The 10 Best Ski Resorts in Maine

This immense ski resort in western Maine caters to powder hounds who need their space. Sunday River’s 870 skiable acres are spread across eight peaks, with additional space for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tubing. While there is no shortage of challenging runs for more experienced skiers, Sunday River also dedicates 30% of its marked trails for beginners. And the resort’s ski school provides a variety of instruction styles to build confidence on the slopes. Plus, the good times don’t have to stop at sundown. Sunday River offers twilight skiing on several runs from late December through late March.

Maine’s most renowned resort, Sugarloaf boasts one of the largest skiable areas on the East Coast, not to mention the region’s only lift-serviced trails above the treeline. Sprawling across the towering Sugarloaf Mountain in the western part of the state, Sugarloaf’s trails offer stunning views of the Carrabassett Valley. The resort’s 150-plus trails are relatively equally divided by skill level, meaning everyone from newbies to experts will have plenty of terrain to explore. What’s more, Sugarloaf’s northern location and high average snowfall average tends to lead to longer-than-usual ski seasons, with lifts often operating until May.

After closing its slopes in 2015 after it was unable to secure funding to update it’s main lift, Saddleback will welcome back skiers for the 2020/2021 ski season. In addition to a new lift, the resort also features a renovated lodge and increased snowmaking (though it boasts the most natural snow in Maine). Maine’s third-largest ski area encompasses 220 skiable acres and boasts a 2,000-foot vertical drop, with enough runs to accommodate skiers of all ski levels. Saddleback will also offer a revamped ski school program that accommodates beginners of all ages.

Once the largest ski area in Maine, Big Squaw Mountain now offers a quaint, intimate skiing experience compared to Sugarloaf or Sunday River. Squaw’s 28 trails are evenly divided between skill levels, making this a great destination for families. Youngsters and newbies can find their footing on gentler slopes like the Moxie or Canada Falls, while those with more runs under their belt can tackle black-diamond trails like the Exterminator. Meanwhile, the resort’s ski and snowboard school caters to all ages, whether you’re hitting the slopes for the first time or looking to brush up on your skills.

Welcoming skiers since 1937, Shawnee Peak has been a go-to resort for generations, with kids growing up on its slopes, and returning with their kids to carry on the fun. A quarter of the resort’s 43 runs are tailored to beginners, making it easy for little ones to practice their skills and boost their confidence. And a lesson at Shawnee Peak’s learning center will certainly speed that process along, whether your little one is interested in skiing or snowboarding. For more advanced skiers, Shawnee Peak’s expert terrain is sure to thrill. What’s more, Shawnee Peak offers the most night skiing in New England, with 19 trails open past sunset.

Just five miles outside of Bethel, Mt. Abram includes a wide variety of ski experiences, from groomed runs to wooded glades. Spread across 450 skiable acres, Mt. Abram’s 36 trails rarely feel crowded. And with more than 70% of trails designed for beginner and intermediate-level skiers, not to mention a ski school offering private and group instruction, Mt. Abram is a great place to get comfortable on your skis. But that doesn’t mean more practiced powder hounds will feel left out. The main mountain features mogul runs, while the natural trails on Rocky’s Run are sure to thrill.

Not far from Augusta, Titcomb Mountain markets itself as “The Friendliest Mountain Around”. And it’s easy to get on board with that message. Not only does Titcomb invite youngsters under the age of 5 and seniors over the age of 70 to ski or ride for free, the resort’s 16 trails and terrain parks also cater to all skill levels. And when the day is done, warm up by the Lodge’s roaring central fireplace. Or, if you haven’t had enough powder, Titcomb’s illuminated trails provide the perfect setting for night skiing – even some of the cross-country trails are lit at night, making for a unique wintertime experience.

If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, Camden Snow Bowl probably isn’t the right resort for you. But if you’re looking for a challenge, look no further. More than 60% of Camden’s 20 marked trails are designed for advanced and expert powder hounds, with the others catering to the intermediate level. Plus, eight of the trails are illuminated for night skiing. The ski area also includes two terrain parks, one designed for more advanced riders, and the other offering somewhat easier elements. For visitors who aren’t quite ready to tackle Camden’s runs, the resort also offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fat biking.

Ideal for a morning or afternoon of skiing, Powderhouse Hill features three trails and a modest vertical drop of 175 feet, making this tiny resort great for a family outing. What’s more, admission is only $5 per person. Owned by the town of South Berwick and run entirely on volunteer power, Powderhouse Hill is truly a locals’ ski and snowboard area. There are no other winter activities available, but Powderhouse Hill does feature a small lodge complete with a fireplace and a snackbar where families can unwind together after a few good runs.

Lost Valley may not have the vertigo-inducing terrain of Sugarloaf, but don’t rule it out too quickly. After all, This humble ski resort north of Portland has launched the careers of four Olympians. Lost Valley’s gentle slopes are ideal for newbies, and the resort’s ski and snowboard lesson programs will have youngsters feeling confident in no time. There are options for more advanced skiers and riders, too, with more than 40% of Lost Valley’s trails designed for expert skiers, and two terrain parks providing plenty of space to practice tricks. Lost Valley also features 100% snowmaking capacity and night skiing, so you can hit the slopes at any time.