Winter is here — and that’s a good thing! There’s nothing like Moosehead Lake ice fishing, skiing on Big Moose Mountain, or snowmobiling, and the season is also home to various popular events — the annual Wilderness Sled Dog Race, the Moosehead Lake Togue Derby, and Greenville’s month-long Deck The Halls holiday celebration.
Moosehead Lake winters are nothing short of spectacular. Once the snow flies, the trees frost, and the lake freezes over; the area transforms into an almost entirely different world. Hiking turns to skiing and snowshoeing, snowmobiles (mostly) replace ATVs, and ice fishing shacks take the place of boats.
It isn’t all outdoor adventure, though. Many come simply to enjoy views of the lake under its sparkling white blanket of snow. What better sight to accompany a friendly, fireside snuggle with a warm beverage? The season’s incredibly clear, star-filled night skies are also pretty hard to beat, especially in December when the Northern Lights kick in.
Moosehead Lake Ice Fishing
Moosehead Lake is an ice-fishing paradise. The season begins on January 1 and lasts through the end of April. With a vast area to fish, Moosehead Lake also offers various species, including lake trout, brook trout, cusk, and salmon, often caught right under the ice! For all the details, read our Ice Fishing on Moosehead Lake blog. If you’ve never ice-fished before then take advantage of our ice fishing package. You’ll spend the day out on Moosehead Lake with our Maine registered guide, complete with all the gear you need and warm beverages!
Save money and effort by planning your fishing trip to coincide with one of the two annual Maine Free Fishing Weekends. Anyone can drop a line in the water during Maine Free Fishing Weekends, fishing license or not. All other fishing laws and regulations apply, of course.
The upcoming winter Free Fishing Weekend is February 14-15, 2026 and May 30-31, 2026. Book your stay with us and a few of your friends. After you play hard all day, come back to the lodge for luxurious comfort!
Moosehead Lake Snowmobiling
Moosehead Lake is also a fantastic snowmobiling destination, home to some of Maine’s best snowmobile trails and the most gorgeous snowmobiling country.
Guests of The Lodge at Moosehead Lake will discover hundreds of miles of enviable snowmobile trails nearby. The area also has plenty of off-trail wilderness for bottomless powder-busting fun.
Excellent outfitters, guides, and snowmobile rentals are also just minutes away from the Lodge. The various tour options and knowledgeable guides promise you the snowmobiling adventure of a lifetime! Maybe even try out our newest package, Moose safari by snowmobile!
Winter Events at Moosehead Lake
Deck the Halls
Deck the Halls is Greenville’s month-long celebration of the holiday season. Every year, the festivities kick off the weekend after Thanksgiving with a host of fun events held in and around Greenville, ME. Attractions include a Christmas parade, holiday tours, tree lighting, craft fair, and unique shopping opportunities.
Moosehead Lake Togue Derby
The Moosehead Lake Togue Derby celebrates the ice fishing tradition of the Moosehead Lake Region with a fishing contest hosted by NASCAR personality Ricky Craven. The event is held this year on February 6 -8, 2026.
Wilderness Sled Dog Race
The Moosehead Area Wilderness Sled Dog Race takes place the first weekend of every February if weather and snow conditions allow. The race starts from Greenville, just 4 minutes from the front door of The Lodge at Moosehead Lake, then traverses a loop course through the heart of Maine’s 100-mile wilderness area. This year’s race is on February 8, 2025.
The Lodge at Moosehead Lake offers luxurious lodging on Moosehead Lake all year long. Our location puts all the season’s most popular activities and attractions conveniently close by. Book your Moosehead Lake getaway now and beat the rush!