Lookin’ for stuff to do this weekend? Here is our status on outdoor activities and current conditions in the area. First off weather; it’s looking like Saturday will be the pick of the weekend as that’s the day we should see some bright sunshine. Temperatures are still a bit chilly especially after experiencing last week’s record breaking heat. Temps here in Carrabassett Valley should top out in the mid 40’s with overnight lows in the lower to mid 20’s… The day on Sunday looks to bring clouds and and a chance of some light snow in the afternoon, possibly mixing with some sleet. Temps will top out around 40 during the day and should hit the low 20s overnight.
Ok, now that you know the weather forecast, let’s get into what there is to do outside. Most of the snow in the lower elevations has melted. Although you may encounter an inch or so, it’s not worth putting your snowshoes or XC Skis on, although traction wear for your feet would be a good thing to have.
Hiking: Maine Huts and Trails offers many options to get out and experience some mellow hiking and even stop by one of their three huts for lunch or possibly an overnight stay. We hiked the “Larry’s Loop” trail from the Narrow Gauge trailhead in Carrabassett this past Wednesday and it was very pleasant.
The Narrow Gauge Pathway, with trailheads at the Campbell Field parking area (recommended), the new recreational parking area behing the Carrabassett Inn, and Bigelow Station, is all clear and offers many options and side trails free of snow. A great option from the Campbell Field parking area is a hike up to Crommett Overlook. For more on this, see the video package in the local activities section of this website.
The Sugarloaf Outdoor Center also offers a variety of trails to hike and explore as well. It may be a good idea to grab an Outdoor Center trail map before you head out.
Feeling adventurous and willing to put on a couple extra layers? Flagstaff Lake is an option if you’d like to dust off the canoe or kayak and get on the water for some paddling. Prefered put-ins are at the boat launch just north of Stratton on 27 or try putting in at Myers beach by driving to the end of the Flagstaff Rd. just past the Pines Market on Rt 27. The views of the Bigelows from the lake are simply breathtaking. Be sure to stop by Fotters Market in Stratton for your food supplies.
Heading south, a neat spot to check out is Daggett Rock. Located off the Wheeler Hill Rd in Phillips.Dagget is a gigantic glacial erratic that was transported from the Saddleback Mtn. area. Upon coming to rest the rock cracked into three pieces and is a short easy hike to get to, and a fun picnic spot. You can find the Wheeler Hill road by heading west on Rt 142 in the center of Kingfield.
Of course, there is skiing on Sugarloaf as well as Saddleback mtns as both resorts have seen snowmaking this past week and should be in great early spring form. If you’re at Sugarloaf and don’t feel like skiing it’s a great idea to go hang out on Sugarloaf’s beach area (in front of the Baselodge) while a live DJ spins tunes and folks enjoy the sunshine with an amazing view of the mtn. Ski boots not required.
Last but not least get out and enjoy the local artists and artisans work as you’ll find the quaint villages in the area are full of galleries and local shops to find that special something to bring home or to refuel that empty stomach for your next adventure.
This is a great time of year to enjoy this area. Number one reason…. no blackflies!
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