Ski Resorts in Maine

First, expel the illusion that Maine in the wintertime means sub-zero temperatures, backwoods isolation, and impassable, snow-drift-covered roads. While the northern regions of the state may live up to this sub-arctic reputation, skiers in the know realize that the southern end of Maine hosts two of New England’s most exciting and revered ski resorts. The American Skiing Company calls Sunday River Resort home—and with just cause: a 90-minute drive from Portland puts you at the feet of all kinds of terrain, from bumps and jumps to groomers and solid ski school classes. Combine that with a total vertical descent of 2,340 feet and enough runs to invite doubling up only when you simply must hit that line again and you’ve got a stellar winter recipe. Sugarloaf, on the other hand, may live up to Maine’s reputation for remoteness, but those willing to make the drive will be amply rewarded. The resort is the only one that offers lift-service entry to above-the-tree-line steeps in New England, and the massive mountain size assures plenty of terrain and condition variety.