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.
The Thrill of Down-hill Skiing at Sunday River
Sunday River Resort offers 884 acres of pure white snow with 139 trails, 2,340 vertical feet, and 19 lifts. This is truly a winter wonderland and one of the most popular ski destinations in Maine. If you love winter and snow, the short 45-50 minute drive is well worth your time. An exhilarating day on the slopes deserves a session in the sauna when you return to your room at Wolf Cove Inn.
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
Seacoast Adventure provides the ultimate experience in snow tubing. They offer tickets in two-hour sessions — tickets are limited and the number of open lanes may vary but the price remains constant. You can order your tickets online and be sure to check out their snow park policies before you go. Prepare for some snow-skimming fun and step onto the carpet lift to bring you swiftly back to the top of the hill. Opening day is scheduled for late December and runs open sessions on Fridays, 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!