Black Mountain of Maine is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. As part of a series on ski resorts, Huffington Post Travel offers our guide to Black Mountain of Maine, featuring all the key information snow lovers need to know before they hit the slopes.
The Basics
, in Rumford, is a family-friendly destination with affordable prices and activities for all ages. Because it is just more than
from Portland, getting there is quick and easy. One of several ski resorts in the state, Black Mountain of Maine offers trails in all skill levels at reasonable prices, providing affordable fun for everyone.
The Mountain
Designed by two-time Olympian Chummy Broomhall, the 23 trails on
range in difficulty, offering the right level of adventure for every skier and snowboarder. The mountain has a 1,150-foot vertical drop with five lifts to the top. Black Mountain of Maine averages
of snow per year, and the resort also makes its own snow, creating ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Black Mountain is generally open from December through March.
Trails And Lifts
Black Mountain of Maine has 23
, including those with a green designation for young children and beginners, a blue designation for intermediate skiers and a black-diamond designation for experienced skiers. All the trails boast spectacular views of the surrounding region. Five lifts are available for transport to the tops of the trails, including a tubing lift, a handle tow, a T-bar, a double lift and a triple lift. The Upper and Lower Androscoggin trails combine to form an intermediate trail that is about one mile long. Black Mountain of Maine's terrain park boasts a half-pipe, making it a perfect place to learn and practice ski tricks. For nighttime skiing, Black Mountain lights all trails for skiing under the stars.
In The News
Black Mountain of Maine is one of the few ski resorts that offers free skiing. The dates vary and are updated on the
website. The influence of the Olympics is ever-present at the resort. Not only did former Olympian Chummy Broomhall design the trails at Black Mountain of Maine, but he has also skied them. In addition, the resort features a race program taught by several Olympic skiers. Black Mountain of Maine is known for its Nordic skiing community as well.
Cost
The cost of a basic lift ticket at Black Mountain of Maine is $34 for adults and $29 for children and seniors. Children 5 and younger and seniors older than 75 ski free. A season pass costs $269 for all ages. Black Mountain of Maine also features $10 nighttime skiing and
. Nordic season passes cost $85 for one person and $75 for each additional family member.
offered at Black Mountain of Maine range in price from $160 to $180. People can rent ski equipment in nearby Bethel or Andover. Prices vary, depending on the store and type of equipment needed.
Apres-Ski
Black Mountain of Maine's Last Run Lounge features food, drink and nightlife. For some relaxation, Rumford's
offers several massage packages.
offers a family-friendly dining experience without the inflated prices of other high-end restaurants. Professionally trained chef and owner Brian Nichols offers an Italian-inspired menu, and the bistro features a bar area for the adult crowd. Rumford also boasts several lodging options, including bed-and-breakfasts and traditional hotels.
WATCH: Black Mountain Of Maine
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The Maine Ski Challenge at Black Mountain of Maine showcases downhill skiing at its best.