Take A Look At Life Inside Caribou, The Snowiest Town In Maine

How much snow does Maine get each winter?

Maine receives between 50-70 inches of snow each winter.

Maine is no stranger to snowfall, though it does vary depending on what part of the state you’re in. On the coast, the annual average snowfall clocks in anywhere from 50-70 inches per year, while heavier snowfall occurs more inland, with an average of 60-110 inches per year. The coast of Maine rarely sees more than 15-20 inches per year, but the occasional Nor’easter may drop 10 or more inches of snow in a single day. It's safe to say winter weather in Maine always includes snow -- though there is certainly snow place that compares to the winter accumulations in Caribou, Maine!

For what it's worth, some winters are more brutal than others, but few compare to the winter of 2013 when Maine saw its single largest snowfall to date during Winter Storm Nemo. Between February 8-9, 2013, parts of southern and central Maine saw between 2-3 feet of snow. Gorham, Maine got the worst of it with a whopping 35.5 inches of snowfall during the storm, making it the snowiest place in Maine at the time.

What are some other charming small towns in Maine to visit during the winter?

There are so many delightful things to do in the winter in Maine, and some of our favorite small towns are at their most charming in the winter! Here are some charming small towns to visit during the winter in Maine:

• Presque Isle. While many people are flocking to warmer states for the winter we here in Maine, have learned to embrace it. The long winters have made us self-sufficient and resilient people. That is why during one of the coldest months we suggest you just fully commit to a winter getaway and go where the snow piles high. You can rent a cozy cabin and bunker down as the snow falls. Northern Maine also has some of the best snowmobiling around so if you want to make the most of the snow you can take out the sled and ride for hours.
• Belfast is a little harbor town right off popular Route 1. However, have you ever stopped to check out this little town you pass right through? With a charming downtown filled with unique shops and restaurants, it’s worth the visit. During February the town hosts an amazing event that has people from all over the state competing for the best ice sculpture. The Belfast Ice Festival gives good reason to bundle up and get outside and see the several works of art on display. They place them throughout the town so it becomes a fun scavenger hunt to find them all. They also have a whole host of other activities to enjoy while you are there.
• Carrabassett Valley. A veritable postcard when covered in snow, Carrabassett Valley is about as charming as it gets. Nestled in among all of the mountains you will be able to see Sugarloaf in the background as well as several impressive peaks. If you hit the timing just right you may even see remnants of the fall colors, or see snow-capped mountains. Either way, this town is simply beautiful. There is a trail we recommend doing while in the area, Reed Brook Trail will lead you to an amazing waterfall you simply must see. This hidden gem has plenty of points of interest along the way and then you can marvel at this incredible waterfall.
• Kennebunkport. One of our all-time favorite towns in Maine, the town's ​​Christmas Prelude is known throughout New England as one of the best ways to celebrate.