Snowpack Creating Ultimate Conditions for Spring Skiing & Snowmobiling

March 29, 2017 — The Maine Office of Tourism, in collaboration with the Ski Maine Association and the Maine Snowmobile Association (MSA), reports the snowpack continues to be ideal for skiing and snowmobiling throughout much of the state.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) snow depth map shows approximately three-quarters of the state, including much of the lakes and mountains region and the majority of Aroostook County, still have two or more feet of snow.

“This March is one of the coldest on record, and that is great news for skiers,” said Ski Maine Executive Director Greg Sweetser. “The snow depths remain at mid-winter levels in both the downhill and Nordic ski centers. Sunday River and Sugarloaf will likely hit their typical closing dates of May 1, so I invite you to join us for another solid month of skiing here in Maine.

Snowmobilers take a break in the Katahdin region at a local lodge.

Both Sunday River and Sugarloaf are reporting excellent conditions, with Sunday River gearing up for a busy Spring Festival this weekend, complete with spring skiing, live music and signature events such as the Margarita Mix-Off and Slip 'n' Flip. Shawnee Peak’s final day of the 2016 – 2017 season is this Saturday.

Moving soon into April, snowmobilers are also reaping the benefits of colder temperatures and an impressive snow pack. “The snow pack is still showing many areas with up to 30 inches of snow,” said Bob Meyers, MSA executive director. “Thanks to Maine’s expert trail groomers, snowmobile trails are ready for a few more weeks of riding fun.”

Meyers also alerts riders that despite spring-like conditions that may be taking place, there are areas in Maine still experiencing snow each day. Conditions in Washburn, the Katahdin region and Jackman on the ITS-88 continue to provide great riding. Next weekend on April 8, the Fort Kent Sno-Riders will host the Annual Hill Climb Race at Lonesome Pine Trails Ski Resort.

While this will be the last official snow report for the season, the Maine Office of Tourism, Ski Maine and the Maine Snowmobile Association urge ski and snowmobile enthusiasts to continue checking conditions throughout April. Find ski conditions on the Ski Maine website and snowmobile trail conditions, updated daily, on the MSA website.

To find additional information on spring activities and events, go to VisitMaine.com. Check back for Maine snow reports at the start of the next winter season.

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Editor’s Note: Click on the image above or the link below to access a Dropbox folder of Maine winter images and video.

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/cft2eanfux98a2w/AABav6yEWS1DpfE8BFxfECQ-a?dl=0