Imagine the tranquil descent of snowflakes on a dusky evening, as you find yourself nestled by a warm fire, wrapped in a cozy blanket, sipping from a steaming mug of apple cider infused with a fragrant cinnamon stick. Whether you prefer your cherished tea, hot chocolate, coffee, or any other warm elixir, this moment of winter bliss awaits you. If you have children, picture them contentedly tucked into bed after a day filled with snowy adventures or perhaps engaged in a quiet board game in the adjacent room. It’s the time to relish the day’s events, the memories you’ve created, and to plan for tomorrow. In Rangeley, winter offers a multitude of outdoor activities, catering to a diverse range of guests, making it a challenge to select just one!
Let’s embark on today’s adventures. After a hearty breakfast, your family journeyed to the Rangeley Trail Center, where snowshoes were rented for the entire clan. A brief but informative lesson on their use preceded your exploration of the center’s extensive trail network. The children delighted in searching for whimsical gnome houses scattered along the trail, and the adults found them equally fascinating. Following the invigorating snowshoe expedition and a brief respite in the Yurt, you returned to town for a delightful lunch at one of the many restaurants, with hot soup taking center stage. After lunch, the kids found renewed energy, and you ventured to Haley Pond and Rangeley Adventure Company to enjoy complimentary ice skates and indulge in some ice skating. It was heartwarming to discover that skate trainers were available to assist the kids in gaining their skating confidence, and soon they were gliding gracefully on their own. The older kids may have brought along their hockey sticks, practicing their shots on goals thoughtfully set up nearby. The warming hut provided a cozy haven to thaw out before venturing back onto the ice. As evening descends and everyone is happily fatigued, it’s time to retreat to your chosen accommodations, whether an Inn, hotel, or your cozy rental house, for some well-deserved rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. The evening beckons you back to town for a delectable dinner, although you might opt for simplicity and order a couple of pizzas to go from esteemed establishments like the Red Onion, Furbish Brew House, Sarge’s, or Portage Taphouse.
Photo by Maine Mountain Media. (www.mainemountainmedia.com) Spencer Mendell
As for tomorrow’s plans, the options are diverse, catering to a wide spectrum of guests. You may decide to return to the Rangeley Trail Center, this time renting cross-country skis and embarking on an invigorating cross-country skiing adventure. Alternatively, a trip to Saddleback Mountain might be in the cards, where downhill skiing or snowboarding awaits, while the children receive expert guidance from ski or snowboard instructors. The Saddleback Pub, conveniently perched on the mountain, provides the perfect spot for a midday refueling. Or perhaps, the allure of snowmobiling captures your fancy. In that case, you can make your way to Mountain View Adventures, Rangeley Jet Ski and Snow Mobile Rentals, or Flagstaff Rentals, rent a snowmobile or two, receive expert instructions, or hire a guide, and set forth on the local snowmobile trails. Following a thrilling day on the trails, you can savor a quick meal in town before returning to your abode. However, should you find yourself in need of a brief respite, or if the weather isn’t cooperating, there are plenty of indoor pursuits. Consider indulging in some retail therapy in town or perhaps an afternoon of bowling with the family at Moose Alley. Alternatively, you might opt for a family-friendly movie screening at Rangeley Lakes Theater.
Regardless of your age or interests, Rangeley’s winter events have something to offer everyone. Don’t forget to take advantage of these cherished annual traditions and events:
· Mountain Holly Days culminate with the time-honored Walk to Bethlehem, a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, complete with carol singing at various stops along the way. The procession concludes at The Church of the Good Shepherd, where the Rangeley Community hosts a spectacular show featuring bell ringers, Christmas stories, poetry readings, choirs, soloists, dancers, and a myriad of other festive Christmas delights.
· Rangeley Legendary Snodeo, akin to a rodeo with snowmobiles, promises to dazzle with fireworks and a snowmobile parade.
· The Annual Fat-Tire Bike Loppet invites biking enthusiasts to revel in a thrilling winter adventure.
· Winterpaloozah, February Festival, Legendary Rangeley Lakes Loppet, and the Annual Moose Dash Snowshoe Race present a medley of exciting winter activities, ensuring there’s never a dull moment during your Rangeley winter getaway.
So, whether you’re an older individual seeking a tranquil winter retreat or a young adventurer yearning for excitement, Rangeley is the perfect destination to create lasting winter memories for all. Find all the events and activities on our website www.rangeleymaine.com.
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