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| Skiers enjoying the slopes of Powderhouse Hill |
Powderhouse Hill, located in South Berwick, Maine, has been a staple of local skiing for decades. Operated entirely by volunteers, this small but charming ski area has provided affordable winter fun for generations. With just one rope tow and three short trails, Powderhouse Hill embodies the grassroots spirit of New England skiing, offering an experience that feels like stepping back in time.
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| Cozy Powderhouse Hill Lodge |
In early February 2025, we made the trip from Westbrook, which is just under an hour’s drive, to check it out. Upon arrival, we were immediately drawn to the little lodge at the base of the hill. It’s cozy, cute, and exactly what you’d hope for in a classic community-run ski spot—no frills, just a warm place to take a break and chat with friendly locals.
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| Skiers loading the Powderhouse Hill rope tow |
The skiing itself was surprisingly fun. The rope tow, while a nostalgic nod to old-school skiing, was an absolute workout. If you’re not used to using one, prepare for a bit of an arm burn. But the reward at the top is worth it (at least for a couple of runs)—the snow was in great shape, and the hill had more pitch than we expected. While it’s not a massive mountain, the terrain makes for a fun and enjoyable experience, especially considering the price.
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| Keeping it simple but fun at Powderhouse Hill |
Speaking of which, $5 for a lift ticket? In a world where ski passes can run into the hundreds, this is a great way to be introduced to the sport. It’s clear that Powderhouse Hill is all about making skiing accessible, and it was great to see local kids having an absolute blast on the slopes.
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| A Powderhouse Hill $5 ski lift ticket! |
A highlight of the day was running into a reporter from the Portland Press Herald, who we did a quick interview with. It’s always interesting to see small, community-driven places like this getting attention, and Powderhouse Hill certainly deserves it. While our quotes didn't make the article, you can read the story here.
Overall, Powderhouse Hill isn’t a destination for big-mountain skiers looking for high-speed lifts and endless runs, but for a fun, affordable hour or two on the slopes.
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