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f you’re looking for an idyllic place to go Nordic skiing in Maine, look no further than Aroostook County. Winters arrive early in the region and stay late so there are more days out on the trails. Located in the northernmost part of the state, Aroostook County is a hidden gem for those who love Nordic skiing.
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Did You Know? Nordic skiing is a Swedish tradition and the sport was first brought to the state of Maine by the families who immigrate to the Town of New Sweden, Maine
Wildlife Refuge | 10+ Miles
The Wildlife Refuge offers just over 10 miles of trails and features skiing and snowshoeing through rich, diverse habitats. Once part of the Loring Airfield base, it is now home to forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It also offers ample opportunities to catch glimpses of deer, beaver, waterfowl, moose, and many migratory birds. Two parking areas exist, the first is at the visitor center and the other is at the West Gate.
Aroostook State Park | 15 Miles
Here, you'll find a 15-mile network that features ten trails ranging from easy to advanced. The network meanders through cedar wood swamps and offers skiers two warming huts as they traverse through scenic upland hardwood and evergreen forests. The ten trails are neatly groomed and are available for only those nordic skiing. Known as the northernmost state park in Maine, Aroostook State Park features trails up to four miles long.
Nordic Heritage Center | 11 Miles
The 11.4-mile trail network has eight trails ranging from beginner and advanced. While skiing, you will have the chance to see the rolling fields of Gallagher Farm, the twist in and out of the forest, and you'll have the opportunity to pass by the Presque Isle warming hut. The Nordic Heritage Center also offers a terrain park and is home to the Biathlon World Cup, as many of the trails are used to build some of the world's top biathlon athletes.
Fort Kent Outdoor Center | 19 miles
Offering the most extended network in the area, the 19.5-mile network provides its skiers with ten trails from easy-moderate to advanced. Two miles are lit for nighttime skiing opportunities and a pet loop where your furry friend can join along in the snowy winter fun. The trails were recently used for the Biathlon World Cup, and the facility offers a cozy fireplace with wifi and a popular sledding hill.
Stockholm Land and Trails | 8 Miles
In addition to snowshoeing, hiking, mountain biking, and an ice skating rink, Stockholm Land and Trails features five trails within their network that spans just over five miles. Their feature trail, the Tower Trail, leads to a 55-foot fire tower that offers 360 views of the forest and the Madawaska river.
Split Cedar Trails | 11 Miles
This 11.3-mile trail network ranges from easy-moderate to advanced trails and offers three warming huts. This trail system is not groomed, but the trail is well marked for you to put down your own tracks for back country style skiing or snowshoeing. The trail system closely hugs a pond and winds in and out of cedar wood forests. Here you may catch a glimpse at a pileated woodpecker and to spot other birds such as the black-backed woodpecker or the Maine state bird, the chickadee.
Houlton Riverfront Park | 9 Miles
This nine-mile round-trip all-season trail offers biking, walking, and snowshoeing. In 2022 this trail tripled in size to guide visitors farther down the river and on both sides, today the trail is 9 miles and some parts remain under construction. As you continue on the trail, cross the Meduxnekeag river over the Gateway Crossing Footbridge. The trail conveniently traverses near downtown Houlton, offering the perfect opportunity to grab a hot chocolate or warm bakery goodie halfway through your adventure.
With wide open spaces and plentiful trails, it's the perfect place to explore on skis. The fresh air and breathtaking scenery will keep you coming back for more. So if you’re looking for a great way to get outdoors in Maine, Aroostook County is definitely the place to be!
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