Winter in Maine is not for hibernation. It’s for recreation. The state boasts some of the best skiing and snowmobiling in the East.
Snow Sports
The Western Mountains are home to premier ski resorts like Sugarloaf and Sunday River. For snowmobilers, the vast Interconnected Trail System (ITS) offers thousands of miles of groomed riding, particularly in The County (Aroostook).
Coastal Quiet
On the coast, the pace slows down considerably. It’s a time for locals to reconnect, for storms to batter the lighthouses (great for photography), and for holiday festivals like Kennebunkport’s famous Christmas Prelude.
Top Experiences
Common Questions
How much snow does Maine get?
A lot! Inland and mountain areas can see over 100 inches annually. Coastal areas see less snow but more mixed precipitation.
Is it dark all the time?
Days are short. In mid-December the sun sets about 4:04 PM in Portland but nearer 3:43 PM in Caribou, so the far north and east lose the light around twenty minutes earlier than the coast. Snow reflects what is left, which makes moonlit nights surprisingly bright.
What to Pack
- Heavy winter coat (Parka)
- Insulated boots
- Thermal base layers
- Hat, gloves, scarf
- Windproof shell