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DOG SLEDDING Guided trips with a professional dog sledding or “ mushing ” outfitter are a unique and thrilling Maine winter adventure . Imagine bounding across the frozen expanse of a remote lake , surrounded by mountain peaks clad in evergreens , holding tight to the reins of your dog team as they drive your sled forward through the deep snow on a fast run .
WILDERNESS SLED DOG RACE To experience the thrill of dog sledding without stepping on a sled yourself , head to Greenville in early February for the Wilderness Sled Dog Race , where mushers and their teams compete in 30-mile and 70-mile cross-country races . Dogs bark with excitement and spectators squeeze in alongside the chute at the race ’ s start . Once they ’ re off , you can enjoy winter activities all day long or trek to remote checkpoints to watch the teams race through . Find a spot to cheer the winners at the finish line , then wrap up the day with a festive community bonfire .
SNOWMOBILING The Maine Highlands is a world class snowmobiling destination . The snow is plentiful here , and the thousands of miles of well-groomed trails provide fun and excitement for all riders .
While snowmobiling is a fun activity , it ’ s important to remember that it ’ s a sport that requires a great deal of responsibility . A large percentage of
Maine ’ s snowmobile trails are on private landowners ’ property , and it ’ s important to respect their land . Local snowmobile clubs work tirelessly to make sure trails are well marked and are in top condition . This is mainly done through volunteering . You can find a list of local snowmobile clubs on The Maine Highlands website .
Towns along the trail system welcome snowmobilers , and provide ample opportunity for lodging , refreshments , and shopping . Guide services , equipment rentals , and advice on good rides are available in many local establishments . The best ride of your life may be a thrilling guided off-trail ride that will take you where no tracks have ever been .
Trail Conditions Reports are easily accessible and will help you ascertain the safety of the ice on the many ponds and lakes crossed by the trails . The most reliable conditions are from January to March , but this does vary depending on annual snowfall .
Contact one of the local visitor ’ s centers in The Maine Highlands for more information and to help plan your snowmobiling trip !
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