2021 Snow Report Six

March 17, 2021 – The Maine Office of Tourism, in collaboration with Ski Maine Association and Maine’s snowmobiling community, reports that while the weather warms and snow melts, mid-March’s longer days give Mainers the chance to enjoy winter recreation another time before the end of the season.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) snow depth map shows the top portion of Maine’s lakes and mountains region and the majority of Aroostook County still have more than 16 inches of snow, with a pocket near Presque Isle exceeding two feet. Most of the snow along the immediate coast has melted.

Skiing in Maine
With the mountainous regions of the state still receiving snow and with exceptional snowmaking capabilities, Maine’s downhill ski resorts are welcoming skiers to enjoy these sunny, longer days and some of the best skiing of the year. All Maine downhill ski areas are reporting great conditions and will stay open through the end of March, and many into mid to late April.

A Portland Press Herald article published on Monday shared details about the busy season for the ski slopes, with skiers eager to get outside in the midst of the pandemic.

Wednesdays continue to be Maine Day at Sugarloaf, with discounts on lift tickets for Maine residents. The resort is offering a deal on the 2021/2022 Mountain Collective Pass that is accepted at 23 destinations.

Sunday River’s Spring Fling Flash Sale ends tomorrow, and 15 percent off any resort lodging is available now through April 24. As a testament to the fun left this season, as of today, 101 trails and 13 lifts are open.

Today’s conditions at Saddleback include well-manicured slopes and with temperatures rising this morning, the snow will become softer and more forgiving.

For a relaxed family day on the slopes, Mt. Abram has 27 trails open and welcoming guests Thursday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. In Mars Hill, BigRock Mountain has 29 trails of packed powder open, with tubing available Saturday and Sunday.

Please remember before you depart for a day of skiing to call ahead or go online for the resort or center’s current COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions. Do a self-health screen, wear a mask and practice social distancing, and use your vehicle as the lodge.

Learn more about the downhill and Nordic centers at www.skimaine.com.

Maine Snowmobiling
While downhill ski conditions continue to provide great conditions, the warmer weather is impacting many snowmobiling regions and trails.

With a favorable snow depth in Aroostook, Caribou Parks & Recreation Department’s most recent trail report shares primarily positive riding conditions. Warmer weather prevents grooming efforts and leads to spring riding conditions, so it’s important to check conditions of individual trails and locations in the link above before departing on a ride.

The Forks area reported that last week’s warmer weather was tough on the trail system. While snowmobilers can still ride in the area, they are encouraged to travel out of town and farther north for the best late-season conditions. For Jackman’s latest snowmobile trail conditions, click here.

Northern Outdoors is currently offering a weeknight Buy One Night Get One Night spring lodging special. After the brewpub closes on March 21, the resort is offering a 50 percent off lodging until their rafting opening day on May 7.

As snowmobile trail conditions become available, they are regularly updated.

More Late-Winter Fun
For those looking to get out for spring fresh air, take a look at Maine Outdoor Dine, a new resource highlighting restaurants, cafes, breweries and pubs that are providing options so people can dine safely and comfortably outside.

The snow reports, released biweekly on Wednesdays, include snow conditions for the ski reports and snowmobile trails, highlight safe activities and remind winter enthusiasts about various safety precautions and considerations before leaving the house. The reports are posted on VisitMaine.com where visitors can also find information on other winter activities.

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Editor’s Note: Click on the link below to access a Dropbox of Maine winter images. Pictured above: Sunday River skiing.

Maine Winter Images