Winter Activities for Your Staycation in Maine

There are two types of people: Those who like watching the snow fall through the window with a cup of hot cocoa while the fire blazes, and those who like to immerse themselves in the outdoors and get their adrenaline pumping in the snow. 

We welcome both types of folks to our quintessential winter wonderland getaway with us at Crooked Steeple Hall. However, this blog is dedicated to those looking for fun, outdoor, winter activities while enjoying their stay. Read on for our top winter activity picks in and around Winterport, Maine.

Pro Tip: If you’re like me, you dread the cold but love the outdoor fun. Layers are your friend! Dressing in layers will keep you nice and toasty so you can get in on the outdoor winter fun too. 

Dog Sledding

It’s a centuries-old mode of winter transportation and definitely one to check off your bucket list this winter. Sled dogs are bred for their speed, endurance and leadership qualities, all of which are important for the job of pulling. 

Calling it a "job" might give the wrong impression though, as these beloved canines truly embody the expression, “love what you do, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” So make a team of doggies happy and book a dog sledding trip. 

Acadia National Park is a great option for your dog sledding experience. 

Snow Tubing

Imagine flying down a 600ft slope in a tube leaving a trail of snow exhaust in your wake. Sounds like fun? It is! And it’s great for young children and the less-athletic. Many places allow snow tubers as young as three years old to participate (with an adult of course) in this thrill ride so it’s something the entire family can enjoy together. 

At New Hermon Mountain, you won’t even have to break a sweat. A lift will take you up the mountain to begin your fast and furious descent in the tube.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is essentially hiking but with special shoes designed for optimal maneuverability in the snow. It takes more effort to walk through snow than on the dry ground so you’ll get a nice workout, even if you choose a leisurely trail with little to no incline in a designated snowshoeing area.

But if you’re up for a bigger challenge, there are also tougher trails with steeper inclines to test your endurance as you break new snow. 

The Bangor City Forest Trail system features both easy and moderate trails for you to explore in your new (or rented) snowshoes. 

Skiing

When I think of winter sports, the first thing that comes to mind is skiing. I mean, is there a more classic winter activity? There are a variety of slopes near Winterport for every level of expertise. Some companies even offer beginner skiing lessons and refresher classes. 

If you don’t have your own equipment, most skiing facilities rent equipment. New Hermon Mountain has some awesome trails for skiing.

Some other outdoor winter activities you can enjoy on your vacation are ice skating, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, tobogganing, and ice fishing. Family-friendly activities like snowball fights and building a snowman are always a fun winter activity staple.

What are your favorite outdoor winter activities? Whichever ones you plan to enjoy, be sure to check the local weather advisories before heading out. 

Stay safe and have fun in the snow!

- Katrina -

Stay safe and have fun in the snow!