Skiing and snowshoeing at Cary Medical Center

Caribou , Maine (WAGM) - Winter sports enthusiasts in the Caribou area have another place to ski or snowshoe. Cary Medical Center has about 5 miles of trails on their campus that people are invited to use and enjoy.

(Bill Flagg:) “We have a mission statement that we are creating healthy communities. What better way to do that than get out in the winter and cross country ski and snowshoe. It is one of the best exercises we can do from an endurance standpoint and cardiovascular standpoint. We just hope that people gives these trails a try.”

Dr Jean Pierre Michaud and Scott Walton helped build and maintain several trails on the Cary Campus. Michaud an orthopedic surgeon, says this is great exercise and a way to stay acitve for many residents.

(Jean Pierre Michaud:)” Their kids their parents their pets. Everybody can have a good time and be outside and exercise. We also have people after their surgery for rehab. People with total joint or hip replacement it gives them a good chance to exercise as far as motion and strength building. It’s a nice environment to be outside in winter. We see birds, partridge and rabbits.”

Scott Walton works with Dr Michaud at Cary and after hours he grooms the trails. Walton says it is very satisfying to see people out exercising.

(Scott Walton):” It is very satisfying to see people out and utilizing what we worked for and enjoying it with their family, friends and pets.”

Dave Wakana is a frequent user of the trails saying he gets quite a workout on his fat bike.

(Dave Wakana):” I live about a mile from here and get out of my house and come right here. I am on the trail in probably 10 minutes. It is great riding. People have done a great job grooming. You don’t have to wear a mask when you are out here biking.”

The hope is that the trails will continue to get more use. The Caribou Parks and Recreation Department has their trailer set up at the facility and for people who don’t own skis, or snowshoes are able to borrow them and give the sport a try. The trailer is open from 11 to 1 and 4 to 6.

(Neal Sleeper):” We got these great trails right here in Caribou. Not everybody owns cross country skis or snowshoes. We are going to be here from 11 to 1 Monday through Friday and most afternoons from 4:30 to 6. This is a chance to give cross country skiing or snowshoeing a try. You don’t have to own the equipment. We will guide you through it and help you on your way. We will help you get your stuff on and show you want you need. We will give you a little description on where to go on the trails. We are here to help you have a healthier 2021.”

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