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The wind in your hair. The sun on your face. The slush on your skis.
What’s not to love about spring skiing – and snowboarding – in Maine?
There are no lines, no crowds on the trails, and you don’t really need a coat, either.
“I think it’s really the combination of being able to enjoy a winter sport, wearing not as much clothes and feeling the wind in your hair, because you don’t have to wear a hat,” said Bill Swain, the communications director at Sugarloaf. “It’s kind of a relief from the cabin fever of winter.”
There’s a tradeoff for those warmer temperatures, however. It can get a bit foggy, and the snow’s a little sticky (during a recent visit, the snow at Sugarloaf’s base had the consistency of a thick Slurpee). But think of it this way: If you want a workout, skip the gym and hit the slopes – three runs down the mountain and you’ll feel like you spent three hours on the StairMaster.
Swain says “corn snow” is typical for spring at Sugarloaf. As the snow warms during the day and freezes at night, it takes on a kernellike texture. Whereas winter conditions are cold, dry and fast, spring’s wetter, heavier snow makes for a slower, more forgiving experience, even on moguls.
“As far as skiing goes, it’s really easy to turn in snow with a soft consistency,” Swain said.
And the occasional patch of grass or dirt adds a little intrigue.
“That’s part of the fun, too,” Swain said.
The erratic weather has made conditions a bit unusual for this time of year. Warm rain, a small snowstorm, a cold snap and then a thaw makes for a mixed bag on the trails. At Saddleback, which is the state’s second-highest ski mountain, last week’s snowfall yielded “excellent” skiing, according to a spokeswoman. At Sunday River, it made conditions variable, with firm, powdery spots, a few icy areas, and some soft, more granular snow.
“There’s some good skiing, but it’s different than you’d expect from April,” said Sunday River spokeswoman Susan DuPlessis.
Swain says the snow is only part of the spring experience. This time of year, it’s not uncommon to see people eating lunch outdoors at the base lodge. Sugarloaf is gearing up for its annual Reggae Fest, which boasts live music, a party on the slopeside “beach,” and plenty of eating, drinking and merriment for snow bunnies and flatlanders alike.
“Spring skiing isn’t always just about skiing,” Swain said. “It’s about being outside and being able to enjoy the day. That’s part of the appeal.”
Kristen Andresen can be reached at 990-8287 or kandresen@bangordailynews.net.
Spring skiing options
Many ski areas are closed this time of year, so you should call ahead, but the following resorts are scheduled to stay open through the end of April.
. Sugarloaf, Carrabassett Valley, www.sugarloaf.com, (800) THE-LOAF. Midweek ticket prices for adults dropped to $35, and starting April 18, all passes will cost $35. Spring Weekender packages, which include lift tickets and lodging in slopeside condos, the Sugarloaf Inn or the Grand Summit Hotel, start at $59 per person. For the 21-plus crowd, the ever-popular Budweiser Reggae Fest will take place April 15-18, with live bands and an outdoor “beach” party. Call or check the Web for details.
. Sunday River, Newry, www.sundayriver.com, 824-3000 or (800) 543-2SKI for lodging reservations. Ticket prices have dropped to $39 per person for adults and young adults and $29 for juniors and seniors through the end of this week. Rates are subject to change on Monday. Ski & Stay packages, which include lift tickets and lodging at a condominium, the Snow Cap Inn or the Grand Resort Hotels, start at $59 per person.
. Saddleback Mountain, Rangely, www.saddlebackmaine.com, 864-5671. Midweek ticket prices have dropped to $28 per person for adults, while weekend passes cost $35. During April vacation week, April 18-24, all tickets will cost $20.
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