Now that the holiday festivities are winding down, it’s time to start discovering the top things to do in Maine in January. Jack Frost may be nipping at your nose, but we keep the fireplaces stoked at our little slice of heaven on Tripp Lake. So, start planning your winter getaways. Rest assured you’ll have a warm and cozy place to come home to after playing in the snow.
One of the most remarkable discoveries about living and working in Poland, Maine, is the incredible array of outdoor adventures every season offers. Now that we’re in the third season of our new adventure as innkeepers, we’re overjoyed to learn about the wonderful experiences that await our guests in Maine’s winter wonderland. Of course, skiing and snowshoeing top the winter fun list. How about trying something a little different for a change?
Ultimate Dog-Sledding Experience
Have you ever wanted to cry “Mush!” and speed through the snow on a sled powered by a team of dogs? Well, that’s certainly possible when you book an Ultimate Dog Sledding Experience with a professional. Choose a 1- or 2-hour experience for a thrilling ride through the wilderness. For the quintessential dog-sledding adventure, try the full-day introduction to dog-sledding. You will learn how to harness the team and navigate the trails with newly learned mushing commands.
Cross-Country Ski at a Beer Garden
If you enjoy cross-country skiing, take the fun up a notch! Glide through the trails behind an authentic beer garden in nearby Oxford. Designed with indoor and outdoor seating, the beer garden promises a frosty ale or lager and a scratch-made pizza after a long run through fields and forests on skis, snowshoes, or a fat bike.
Get Outside at Pineland Farms
With over 5,000 acres of fields and farmlands, Pineland Farms maintains a network of trails and loops for various outdoor fun. Sled down the giant hill. Ski or snowshoe 80 kilometers of groomed trails. Or, rent a fat bike and share the joy with fellow bikers. At the end of the day, visit the market and pick up something from the deli to enjoy on-site or take home with you.
Skijoring at New England Dog-Sledding
Another unique adventure found along the Maine and New Hampshire borders is skijoring. It combines Nordic skiing with the power of well-trained dogs leading the charge. A relatively new sport, the only equipment needed are skis and poles, a harness for you and the dog, and a skijoring line with quick release. The sport requires excellent communication between the skier and the dog but offers exhilaration for both.
Snow Tubing at Lost Valley Ski Area
Lost Valley Ski Area is known for its family-friendly ski trails. They now offer weekend snow tubing that you can book in 1-hour sessions. And the best part? There’s no uphill trekking dragging a tube. Just grab onto the rope tow and whisk your way to the top of the hill. Glide down a 600-foot groomed tubing trail under the lights on Friday nights or during the day on Saturdays and Sundays.
Book a Sauna Oasis at the Wolf Cove Inn
Our new Sauna Oasis combines the health benefits of a sauna with the beauty of Tripp Lake’s natural surroundings. Book a one-hour session and experience complete relaxation after a full day of playing in the snow. Step out of the sauna into the semi-private oasis. Rehydrate with a refreshing cup of herbal tea or a chilled bottle of Poland spring water. It’s the best way to end the day after experiencing one of the top things to do in Maine in January.
Check availability now — we can’t wait to host your stay!
Published December 2023