Start the New Year with New Adventures in the MidCoast!

From thrilling high-speed rides at the U.S. National Toboggan Championships to peaceful snowshoe hikes through frosted forests, winter in the MidCoast offers unforgettable experiences. During this time of year, the stars shine brighter, the hot cocoa tastes richer, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy your winter getaway. Here are some of our best outdoor activities and events.

 

 

U.S. National Toboggan Championships – Camden Snow Bowl

Feb. 6-8, 2026

The 35^th U.S. National Toboggan Championships will be one of the most thrilling and occasionally craziest outdoor winter events in the U.S. Over 400 teams will brave the cold and plummet down the icy wooden chute that ends on the frozen surface of Hosmer Pond below. Toboggans can reach over 40 mph. A huge crowd of locals and visitors will be bundled up and gathered around fire pits to cheer the teams on. With team names like “Runaway Brides” and “Sled Man Walking”, you can imagine what the costumes are like.

 

 

Thompson Ice House Ice Harvest – South Bristol

February 15

Every year, hundreds of people from Maine and some from around the world gather to try their hand at sawing and hauling ice from Thompson Pond. The harvest is a long-standing tradition that uses traditional ice-harvesting tools to cut a channel, then float and guide ice blocks to the historic ice house. All ages can enjoy sawing through the ice and moving large blocks of ice along the water. Finish the day by enjoying hand-cranked ice cream at the Ice Cream Social.

 

 

Ski and Ride the Sea – Camden Snow Bowl

Something special happens every time skiers and snowboarders ride the triple chairlift to the top of Camden Snow Bowl. Looking beyond the trails, you are greeted with breathtaking views of the ocean just five miles away. No other ski area in the lower 48 states offers the same experience. With 1,000 feet of vertical fun, you’ll find trails for all skiing and snowboarding skill levels during the day and for night skiing. Take a look at the live stream webcam 24/7.

 

 

State of Maine 2026 Ice Carving Championship – Belfast

February 27–March 1

For three days, downtown Belfast will be filled with stunning ice sculptures and ice bars created by both amateur and professional ice carvers. Enjoy a drink at one of the ice bars and watch as hand tool carvers, followed by chainsaw carvers, craft artistic sculptures for the fifth annual State of Maine Ice Carving Championship. All ice carvings are judged by a panel of guest judges, with cash prizes awarded to the winners. The festival begins on Friday evening with the Frost & Flannel Ice Ball at the Belfast Boat House. Dress in your favorite flannel or go all out with a ball gown and tiara.

 

 

Snowshoeing – Outdoors at Your Own Pace

To enjoy nature at a slower pace, few outdoor activities rival snowshoeing. It’s one of Maine’s top winter activities because you can snowshoe almost anywhere. Modern snowshoes are lighter and designed for terrain ranging from rolling meadows to steep mountain climbs. Rentals and lessons are available at shops throughout the region. The MidCoast offers many hiking and walking trails. For first-time snowshoers and families, Long Cove Headwaters Preserve in Searsport provides 3 miles of easy trails. Another beautiful hike is Fernald’s Neck Preserve near Lincolnville. Its 1.7-mile trail will take you to several points along Megunticook Lake.

 

 

MidCoast Cross-Country Trails

The MidCoast offers miles of multi-use and cross-country trails through dense woods, across meadows, and along rocky ocean shores. Some ski centers have trailside warming huts and lights for nighttime skiing. Here are just two to consider: In Jefferson, the Hidden Valley Nature Center contains 1,000 acres of protected land, including over a mile of shoreline on Little Dyer Pond. For a truly unique cross-country experience, visit Holbrook Island Sanctuary in Brooksville. The island features diverse terrain and elusive wildlife, including otters, beavers, foxes, and even bobcats.

 

 

Ice Skating – The Joy of Gliding

Once our ponds and lakes freeze solid, skaters of all ages can enjoy the thrill of gliding across the ice. While some may dream of Olympic jumps, most find joy in the feel of smooth steel blades on ice. Learn the basics, like the Swizzle, at indoor rinks or with friends, and discover public skating options at Goddard’s Pond in Bath and the Brunswick Mall Rink. Need rental skates? Visit Maine Sport Outfitters in Camden.

 

 

Fat Tire Biking – Float Over the Snow

Riding fat bikes in the snow is a fun, easy way to enjoy winter scenery. With 4–6 inch tires, these bikes glide over crunchy snow, allowing you to cruise through fresh powder. Unlike sprinting on a summer ride, fat biking is best done slowly and steadily, making it a great social activity where everyone takes their time. The large tires and extra weight provide a comfortable, buoyant feel and help soften falls in the snow. Many local shops rent fat bikes and can suggest good trails, making it simple to get out and explore.

 

 

“It’s Ice Fishing – Not Catching”

First-time ice fishers are often enchanted by the winter scenery rather than solely concentrating on catching fish. Ice fishing is more about enjoying the outdoors and appreciating peaceful moments on frozen ponds and lakes. You need a fishing license for the season from January 1 to March 31, and the State of Maine provides a helpful beginner’s guide. Popular locations include Chewonki Pond and Megunticook Lake, with equipment available at local shops like Johnson’s Sporting Goods in Rockland and Brunswick.

 

 

Explore the MidCoast by Snowmobile

For an adrenaline rush and stunning views, a snowmobiling trip is hard to match. The MidCoast region offers countless miles of trails that showcase beautiful winter landscapes. The Maine Snowmobile Association provides trip planning maps and a helpful list of clubs to contact. Over 40 miles of groomed trails connect Appleton and Liberty to Waldoboro. This extensive trail system is maintained by the Washington Hill & Gully Riders, one of more than 280 snowmobile clubs in Maine.

 

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly outing in the snow this winter, learn more about skijoring. If you’re thinking about a MidCoast Maine adventure this year, now’s the time to start planning! We have ideas, tips and resources to help you to plan the perfect getaway.