Ski Sunday River, Maine

With 3 base lodges and over 150 inches of natural snow, as well as full snow making capacities, Sunday River Resort is the perfect place for ski and snowboarding fans. With 132 trails spread across 8 mountain peaks, there's literally a trail for everyone, as well as 4 terrain parks, a minipipe, quarterpipe and a superpipe to test your mettle. Sunday River courts the beginning and intermediate skier, but experts will find plenty of challenges, as well. Not only do they make snow obsessively, they groom it obsessively so you'll always have fresh powder and smooth terrain.

Bethel, ME, is only 5 miles away, and Portland is only about an hour-and-a-half, so you can enjoy nearby eateries, shops, entertainments and attractions and enjoy some of the local north-eastern flavor. Seafood is the word of the day just as it is in most Maine areas, coastal or not. You can enjoy sea and shore meals, mountain dining, burgers and fries, or look for finer and Mediterranean dining options. Shops from Sunday River to Portland give you everything you need, as well as local handcrafted items and souvenirs.

Families have a lot to do and see near Sunday River. In addition to skiing, snowboarding, taking lessons, snow tubing, dogs sledding, sleigh rides, ice climbing, skating, snowcatting and snowmobiling, there's indoor fun to be had in the winter. Rock wall climbing, laser tag, arcade action and more await the kids at Sunday River.

Nightlife and après ski opportunities abound. There are family friendly restaurants, and bar and grills where everyone can enjoy an evening of snacks, beverages and entertainment, as well as beautiful views of the slopes. A microbrewery in the area supplies local beer to area bars, pubs and taverns. With over 10 to choose from, as well as over 20 restaurants that offer liquors, beers, cocktails and wines, the hardest part is choosing where to go and what to enjoy.

Sunday River isn't as famous as some Vermont and New Hampshire ski resorts, but it's a family-friendly resort where beginning skiers and riders can have just as much fun as the experienced among the group. With trails and terrain parks designed for learners and beginners of all ages, no one will feel pressure to perform like they might at some other resorts. Nestled near Bethel, ME, Sunday River is out of the way, but close enough to metro areas to be convenient, with trolley and shuttle services making it easy to get around.