Maine is home to two of the finest ski resorts in the eastern United States — Sugarloaf and Sunday River — along with a collection of smaller mountains that together make up one of New England’s most compelling ski destinations. Whether you’re a devoted powder hound, a family looking for a full-service resort experience, or a beginner looking for gentle terrain, Maine’s ski mountains deliver.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf is Maine’s largest ski resort and one of the premier ski destinations in the eastern United States. Located in the Carrabassett Valley in western Maine, Sugarloaf rises to 4,237 feet — the second highest peak in Maine — with 1,282 feet of vertical drop and over 160 trails spread across 1,282 skiable acres. What makes Sugarloaf special among eastern resorts is its above-treeline terrain: the Snowfields at the summit offer genuine alpine skiing with open, wind-swept runs that feel more like the American West than New England.
Sugarloaf’s base village is a true ski village — ski-in, ski-out slopeside accommodations, restaurants, bars, and shops all within walking distance of the lifts. The resort receives an average of 200 inches of natural snowfall per season, supplemented by an extensive snowmaking system. The season typically runs from November through April, with spring skiing on the Snowfields often extending into May. Sugarloaf is located about 2.5 hours from Portland and 4 hours from Boston.
Sunday River Ski Resort
Sunday River in Bethel is Maine’s most visited ski resort — a sprawling eight-peak mountain complex with 135 trails, 870 skiable acres, and 2,340 feet of vertical drop. Sunday River is widely praised for its snowmaking and consistently opens early and closes late regardless of natural snowfall. Wide, well-groomed cruising trails make it an excellent family destination while the steep terrain on Jordan Bowl and Oz challenges expert skiers. About 3 hours from Boston and 2 hours from Portland via Route 2.
Other Maine Ski Resorts
Saddleback Mountain near Rangeley is a beloved independent mountain with 66 trails and 2,000 feet of vertical drop — known for uncrowded slopes and spectacular views of the Rangeley Lakes. Shawnee Peak in Bridgton is southern Maine’s closest ski mountain with 40 trails and night skiing, just 45 minutes from Portland. Mt. Abram in Greenwood offers affordable family skiing in the Oxford Hills. Camden Snow Bowl in Camden is the only ski area in America with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Maine Skiing — Planning Your Trip
Maine’s ski resorts are generally less crowded than Vermont counterparts while offering comparable terrain and snowfall. Peak season runs mid-December through mid-March, with holiday weeks the busiest periods. Spring skiing at Sugarloaf’s Snowfields typically runs late March through early May. For lodging near Sunday River see our Bethel guide. For a full Maine lodging directory see our Maine Lodging Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best ski resort in Maine?
Sugarloaf and Sunday River are Maine’s two premier ski resorts. Sugarloaf offers Maine’s highest vertical drop and unique above-treeline Snowfields terrain. Sunday River is known for reliable snowmaking, wide terrain variety, and family-friendly atmosphere. Saddleback is beloved by those who prefer a less commercial mountain experience.
Where is Sugarloaf ski resort in Maine?
Sugarloaf is located in Carrabassett Valley in western Maine, about 2.5 hours north of Portland and 4 hours from Boston. The resort address is 5092 Access Road, Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947.
How far is Sunday River from Portland Maine?
Sunday River is approximately 75 miles from Portland — about a 2-hour drive via I-95 north to Auburn, then Route 2 west through Rumford to Bethel.
Does Maine have good skiing?
Yes — Maine has excellent skiing. Sugarloaf’s above-treeline Snowfields offer terrain found nowhere else in the eastern US. Sunday River’s snowmaking is among the best in New England. Maine’s ski areas are generally less crowded than Vermont resorts while offering comparable conditions and terrain.