Dec 15

Last week we had a cold snap that warmed the hearts of snowmakers all over Maine. But mild temperatures came and pushed back projected opening dates for many of Maine’s ski areas. Expect more seasonal, cooler temperatures this weekend. Which should make the snowmakers happy again.

And there’s talk of getting a couple storms between now and Christmas. Hopefully one will come before school break so ski areas can be ready for next week’s planned openings.

Opening Weekend… Maybe

This was shaping up to be a busy weekend for skiers. Here’s what we have scheduled for ski resort openings.

• Mt. Abram Ski Resort: Dec.22 (Originally scheduled this weekend.)
• Big Rock Ski Resort: Dec. 23 (Originally scheduled this weekend.)
• Black Mountain: Dec. 26
• Camden Snow Bowl: Dec. 22 (Originally scheduled this weekend.)
• Hermon Mountain: Dec. 21 (Was shooting for this weekend too.)
• Lonesome Pine: Dec. 17 (Actually only the Kiddie Tow will be open. They hope to have more trails Dec. 23.)
• Lost Valley: Dec. 21 (That was moved back almost a week.)
• Saddleback: Dec. 17 (They’re pretty sure they will have at least three trails open.)
• Shawnee Peak: Dec. 17 (They fully expect to be open Saturday.)

There you have it. Maine skiers have fewer options this weekend than thought. Some of these are delayed to the middle of next week (when school vacation starts). But before you head anywhere, maybe you should make a phone call to make sure they have trails open.

So let’s look at what’s happening at the few ski areas that are open.

Saddleback

They scheduled Sunday to be a $29 Maine Day but Saturday lift tickets will only cost $29 too. Despite only planning on three trails, all services and amenities will be available.

Sugarloaf

The new Skyline lift is opening at noon Saturday. The first 100 people on it will receive free, commemorative T-shirts.

Sunday River

First of all, the Chondola is running. Second, it’s Winterfest this weekend at Sunday River. That means special events and deals all weekend.

Did I miss anything? Well let me know by sending an e-mail to schusster@carlnatale.com. You can see more events as Maine’s ski season takes shape on our ski calendarand get up to speed on all the ski area deals. I’m also going to be sharing events, news and snow reports on Twitter as @Schusster. Follow me for everything you need to know to plan your next ski trip.

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