Snowy and Freezing? It's the Perfect Time to Play Outside in Maine

Outdoor enthusiasts say the conditions have been great for everything from snowmobiling to ice skating to skiing.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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This winter has been frigid and snowy in Maine, leading to a surge in outdoor activities like snowmobiling, skiing, and ice climbing. Ski resorts have seen a spike in visitors, while businesses that cater to snowmobilers are thriving. The snowy conditions have also been a boon for gear rental companies like Maine GearShare, which has seen a significant increase in reservations compared to previous years.

Why it matters

The abundance of snow and cold temperatures in Maine this winter has provided a much-needed boost for the state's outdoor recreation industry, which has struggled in recent years due to milder and less snowy winters. This winter's conditions have allowed Mainers and visitors to fully embrace the state's winter activities, supporting local businesses and providing a sense of community around shared outdoor experiences.

The details

Ski resorts like Saddleback Mountain and Mt. Abram have seen a significant increase in visitors, with Saddleback reporting a 20% jump in visitors over the Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend compared to the previous year. Snowmobile clubs and businesses that cater to riders have also benefited, with the Maine Snowmobile Association reporting that people are riding in areas that don't typically see much snowfall. Gear rental companies like Maine GearShare have also seen a surge in demand, filling more reservations in January 2026 than in all of 2024.

  • This winter has been frigid and snowy so far.
  • In late January, a snowstorm dumped 1-2 feet of snow across the state, which Allie Masten, marketing director at Mt. Abram, described as 'once in 20 years'.
  • Maine GearShare filled 82 reservations for winter equipment in January 2026, more than in all of 2024.

The players

Molly O'Connor

An employee at Maine GearShare, a nonprofit that rents outdoor equipment for all seasons.

Emily Mackeown

The assistant director of Maine GearShare.

Ethan Austin

The director of marketing at Saddleback Mountain in Rangeley.

Allie Masten

The marketing director at Mt. Abram in Greenwood.

Noah Kleiner

The founder and owner of Equinox Guiding Service in Camden, who spends much of the winter ice climbing.

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What they’re saying

“We are seeing that gear get used a lot.”

— Emily Mackeown, Assistant Director, Maine GearShare

“You can't go wrong right now. It's the best of everything at the moment.”

— Jefferson Tucker, Director, Quarry Road Trails in Waterville

“When people see the snow, they start thinking about winter.”

— Ethan Austin, Director of Marketing, Saddleback Mountain

“We don't get dry, fluffy snow like that on the East Coast. Shoveling it wasn't bad, and skiing it was really great.”

— Allie Masten, Marketing Director, Mt. Abram

“It's just a matter of managing the risks around the conditions. People that want to go outside want to go outside.”

— Noah Kleiner, Founder and Owner, Equinox Guiding Service

What’s next

The Maine Snowmobile Association expects the snowy conditions to continue, with snowmobilers already riding in areas that don't typically see much snowfall. Ski resorts and outdoor gear rental companies are also anticipating a strong finish to the winter season.

The takeaway

This winter's abundant snow and freezing temperatures have provided a much-needed boost to Maine's outdoor recreation industry, allowing residents and visitors to fully embrace the state's winter activities and supporting local businesses that cater to these enthusiasts. The success of this season highlights the importance of reliable winter weather conditions for the state's tourism and recreation economy.