lakes & Mountains
Stunning mountain vistas, soothing lake views… we could all use some nature therapy. And after you’ve taken in the scenery, get out and get active!
Coos Canyon
Kayaking on Rangeley Lake
Meet your Lakes & mountain neighbors:
Lakes and Mountains Region — Meet Kelly Myers, Mahoosuc Pathways Board Vice President
Carrabassett Valley Mountain Biking — In Maine's Carrabassett Valley, mountain biking is a way of life and community
Our Filming Locations
& Local Recommendations
Inspired to explore the region? We asked Kelly and the film’s director, Rob Holmes, for their local recommendations. They are both Maine residents, avid and active outdoor enthusiasts and superfans of this beautiful region.
Explore more: Trails / Helpful Organizations / Food / Gear / Rest
the great outdoors: trails
Glassface Mountain
Easy and accessible, these trails are paved, gravelled or groomed which allow for a range of mobility needs. They run along the river, past businesses and attractions, so you can get an overview of the area and join the trail at a variety of access points.
Hikes & Walks — Mahoosuc Land Trust
There are many hikes you can choose that run through the trust’s conserved lands. You can explore a variety of habitats and terrains. Difficulty level ranges from Easy to Strenuous. Download or pick-up a map and start your journey.
This rail trail is perfect for hiking or biking, especially popular for families. This is an all-season trail with scenic views to be enjoyed year-round.
A great place to picnic and go for a swim. This is a classic swimming hole, but just as refreshing to walk along and take in the sights and sounds of the beautiful waterfall.
The trail is good for all skill levels, but the fun starts when you hike and slide along the falls. A super adventure for kids (and fun-loving adults!).
“Epic views” reward experienced hikers when they reach the summit of this loop trail. This trail is favored by adventurous hikers and rock climbers. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
A quiet, beautiful hiking spot located within the Bigelow Preserve.
The best hiking destination in Bethel...summer and fall in particular. Incredible nature, amazing scenery and trails available for any ability level. Both the Maine Birding Trail and the Appalachian trail pass through the park and there are iconic waterfalls, abundant wildlife, a variety of facilities and access points. A must-see location.
This advanced hiking adventure is within Grafton Notch State Park and runs along a segment of the Appalachian Trail. The reward for your effort is an amazing view from the observation tower at the summit.
For the less adventurous, this trail is kid and dog friendly and leads to a beautiful series of waterfalls. Easily accessed from the road and close to the popular Screw Auger Falls .
the great outdoors: views
Ira Mountain overlook
This is a classic roadside vista. Located along the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway (Rte. 17), this is a beautiful place to pull over, park and take in the majesty of this region.
Located along the Maine High Peaks Scenic Byway (Rte.27), at an elevation of 1,950 ft., spectacular views of the mountains are waiting to be enjoyed.
Must-See panoramic views of Rangeley Lake and surrounding area located along Rte. 17.
At an elevation of 2,848 ft., Quill Hill is the only mountain in Maine with a 360º view of the gorgeous lakes and mountains region. There are a couple of picnic tables and wheelchair accessible paths leading to great viewpoints.
If you want to take your hiking to the next level, explore the Maine Huts & Trails system. The four “huts” along the trail are closed for the summer, but the trails are open. Stratton Brook Hut is favored by hikers and mountain bikers.
* At the time of publication, Stratton Brook, Poplar Falls, and Grand Falls Huts remained closed. The trails are open. Be safe, and follow social distancing. Visit Maine Huts to check back on re-opening updates.
Located on the sandy shores of Flagstaff Lake, this is a perfect place for family bonding. Hiking along the 80-mile hut trail is an amazing experience. Flagstaff Hut is available for rent to families with either a 5-night or a 3-night stay.
Rangeley Region Lake Cruises & Kayaking
The only way to experience a lake is to be on it. Check out this unique operator and book a cruise or take a guided kayak tour. You can experience the beauty of the lakes and observe eagles, loons...maybe even a moose!
Local Knowledge
If you want to know where to go, what to see, where to dine or stay in the region, these resouces are the place to do your research.
Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce
Maine’s Northwestern Mountains
Rangeley Lakes Chamber of Commerce
If this is the summer to explore your Maine, then hike and bike amidst the splendor of Maine's Bigelow Mountains or the sandy shores of Flagstaff Lake. While, Maine Huts & Trails' four eco-lodges are closed this summer on account of COVID-19, eighty miles of trails are open to explore. Learn about membership and explore all their outdoor resources.
This conservation group works to preserve and provide access to natural spaces in the area. Check their site for trail maps, learn about their projects and upcoming events.
Although this alpine center operates year-round, in the summer this is the meeting place for local mountain bikers.
The conservation area has miles of family-friendly trails that are free to access dawn to dusk. Hike, explore nature, go birding... it’s a great place to visit.
Mountain Biking with the Carrabassett Region of the New England Mountain Bike Association
Maine has a truly legendary outdoor heritage. This museum showcases the rich history through exhibits and educational materials.
Minerals, gems and jewelry are part of the resource rich past of Maine. You can learn more about this fascinating industry and see beautiful specimens. The shop features unique gifts.
Fuel Up (Good Eats on the Go!)
Here are just some of our favorite places to grab some delicious food so you can get back on the trail or the water.
Gear Up
They stock all the gear you need...but you have to check out their indoor “zoo.” There is an amazing menagerie of mounted animals from moose, to fishers, to trout.
Located in the center of the Rangeley scene, they have gear, rentals, maps, books...everything you need to have a great outdoor experience.
CVB can help with any last-minute needs you may have before you hit the trail. They can also give your bike a tune up complete more significant repairs if needed. Carrabassett Valley Bike also has a fleet of mountain bikes for rent and can provide up-to-date trail condition reports and other riding information.
Mountain biking with the Carrabassett Region of New England Mountain Bike Association
Get Some Rest
Our crew travelled throughout the Lakes and Mountains region. There are so many accommodation options available in the area. From a classic Maine resort, to more rustic and casual lodgings and amazing camping facilities, so you can really unplug and benefit from the natural surroundings.
Bald Mountain Camps Resort
