All told, 2003 so far has brought with it the most astonishing winter weather in decades. There is some good news, though. Snowmobiling is experiencing its best year ever. Snowmobiling is one of Maine's thriving businesses, a state that has seen an economic downturn in a host of industries that rival any other experienced in history.

"The weather has negatively impacted so many businesses in America this year. We feel very fortunate that the snowfall has increased our business and has allowed us to extend the snowmobiling season by more than 3 weeks," says Matt Polstein, owner and operator of New England Outdoor Center.

Their web site at www.neoc.com has a vast amount of information about snow depths, grooming schedules and, best of all, some great packages for the novice to the experienced snowmobiler. "With the economy the way it is, we wanted to offer special pricing to give middle America the opportunity to enjoy the season with a great getaway at one of our camps, guest houses, and cabins. There's something for everyone," smiled Polstein.

Maine Snowmobile Association estimates 2003 to be a record year for snowmobiling with over 100,000 snowmobile registrations and economic impact of snowmobiling tourism estimated to be over $300,000,000.

Trail conditions have never been better. And many outfitters and area lodging facilities are offering some great discounts. There's never been a better time to explore Maine's incredible 13,000 groomed miles connecting the most beautiful areas of Maine to New England and Canada. This trail system provides not only incredible scenery, but a dedicated network of communities who support visiting sledders.

Snowmobile Trail Conditions

The Katahdin Region of Maine received close to 20 inches of snow last week bringing snow depth totals to mid-30 to mid-40 inch range. Areas known for receiving greater snowfall amounts, including higher elevations, have considerably more snow! Most of the area's trail system is being groomed nightly. Northern Maine is in the midst of an active weather pattern that is bringing snow and colder temperatures to the region. Daytime temperatures are forecast to reach the upper 20's and nighttime lows are predicted to be 0-10 below. This makes for very comfortable riding and excellent grooming conditions. More snow is forecast for later this week.

strong>About the Author

New England Outdoor Center is the largest outdoor recreation outfitter in Maine. The company's headquarters, the Rice Farm complex in Millinocket, Maine includes the Penobscot River whitewater rafting base of operations, Rice Farm Campground and River Drivers Restaurant. NEOC also owns and operates Twin Pine Snowmobile Rentals, Twin Pine Camps, and the Osprey Center Resort, The Sterling Inn and Silver Cove Campgrounds. Over the past 2 decades the company has grown from guiding a few small groups through the Kennebec River during the summer to today's 2 year-round resorts with over 25 full-time, year-round employees and 60 additional seasonal employees. They can be contacted by phone at 800-766-7238 or by email at info@neoc.com .