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Nordic Skiing

Terrain

With more than 25 miles of linear groomed cross-country ski trails, Maine Huts & Trails offers one of the most unforgettable Nordic and backcountry skiing experiences in the northeast.

Different than a traditional Nordic center, our backcountry trails are corduroy groomed at 3 feet, with wider sections on flat terrain. Touring and backcountry Nordic skis work best on our trails, leave your track and skate skis for the traditional centers.

Trail Conditions

We post regular updates about current trail conditions on social media. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date trail information.

Trail sign

Suggested Routes

The founders original vision of Maine Huts & Trails was based on skiing hut to hut. The huts vary in distance from 7.6 to 11.8 miles apart, and it will often take a full day to get from one hut to the next. Most Maine Huts & Trails ski routes have a variety of elevation changes that require some ascending and descending skill.

Before embarking on your trip, be sure to look at the elevation changes on the map, and choose a route that matches your ability.

Beginner Skiers

Flagstaff Lake Hut offers our best beginner terrain for families with little ones and those still working to perfect their kick-kick-glide. Enjoy a mellow two-mile ski from the trailhead parking lot to the hut with minimal elevation changes and stunning lake views.

Intermediate and Advanced Skiers

Skiers looking for a two hut trip starting and finishing at the same trailhead will love the Stratton Brook Hut to Poplar Stream trip from Airport Trailhead. The trail to Stratton Brook Hut feature a significant climb for the last mile that inexperienced skiers may find challenging. Poplar Hut also has intermediate trails that will require control on descents and climbing.

Adventurers looking for more miles can choose from a two hut Flagstaff Lake/Poplar Stream Hut trip, or stay at all three huts.

Rental Equipment, Apparel, and Maintenance

Cross-country ski equipment and snowshoes are available for rent at the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center. The Outdoor Center is a great resource for area trail information; ski tuning, waxing, supplies; lessons and more.

Visit the Outdoor Center online or call (207) 237-6830.

Best Maine Hut Destinations for Nordic Skiing

  • Stratton Brook Hut Image of the Stratton Brook Hut with wood sides after a snowfall with snow in the trees.

    Getting to Stratton Brook Hut requires a moderate ascent of just over 600ft of elevation. Visitors should be prepared for a hearty workout on the way up and a fun, fast descent on the way down. When to Visit Stratton Brook Hut Our eco-lodge is open primarily during our winter season (late December through mid […]

  • Poplar Stream Hut The Poplar Falls Hut with tan wood siding and a metal roof in winter. A cross country ski trail is in the foreground.

    Poplar Stream Hut is the closest hut to our Kingfield office and can be accessed from the Airport Trailhead in Carrabassett Valley. Reaching the hut requires crossing land owned by the Penobscot Indian Nation and leased by Maine Huts & Trails. Please be respectful of the land and wildlife as you enjoy a gentle ascent […]

  • Flagstaff Lake Hut Arriving at Flagstaff Hut

    A two mile hike from the trailhead will deliver you to a picturesque lakeside vista before reaching the hut where you can kick back and relax. Our most popular hut, Flagstaff is a great “first hut” for new visitors and for wildlife enthusiasts. Birders will see kingfishers, loons, and pileated woodpeckers. Deer, beavers, and playful […]

  • Grand Falls Hut (Closed)

    Winter travel makes Grand Falls Hut a true backcountry experience. Best accessed by skiers and fat bikers, travelers will enjoy the breathtaking Northern Maine views. To Access Grand Falls Hut during the summer, please use Lower Enchanted or Big Eddy Trailhead. West Forks is not recommended. Grand Falls Hut Amenities Hot showers, sinks with mirrors, and composting toilets Access […]