Quarry Road Recreation Area Introduces Night Skiing and Expanded Alpine Slope

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Quarry Road Recreation Area Enhances Winter Offerings with Night Skiing and Expanded Alpine Slope

Waterville's Premier Park Introduces Fully Lit Nordic Trails and Enlarged Alpine Terrain

This winter, visitors to Waterville's Quarry Road Recreation Area can anticipate exciting enhancements, including fully illuminated night Nordic skiing and an expanded alpine slope.

The Quarry Road Recreation Area, a cherished hub for outdoor enthusiasts, has seen remarkable growth in recent years. Managed by the Waterville Parks and Recreation Department and supported by the nonprofit Friends of Quarry Road, the area offers a diverse range of activities such as Nordic and alpine skiing, snowshoeing, running, walking, and biking.

This season, the park introduces 1.5 kilometers of fully lit Nordic ski trails, allowing skiers to enjoy the trails after sunset. Additionally, the alpine slope has been expanded by 75 vertical feet, providing a more challenging experience for downhill enthusiasts. Notably, these trails are the only ones in the region equipped with snowmaking capabilities, ensuring consistent conditions throughout the season.

The Quarry Road Recreation Area has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. After a period of dormancy, the area was revitalized in 2007 by a dedicated group of volunteers. Today, it stands as a premier four-season venue, easily accessible to residents and visitors from Central Maine and beyond.

The park's ski trails were designed by John Morton, a two-time Olympian and renowned Nordic trail designer. These trails serve as the home base for the Quarry Road Ski Club, fostering a love for skiing among community members.

The recent enhancements are expected to attract even more visitors, boosting the local economy. The park currently hosts approximately 100,000 visitors annually, generating over $2.6 million in revenue for the city.

Looking ahead, plans for the Quarry Road Recreation Area include the construction of a guest services building, a full recreation center with a capacity of 125 people, and the development of new and improved trails. These initiatives aim to further solidify the park's status as a year-round destination for outdoor recreation.

For more information on upcoming events and activities at the Quarry Road Recreation Area, visitors are encouraged to check the park's official channels.