top of page

Big Moose Mountain Ski Area & Moosehead Lake Winter Adventures | Affordable Maine Skiing

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • 6 days ago
  • 4 min read


Big Moose Mountain Ski Area & Moosehead Lake Winter Adventures | Affordable Maine Skiing

Big Moose Mountain Ski Area & Winter Adventures in the Moosehead Lake Region, Maine

Nestled in the heart of Maine’s North Woods, the Moosehead Lake region delivers some of the most authentic, affordable, and scenic winter recreation in New England. At the center of it all is Big Moose Mountain Ski Area (formerly Big Squaw Mountain), a beloved community-run ski hill that has been offering unforgettable lake-view skiing for more than 60 years.


With downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and uphill touring—all surrounded by breathtaking wilderness—Moosehead Lake is a dream destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers seeking genuine Maine winter charm without the crowds or high prices of mega-resorts.


🎿 Big Moose Mountain Ski Area (Greenville Junction, ME)

“Ski & Ride the View!”

Big Moose Mountain is a non-profit, community-operated ski area managed by Friends of the Mountain, offering classic New England skiing with spectacular views of Moosehead Lake.

📍 Location & Contact Information

Address:447 Ski Resort Road PO Box 307 Greenville Junction, ME 04442

Phone: 207-695-2400


🎟️ Lift Tickets, Rentals & Lessons (Online):https://skibigmoose.theonlysky.com


Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding at Big Moose Mountain

  • Terrain: 27–33 groomed trails (conditions dependent)

  • Skill Levels: Beginner, intermediate & advanced

  • Lifts: Two lifts, including a beginner conveyor lift

  • Vertical Drop: Approx. 1,700 feet

  • Vibe: Family-friendly, affordable, laid-back


The mountain’s slopes face Moosehead Lake, delivering some of the most scenic skiing in Maine, especially on bluebird winter days.


Amenities

  • Base lodge with food & grill

  • Full-service rental shop (ski & snowboard gear)

  • Group & private lessons

  • Racing center

  • Live music on Sundays throughout the season


💲 Lift Ticket Prices:

Typically range from $20–$40, making Big Moose one of the most budget-friendly ski areas in Maine.


Snowmaking, Grooming & Community Support

Thanks to generous community donations and investment in high-efficiency snowmaking, Big Moose Mountain continues to improve conditions year after year. Recent seasons have seen record-breaking consecutive snowmaking hours, expanding terrain availability across trails like Lower Roach, Upper Roach, Squaw Brook, and terrain features.


This dedication ensures reliable skiing even during challenging winters—something visitors truly appreciate.


Uphill Touring & Cat Skiing

Big Moose Mountain has become a hub for uphill touring (skinning) in Maine.

  • Partnered with Uphill New England

  • Designated uphill routes

  • Community-supported access

  • Occasional cat skiing opportunities


This makes Big Moose especially appealing to backcountry and fitness-focused skiers.


Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing Near Moosehead Lake

Beyond alpine skiing, the Moosehead Lake region offers some of the best Nordic skiing in Maine, with miles of groomed and backcountry trails.


🎿 Big Moose Nordic Trails

  • 6+ miles of groomed XC trails

  • Open to the public by donation

  • Volunteer-maintained

  • Not patrolled — caution advised


🌲 Lily Bay State Park

Address: 425 Lily Bay Road, Greenville, ME

  • ~7 miles of groomed trails

  • Woodlands and lakeside views

  • Ideal for snowshoeing and classic XC skiing


🏔️ The Birches Resort — Rockwood, ME

  • 40+ miles of groomed XC trails

  • Lake and forest scenery

  • Ski-in lodging, cabins & hot tubs

  • Rentals available

  • Dog-friendly options


Perfect for families and couples looking for a Nordic-focused winter getaway.


Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)

  • 90+ miles of groomed and untracked backcountry trails

  • Ideal for XC skiing, snowshoeing & fat-tire biking


Why Skiers Love Moosehead Lake

✔️ Authentic Maine Experience – No corporate crowds, just a real community mountain

✔️ Incredible Scenery – Moosehead Lake views you won’t find elsewhere

✔️ Affordable Fun – Perfect for families and beginners

✔️ Four-Season Adventure Hub – Skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing & more


Plan Your Visit

For trail conditions, event updates, and winter planning resources, check:


In Closing: Ski the View, Feel the Community

Whether you’re carving turns on lake-view trails, gliding through quiet Nordic forests, or warming up in a cozy lodge after a snowy day outdoors, Big Moose Mountain and the Moosehead Lake region deliver a winter experience that feels both timeless and unforgettable.


What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions

Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.


Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:

  • 🛶 Boating & paddling routes

  • 🎣 Fishing hotspots

  • 🏕️ Wilderness camping sites

  • 🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks

  • 🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure


Rockwood Maine Lodging • Moosehead Lake Cabin Rentals

Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:

  • Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake

  • 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7

  • Free WiFi & TV

  • Backup Generator

  • Easy driveway dual access for trailers, boats, ATVs, & snowmobiles

  • Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails

  • Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports

  • Perfect home base for skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, and wildlife watching


Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in Moose River, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River









For travelers seeking classic Maine skiing, family-friendly prices, and breathtaking scenery, there’s no better place to embrace winter than Moosehead Lake. ❄️🎿

bottom of page