Small Ski Areas in Maine Value Added to Local Communities

Maine used to have a large number of small community-based ski areas; however, a many factors have combined to significantly reduce the numbers. Over 70 Maine ski areas - mostly small operations - have gone out of business since 1970. However, there is a sense that the remaining small ski areas will be able to stay open and possibly see more come back into operation.

The small ski areas that shut down were affected by a number of factors to include increased competition (especially from the bigger resort areas), increased insurance costs, warm winters, and community apathy. Those small ski areas that remain open have found that local community involvement is a big help. Currently the Ski Maine Association lists 12 small ski areas still operating in Maine.

Read more about Maine's small ski areas in "A sense of community keeps central Maine's small ski areas afloat", Morning Sentinel, January 12, 2014.