Sugarloaf Mountain

Enjoy Maine's Largest Ski Resort

Sugarloaf Mountain is the heart of winter in Carrabassett Valley, offering 162 trails and glades spread across 1,360 skiable acres. The terrain caters to all levels, from gentle groomers for beginners to steep expert runs like the famous White Nitro. For the more adventurous, Brackett Basin offers tree skiing and backcountry access, providing some of the most thrilling terrain in the East.

Highlights:

• Maine’s largest ski area and the second-highest peak at 4,237 feet.
• A state-of-the-art snowmaking system ensures excellent conditions throughout the season.
• Sugarloaf’s high-speed lifts get you up the mountain quickly so you can spend more time skiing.

Explore the Valley on Snowshoes
Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Carrabassett Valley at your own pace. The trails at the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center are well-marked and perfect for all skill levels, while the extensive network of Maine Huts & Trails provides opportunities to explore further into the backcountry. Many trails wind through quiet wooded areas and past peaceful streams, making snowshoeing a truly tranquil winter activity.

Highlights:

• Snowshoe rentals are available at the Outdoor Center.
• Maine Huts & Trails features scenic routes connecting to eco-friendly huts for warming up or overnight stays.
• Accessible trails provide options for families and solo explorers alike.

Winter Cycling Adventures
Fat biking has become one of the most popular ways to explore Carrabassett Valley in winter. With wide tires designed for riding on packed snow, fat bikes allow you to cruise through the scenic wilderness. The Narrow Gauge Pathway is a favorite, offering a flat, easy ride along the Carrabassett River, while trails maintained by Maine Huts & Trails let you take your winter adventure deeper into the backcountry.

Highlights:

• Rentals are available at local shops for those new to the sport.
• Multi-use trails accommodate fat biking, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing.
• A fun and unique way to enjoy the winter landscape, even for non-cyclists.

Nordic Serenity at the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center
For those looking to experience the quiet beauty of winter, the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center offers over 90 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails. These trails wind through serene forests, with options for both classic and skate skiing. The views of the Bigelow Mountain Range add an unforgettable backdrop to your Nordic adventure.

Highlights:

• Trails range from beginner-friendly loops to challenging routes for experienced skiers.
• Rentals and lessons are available for those new to the sport.
• Warm up at the lodge with snacks and drinks after your outing.

Explore Scenic Trails in Maine’s Wilderness
Carrabassett Valley is surrounded by some of the most picturesque hiking trails in Maine, offering breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and lakes. From family-friendly walks to challenging treks, the area caters to hikers of all skill levels.

Highlights:

• Appalachian Trail: Traverse sections of this iconic trail, including access points to the Bigelow Mountain Range.
• Burnt Mountain Trail: A challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of Sugarloaf and beyond.
• Poplar Stream Falls Trail: A family-friendly hike leading to two beautiful waterfalls.

Whether it's a peaceful walk or an all-day adventure, the trails in Carrabassett Valley won’t disappoint.

Ride World-Class Trails
Carrabassett Valley is a premier destination for mountain biking, featuring a vast network of trails. Whether you’re tackling rugged singletrack or cruising beginner-friendly paths, the area offers some of the best riding in the Northeast as well as events like the Carrabassett Backcountry Cycle Challenge.

Highlights:

• Carrabassett Valley Trails: Over 100 miles of maintained trails, including access to Sugarloaf’s lift-serviced bike park.
• Narrow Gauge Pathway: A flat, scenic trail along the Carrabassett River, perfect for beginners and families.
• Trail Connectivity: Many routes link to Maine Huts & Trails, offering opportunities for extended adventures.

Local shops offer rentals, repairs, and classes to help you make the most of your biking experience.

Tee Off at Sugarloaf Golf Club
Ranked as one of the top mountain courses in New England, the Sugarloaf Golf Club offers a truly unique golfing experience. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this 18-hole course is set against the stunning backdrop of the Bigelow Mountain Range.

Highlights:

• Sweeping mountain views on every hole.
• A challenging yet rewarding layout for golfers of all skill levels.
• On-site pro shop and dining options.

Whether you’re an avid golfer or a beginner, the Sugarloaf Golf Club is a must-visit for a summer day on the greens.

Discover the Beauty of Flagstaff Lake
Just minutes from Carrabassett Valley, Flagstaff Lake offers a peaceful retreat for water enthusiasts. Surrounded by mountains, this pristine lake is ideal for paddling, swimming, and fishing.

Highlights:

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent gear locally and explore the lake’s calm waters.
• Swimming: Cool off with a dip at one of the many access points along the shore.
• Fishing: Cast a line and enjoy a relaxing day by the water.

For more adventurous water activities, the nearby Kennebec River offers opportunities for whitewater rafting and tubing.

Ascend Mount Bigelow's West Peak

The Fire Warden's Trail is a popular and challenging route leading to the West Peak of Mount Bigelow. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Flagstaff Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-marked and traverses diverse terrains, including dense forests and open ridgelines.

Highlights:

• Length: Approximately 8.2 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Features: Scenic vistas, diverse ecosystems

This trail is ideal for experienced hikers looking for a rewarding day hike.

Short Hike with Panoramic Views

The Burnt Hill Hiking Trail offers a short but advanced hike leading to a summit with 360-degree views, including nearby Sugarloaf, Spaulding, and Crocker Mountains. The trail is steep in sections but provides a quick ascent to stunning vistas.

Highlights:

• Length: 5.6 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Advanced
• Features: Panoramic mountain views

Perfect for hikers seeking a brief yet challenging trek with rewarding scenery.

Stratton Brook Hut Loop via Oak Knoll and Newton's Revenge
Scenic Loop to a Backcountry Hut

This moderate loop trail leads to the Stratton Brook Hut, part of the Maine Huts & Trails system. The route passes through mixed forests and offers occasional views of the surrounding hills. The hut provides a perfect spot for a rest or picnic before completing the loop.

Highlights:

• Length: 7.3 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Features: Backcountry hut, forested paths

Ideal for families and hikers looking for a leisurely day hike with amenities.

Poplar Hut via Poplar Stream Trail and Larry's Trail
Family-Friendly Hike to a Cozy Hut

This moderate trail leads to the Poplar Hut, another gem in the Maine Huts & Trails network. The path follows Poplar Stream and meanders through hardwood forests, offering a serene hiking experience. The hut at the end provides a welcoming spot to relax before heading back.

Highlights:

• Length: 6.0 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Features: Streamside views, backcountry hut

A great option for those seeking a peaceful hike with the comfort of a hut along the way.

Moderate Trek with Stunning Lake Views

The Cranberry Peak Trail offers a moderate hike with rewarding views of Stratton and Flagstaff Lake. The trail is well-maintained and provides a mix of forested areas and open ledges, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Highlights:

• Length: 3.2 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Features: Lake vistas, varied terrain

Suitable for hikers looking for a scenic day hike with moderate challenges