Your First Time at Mt. Abram:

If this is your first visit, we’re genuinely glad you found us. Tucked into the western mountains of Maine, we are a community-first ski area where the vibe is relaxed, the terrain is welcoming, and the goal is simple: help you have a really good day on snow.

Whether you are coming to try skiing or riding for the very first time, or you are a seasoned skier checking out a new mountain, this guide covers exactly what you need to know before visiting Mt. Abram.

Mt. Abram is known for its laid back atmosphere, friendly staff, and classic New England skiing. This is the kind of mountain where people wave on the chairlift, kids build snow forts on the Westside, and locals greet each other by name. You will not find an overwhelming resort experience here. What you will find is approachable terrain, fair pricing, and a mountain that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly real.

Two base areas, two experiences

The Westside Our beginner-friendly side and the go-to base for first timers and families. This is where you will find our learning terrain, carpet lift, and easy green runs that gently guide you into the sport. Parking is limited on the Westside, so arrive early if this is going to be your homebase.

The Mainside Home to longer runs and more advanced terrain, served by our double chair, The Way Back Machine. This side offers a mix of mellow cruisers and steeper challenges. On weekends and holiday vacation weeks, you will also find our surface lift, The Maine T, spinning from 10am–2pm.

Dress for the weather

Layering is essential for comfort on the mountain. We recommend:

• A waterproof jacket and pants or bibs
• Warm base layers
• Insulated gloves or mittens
• Hand and toe warmers
• Wool or synthetic socks

Avoid cotton when possible, as it traps moisture and can leave you feeling cold. Forgot something? Natasha’s Logo Shop on the Mainside carries essential winter gear and Mt. Abram merchandise.

When is the best time to visit?

While Mt. Abram maintains a relaxed atmosphere and typically uncrowded trails, weekends and school vacation weeks are our busiest. For a quieter first-time experience, weekday visits often offer shorter lift lines and more space to practice your turns.

Where should I park?

Mt. Abram has two base areas, and where you park should depend on your experience level:

• New skiers and riders should plan to park at the Westside, where all beginner terrain and lessons begin.
• If your group is comfortable skiing blue trails, the Mainside is a great basecamp with quick access to intermediate and advanced terrain.

How do I get my lift ticket?

Lift tickets can be purchased online or in person. Online purchases must still be picked up as a physical lift ticket. You can grab your ticket at:

• Guest Services Desk (Mainside Lodge) Ideal for season pass pick-up, questions, or first-time guidance. Robin and the team are happy to help.
• Mainside Ticket Booth Located slopeside between the Mainside Lodge and Rental Shop. Quick and convenient if you are already geared up.
• Westside Ticket Booth Located next to the Westside parking lot for easy access to beginner terrain.

We offer accessible pricing for all ages because skiing should feel welcoming, not intimidating at the register.

If you do not have your own equipment, Mt. Abram offers full rentals including skis, snowboards, boots, and helmets. We have two rental shops:

• Westside Rental Shop – Best for beginners and lesson participants
• Mainside Rental Shop – Convenient for intermediate and advanced skiers

Arriving early helps ensure you are fitted properly and ready when lifts open. The Mainside retail shop also offers a full range of accessories, while the Westside has a small selection of youth-focused gear.

If this is your first time skiing or snowboarding, booking a lesson is highly recommended. All lessons begin at the Westside, where our Snowsports School instructors focus on building confidence, balance, and control in a supportive environment.

Lessons are the fastest way to go from unsure to confident and will help you get more out of your day on snow. Parking can be limited, so plan to arrive early if you are taking a lesson.

Trail difficulty levels

Trail signage is clearly marked:

• Green Circle: Beginner
• Blue Square: Intermediate
• Black Diamond: Advanced

If you are new, we recommend starting on the Westside where the terrain is mellow, forgiving, and perfect for practicing technique.

How to ski between Mainside and Westside

From Mainside to Westside (easiest route): Sweeper → Dudley → Taylor’s Treat will bring you over the top of the Westside Chairlift (Skyline Chair). Note: Sweeper and Dudley are rated blue and are best suited for intermediate skiers.

From Westside to Mainside: Take Easy Rider to return to the Mainside base area. Prefer to stay on the Westside? Turn left onto Polka Dot to loop back to the Westside base.

Trail maps are available in the lodge and online. Reviewing one before heading out helps you feel oriented and confident.

Skiing is more fun when you take time to refuel and rest.

Mainside Lodge

• Cafeteria-style eatery for quick meals, open 11am–2pm
• Loose Boots Lounge, our sit-down restaurant and favorite local après spot. Visit the Loose Boots page for hours and menu details.

Westside Lodge A traditional ski area cafeteria serving classics like pizza slices and chicken fingers, perfect for families and quick warm-ups.

Take breaks as needed. Skiing uses muscles you may not realize you have, and pacing yourself is key to staying comfortable and having a great day.

You don’t need to be perfect to belong here. You just need to show up. Whether you are laughing your way down your first green trail or linking smooth turns on your favorite run, every visitor becomes part of the Mt. Abram community the moment their boots touch the snow.

We cannot wait to welcome you to Mt. Abram. We will see you on the hill.