The WinterKids Family Day at BigRock Mountain stands as an unrivaled winter sports tradition, proudly holding the distinction of being the premier family-centered ski event in Northern Maine. Hosted on the sweeping, majestic trails of Mars Hill, this exceptional celebration brings together young winter sports enthusiasts, seasoned skiers, and active families from all across the region to experience the thrill of alpine recreation. The event transforms the snow-covered mountain into a bustling hub of outdoor health, fitness, and pure seasonal joy. As a pinnacle partnership event designed to make outdoor recreation accessible to all, it captures the true, welcoming spirit of New England winter culture, providing an unforgettable weekend where a lifelong love for winter sports is sparked under the bright mountain sun.
What elevates this extraordinary day to the absolute peak of winter family entertainment is its unmatched blend of accessible trail adventures and heartwarming community hospitality. The mountain comes alive with activity, offering a spectacular playground of groomed trails, dynamic terrain parks, and majestic scenic views that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. By offering premier access packages, specialized sibling rewards, and comprehensive family rental arrangements, the event ensures that families can focus entirely on making memories together on the snow. Seamlessly uniting high-quality mountain instruction with a festive, energetic lodge atmosphere, the WinterKids Family Day delivers the definitive, must-attend winter escape for anyone looking to feel the true, active pulse of Maine's legendary ski country.
Mars Hill, Maine, incorporated in 1867, sits in the shadow of Mars Hill Mountain less than two miles from the New Brunswick border and holds the distinction of being the first place in the continental United States to see the sunrise for nearly half of the year, from late March through mid-September. The town celebrated that distinction on July 4, 1960, when the first 50-star American flag to be touched by the morning sun was raised at the summit at 4:33 a.m. with a 50-gun salute. Today the mountain is home to Big Rock Mountain, which features 1,800 feet of vertical, 26 trails, and a new Sunrise Quad chairlift installed in 2024 - named for the very phenomenon that puts Mars Hill on the map. The summit of Mars Hill Mountain is the final peak on the International Appalachian Trail before the route crosses into Canada, drawing hikers, sunrise chasers, and adventurers to the rolling potato fields and farmland that define this small-town corner of Aroostook.
Aroostook County hosts a variety of vibrant events throughout the year. From the world-renowned Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race in winter to the lively Northern Maine Fair in summer, there's always something exciting happening. Other highlights include the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest, Potato Blossom Festival, and the Scandinavian Houlton Arts and Crafts Fair. These events celebrate the region's culture, heritage, and natural beauty, offering unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.
Places to go, things to see and what to do—all neatly laid out. Begin your Aroostook adventure with the official travel guide to ensure the only surprises during your trip are the good ones.
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