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. 10 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;