QUICK TRAIL FACTS
- Preserve Size: Not sure
- Trail Mileage: ~4.3 miles in network
- Pets: yes
- Difficulty: easy to moderate
- Sights: groomed trails, views
By Sam Shirley
This isn’t your average golf course ski area! Located on Route 201 in Madison, Lakewood Golf Course maintains a great network of dog-friendly cross country ski trails in the winter. Rates are $5 for a day pass or $45 for a season pass. Bring cash in exact change to pay. Every trail, except one, is wide enough for skate skiing, and most trails often has set track for classic. Note that the maps posted online and at the trailhead do not match up with the current trail network. Trailforks has a map which shows the difficulty of each trail. Grooming updates can be found on their Facebook page.
The eastern side of the trail network has trails looping across the golf course and through short wooded sections. Most of the terrain is relatively easy, except for two steep hills on the southernmost loop. The southernmost loop also has nice views of the High Peaks and a covered bridge that you can ski through. The western part of the trail network is made up of easy trails which pass through the forest. These trails are very peaceful and enjoyable. There is a lot of variety in the trails at Lakewood, and skiers of all ability levels should find it enjoyable!
Directions: From Skowhegan: From the center of Skowhegan, head north on Route 201 for 5.6 miles. Turn left onto Golf Course Road, and the parking area will be immediately on your left. From Madison: From the center of Madison, head east on Route 43. After 4.3 miles, turn right onto Golf Course Road. After 1.7 miles, the parking lot will be on your right.
