Best Places to Snowmobile in Maine

The Northeastern region of the US turns into a winter wonderland every season, offering many opportunities for snowmobilers who live or visit here. Maine is as far northeast as you can get, and there are plenty of places to ride. 

I’m Chaz, a snowmobile enthusiast who has been riding for nearly 30 years. I’ve ventured all over North America and have had to opportunity to explore the northeastern US a few times. 

In this post, I’ll list some of the best places to snowmobile in Maine. It’s a beautiful region of the country, and even though the days are short in winter, trails and snow are abundant. 

Put down that lobster, and let’s get out in the snow!

1. Aroostook County

The top spot on this list belongs to Aroostook County. This is a remote area that takes some effort to get to, and it’s the most northeastern location you can reach in Maine, which makes it at the edges of the US. 

Snowmobiling was initially born out of necessity here, with the few people who live in the area needing a reliable way to navigate the long winter months every year. It has grown into a popular snowmobile destination for state residents and visitors from all corners of the globe. 

There is an extensive network of trails in Aroostook, and they are well-maintained and varied in terrain and difficulty. Many of these trails are railroads when there isn’t snow, so they span out across the area and beyond. 

Snowmobile clubs maintain many of the trails, and they are well-groomed and mark, making the area a good place for beginners. But there is also a lot of more off-trail land to explore for anyone with winter adventure in mind. 

You can find a lot of amenities and businesses that cater to your snowmobile needs while you are here. There are also several fun winter gatherings in Aroostook that have the feel of a snowmobile festival or tailgate party. 

Here’s a snowmobile trail map for Aroostook County

2. Coburn Mountain

Coburn Mountain is the highest groomed trail in Maine. You can reach a height of 3,717 feet, and it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The trail up to the top is a dead-end trail that climbs 2,500 feet. 

Once you get to the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of New England that will be hard to beat if you get a clear day and make it while the sun is still out. You can climb a tower at the top of the mountain for an even better view – just hang on tight if you do. 

Even though Coburn is hyped as the highest groomed trail in the state, it’s not always groomed to the top. If there is too much snow, the final mile can be pretty technical and should only be ridden by those with experience. 

Coburn Mountian is a top destination and can get crowded, especially on the weekends. It’s also a relatively short ride. You can extend the journey by visiting Grand Falls, which is about 10 miles away on Trail 89.

3. Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake is another top spot to go snowmobiling in Maine. The Moosehead Trail goes all the way around the lake, which ends up being a 164-mile round trip loop if you want to make a day or two of it.  

It’s a beautiful area of the state and offers excellent views and a good environment for riders of all abilities. If you want to take the lake loop, you’ll see plenty of places to stop for gas, food, or lodging along the way. 

There are other trails and areas to explore in the Moosehead Lake region. A guided trip is an excellent way to go if you are unfamiliar with the region, and there are guide services and outfitters in the area. 

The Lodge at Moosehead Lake is a pretty sweet hotel that provides an attractive place to rest after a long day on the trails. 

Here’s a trail map of the Moosehead Lake region of Maine.

4. Bingham Wind Farm

Bingham Wind Farm is another destination spot that gets heavily frequented by snowmobilers. There is an army of giant windmills you ride through here, and their spinning blades generate a lot of electricity for the state of Maine. 

The trails’ views are excellent, and you can access the farm as part of the Interconnected Trail System. Take Trail 87 from The Forks to work your way towards Bingham, and you’ll have a few good stops along the way as well. 

It’s kind of a surreal experience riding on a sled with the human-made towers cutting through the winter’s wind above you. It makes for a memorable experience and a great opportunity to take some incredible photos when you’re out on the trail. 

5. Greenville B-52 Crash Site

If you want to mix the feel of a treasure hunt with your snowmobiling, there is a B-52 crash site just outside of the town of Greenville. The plane crashed over 50 years ago, but debris is still scattered in the area, and you can access it on your sled. 

It’s not all that difficult to find, as it’s a well-known location, but it still is recommended because of the fun factor. There is also a memorial explaining how the plane crashed and remembering the victims here. 

You can find the crash site off of Trail 110 near Greenville. I won’t link a direct map because that would take some of the fun out of the treasure hunt. Ask a local or look on a map when you get here, and it should be fairly easy to find. 

Final Thoughts

Maine is an adventure during the winter. It takes some effort to get here but is well worth the trip. Any of the places mentioned above will give you a taste of the fantastic snowmobiling opportunities you can find here. 

For a look at all of the trails found in Maine, check out the ITS trail maps here

Have you been to Maine in the winter? Did you go snowmobiling? 

About Chaz Wyland
I’m a snowmobile fanatic. I live for riding and am out on the trails or backcountry as often as possible during the winter months. I was born and raised in the Rocky Mountains and have snowmobiled in dozens of North American locations. When the snow is falling, you’ll find me on a sled.

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  • Laura Burke

    Hey! Wondering if you can be of some assistance! My husband and I are starting to plan a quick weekend trip in late January. We live in south Georgia and want head out somewhere cold for an adventure. Specifically snowmobiling! Looking at both Maine and Colorado since we don’t have a lot of time to allow for travel. Any suggestions on specific places? I’m looking for deep tree covered trails!

    Reply
    • Chaz Wyland

      Hi Laura,

      Both Maine and Colorado have some pretty awesome snowmobiling opportunities. I’m more partial to the west, so I think Colorado has a lot to offer. There are some areas around Steamboat Springs and Breckenridge that might be what you are looking for. Check out some local outfitters in those regions for any specific questions. I think you’ll have more snow and better conditions that time of year than in Maine. But there are some solid spots in Maine if that’s closer to where you live. My guess is you’ll be pretty stoked about either location! Hope that helps and that you have a solid trip.

      Reply
  • John

    Hi Chaz, have you ever done a trail riding in Europe?

    Reply
    • Chaz Wyland

      Hi John,

      I haven’t had the chance to go trail riding in Europe yet. I would love to, of course, but it’s never worked out. I’m all ears if you have any tips or suggested places to explore. I hope you’re having a good winter!

      Reply