscape Maine has to offer!

3. Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust

The Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust offers many idyllic settings for a wintertime walk or snowshoe adventure! With hundreds of acres of outdoor space, from agricultural land and scenic areas to forest trails, you will have no shortage of land to explore. This land is protected by the state and its natural resources are truly meant for Maine residents to enjoy. There is no better way to take advantage of a snowy day!

4. Rangeley & Moosehead Lake

Though known for their popularity in the summer months, Rangeley Lake – or Moosehead Lake which is a little further north near Greenville – make for the perfect winter weekend getaway. If you love fishing, we highly recommend you spend the day outside on the frozen lake giving ice fishing a go. As one of Maine’s most notorious past times, there is nothing quite like ice fishing – grab your friends or loved ones and soak in the crisp air (or the warmth of an ice shack, which you can rent through Moosehead Lake!) while you wait for a bite.

If ice fishing isn’t your sport, there are tons of cross-country ski trails around the Rangeley Lakes Trail Center. If you want to extend your journey, you can even book huts to stay overnight along your route through Maine Huts & Trails!

Another bonus of the Rangeley area is that you’re close to some of Maine’s most iconic downhill ski mountains, which brings us to our next destination…

5. Sugarloaf Mountain

Known as one of the best mountains in the Northeast region, Sugarloaf Mountain has it all: deep snow, seemingly endless groomed trails for all levels, plenty of bars and restaurants, and an adorable downtown area with shops and food trucks at the base of the mountain. Whether you’re going for a day or a weekend, you are sure to have an incredible time at Sugarloaf!

6. Twin Brooks Recreation Area

Looking for an easy, peaceful winter trail walk? Look no further than the sprawling Twin Brooks Recreation area in Cumberland! This two-mile loop trail takes you through preservation land along a gentle river. Not only is there plenty of parking and restroom availability, but it’s also dog-friendly so you can bring your pup along for the walk!

Cumberland Crossing by OceanView

Cumberland Crossing by OceanView is an active senior retirement community offering maintenance-free living in Cumberland, Maine. If you’re looking for a beautiful, stress-free place to call home that is centrally located to so many of the wonderful outdoor activities in Maine, look no farther than our community! Let us help you enjoy the spoils of retirement to the fullest extent.

To learn more about our community at Cumberland Crossing, please contact us today!