"It's the most wonderful time of the year."

No, I'm not talking about the juvenile holiday called Halloween. I'm talking about the fact that Maine's largest ski mountains are already seeing the white stuff.

That's right, the snow has returned to Maine. Let's go!

Over the past week, Maine's Big 3 have been coated by snow, giving us a preview of things to come. This means ski season is just around the corner. What a great time to be alive.

Sugarloaf, Maine's tallest ski mountain, already looks like its midseason based on the images coming out of Carrabassett Valley. Obviously, that's not the case, but it is a beautiful sight.

Sugarloaf Mountain via Facebook
Sugarloaf Mountain via Facebook
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Ever since the first trail was cut back in 1950, Sugarloaf has been one of the ski gems of the Northeast. It attracts folks from all over with its massive terrain, righteous snowfields, and incredible beauty. Experts can even enjoy the above-treeline glades. Sugarloaf is the second tallest mountain in Maine, so it can get quite gnarly up there.

The mountain has also introduced many other outdoor activities over the years. They include Nordic skiing, fat biking, tubing, and even cat skiing. Yes, there's plenty of Apres ski choices, too.

Saddleback is also coated, which isn't surprising considering its size and location in the state.

Saddleback Mountain via Facebook
Saddleback Mountain via Facebook
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Saddleback is a massive mountain, with huge elevation and a killer expert section at the peak. The mountain is also known for its wonderful beginner section. Plus, you can't beat the views and surroundings. The Rangeley region is simply one of the best in the state.

And then there's Sunday River, the massive multi-peaked resort in Bethel. While it doesn't have the same elevation as the other two, the resort has still seen its share of the white stuff, as the snow line continues to get lower.

Sunday River via Facebook
Sunday River via Facebook
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It should be another exciting season at Sunday River, as the resort is continuing its 10-year modernization plan, that has already seen the mountain add two new state-of-the-art lifts, including the Barker 6, which opened last year.

Expect to see opening dates announced soon for all three of these mountains as we inch closer and closer to ski season. I know I'm ready. Are you?

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