Cross-country skiers are hoping for an early snowfall in Acadia National Park, where the carriage roads provide an excellent course.

The carriage roads carry skiers inland past steep, snow-covered mountains and frozen ponds on the eastern half of the island. This year, the National Park Services will groom more than 30 miles of carriage roads.

The Mount Desert Island YMCA and Cadillac Mountain Sports are sponsoring the Third Annual Acadia Crossing, a popular race for cross-country skiers. The race will start at 11 a.m. on Jan. 16, 1993, with the snow date scheduled for Feb. 6, 1993. The 15-kilometer race will offer classic and freestyle divisions.

The first Acadia Crossing in January 1991 attracted 57 skiers, while more than 70 people raced in 1992. During the race, the Acadia Corp. will open its heated dormitory near the Jordan Pond House; skiers can use this facility as a place to warm their chilled bodies, wax their skis, and grab a snack or a hot cup of coffee.

For additional information about the Acadia Crossing, contact the Bar Harbor YMCA at 288-3511.