Yeah, we've bumped the clocks ahead an hour (spring ahead!). And in just one short week we'll plunge head long into spring (March 20th).

Sure, winter is on the wane. So, what's your point?

For skiers, winter doesn't - or shouldn't - end until the last lift at the last open ski area shuts down. Given that, my skiing calendar says we'll be taking runs down the slopes until sometime in early May.

Do we understand each other? I thought so.

OK, you can pull the hiking gear out, the camping goods, the bikes, even the golf clubs. But don't even think about stowing the skis, 'cause we've got aways to go...

Here's what's on tap (Freudian slip? I think not!) for late winter/spring skiing around Maine:

Titcomb Mountain, West Farmington

Titcomb reports 119 inches of snow this season - the best conditions in a decade - with 100% of their alpine (16 trails) and Nordic terrain (16 km) still open. It's 2 for 1 skiing all this weekend, so two can ski for just $24.

Skiing Titcomb during the Peak to Peak Challenge in mid-January.
Carey Kish photo

Big Rock, Mars Hill

It's the Mars Hill Winterfest this weekend, a full slate of good fun. On Saturday there's the Children's Obstacle Course, Kardboard Klassic, Hot Turkey Sandwich Supper, Big Air Contest, Torch Light Parade, Fireworks and an Adult Dance featuring the band Turning Point. Sunday morning is the Big Rock Invitational Youth Race.

In a couple of weeks it's Slush Rush Weekend, March 29-30.

Carey Kish photo

Shawnee Peak, Bridgton

Shawnee Peak winds down its 70th season with a host of good times.

This Saturday WJBQ will broadcast live from the mountain from 11-2. Saturday is also Ski N The Blues day with blues music from 3 pm on, where else, in Blizzard's Pub. Get in on $1000 in prizes the next day for Super Hits Sunday.

Monday is St. Patty's Day. Celebrate on the cheap with the last Carload Craze Days. Get to Shawnee by 11 am and your whole carload of revelers/skiers gets in for $64. It's also the final Monday Night Madness of the season. Ski from 4-9 pm for just $12.

On March 22nd it's the 23rd annual Spring Fling Beach Party. The WHEB Slush Cup happens at 1 pm, followed by the Red Hook Apres Ski Party. On Easter Sunday there's an Easter Egg Hunt for the kids.

WBLM will be on hand on March 29th to help celebrate Shawnee Peak's 70th Anniversary. And there'll be a Season Passholder BBQ on March 30th at the mid-station.

Night skiing lights up Shawnee Peak.
Carey Kish photo

Sugarloaf, Carrabassett Valley

Rock to Molly Hatchet and Blackfoot this Saturday in the King Pine Room. Ski for $35 during the College Weeks, 3/17-21 and 3/24-28. Join in the Easter Costume Parade on 3/23 and maybe win some prizes.

The Big Daddy of all eastern ski parties - Reggae Fest - takes place April 10-13. There ain't nothin' like it. Great skiing, great fun. Ya mon.

Reggae crowds loving Sugarloaf.
Carey Kish photo

Reggae revelers living large.
Carey Kish photo

Sunday River, Bethel

Dance like a Dixie Chicken with Little Feat this Saturday at Whitecap Lodge. Win prizes in the No Bib Jib on March 23rd.

Help raise money to support free programs for adaptive skiers and riders during the 23rd annual Maine Handicapped Skiing Ski-A-Thon March 29th.

Challenge your taste buds at the 18th annual Eat the Heat Chili Cookoff and Firefighters' Race on Sunday, March 30th.

Parrotheads crazies can ski and celebrate with plenty of sun and fun during the 21st Annual Parrot Head - Bust N Burn Festival on April 4-6th.

Parrotheads enjoying a Jimmy Buffett concert. You can pretend and still have fun at the Parrot Head Fest at Sunday River.
Carey Kish photo

Sunday River = awesome conditions, great skiing, big smiles all around... and more to come!
Carey Kish photo

Saddleback, Rangeley

March events at the big mountain include: A St. Patrick's Day family fun day (15th), an Easter Egg Hunt and Costume Parade (23rd) and a Cardboard Box Race (30th) using only cardboard and duct tape (no problem!).

Try Pond Skimming on April 5th, and ski for $25 on Maine Day, April 6th. Get in on the Park Shark Challenge on April 12th and close out a great Saddleback season on April 20th.

Good times and cheap beer at Saddleback!
Carey Kish photo

Check out Ski Maine for more information on these events and others. And don't forget that many of the smaller community areas are still open and offering great skiing.

See you out there... until there's nothing but mud under my skis!

You planning on making the most of the remaining downhill ski season?

It's been a ski season to remember... and it ain't over yet my friends!
Carey Kish photo