Biq Squaw (ME) - 02/16/04

[rosswilli]

Went to Big Squaw in Greenville, ME this weekend. like most of new england they need snow! But enough to have fun!!

But with their 40th anniversary this year, you only pay $19 to ski there, you get your $19 worth!! And Greenville is a cool town, fun pubs to hang out in.

[uphillklimber]

How are the conditions: How many trails open, snow coverage, crowds? My local report says 44% or 14 trails open. That's a long ride, and I got 4 tickets in my pocket to go there. I really want to go there, but I want some snow. So...be descriptive now, how was the skiing?

[Joshua B]

Another area on my short list to visit, along with Saddleback. I too would like more description.

[uphillklimber]

Joshua, We went to Big Squaw a couple years ago. It was epic!! About the best skiing we had all year. It is a low skiier volume area. We arrived to see all the race busses parked out front. And all we could think about was that the corduroy would soon be gone. It actually lasted til after noon!!! On a race day!!! It's a 4+ hour trip for us, so we like to have some good skiing. We didn't go last year on account of the reports, thin coverage, ice, few trails open, I don't remember exactly. But when it is good, it is very good! And talk about scenic!!! When you go up the lift, look over your shoulder, and pause at the top to enjoy. It is cold there, so there is plenty of snow, little ice, as I remember it. I wanna go back!!!!

[rosswilli]

The conditions were mix of hardpack and some snow. The top of the mountain was open for the first time all year (much to the dismay of some of their season pass holders...). So, it was not ideal conditions but definately ski-able. It's a smaller mountain, older style, but we have some advanced skier friends who still have a blast there. It's one of the best views around, really.

Very low key mountain, no lift lines, and I mean NO LINE!!. But don't expect resort or amenities. The bar closes early, the restaurant may not open at all, you need to be prepared to either come self sufficient (just in case) or be ready to drive to town, just 10 minutes away. (though a local place Woody's will come pick you up!).

But no lift lines ($19 lift tickets all season if you say Happy 40th Anniversary - and even if you don't!), so it's a blast. Just don't expect glitz and you'll have fun.