Gliding Through Winter in Maine

Mar 13

By Karen Chenard

One of my favorite and most blissful winter pastimes in Maine is cross-country skiing. I started writing this post in February when the snow was plentiful, light, and powdery—the kind of idyllic conditions that every Nordic skier hopes for. But as Mark Twain so aptly observed about New England’s ever-changing weather, “There is a sumptuous variety about the New England weather that compels the stranger’s admiration—and regret. The weather is always doing something there…”

A few weeks ago, the trails were perfect—fresh snow, crisp air, and beautifully groomed tracks. Today, those same trails may be patchy, icy, or even bare in places. This unpredictability is the very essence of winter in Maine. So, when the conditions are prime, don’t hesitate—grab your skis and get out there! You never know when the next warm spell will arrive, transforming perfect powder into slush.

Snowy forest trail with ski tracks. Sun shines brightly through bare trees, casting long shadows on the snow-covered landscape. Calm, winter mood. — *Arundel Conservation Trust Community Trail*

The Beauty of Cross-Country Skiing

What is it about cross-country skiing that keeps me coming back, no matter the conditions? There’s something magical about gliding through the silent woods, the only sound being the rhythmic swish of skis on snow. The landscape transforms into a serene, white wonderland, where the only other signs of life might be a chickadee chirping nearby or a deer disappearing into the trees.

Beyond its peacefulness, cross-country skiing is also a fantastic workout. Even on the coldest mornings, I start off bundled up but end up breaking a sweat within minutes. It’s a full-body exercise that challenges endurance, balance, and strength, making it one of the best ways to stay active in the winter months.

Classic vs. Skate Skiing: Which One is for You?

If you're new to the sport, you might wonder about the difference between classic skiing and skate skiing.

Classic skiing follows a set track, allowing for a more relaxed, rhythmic motion. It's perfect for beginners who want to get a feel for the glide and balance.
Skate skiing, on the other hand, is more dynamic, resembling the movements of ice skating. It requires a groomed surface and a bit more technique but can be an exhilarating way to pick up speed on open trails.

Nordic ski expert Bert Hinkley recommends that beginners start with classic skiing, as it helps develop balance and control before moving on to the more demanding skate technique.

Spots to Explore for XC Skiing in Maine

Even if backyard trails aren't always skiable, Maine offers plenty of groomed trail systems where you can enjoy great conditions longer into the season. Here are some top spots to check out:

State Parks with Nordic Skiing

Aroostook State Park – Known for its long winter season and well-maintained trails.
Bradbury Mountain State Park – Offers a variety of trails and snowshoe rentals.
Camden Hills State Park – Ski with ocean views!
Sebago Lake State Park – A mix of groomed and ungroomed trails along the scenic Songo River.
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park – Ideal for beginners with mostly flat, easy trails.

Cross-Country Ski Centers & Private Trails

Harris Farm XC Ski Center (Dayton, ME) – 40km of trails winding through fields and forests, with rentals and a warming hut.
Carter’s Cross Country Ski Center (Bethel, ME) – 55km of groomed trails with mountain views, plus cozy off-grid cabins for overnight stays.
Pineland Farms (New Gloucester, ME) – A vast network of trails with rolling hills and stunning views of Mt. Washington.
Five Fields Farm (Bridgton, ME) – Ski through an old apple orchard with connections to Bald Pate Mountain.
Roberts Farm Preserve (Norway, ME) – 25km of groomed trails, perfect for all skill levels.

Skiers glide on snowy trails through a snow-covered field with pine trees and a house in the background under a clear blue sky. — *Photo Credit – Courtesy of Harris Farm, Dayton, Maine*

Another helpful resource is the Facebook Group: Maine Cross-Country Skiing

Final Thoughts: Seize the Moment

If there’s one takeaway from this season’s rollercoaster of ski conditions, it’s this: when the snow is good, get out there and enjoy it. In true New England fashion, today’s powder might be tomorrow’s slush, and the pristine trails you skied this morning could be a muddy mess by the weekend.

So keep your skis ready, watch the forecasts, and take advantage of every opportunity to glide through Maine’s winter wonderland. After all, the next perfect ski day might be just around the corner—or gone in the blink of an eye.

Snowy landscape with ski tracks leading into a forest of bare, snow-covered trees. Clear blue sky adds a serene winter feel. — *Private land in southern Maine*

Karen Chenard is a Board Member for the Arundel Conservation Trust and Co-Chair of the Public Relations Committee. If interested in volunteering, please sign up here!

If you enjoyed reading this blog post and have any interest in contributing as a writer on our non-profit website please reach out at info@arundeltrust.org. We love featuring guest writers and leaning into the expertise of our fellow community members.