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Chip Proulx, courtesy Mt. Abram Bike Park
Skilled riders can enjoy challenging features and trails at Mt. Abram, but there is something on the mountain for riders of all abilities.
terrain, classes for adults and kids, and a youth bike camp, you can get your start on the course here, as well as develop the proficiencies needed to tackle advanced trails. There’s even a mini bike park for toddlers right next to the base lodge, so kiddos can get comfortable on the dirt with easy riding on
gentle hills and turns. Mt. Abram is unique in their approach to create a welcoming space for those new to the sport, as many bike parks tend to cater to advanced riders by providing a higher percentage of difficult trails. The result of this decision is that many of the mountain’s winter visitors are now summer visitors as well, having discovered a new way to experi- ence the thrill of the downhill. For some riders, the bike park has led them to discover the “other beauty” of western Maine. I spoke to Clay Harvey, who works in marketing for Mt. Abram, about the park recently. He often spends time just off the trails, snapping photos of riders. On several occasions, he’s heard young riders say things like, “Wow dad, I’ve never seen so many flowers before,” as they ride through
the stunning wildflowers, which bloom in succession across the slope and the seasons.
Clay likes to tell potential visitors to, “Bring your family — every person can ride and have a great day.”
People are hearing this message, as evidenced by the steady lift lines last summer. After burning up some calories on the trail, visitors can refuel with burgers, pizza, BLTs and more at the snack bar, and wet their whistle at the beer garden (which includes a full bar). If you want to get a quick feel for the trails you can check them out via several YouTube videos (many by unaffiliated YouTube users). Visit Mt. Abram’s website for info on bike rentals, lift tickets, and to register for Bike School - www.mtabram.com
Schoolhouse Arts Center
A short distance from the southern shore of Sebago Lake, in an unassuming two-story building that formerly housed the Standish High School, the Schoolhouse Arts Center is offering one of the busiest seasons of any theater in Maine. In a typical year, they stage an astonishing 17 different productions, and provide more than 60 performances!
The entertainment provided by the Center is based on a strong foundation of education. In a recent conversa- tion Artistic Director Zachariah Stearn told me, “Our philosophy and approach has always been, ‘Educate, educate educate ... and the show will follow.’” Their Education Department has a busy Junior Season,
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Arts, Entertainment, Adventure and More in Western Maine