Milan: Nature, River and Skiing History

Milan combines nature, water activities and winter sports with a distinctive ski jumping history. When choosing a hotel in Milan, you can consider whether the forest and river, winter trails or the history of the Nansen Ski Jump are of greatest interest during your stay.

Forest, Habitats and Views

The Milan Community Forest covers 1,393 acres. It is open for hiking, hunting and fishing; one trailhead is at the end of French Hill Road. Local conditions can change, so it is advisable to check conditions before visiting.

Along the Androscoggin River, the forest includes habitats for moose, black bears and wetland species. The observation tower at Milan Hill State Park offers a different view: from there, you can see mountain ranges in New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont and Canada. This places forest and river habitats alongside a view spanning several regions.

River and Boat Access

Activities on the Androscoggin River include canoeing, fishing, kayaking, whitewater rafting and birdwatching. Options range from paddling and fishing to birdwatching; check local conditions before taking part.

Nansen Wayside Park has a boat ramp and offers opportunities for picnicking, fishing and boating. Cedar Pond is a public, Department-controlled boat access point in Milan. Thus, the water activities listed include both a park with several recreational options and a public boat access point.

The History of the Nansen Ski Jump

The Nansen Ski Jump was built from 1936 to 1938 by the City of Berlin and the National Youth Administration in cooperation with the Nansen Ski Club. In 1938, the jump hosted the first Olympic Trials. Its construction history and competition connect the site with an early chapter in ski jumping.

Milan also hosted the United States Ski Jumping National Championships in 1940, 1957, 1965 and 1972. These championships extend the story beyond 1938: the four event years span several decades and add to the history of ski jumping in Milan.

Winter Trails and Camping

Milan Hill State Park has more than 9 miles of groomed Nordic ski trails. The Nansen Ski Club maintains more than 6 miles of groomed trails for snowshoeing, classic cross-country skiing and skating. So when planning, consider not just the distance but also the activities mentioned.

The Nansen Ski Club trail system is on public and private land within and adjacent to Milan Hill State Park in Milan. Grooming and winter access are seasonal. Grooming and conditions on the State Park trails are also seasonal; check them before a winter visit.

Milan Hill State Park offers 10 campsites, including 4 yurts for basic camping. As campsite availability may change, it is advisable to check current information before planning. The Nansen Warming Hut in the park welcomes everyone who uses the trail network.

Explore more destinations: Whitefield, Errol, Dummer, Dixville Notch, Groveton, Carroll, Berlin, Gorham

For the broader travel overview: Coos.