Frozen Favorites: Family-Friendly Winter Activities in Maine
Winter in Maine is quiet magic – we’ve got snow-covered evergreens, cozy farmhouses, and crackling fires that make slowing down feel effortless. And whether you’re planning a cozy retreat at Three Sisters Farm in Friendship or venturing out for a family adventure, here are some of our favorite ways to embrace the chill and make the most of the season!
Ski & Snowboard Favorites
Maine’s ski mountains offer a mix of serious terrain and family-friendly fun. With choices ranging from neighborhood favorites to day trips options to destination resorts, here are some of our top picks:
Camden Snow Bowl – Just 30 minutes from Friendship, this seaside ski hill offers 20+ trails and an authentically retro vibe. The locals’ favorite, it’s the perfect place for kids to learn to ski and for adults to enjoy a quick, no crowds run down the maintain. It’s the only commercial ski mountain in the US where you can see the ocean from the summit. And bonus points, the Snow Bowl is home to the U.S. National Toboggan Championships each February!
Lost Valley Ski Area (Auburn) – Great for beginners and families, with tubing, night skiing, and a cozy lodge for après-ski cocoa. It’s also under 2 hours from the farm, so easily experienced as a day trip.
Sunday River (Newry) – One of Maine’s largest resorts, perfect for a full-day adventure or weekend trip. It also gets points for being the only one of the big mountains to offer night skiing - super helpful when it gets dark at 4:30!
Sugarloaf Montain– Our favorite of Maine’s big mountains! Independently owned and operated, Sugarloaf has fewer crowds than the options further south, and even bigger vertical drops. In fact, it has the only lift-serviced, above-treeline skiing and snowboarding in the East. But while there are plenty of high-adrenaline trails for the expert skiers, it’s also got some of the kindest ski instructors and a great children’s program.
Celebrate with Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re looking for something with a little less adrenaline, snowshoeing and winter hiking are wonderful way to explore the coast in its quiet season. Bundle up and check out these peaceful trails:
Beech Hill Preserve (Rockport) – This trail is known for its easy incline, sweeping Penobscot Bay views, and charming stone hut at the summit. It’s also close to the village of Rockport, so you can warm up with a fabulous hot beverage at Seafolk Coffee or a delicious meal at Nina June – while enjoying beautiful views of the harbor at both!
Camden Hills State Park (Camden) – This easy-to-access state park has miles of well-marked winter trails for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. The Mt. Battie trail is the most famous. And if you’re hiking between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, be sure to check out the star at the top of the mountain!
Merryspring Nature Center (Camden) – Family-friendly loops, wildlife tracks, and kid-sized discovery trails. It’s also handicap accessible.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse (Rockland) - Bundle up for a mile-long walk across the granite jetty to the historic lighthouse. It’s especially beautiful at sunset – just be sure you’ve got enough light to make it back safely!
Ice Skating & Classic Winter Fun
Whether you prefer a festive rink or a frozen pond, Midcoast Maine delivers:
Frozen Pond Skating – At Three Sisters Farm, guests often find the nearby coves and ponds frozen just right for a few gentle laps. Hosmer Pond in Camden (where the National Taboggon Championships finishes) is a perennial favorite – just please don’t be the first one out on the ice! The locals keep a sharp eye on ice conditions, so it’s always best to check with them before heading out and follow their lead!
Winter Festivals: Don’t miss Rockland’s Pies on Parade in late January - 50+ pies served up in support of local food pantries! And you plan ahead, you can enter the Camden Public Library Ice-Carving Competition during Camden’s WinterFest, a weeklong celebration of winter and cozy community spirit, also typically in late January.
What to Pack for Maine Winter Adventures
Maine’s coastal winters are mostly “cozy cold,” with brisk sea breezes, glittering snow, and sunny days made for exploring – assuming you’re dressed appropriately! To stay toasty and warm, we recommend packing:
Base Layers: Thermal tops and leggings (merino wool is worth it!)
Mid Layers: Fleece or down vests for insulation (or if you’re a cold wimp like me, nothing beats a heated vest for keeping cozy!)
Outerwear: Waterproof parka, snow pants, and gloves
Footwear: Insulated boots with traction (especially for icy trails)
Accessories: Wool hat, neck gaiter, hand warmers, and touchscreen gloves
Extras: Ice cleats, ski goggles, and a thermos for hot cocoa
Pro tip: Keep a “car kit” with blankets, snacks, and extra mittens – that way you’ll be ready whenever an adventure comes your way!
Cozy Evenings at the Farm
After a day of snowy fun, nothing beats returning to a crackling fire, a hearty soup simmering on the stove, and a warm mug of cider. Stock up on local provisions at Beth’s Farm Market in Warren or Bleecker & Greer in Rockport for local produce and treats.
Maine’s winter season invites you to slow down, to breathe in the crisp coastal air, and to rediscover simple pleasures - from sledding and skating to steaming mugs shared around a farmhouse table. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or a full family gathering, Three Sisters Farm makes the perfect home base for all your frozen favorites.