RANGELEY — The winter outdoor recreation scene is bustling at the Rangeley Lakes Trails Center on Saddleback Mountain Road, which will host the 25th annual Rangeley Lakes Loppet Saturday, March 2.
The Loppet, a Nordic long-distance ski race, has been a part of the New England Nordic Ski Association’s Marathon series for many years and has built a great reputation as being one of the best Nordic races in New England and beyond.
There are many out-of-state competitors who make the race a priority in their schedule.
The race has categories for classic and skate, with 25k and 50k course lengths. The Loppet also offers a 25k Touring class for those who don’t need to push the pedal to the metal, but would like to enjoy the challenge of the course at their own pace.
The race course takes in a variety of terrain with views of Saddleback Mountain and Saddleback Lake and the mountains beyond.
There will be refreshment stations along the way offering energy drinks and cookies for stamina. The best part about the event is the spectacular, post-race feed for the hungry racers. A variety of soups are donated by local restaurants, and area residents also bake and donate cookies. There is also sausages, peppers and onions served on a bun. All the meals are served by a dedicated volunteer crew.
It looks like there’s going to be plenty of snow to make it a spectacular race once again this year. Register online at skireg.com or call the RLTC to register by phone, 207-864-4309.
Details about the race, accommodations, maps, trail conditions and more can be found on their website at rangeleylakestrailcenter.org Even if you don’t intend to race, come on up to enjoy some great discounted rates during mid-week. The website has all the details about Locals’ Appreciation Days, Maine Days, Ladies’ Day and Men’s Day.
The Rangeley Lakes Trails Center is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day. For more information visit rangeleylakestrailscenter.org.
PHOTO: The field of Nordic racers leaves the Ranageley Lakes Trail Center stadium shortly after the start of the 2018 Loppet. (RLTC photo)
