The small town of Kingfield is big on character, charm and beauty. Situated near Sugarloaf Mountain, the home to one of the largest ski areas east of the Rockies, it has views of the mountains, dense forests and the Carrabassett River that runs through town. The natural beauty of the town has made it a top destination for outdoor recreation year-round.

Kingfield’s neighboring town of Carrabassett Valley is home to 4,000-foot Sugarloaf Mountain Resort, which is Maine’s largest ski area. The resort offers amazing skiing and snowboarding, from numerous double black diamond trails to plenty of easy greens. There are also 90 kilometers of groomed Nordic ski trails. In warmer weather, tee time at Sugarloaf’s renowned golf course is on the bucket list of golfers of all levels, and the network of mountain bike trails round out the outdoor adventure opportunities.

Things to Do in Kingfield and Carrabassett Valley

The best thing about Kingfield and Carrabassett Valley, Maine is the countless activities to choose from. You can go biking, walking, running or cross-country skiing on the Narrow Gauge Pathway that follows the Carrabassett River for six miles on a former rail bed. In the spring and summer, you can go fly fishing on the Carrabassett River.

In Kingfield, you can join up with snowmobile trails that connect to hundreds of miles of routes. The town also has the southernmost trailhead on the Maine Huts and Trails 80-mile network of groomed, backcountry paths for biking, hiking and Nordic skiing or snowshoeing, with inviting “huts” to warm up and enjoy a fantastic meal.

Kingfield is home to the Ski Museum of Maine, where you can learn about the history of Maine’s ski industry and get to know prominent Mainers in the ski world, is conveniently located on the Sugarloaf Access Road in Carrabassett Valley. Kingfield natives and brothers Francis and Freelan Stanley invented America’s first steam-powered car, and The Stanley Museum documents the history of the Stanley family’s ingenuity.

In June, the Kingfield POPS hosts the Bangor Symphony Orchestra and Maine’s top folk and traditional musicians. The event coincides with a free Festival of the Arts downtown that features more live music. Each July, Kingfield Festival Days has family activities, music and great food.

Sugarloaf has endless activities throughout the year. The Outdoor Center is the state’s largest cross-country skiing center, with affordable ski rentals, and in the warmer months leads to over 80 miles of mountain bike trails.

Where to Stay in Kingfield and Carrabassett Valley

In Kingfield, the Victorian mansion that is now home to the Hillholm Estate offers great rooms and amazing views. For cozy comfort, try Three Stanley Avenue Guest House. In Carrabassett Valley, the Sugarloaf Inn is known for its ski-in-ski-out rooms, great breakfast and mellow vibe. The cozy, well-appointed Hostel of Maine is a welcome retreat at the end of a day spent outdoors, and of course, the Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel is the resort’s own lodging, perfect for a slopeside stay.

Restaurants in Kingfield and Carrabassett Valley

You won’t go hungry here. Everyone loves Sugarloaf Village’s après ski dining options. There’s The Rack BBQ, co-owned by Olympian Seth Wescott, the resort’s own 45 North for slopeside fine dining and many others.

In Kingfield, locals and visitors alike rave about Rolling Fatties, a burrito shop in town and food truck serving events in the area. The Kingfield Woodsman is the go-to place for a fast and filling breakfast or lunch, and don’t miss Longfellow’s Restaurant, right by the Carrabassett River.