Winter Wonderland

Good News – Bridgton Maine and the Lakes and Mountain Region are year-round communities. In the summer and fall, the locals enjoy hiking, swimming and boating on the many lakes, but in the colder months, the area is a winter wonderland. If you are a winter sportsman and enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, or hiking, Bridgton Maine has a plethora of outdoor adventures for you. For those that prefer the warm indoors, there are art galleries, shopping and restaurants. The list of available activities, of course, fluctuates with the pandemic requirements and restrictions. Here is our list of Fun Winter Activities in Bridgton Maine and the Lakes and Mountain Area.
Shawnee Peak
Shawnee Peak is just one of the 15 ski resorts in the State of Maine. Shawnee Peak's location, history, and ski options make it stand out from the others. Conveniently located off Rt 302 in Bridgton Maine, and 1 hour from Portland, this resort is a favorite of locals and visitors. The hills have glade trails for intermediates and a learning center at the base for beginners. Skiers also have the option for fun night skiing. The open date for Shawnee Peak is Dec 8, 2020 and can go all the way to April 1, 2021. The Noble House Inn has Weekend and a Week Day - Stay and Ski Packages. See here: https://www.noblehousebb.com/Ski--Stay-Packages.html and call us for details!

Hiking – Pleasant Mountain
The trails to Pleasant Mountain are open year round. Hiking in the Southern Maine's tallest mountain in winter is a delight. The leaves are off the trees making the views easier to see. There are also less visitors, making the trails noticeably quiet. Of course, all those that hike in the winter know that an enjoyable hike depends on how you prepare. You need ice trackers for your shoes, proper down jacket, gloves, hat, long jones and plentiful snacks and hot chocolate. Many also use ski poles and hiking sticks.
Pleasant Mountain contains 10 miles of various trails managed by the Loon Echo Land Trust. The views at the top are of Saco River Valley and the White Mountains. There are 6 different trails leading to the top:
Ledges Trail, Firewarden's Trail, Southwest Ridge Trail, Bald Pate Trail, Sue's Way, and the North Ridge Trail.

Sleigh Rides
Ever dreamed of riding in a one-horse open sleigh? Well you can at nearby Norther Heights Farm in Harrison Maine and Highview Farm in Waterford Maine. All rides are private and by reservation. Check out their website for more details. http://www.high-view-farm.com

Snow Mobiling
The many wooded trails, lakes and ponds in Bridgton Maine make for scenic and fun ATV and snowmobile adventures. In addition to the many local trails, Noble Inn guests are delighted that there is an entrance to the International Trail System just .5 miles away, making it easy for them to get up, enjoy breakfast and get on the trail. For a map of the ITS system, click here: https://webapps2.cgis-solutions.com/mainesnowmobile/

Prefer the Warm Indoors?
We know outdoor adventure is not for everyone. Don't worry, there's still lots to do.

Shopping
Main Street Mercantile is a 10-vendor antiques / collectible/vintage/group shop, located in downtown Bridgton, ME - open daily year round 10-5. Spend an hour or two perusing antiques, vintage items, collectibles, books, furniture, re-finished sewing machines, sportsman items, large variety of decor and much more. Corn Shop Trader's unique offerings are available in store and Mark has added online shopping as well. Want a little local art? Try Gallery 302. More than 40 exhibiting artists working in a variety of mediums make up the Bridgton Art Guild which owns and operates Gallery 302. And of course, there is Reny's, "the Maine Adventure".

Enjoy a Warm Meal
Several of our favorite local restaurants include Vivo Italian Kitchen, Venezia's Ristorante and the Black Horse Tavern. Vivo and Black Horse Tavern are providing dine-in as well as curbside. Venezia's is take away only.

Great Place to Stay in Bridgton Maine
The Noble House Inn is ideal any time of year. The casual luxury and great location make the Noble House Inn a wonderful getaway. Enjoy charming guest rooms with comfortable furnishings while visiting the beautiful Mountain and Lakes Region of Maine. The Inn continues to serve it's famous wicked-good breakfast, but due to Covid-19, breakfast is now provided in a to-go bag ready to enjoy where you choose.