Bethel Adventure Tours

01/27/2025

XC expedition prep

We took to the pond to add some ungroomed spice to Kim’s prep for Katahdin. The regularly scheduled snow squall arrived on time and helped get us to Tucker Island in no time. The snow was light and fluffy but also blowing into drifts. 😊

It turned into a lovely afternoon as the sun came back out and the wind disappeared on the return leg.

01/24/2025

The Wilder Side of the Esker Loop

Thanks to Summit Society members for joining us on an exploration of The Esker Loop in Gilead.

History was related from 12,000 years ago until today, with excellent information gleaned from .f.chapman.

Our off trail exploration started with evidence of recent storms on the esker, especially the Dec 2023 deluge. We witnessed the deforestation by spongy moths and beech bark disease, while acknowledging the circle of life displayed by fungi and woodpeckers working on dead wood.

We had lots of tracks to see including rodents, fox, and weasel. We had some inquisitive chickadees follow us for a bit and a fly by from our neighborhood Bald Eagle.

The river is completely ice covered now along this section, which is a departure from the last 4 years.

Looping back to the esker, one can get an excellent vantage of its shape in winter without leaves blocking the view.

Thanks to Mahoosuc Land Trust and their generous supporters for preserving land, reestablishing sustainable habitats, and providing access to the river and mountains. Their mission is necessary for the long term viability of this region.

01/23/2025

BVT is riding well - come ride with us!

Packed powder conditions on most trails. No discernible ice. Lower/West Helix (beyond the Fluffanutter exit) is riding pretty technical, especially in downhill/uphill curves. Doughnuts is fun but also technical.

Hit us up for guiding and coaching.
Fat biking is fun; it’s slippery, it’s hard in soft snow, even a little speed seems super fast, and falls are usually pretty soft.

01/19/2025

Great Fat bike ride with Hope

We got the BAT call from repeat guest .a.dm to take her and a couple grandkids out riding. Due to unforeseen circumstances, only Hope could ride and she was a champ.

She cued us up early that she wanted to beat her cousins ride and wanted to visit a certain “crash” site.

We took at run at CPS and then deeper into BVT. Katy coached her up on the Raw Sugar and Dam Loop rollers. We then hit the open fields for what likely will be the last of the east coast slickrock.

Great call not to groom today, as the riders today packed it out beautifully, thanks !

Fat biking is fun; it’s slippery, it’s hard in soft snow, even a little speed seems super fast, and falls are usually pretty soft.

01/18/2025

Winter hiking to the ice

Karen and Carla are with a big group of skiers and didn’t want to ski today. We get it 😊, that’s the founding premise of Bethel Adventure Tours. We know how to avoid crowds and find cool spots.

The ice is in

…and, is back on trail👍🏾😎❤️

Appreciate the access, we tread lightly.

01/17/2025

Leave no non-skier behind!

We’ve got you covered for private, custom outdoor adventures all around Bethel. Conditions are really good for hiking (micro spikes) and fat biking. XC skiing and snowshoeing is good as well if you know where to go…we do.

Locally owned Maine Guides, ski coaches, and bike instructors.

https://betheladventuretours.com

Call f you don’t see a time that works for you.

01/14/2025

It’s pretty simple Inland Woods + Trails mission aligns with what we do as a business and what we want as locals that like to adventure.

Our partnership also includes trail stewardship, occasional chainsaw and tree planting, and providing coaching and guiding for their visitors.

A big thank you to Bethel Adventure Tours for supporting Inland Woods + Trails and helping us celebrate the great outdoors! This incredible four-season recreational service offers active, privately guided excursions right here in Bethel.

From hiking and mountain biking to paddling, snowshoeing, birdwatching, and more, Bethel Adventure Tours is your go-to for unforgettable outdoor adventures in every season.

We’re so grateful to partner with businesses that share our passion for connecting people to nature! ❤️

Want to join our growing list of sponsors? 🌲 Email Karla Leandri Rider at [email protected] to learn how your business can make an impact while showcasing your love for trails.

01/12/2025

Ladies Winter Adventure Weekend in Bethel Maine
🚵‍♀️ 🍷 🛖 ❄️ 🧘‍♂️ 🍽️

Feb 28-Mar 2

Explore….all that beautiful western Maine has to offer

Learn…from a certified bike instructor and registered Maine Guide, while having a blast on bikes (or opt for cross country skies instead)

Connect…with fellow adventurers in a fun, supportive and encouraging atmosphere

All are welcome…all abilities, all skin colors, all body types, all fitness abilities, all LGBTQ+, and non-binary.

Included:

6 Meals, 2 beverage/snack sessions and trail snacks
Accommodations - Western Maine Yurts (double occupancy, single supplement may be available)
Rental equipment (snow shoes and choice of fat bike & helmet or cross country ski package)
Bethel Village Trails passes
Fat biking or cross country skiing instruction
Yoga session
Guided snowshoe tour
Linen Service (Sheets, Blankets, Pillow w/case)

Not Included:
Transportation
Guide Gratuities
Alcohol (when dining out)

Cost:
$725.00 per person, double occupancy
Group size: Min 4, Max 6

For full itinerary, registration, and payment
https://tinyurl.com/Womens-Adventure-Weekend

01/07/2025

Morning Nordic

Kim hit us up for some winter expedition prep, Katadin! Part includes XC into the park dragging a sled. Good stuff!😎

Mea culpa on the 📸s, it was cold!

01/06/2025

Getting ready for winter MKA

Mahoosuc Kids Association/Maine West Project Play run after school programming. This time of year it is Nordic.

Happy to help😊

Crispy 🥶 out there but with XC you don’t need a lot of layers…assuming one doesn’t stop. Conditions are good, there isn’t enough snow for them to put down fresh classic tracks but it is still pretty great considering our current weather pattern.

I found where all the ruffed grouse are hanging out…need a bird dog ASAP😎

01/04/2025

Fatbiking WMNF

To the Wild and back🥶. Good to see Katy handle 14 miles without trouble to her knee. She was floating like a butterfly, while I was mostly good except for the occasional punch in minor drifts.

All to ourselves and nary a track except a few miles from bullwinkle and a faint ski track. Pictures never do the Notch justice.

We know how and where to go when the trails are full. Experience an amazing off the beaten track tour like this with Bethel Adventure Tours.

01/03/2025

Memories and Experiences

That’s what we do😊

One of my pictures from a summer tour made it under the tree. I guess that is a moment they wish to remember.

Thanks for sharing Cathie!👍🏾

12/29/2024

Riding fat bikes in Bethel, Maine

This family from greater Boston came to ski and experience some adventures. We are glad they came before the warm up. Riding has been good, thanks !

Fat biking is fun; it’s slippery, it’s hard in soft snow, even a little speed seems super fast, and falls are usually pretty soft.

12/29/2024

Fantastic visit to the mines

Tara was looking for an activity while the family skied and wanted to try snowshoeing. When the “popular” spots get busy on Saturdays, we go opposite. We had the trail to ourselves and the chickadees, but were graced with a personal mine tour by the owner. Thank you so much John, for today and the access.👍🏽🙏😊

Crystal clear views all the way to Mt Blue.
I’m thinking of going by call sign Olaf on this tour.