Snowmaking Begins as Cold Weather Hits Maine’s Ski Country

It's beginning to look a lot like winter.

'Tis the season for cooler temperatures, the white stuff, and carving up iconic Maine ski mountains.

Snowmaking Has Begun for the Upcoming Maine Ski Season

After an unseasonably warm early fall, the cold has finally arrived—exactly what the ski resorts need to start the snowmaking process. The machines have been fired up, and the blowing has begun at Saddleback, Sugarloaf, and Sunday River.

Another great sign of things to come was an early dusting this past weekend, which brought a small but noticeable accumulation to the mountains—a potentially promising start to the season.

It feels like it’s been quite a few years since Maine’s ski industry has seen a heavy snowfall season. It would certainly be a welcome sight if that’s what the 2025–2026 season brings.

How Close are Maine's Large Ski Mountains from Opening for the Season?

We’re nearing the tentative opening date for Sugarloaf, currently penciled in for November 21. Ever since the first trail was cut back in 1950, Sugarloaf has been one of the true ski gems of the Northeast. It attracts visitors from far and wide with its massive terrain, iconic snowfields, and stunning natural beauty. Experts can even enjoy above-treeline glades—rare for East Coast skiing. As the second-tallest mountain in Maine, it can get pretty gnarly up there.

Sugarloaf is also celebrating its 75th season of operation, so expect some very cool events this year.

We’re still waiting for Sunday River to announce its opening date, which came early in 2024.

The River has made a name for itself with its vast trail system, numerous peaks, state-of-the-art lifts, and wealth of activities. Sunday River can also boast the most ski terrain on the East Coast, with 135 trails across eight peaks. Even more impressive is that nearly the entire network is covered by snowmaking. Once Sunday River opens for the season, it stays open.

It’s also benefited from an improvement plan that has brought several new projects to life recently, including many state-of-the-art lifts.

READ MORE: Acadia National Park in Maine Nearly Breaks Visit Record In 2024

There’s no official opening date yet for Saddleback. The mountain opened a little later than the other big two last season but still had quite a year.

Saddleback features a massive elevation and a killer expert section at the peak. The mountain is also known for its excellent beginner area. Plus, you can’t beat the views and surroundings—this region is simply one of the best in the state. It’s great to have this wonderful ski resort back on its game. It was terribly sad to see it shuttered for so long. Thankfully, it seems healthier than ever, with the latest owners investing in numerous projects such as more bike trails, new and improved lifts, and other mountain developments.

Expect more opening dates and snow reports to drop soon. This is always an exciting time of year as we prepare to hit the slopes.