Winter at Sebago Lake State Park

Sebago Lake State Park stays open all winter, from 9 a.m. to sunset, and the day-use fee is collected year round. On the Casco side the Bureau grooms 5.5 miles of trail for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with 3.7 miles track-set for classic skiing and 1.5 miles groomed for skate skiing. The Naples side has another 6 miles of ungroomed trail. Winter camping is available by calling the park, and the lake's ice forms late, so test it before you walk out.

Cross-Country Skiing

• Casco side (day use): 5.5 miles of groomed trails. The Bureau sets classic track on 3.7 miles and grooms 1.5 miles specifically for skate skiing. The main loop is the 3.7-mile Outer Loop, with short North and South links, the Cub Cove Spur and New Place Cove Road.
• Naples side (campground): 6 miles of ungroomed trails for backcountry-style touring.

The trails are easy to moderate and wind through several forest types, with stretches along the Songo River and part of Sebago Lake's north shore.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoers can use the same 5.5 groomed miles on the Casco side, keeping off the set ski track, plus the 6 ungroomed miles on the Naples side and the campground access road. The Bureau welcomes off-trail exploring in winter, which it says shows you parts of the park that are hard to reach the rest of the year.

Where to Park

On the Casco side, park at park headquarters, at the boat launch or at the East Area, as listed on the winter trail map. On the Naples side, the entrance to the campground road is plowed for parking so you can reach the ungroomed trails. Winter trail maps are left at the parking areas. See parking and directions.

Winter Fees

Day-use fees apply in winter too: $6 for Maine residents and $8 for non-residents aged 12 and over, with Maine residents 65 and over free. Pay at the self-service station if the booth is closed, and bring cash. See hours and fees.

Winter Camping

The park offers winter camping, but not through the online reservation system. Call the park at (207) 693-6231 for details and to reserve a site. Note that the summer campground rules still apply, including no pets in the campground.

Ice Safety and Ice Fishing

The Bureau allows winter fishing access from the park but warns that ice often forms on big Sebago Lake much later than on the smaller lakes and ponds nearby. Test the ice every few feet for safe, adequate thickness before you trust it, and turn back if you are unsure. See fishing for Sebago's ice fishing rules.

Trail Rules in Winter

• Pets must be leashed at all times, on every trail.
• Walkers and snowshoers stay off the set ski track.
• Carry in, carry out.
• Check conditions first: text SEBAGO to 888-514-7527 for the park's condition alerts, or call (207) 693-6231.