The Kennebec Explorer 2015 Visitor's Guide to Maine's Kennebec Valley | Page 12

Snowmobile or ATV
Come ride the finest trails in Maine.
Photo courtesy of: Northern Outdoors
Imagine a breathtaking sunset over the mountains after a day of
all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding to secluded waterfalls, wildlife
habitats or perhaps a private lookout point. Maybe you dream
of a week spent bundled up against the cold as you zoom
around one of the best trail systems in the country. Our region
offers hundreds of miles of well-maintained backcountry trail
opportunities for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a short,
relaxing family ride, a day of mountain trail exploration or perhaps
a longer overnight excursion, snowmobiling and ATVing are
a classic Maine experience you won’t want to miss.
A Winter’s Day Spent Zooming Across the Snowy
Landscape of the Upper Kennebec Valley
Travelers have been coming to Maine’s Kennebec Valley for
years for world-class snowmobile riding. Throughout the region,
resorts and lodges offer trail riding to and from their back doors.
In fact, one of the best ways to enjoy a stunning winter landscape
is to climb aboard a snowmobile, rev up the engine and ride to
your heart’s content. Travel through snow-covered landscapes
of fragrant spruce and balsam forests, along frozen streams
and rivers. Traverse wide-open fields and vast expanses. Frozen
lakes and ponds are often crossed, but always check locally
for safe ice conditions. This is a frozen paradise.
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Up toward the Canadian border, you’ll discover snowmobile-friendly
towns that you’ve probably never even heard about. Numerous
outfitters, camps and resorts will provide you with complete rentals
(should you need them), and guide services, as well as riding gear
and supplies. Plan ahead and make reservations, or take a chance
and just show up.
Those seeking comraderie can take part in the action with the
numerous club activities, from pancake breakfasts and trail
lunches to competitive events throughout the area. Guided sled
tours are available, from half- and full-day outings for families and
groups to extended trips of a few days or more. Whatever package
you choose, count on a truly memorable outdoor adventure.
Summer Through Late Fall, Zig-Zag Through the
Woods and Fields of the Upper Kennebec Valley
In the warmer weather, those with a hunger for the trail can easily
find adventure in Maine’s Kennebec Valley, because many trails are
multi-use (summer and winter). Sitting astride an ATV has so much
to offer: exhilaration, endless vistas and raucous fun.
The best part about touring on an ATV is that the farther you get
from civilization, the more relaxing life gets. So go on, head north
and dig deeper into the seemingly unexplored forests of our region;