Here at Explore New England, we have a special place in our hearts for family-owned outdoor businesses, and Carter’s XC Ski Center in Bethel, Maine, is one of our favorites!
Since 1984, thousands of Nordic skiers have found a home at Carter’s, both here and at their original location in Oxford, and current owner Jess Carter is determined to carry on her family’s legacy. It started with her father, Dave, an avid skier who established the first Carter’s XC Ski Center in Oxford, Maine (now owned by Oxford Brewing). The family then turned its full attention to its Bethel property, which offers a greater variety of terrain, including trails that wind along the scenic Adroscoggin River and challenging uphill/downhill trails.
But Carter’s is all about getting new skiers and families into the sport, so it offers plenty of green-rated trails, plus lessons and rentals at its Willow Brook main lodge. It also rents fat-tire bikes and allows dogs on many of its trails (Doggie Day passes are $15).
Carter’s also offers rustic cabin rentals year-round.
