December 16, 2014 – Here is the latest news from the Maine Winter Sports Center, including holiday wishes, info about its upcoming Holiday Youth XC Ski Camp, Active Maine Projects, and highlights and events happening in various Maine communities this month. Read on for all the news.

Upcoming Programs

Youth: Holiday Youth XC Ski Camp
Dec 29th & 30th, Greenville

This two-day Youth Development camp will have a focus on improving cross-country ski technique, developing comfort and agility on skis, and spending as much time as possible on snow. Our coaches will share concepts and skills in a fun and exciting way, helping everyone progress as skiers. As part of the camp we’ll also take a backcountry day tour into the AMC cabins at Little Lyford Pond! This camp is open to any Maine youth nordic skiers ages 9 to 15.

More info here. (PDF)

Active Maine Project: Winter Nordic Program
Begins Jan 20th, locations statewide

The AMP (Active Maine Project) Winter Nordic Program, previously known as Arooskis, is designed for any adult interested in getting outside and getting active on cross-country skis during the winter season. The program focuses on learning and improving cross-country skiing technique, and for those interested, improving fitness for recreation or competition. The program serves as just one of the offerings of the Active Maine Project, which is focused on connecting adults with a lifestyle inclusive of a number of active, outdoor pursuits throughout the entire year.

Participants in the program have the opportunity to regularly work with Maine Winter Sports Center coaches and athletes on developing fitness, improving ski technique, and sharing their love of the outdoors. You don’t have to be a competitive athlete to benefit from the program, though if you are, there’s also opportunity for developing training plans, and receiving support in your competitive pursuits. Whether you are interested in shaving seconds off your time, or just hitting the trails with friends, our Winter Nordic Program makes the season fly by!

More info here. (PDF)

Active Maine Project: Katahdin Area Trails Weekend
Jan 24th & 25th, New England Outdoor Center

Each season the Active Maine Project offers different opportunities for adults to explore new places around Maine and beyond. Back by popular demand we’re hosting our second winter weekend at the New England Outdoor Center, where we can take advantage of fantastic groomed trails, and also enjoy a spectacular backcountry tour of Baxter State Park in winter. And new this year, we’re inviting fat bike riders to join the fun! We’ll spend the first day on the trails right out the front door of our cabins, taking the morning to get acquainted, and then using the afternoon to have some fun as a group. Saturday night we’ll enjoy a gourmet meal in the River Drivers Restaurant – an experience not to be missed! Sunday we’ll head into Baxter State Park and immerse ourselves in one of Maine’s greatest wilderness resources. For those unable to attend, or less interested in our week-long backcountry trips, this weekend is the perfect chance to get out and explore new trails with great people, while enjoying comfortable accommodations. Join the staff of the Maine Winter Sports Center, and other active adults from around Maine for this unforgettable winter weekend.

More info here. (PDF)

Adventure Initiative: Adirondack Backcountry Ski Adventure
Feb 16th to 22nd, Adirondack Mountains, NY

Grab a pack and a pair of skis and head outside this February break with an awesome group of people to explore the snow-covered peaks and valleys of New York’s legendary Adirondack Mountains. This February the Adventure Initiative Program will take a group of high school students to the High Peaks region of New York, home to over thirty peaks greater than 4000′ in elevation. These mountains create the perfect winter playground with some incredible ski touring opportunities. As we gain comfort on skis, we will also be learning and practicing essential winter backcountry skills, and learning the core values and skills needed for adventure and leadership. With deep snow, amazing scenery, and fantastic people, this trip is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Apply now and make your life an adventure.

More info here.

Highlights & Events

Check out some of the great things happening in a community near you this month!

Titcomb Mountain Season Opener
Farmington
Wednesday, Dec 17th
Info here.

Epic 5km Finale
Bangor
Sunday, Dec 28th
Info here.

NRCM Polar Bear Dip & Dash
Portland
Wednesday, Dec 31st
Info here.

New Years Nordic Ski Festival
Fort Kent
Dec 27th to Jan 1st
Info here.

Happy Holidays from MWSC!