Alpine Skiing at Saddleback

There’s a reason Saddleback was voted Maine’s Favorite Mountain three years in a row. The family-friendly mountain has it all—a cozy lodge, scenic ski trails, and first-rate dining. Located in the majestic Rangley Lakes Region, there are mountain views around every corner. The only question is—why aren’t you there right now?!

In this blog post, we will share all the insider information you need to know before visiting Saddleback Ski Area—the best ski trails, restaurants for every kind of foodie, how to avoid crowds, special events, travel tips, and a whole lot more! Dust off your ski boots and ski suits—it’s time to head to Saddleback!

History of Saddleback Ski Resort

Saddleback Ski Area has a rich history that dates back to its opening in 1960. Originally founded by the Berry and Dorsey families—their vision was to open a premier skiing destination in Western Maine. Over the years, Saddleback gained a reputation for its diverse terrain and stunning mountain views, attracting both local and out-of-state skiers. In the mid-2000s, the resort underwent significant challenges, including financial struggles and eventual closure in 2010. In 2014, new ownership revitalized the resort with investments in infrastructure and expanded services and Saddleback is now a highly popular year-round destination for both skiing and mountain biking.

The Trails

Saddleback has trails for all skill levels with over 2,000 feet of vertical drop and 66 trails focused mainly on intermediate and expert skiers. The mountain has distinct areas, starting with the beginner-friendly "Saddleback Lowlands," featuring gentle slopes and a magic carpet lift. Mid-mountain trails offer a mix of challenges for less experienced skiers. Advanced skiers can tackle steep pitches, glades, and mogul fields on the upper mountain, with popular runs like “Pine Line” and “The Range” known for exciting descents and scenic views. The entire mountain has modern lifts for quick access to different sections, all of which provide amazing views of the Rangeley Lakes Region.

Maine’s Favorite Mountain

Saddleback has received numerous awards, including recognition from the National Ski Area Association for outstanding safety practices and an award for environmental stewardship, highlighting the resort's dedication to sustainable practices. Additionally, Saddleback has been honored with multiple "Best of" titles by regional publications, celebrating its exceptional skiing experience, family-friendly atmosphere, and natural beauty.

Additional Activities

Located at the base of Saddleback Mountain, the Rangeley Lakes Trails Center offers a picturesque multi-use trail network that provides stunning views of Rangeley and surrounding areas. They have over 50km of recreational trails for nordic skiing, fat tire biking, and snowshoeing. They offer winter equipment rentals and delicious food and drink in their heated yurt lodge.

If ice skating is more your speed, there are several lakes and ponds that offer skating, including Haley Pond. The Rangeley Pond Skating Club maintains the rink on Haley Pond and provides free rentals during business hours.

If rain is in the forecast, check out Moose Alley on Main Street in Rangeley. They offer state of the art big-ball bowling, billiards, arcade games, entertainment, food, and more!

Dining

On the mountain, there are four options for dining. The Market, located in the main floor of the lodge, is your standard grab-and-go ski lodge cafeteria that serves up hot breakfast and lunch. Two floors up, you’ll find The Pub, a welcoming, family-friendly lodge restaurant that serves up delicious sandwiches, pizza, cocktails, and stunning views. Across from the lodge, is slope side Sneaky Pete’s Bar—which has plenty of drinks and yummy waffles on tap. Last but not least, is The Nest, an elevated (literally!) restaurant tucked into the trees of Saddleback Mountain that boasts panoramic views of the Rangeley Lakes Region and elevated dishes that will warm your soul.

Off the mountain, there are several restaurant options in downtown Rangeley, including the local sports bar— Sarge’s Sports Pub. If you’re looking for something with a little more ambiance, Parkside and Main serves elevated comfort dishes like chicken marsala and fish and chips. Bald Mountain Camps, another beloved local spot, serves hardy meals in a rustic atmosphere. If it’s small plates and cocktails you’re after, then you have to check out The Corner Bar.

Lodging

There are several lodging options near Saddleback, including:

• Loon Lodge (Rangeley)

• The Rangeley Inn (Downtown Rangeley)

• Rock Pond Condos (Slopeside)

• Mountain Brook Condos (Slopeside)

• Parmachenee A-Frames (Slopeside)

• Bald Mountain Camps Resort (Oquossoc)

Travel Tips

• From most major cities North and South, I-95 is the primary access highway. Follow signs for Rangeley Lakes Region or type “Saddleback Ski Area” into your gps. Once you arrive in Rangeley, follow signs for Saddleback Ski Area. DO NOT type “Saddleback Mountain” into your GPS, unless you’re planning on hiking the Appalachian Trail over Saddleback Mountain.

• If you're visiting during the Winter months, be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes! Bring wool sweaters, warm jackets, and thick winter boots with good traction!

• In my opinion, the best time to ski at Saddleback is when we have the most snow—February and March. Just be careful to avoid school vacation weeks.

Special Deals

Maine residents can ski at Saddleback for only $69 on Thursdays. The best time to buy a seasons pass is at the end of the previous season or before the season begins. That being said, certain offers will come up during the ski season, so be sure to check the Saddleback website for up-to-date information on special deals.

Saddleback is known for hosting several annual events— including live music performances, Winter festivals, pond skimming, and more! Be sure to check out Saddleback’s events page for information on upcoming events.

Insider Tips

• Get the waffles at Sneaky Pete’s Bar and the blue cheese dressing at The Pub

• To avoid crowds, ski mid-week or on Sundays

• Some of my favorite trails: Grey Ghost, Sneaky Pete, Silver Doctor, and Tri-Color.

• Tri-Color is a must-ski. It has the best views on the mountain.

Leave no Trace

When it comes to enjoying time outdoors, remember the golden rule: Leave No Trace. It’s as simple as picking up after yourself, staying on the trails, and leaving nature just as beautiful as you found it. Think of it like being a good guest—keep things clean, respect the wildlife, take only memories and leave behind only footprints. By practicing Leave No Trace, you help preserve the magic of Maine for future adventurers to enjoy, so everyone can keep enjoying the same beautiful, wild world we love.

Interested in more insider Maine skiing tips and recommendations? You can find them all here.

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With love,

My Maine