Aroostook Outdoor News: 2.11.16 edition

#HappyValentinesDay. #Ski #Snowshoe #Sled #Skate #Skijor with your #sweetie!

In this edition: 1) #WinterCarnival in #Caribou. 2) #Winter #FamilyFun on #skis, #snowshoes, and #sleds in #FortKent and #Madawaska. 3) A guided #SnowshoeHike in #Limestone. Plus lots more! #offugo…

Ski

Friday, February 12-Sunday, February 14

Caribou Winter Carnival, Caribou. Let’s enjoy the winter season together! Tons of activities, including Kids’ Fun Day, Sled and Canoe Downhill Races (w/prizes!), Snow Sculpture Contest (cash prizes!), Ice Skating on Collins Pond, Broomball Tournament ($500 cash prize to first place!), BBQ and lots more! Everyone in the area is invited to join the fun! Some events require pre-registration! All events are FREE unless otherwise stated! Contact Caribou Rec (207-493-4224) FMI

 

*Saturday, February 13-Sunday, February 14

Island Falls Fishing Derby 2016, Island Falls. 5:00 a.m. Saturday-3:00 p.m. Sunday at Mattawamkeag Lake and Pleasant Pond. Free fishing weekend – get out there and fish! Cash prizes for Salmon, Trout, Bass, Pickerel, White Perch! Kids’ category too! Door prizes! Register and weigh-in at Jerry’s Foodstore. Cost: $10. Contact Jerry’s Foodstore (207-463-2828) FMI

 

Saturday, February 13-Wednesday, February 17

Katahdin Area Winterfest 2016 Ski and Snowshoe Tours, Millinocket. Daily guided ski or snowshoe trips on the Bait Hole and Jerry Pond Trails. Some equipment available, Cost: FREE! Contact Katahdin Area Chamber of Commerce (207-723-4443) or visit www.katahdinmaine.com FMI

 

Saturday, February 13

Fin & Feather Club of Maine Kids’ Fishing Day, Millinocket. 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at Jerry Pond. The club is hosting their annual “Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs” as part of Winterfest 2016. Fishing equipment provided, ice holes dug, free hot dogs and guaranteed tons of fun. Visit “Fin and Feather Club of Maine” on facebook FMI

 

Saturday, February 13

Fort Kent Outdoor Center Free Family Fun Day, Fort Kent. 12:00-4:00 p.m. at FKOC, 33 Paradis Circle. Free trail passes, ski and snowshoe rentals, beginner ski lessons, guided ski and snowshoe tours, story walk, scavenger hunt, sledding, snacks, hot chocolate, and a bonfire with s’mores! Visit www.fortkentoc.org FMI

 

Saturday, February 13

NMMC/FSTA 4th Annual Rally in the Valley Winter Festival, Madawaska. Kids of all ages are invited to attend a fun outdoor snow day; skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, games, and more! Registration: 11:00 a.m. at Four Seasons Lodge. Event: 12:00-2:00 p.m. Cost: $5; includes t-shirt and water bottle. Contact Gail Lamarr (207-834-1459) or gail.lamarr@nmmc.org FMI

 

Saturday, February 13

Healthy You Guided Snowshoe Hike, Limestone. 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge. Join us for a guided snowshoe hike through wooded trails with science educator Larry Berz. Hot cocoa will be served following the hike, Spots are limited and snowshoes must be reserved, so please register in advance. Contact Bethany Zell (207-498-1361) FMI

 

Saturday, February 13

Florenceville-Bristol Tourism SnowBlast, Florenceville, NB. Activities at Riverside Park, Valley Outdoor Centre, Camp Shiktehawk, Community Hall, including Youth/Adult Crazy Cardboard Classic Sled Race, XC Skiing, Woodsman Water Boiling Competition, Sliding, Human Dog Sled Race, Snowshoe Hike, Taffy on the Snow, Hay Rides, Skating, Science East, Food Court, and more! Contact Florenceville-Bristol Tourism (506-392-6763) or visit www.florencevillebristol.ca FMI

 

Sunday, February 14

Katahdin Communities Outing Club Cross Country Ski and Picnic, Mt. Chase. 10:00 a.m. at Matagamon Ski Trails. Meet at Baxter State Park parking lot at end of Matagamon Road, Mt. Chase. Contact KWW Recreation Managers (207-852-1291) or lunksoos@gmail.com FMI

 

Thursday, February 18-Sunday, February 21

Fins & Furs Adventures Maine Guide School, Presque Isle. Prepares students to confidently enter the state’s testing and licensing process. Material Covered: Hunting, Fishing and/or Recreation guide’s license exam. This course builds top notch map and compass proficiency, and equips students to react quickly and efficiently during stressful situations, such as a lost client or medical emergency. Cost: $495/person. Visit www.finsandfursadventures.com FMI

 

*Friday, February 19

NMCRA Bigrock Ski Day, Mars Hill. Residents of Northern Maine Community Recreation Association towns are invited to take advantage of $15 lift tickets and $15 rentals from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. on this day, when pre-registered at their local Rec. Dept. Participants under age 18 must have rental form signed by parent/guardian. Forms can be picked up at your local Rec. Dept. Pre-registration required. Contact Bigrock Mountain (207-425-6711) FMI

 

Friday, February 19

Mont Farlagne Outdoor Centre Snowshoe Under The Stars, Edmundston, NB. 6:30 p.m. (Atlantic time) at Mont Farlagne Ski Area. On the menu: snowshoe, party with the Paiens band, and bonfire. Cost: $25/person. Proceeds go to Canadian Cancer Society. Visit www.montfarlagne.com FMI

 

Saturday, February 20

Woodstock Rec. Snowshoe 3k/5k Race & Kids’ 1k, Woodstock, NB. Registration: 9:00 a.m. at AYR Motor Centre, 105 Connell Park Road. Race start: 10:00 a.m. (all times Atlantic) in Connell Park. Cost: $5/person; Kids’ 1k race is Free. Visit www.facebook.com/events/1672217796369982 FMI

 

Saturday, February 20

TAMC Snowshoeing Series, Presque Isle. 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Aroostook State Park during their Take It Outside Day. Guided group hike. Rentals available at this location, $2/pair. Cost: Park entry fee. Contact Linda Menard (207-768-4172) FMI

 

Saturday, February 20

Aroostook State Park Winter Family Fun Day, Presque Isle. 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. We have everything you need to have fun with the family, outside in Aroostook County’s winter wonderland: XC skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating (bring skates), sliding, snowmobile tote-rides, nature walks, warming hut, bonfire, hot food, Smokey the Bear, Maine Game Wardens. Equipment available. Fee: $1.50/person ages 12-64; all others FREE. Contact Aroostook State Park (207-768-8341) FMI

 

Saturday, February 20

Perth-Andover Winter Carnival Family Winter Fun Day, Perth-Andover, NB. 12:30-3:30 p.m. (Atlantic Time) at Veteran’s Field. Activities: Chainsaw Carving Demonstration, Sleigh Rides, Taffy in the Snow, Science East, Human Family Foosball Tournament , Outside Skating, Bon Fire, more! Contact Perth-Andover Recreation Department (506-273-4845) FMI

 

Saturday, February 20

Woodstock Rec. Snowshoe Poker Rally, Woodstock, NB. 8:00 p.m. (Atlantic time) at Woodstock Golf & Curling Club, 132 St. Andrews Street. Participants snowshoe to marked locations around the golf course area. Each will collect a hand of cards on their return. By chance, the best poker hand wins! Followed by an acoustic evening featuring Ronny Michaud. Cost: $10/person. Must be 19yrs+. Visit www.facebook.com/events/219386638394381 FMI

 

*Wednesday, February 24

MSAD #1 Adult Ed. Fly Tying Course, Presque Isle. Meets Wednesdays from Feb. 24-Mar. 30; 6:00-9:00 p.m. in PIHS Room 411. Learn to Tie Your Own Flies!  Many anglers find it enjoyable to spend the winter months tying their flies for the next years fishing season. This is a very basic workshop that is geared toward beginners and for those that just want to brush up on their techniques. Contact MSAD #1 Adult Ed. (207-764-4776) or lerae.kinney@sad1.org FMI

 

*Thursday, February 25

MSAD #1 Adult Ed. Archery Course, Presque Isle. Meets Thursdays from Feb. 25-Apr. 14; 6:00-8:00 p.m. in PIHS Gym. Do you want to learn how to use a bow and arrow? This class is for you! This class will cover the basics of archery, including archery safety. Ages 14+. Cost: $45. Contact MSAD #1 Adult Ed. (207-764-4776) or lerae.kinney@sad1.org FMI

 

Thursday, February 25

TAMC Ladies’ Rock Wall Climbing Night, Presque Isle. 6:00-8:00 p.m. at UMPI’s Gentile Hall Rock Wall. Ladies, come and enjoy indoor rock climbing with just other women! Participants are asked to bring sneakers, comfortable clothing, a water bottle, and enthusiasm! Cost: FREE! Sponsored by TAMC. Contact Amanda Baker (207-768-9401) or amanda.g.baker@umpi.edu FMI

 

*Saturday, February 27-Sunday, February 28

Maine Winter Sports Center Intro to Backcountry Ski Touring Weekend, Patten. Learn basics of ski touring, backcountry travel while exploring Maine wilderness in winter, skiing along East Branch of the Penobscot River, learning tips and tricks to help you make the most of your backcountry adventures. Cost: $95; includes instruction, food, group camping equipment. Participants must provide personal gear including skiing equipment. Contact Mike Smith mikes@mainewsc.org FMI

 

Saturday, February 27

Mont Farlagne Outdoor Centre Slam Jam, Edmundston, NB. Event takes place at our brand new snowpark; composed of Friendly and Competitive Rail & Jump. Everybody is invited to come join and cheer up all the riders! Lots of fun and adrenaline for all! Registration: 9:00 a.m. in the Cafeteria. Friendly Jam: 11:30 a.m. (Free). Competitive Jam: 1:30 p.m. (all times Atlantic). Cost: FREE/Friendly Jam, $20/Competitive Jam; helmets mandatory. Contact Eric Morin ericmorin29@yahoo.ca FMI

 

*Saturday, February 27

Limestone Ski Club C-Me-Ski – Aroostook Cup #3, Limestone. A great classic tour and race. Come out and enjoy the beauty of the wooded trails, the wildlife, and some good food! Distances: .5k-2k/ages 13 and under; 7k/ages 13-18; 9k/adults. Registration: 12:00 p.m. at Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge, 97 Refuge Rd. Youth race start: 1:00 p.m. Adult race start: 1:30 p.m. Cost: $10 suggested donation. Contact Limestone Ski Club (207-328-7491) FMI

 

Sunday, February 28

41st Annual Henry Anderson Memorial Ski Dag – Aroostook Cup #4, Caribou. 5-mile, Classical XC ski race open to all ages. This is the granddaddy of ‘em all! The longest continuously-run Nordic race in Aroostook! Registration: 9:00 a.m. at Caribou Country Club. Race start: 10:00 a.m. Contact Caribou Parks & Recreation Department (207-493-4224) FMI

 

Sunday, February 28

Nordic Heritage Sport Club Ladies’ Snowy Sunday, Presque Isle. 10:00 a.m.-1 p.m. at Nordic Heritage Center. Just because we are taking a year off from Aroostook Women’s Ski Day doesn’t mean we can’t get together and have some fun! Ski on your own or join a group. Bring food to share for a potluck lunch. Bring your own skis or snowshoes — we do not have access to loaner equipment. Contact Heidi heidikbartley@gmail.com or Amanda baker.amandag@gmail.com FMI

 

*Thursday, March 3-Saturday, March 5

Caribou Rec. Chimney Pond Nordic Ski Trip, Caribou and Baxter State Park. Girls and boys in grades 5-10 will get to experience Baxter State Park and Chimney Pond unlike they’ve ever seen it before. Some Nordic ski experience required. Cost: $100; includes lodging, transportation, meals. Some equipment available for use. Pre-registration required. Contact Caribou Parks & Recreation Department (207-493-4224) FMI

 

Friday, March 4-Sunday, March 6

UMPI Outing Club Cabin in the Woods Weekend, Presque Isle and Kingfield. Snuggle up near the woodstove as we go winter camping in an off-the-grid cabin. We will be exploring the trails by snowshoe. This is a great introduction to winter camping and snowshoeing! No experience required. Cost: $30/UMPI student, $100/non-student; includes transportation, equipment rental (snowshoes), food, lodging. Contact Amanda Baker (207-768-9401) or amanda.g.baker@umpi.edu FMI

 

*Saturday, March 5

TAMC Snowshoeing Series, Presque Isle. 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Nordic Heritage Center. Guided group hike. Cost: FREE! Contact Linda Menard (207-768-4172) FMI

 

*Saturday, March 5

Himie Towle Memorial Ski Frolic – Aroostook Cup #5, Presque Isle. Youth races (ages 15 and under) at varying distances; 10k Freestyle (classic track also set) Race, 5k Tour for adults. Registration: 10:00 a.m. at Nordic Heritage Center. Youth race start: 12:00 p.m. Adult race start: 12:30 p.m. Cost: $20/family, $10/adult, $5/youth; includes lunch. Contact Tom Towle (207-227-6306) or ttowle@fortfairfield.org FMI

 

*Saturday, March 5-Sunday, March 6

Fort Kent Outdoor Center/Can-Am Crown Skijoring Races, Fort Kent. Skijoring: a blend of XC skiing and mushing, where skier and animal(s) work together. 2k, 4k Sprint races under the lights Saturday; 5k, 15k races Sunday, at Fort Kent Outdoor Center. Cash prizes to be announced after sponsorship is finalized! Cost: $20/2k, $30/4k, $35/5k, $45/15k; $5 discount if entered in two races. Contact Laura Audibert (207-834-6773) or la4568@roadrunner.com FMI

 

*Saturday, March 5-Sunday, March 6

Woodstock Sanctuary House Winter Baseball, Woodstock, NB. We are looking for teams for Woodstock’s first Winter Baseball event held at Ayr Motor Centre’s Shiretown and Jeff Clark Baseball fields. All are welcome! Registration deadline: February 27. Cost: $10/person. All moneys go to Woodstock Sanctuary House. Canteen available inside Ayr Motor Centre. Contact Woodstock Sanctuary House sanctuary@nb.aibn.com FMI

 

*Wednesday, March 9

Aroostook Birders Annual Slide Show and Pot Luck, Presque Isle. 7:00 p.m. at Maine Dept. of Environmental Protection, 1235 Central Drive. Birds of a feather flock together; join us for an evening of show and tell! Bring one of your very best bird photos of the year and a dish to add to our pot luck supper. Contact Bill Sheehan (207-227-7301) or bill.j.sheehan@gmail.com FMI

 

*Thursday, March 10

Caribou Rec. Ski 4 Life Downhill Program, Caribou. Meets Thursdays at 2:45 p.m. on 3/10, 3/24, 3/31, 4/7. Learn to ski. Open to students in grades 6-8. Cost: $80; includes lift ticket, ski rentals, lesson, transportation. Participants will need to bring a bag lunch or money to eat at the mountain. Contact Neal Sleeper (207-493-4224) or sleeper@cariboumaine.org FMI

 

*Saturday, March 12

Acadia FCU Marathon – Aroostook Cup #6, Madawaska. 40k classic/skate race with cash prizes; 20k classic/skate race. Pasta meal with lots of raffle prizes for all skiers. Race start: 11:00 a.m. at Four Seasons Trails. Fee: $25/40k racers, $15/20k racers. Visit www.fourseasonstrail.org FMI

 

*Saturday, March 12

3rd Annual Angel Snowfest, St. Agatha. All-day event at Lakeview Restaurant; live music, outdoor Ice Bar, Snowshoe/Walk, Luminary Walk on the breathtaking Lakeview trails. Proceeds benefit Angel Flight NE and Edgar J. Paradis Cancer Fund. Fee: $15; includes neck-warmer, stew, entertainment. Visit www.facebook.com/angelsnowfest FMI

 

*Sunday, March 13

Sportsmen’s Inc. Kids’ Ice Fishing Day, Madawaska Lake. 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. All fishing equipment and bait provided. First 100 kids registered will receive a free ice fishing trap. Food available. Visit “Sportsmen’s Inc.” on facebook FMI

 

*Sunday, March 13

UMPI Outing Club Snowshoe Hike, Presque Isle. 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Aroostook State Park. Cost: FREE! Includes guide, transportation, equipment. No experience required. Participants should sign up no later than Friday, March 11 by 3:00 p.m. Contact Amanda Baker (207-768-9401) or amanda.g.baker@umpi.edu FMI

 

*Monday, March 14

Caribou Rec. Take It Outside Series Adult Ice Fishing Trip, Madawaska Lake. Depart Caribou Rec. at 9:00 a.m.; return by 3:00 p.m. Cost: $25/ages 18-69, includes on day fishing license; $20/ages 70 and up, includes lifetime fishing license; fees include transportation, ice traps, bait, ice auger, lakeside lunch, campfire. Bring folding chairs, warm clothes, blanket. Contact Neal Sleeper (207-493-4224) or sleeper@cariboumaine.org FMI

 

Ongoing Programs:

 

County Strides Running Group, Presque Isle. Sundays; 10:00 a.m. at various locations. Open to all abilities; be ready for an easy run of 30-45 minutes, and bring friends! Visit County Strides at www.facebook.com/groups/447181508818122 FMI

 

Bootlegger Snowshoe Hike, Rivière-Bleue, QC. Fourth Sunday of each month at 1:30 p.m. (Eastern time) at the end of Path Brissette. Get to know the magical setting of the Bootlegger trails on this guided hike. Contact Jean Lebrun (418-893-1033) or info1@routedesfrontieres.com FMI

 

Sportsmen’s, Inc. Meeting, Stockholm. First Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Axle Siding Clubhouse (intersection of Lake Street/Rt. 161). Outdoors men and women promoting the traditions of the outdoors. If you’re interested in joining, you’re welcome to attend as a guest. Kids are welcome too! Visit www.facebook.com/Sportsmens-Inc-568794129811741 FMI

 

*Friends of Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge Meeting, Limestone. Second Monday of each month; 6:00 p.m. at ANWR headquarters and Visitor’s Center, 97 Refuge Rd. Founded in 1998, Friends are involved in a number of volunteer projects on the ANWR in an effort to balance the enhancing of habitat with the public access privilege to enjoy wildlife in an unmolested environment. Contact Friends of ANWR (207-328-4634) or friendsofanwr@gmail.com FMI

 

TAMC Couch to 5k Program, Presque Isle. Tuesdays & Thursdays; Feb. 9-Apr. 15; 6:00 a.m. or 4:45 p.m. at UMPI’s Gentile Hall. Choose the time that works best for you. Get off the couch; train your body to run or walk in one of many 5k events next summer. Participants invited to take part in UMPI Spring Runoff, Apr. 9. Cost: $40; Free w/Gentile Hall membership. Contact Sarah Caron (207-768-4169) or scaron@emhs.org or Linda Menard (207-768-4172) or lmenard@emhs.org FMI

 

Nordic Heritage Sport Club Meeting, Presque Isle. First Tuesday of each month; 6:00 p.m. at Nordic Heritage Center, 450 Fort Fairfield Rd. The club promotes healthy outdoor recreation, economic vitality in Central Aroostook County by providing first-class facilities and programs to area residents, athletes, visitors. Visit www.nordicheritagecenter.org FMI

 

Madawaska Valley Adventure Club Meeting, Madawaska. Second Tuesday of each month; 6:30 p.m. at Four Seasons Lodge, 425 Spring St. Contact Real Deschaine (207-728-4992) FMI

 

*Four Seasons Trail Association Snowshoe Hike, Madawaska. Wednesdays and Saturdays; 1:00 p.m. at Four Seasons Lodge. Group snowshoeing/walking on trails. Bring lunch. Contact FSTA (207-728-7047) FMI

 

Valley Outdoor Centre Wednesday Night Skiing, Centreville, NB. Wednesdays; 7:00 p.m. (Atlantic Time) at VOC, 133 Upton Rd. Come on out for a night ski with a group to keep you company. Bring headlamp, stay for snacks, drinks afterwards. Cost: $2/member, $5/non-member, $3/rentals. Visit Valley Outdoor Centre at www.facebook.com/valleyoutdoor FMI

 

Four Season Trail Association Meeting, Madawaska. First Wednesday of each month; 6:30 p.m. at Four Seasons Lodge, 425 Spring St. Non-profit organization dedicated to promotion of healthier lifestyles for this community; participation open to anyone interested. Visit www.fourseasonstrail.org FMI

 

*Nordic Heritage Sport Club/TAMC Youth Ski Program, Presque Isle. Saturdays; 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Nordic Heritage Center. February 27-March 26. UMPI Ski Team coaches will combine instruction and technique training with obstacle courses and games on skis. For children 6- 14 years of age. Contact Joey Bard joey.bard@maine.edu FMI

 

Mont Farlagne Outdoor Centre Ice Wall, Edmundston, NB. Saturdays; 1:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. and Sundays; 1:00-5:00 p.m. (All times Atlantic). Our ice wall is open for the season! First come, first served basis. Cost: $25/hour; $15/equipment rental; $65/2 hours (includes equipment). It will also be possible to buy ice wall climbing equipment at our pro shop in the upcoming weeks. See you on the wall! Visit www.montfarlagne.com FMI

 

* = New or updated item(s).