Maine Ski Area Partnering With L.L. Bean To Offer Free Lift Tickets

Originally posted on Powder | By Ella Boyd | Last updated Feb 15, 2024 4:29 PM ET

Two iconic cornerstones of Maine, a soulful ski hill and iconic Maine outdoors company, are joining together later this month for a day epitomizing the joy of living in the rugged state.

"The L.L. Bean Free Ski Day is one week away! Mt. Abram and L.L.Bean will be offering free lift tickets, uphill passes and rentals on February 20th."

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Wintertime is the crux of Maine living. People and businesses base their year around the coldest months, finding ways to get through--perhaps even enjoy--the cold until the Spring thaw.

Those who live in the forested state either love the cold, and take up pastimes on snow to get through winter, or merely survive it, coming out pale and tired come springtime.

Most Mainers choose the former. Most companies, too. L. L. Bean is woven into the fabric of Maine's existence, designing outerwear for arctic expeditions since the early 20th century.

Both L. L. Bean and Mt. Abram have strong community roots. L. L. Bean was a real man, (full name Leon Leonwood Bean) who was born in Maine, a lifelong hunter and fisherman, an author, and an inventor. Some of his family still resides in Maine today.

Mt. Abram is a classic Maine resort with a small-town vibe. High school ski races were often held there, and I have fond memories of attending the hill to compete as a kid.

The hill, located near Bethel, with its older lifts and uncrowded slopes, offers a quintessential Maine experience, minus the frills of nearby, comparably ritzy, Sunday River.

The unmistakeable Bean Boot cars, adored by children everywhere and spotted around towns across the state, play a part in this day, too.

Mt. Abram explains that "tickets will be available day of beginning at 8am at the L.L. Bean boot mobiles parked next to our ticket booths on both the Main Side and West Side. There is no online ticket reservations for the day."

"Ski and Snowboard rentals will be available day of, beginning at 8am at our rental shops. Rentals are first come first serve. There are no online rentals reservations for the day."

"Uphill rentals are not included in the free rentals."

Mt. Abram is also looking for volunteers, and volunteers will receive a 2024 ski voucher to use at an alternative date this season.

"If you are willing to help, please contact Sarah Wood at sarahm_wood@yahoo.com."