Outdoor experts offer tips for winter hiking

BAR HARBOR, Maine (WABI) - It’s safe to say, hiking in Maine is a wonderful pastime enjoyed by Mainers and tourists alike.

“We go every other day,” Maeve said. “I think it’s fun- people do think we’re a little crazy when we think it’s fun to be out in the freezing cold. But the thing is you’re dressing to make yourself comfortable.”

Maeve and Mike Poirier are avid fans of Acadia- all seasons of the year.

“It’s the peace. It’s one of the places where my mind just kind of clears and I can feel true peace out here,” Maeve said.

And while the winter weather can bring beautiful sights of the snow-capped mountains, the husband and wife duo have rendered first aid on their fair share of fellow hikers.

“You want to know the conditions, you want to know your limits, and you want to have a good plan. You also want to leave the plan with somebody who knows where you are going,” Mike said.

From wearing the proper layers to carrying spikes for when they encounter ice, the Poirier’s ensure they pack their bags with everything they could possibly need, like extra layers, food, warm green tea, a compass, a map and more.

And while all of the fluffy snow may look pretty from afar, National Park employees like John Kelly are warning hikers to not underestimate Acadia’s trails.

“Our mountains in Acadia aren’t thousands of feet high, but they can have similar alpine conditions and people should be prepared for that,” Kelly said.

Kelly advises folks to “know before you go”- check the park website and local forecasts the day of your visit. And don’t forget to have a park entrance pass, which is required year-round.

“All of the trails are open, but we do not advise people getting on the steep trails that have iron rungs and ladders,” Kelly said. “Those really should be avoided.”

He said most of the Park Loop Road is closed to vehicles in winter but is open to biking, walking, skiing and snowmobiles. He said you can still drive the section between Sand Beach and Otter Cliff, which is about two miles.

Similar to Mike, Kelly recommends you bring the following for your hike:

• Detailed Map
• Flashlight/headlamp
• Energy food
• Water
• Appropriate footwear
• Multiple layers of warm, water and wind-proof clothing

Most importantly, Kelly said if you do run into an issue while hiking, you should dial 911 and make sure you always have a compass and map with you so you know your way back.

For more information, you can visit the park’s website and Chamber Visitor Center in downtown Bar Harbor at 2 Cottage Street.