How to Go Skiing in Big Rock, Maine

The Big Rock Ski Area is in Aroostook County (the northernmost county in Maine), near the town of Mars Hill. This ski resort boasts the largest vertical drop in Maine (980 feet), a summit of 1,641 feet and 60 skiable acres. It is owned by the Maine Winter Sports Center, which is dedicated to making skiing affordable as a family activity.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Valid credit card

Plan Your Ski Trip to Big Rock

1. Book your accommodations to Big Rock online at the Maine Tourism Association Web site (see Resources below) or by calling [phone].
2. Reserve a cabin in nearby Blaine. While these accommodations are rarely ritzy, they are quite affordable and many come with fully equipped kitchens, so you can save money by eating in.
3. Book a hotel room in Presque Isle. Standard accommodations are available at locally owned and operated inns and hotels for a reasonable price.
4. Fly to Bangor International Airport if you are traveling "from away," as they say in Maine. Then rent a car and take a trip north towards Mars Hill.
5. Reach Mars Hill, Maine, via Route 1. Big Rock is close to the area where Route 1 splits with Route 1A, not far north of Route 95.
6. Bring cash or credit cards. Tickets are purchased on the mountain—there is no phone number or Web site that allows you to book your lift tickets ahead of time.

Enjoy Your Ski Trip to Big Rock

7. Consult the official Big Rock Web site for a recent snow report before you hit the slopes (see Resources below).
8. Rent your skis, snowboards and other equipment at the Big Rock rental shop.
9. Go from snow bunny to downhill racer with lessons from Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA)-certified instructors. If you are skiing for the first time or trying to improve your speed for competition, take advantage of Big Rock's private or group lessons.
10. Try something different with the resort's cross-country and snowshoe trails. Or, slide downhill on an inner tube in the recently added tube park.
11. Package your Big Rock lift ticket, equipment rental and ski lesson together to get a special rate.
12. Book a season pass if you plan to go often. Individual and family season passes are available at Big Rock.
13. Attend Winterfest in March for ski contests, food, fun and fireworks.

Tips & Warnings

• Many establishments offer special lodging and ski-lift packages that can only be booked online.
• Groups of 30 or more are required to make reservations.
• Kids under five and people over 75 ski for free!
• Make sure you have a vehicle that can make the trip through snow and ice on the roads. Drive with care in Maine winter conditions.

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