When people speak of Grand Lake Stream, they often gush about the amazing fly fishing, wide-open lakes, early-morning sunrises up to camp, July’s Folk Art Festival, or storied hunting trips. While summer and fall are magical seasons, the Downeast Lakes region’s best kept secret is winter.
The transformation of the village from the drab browns and grays of November and December, to the crystalline whites of January and February is a sight not to be missed. Majestic hemlock and fir trees dusted with fresh powder, streamside alders coated in frozen spray, and late afternoon sunsets turn Grand Lake Stream into a frosty postcard. While these views are gorgeous sitting beside a roaring woodstove, the real action is outside.
Whatever your winter sport may be, there is plenty of space to practice in the 55,678-acre Downeast Lakes Community Forest. Break trail in a pair of sturdy snowshoes, searching for animal tracks. Slide along a frozen path in a pair of cross-country skis. Cruise along the many well-groomed trails, maintained by the Grand Lake Snowmobile Club. Get your tip-ups out on the ice and land a trophy fish. Lace up the old ice skates and glide across your favorite lake. The opportunities are endless!
Downeast Lakes Land Trust is supporting many of these winter activities with several upcoming events in January and February. Please join us for Musquash Skiing & Snowshoeing, Group Snowmobile Ride with Grand Lake Snowmobile Club, Kids Winter Survival Class, and Family Ice Fishing Day with Princeton Rod & Gun Club. For more information about winter activities in the community forest, please contact DLLT at (207) 796 – 2100 or email info@downeastlakes.org.