Maine Attractions

ICE FISHING

When Maine lakes and waterways begin to freeze over, there is a hearty band of individuals who take this as exciting news.  They welcome these cold spells of Mother Nature because it means their favorite sport is about to begin ~ ice fishing.

Ice fishing has a long, proud history in Maine and it continues to grow in popularity.  New technology, such as power augers, make the job of drilling a fishing hole through thick ice much easier.  Improvements in winter clothing designs have made it possible for more people to enjoy colder temperatures in relative comfort.

But the great lure that brings these fervent outdoor folks out to brave the elements is the fun and challenge of hauling in a prized catch through the ice.

There are several techniques for ice fishing.  One uses the tip-up traps.  The traps are called tip ups because when a fish takes the bait on the line below the trap, a pole on the trap tips up to alert the lucky fisherman of a catch.  Another technique is called jigging.  When jigging, the fisherman lowers the bate line through the hole in the ice and pulls up and down on the line, or jigging, in hopes that the movement of the bait will attract a fish.

Inland Maine waterways abound with more than 60 varieties of fish species.  Brook trout, also know as brookies, are the most abundant.  Lake trout or togue, are also a prized catch, along with large mouth and small mouth bass, brown bullhead, yellow perch, rainbow trout and land-locked salmon.

When ice fishing it’s important to keep an eye out for the moment a fish strikes.  Even more important is to keep an eye on the condition of the ice.  Safety is a major concern and the thickness and condition of the ice needs to be under constant surveillance.  Before venturing out be certain the ice can handle your weight.

SPORTING CAMPS

One of the most exciting ways to enjoy your Maine vacation is by lodging at a sporting camp.  The great appeal of sporting camps is their rustic setting, relaxing atmosphere and the legendary hospitality you’ll receive during your visit.

The people who vacation at sporting camps love the outdoors and appreciate the beauty and wonder of this extraordinary gift of nature.  You might take part in the many outdoor activities or allow the natural setting to inspire an inner calm.  You also appreciate that time shared as a family in a sporting camp can create closeness that is difficult to capture anywhere else.

Many sporting camps are located on one of Maine’s 6,000 pristine lakes or waterways.  You wake up to the aroma of appetizing home cooked breakfast, look out your cabin window to a majestic view and in a short time you’ll be fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or swimming.

Some sporting camps are deep in the Maine woods surrounded by rolling hills and mountainous peaks.  The vistas appear as you go hiking or mountain biking will provide you with memories that last a lifetime.

Among the thrills of making your vacation at a sporting camp is the sights you’ll see.  Colorful flowers and lush vegetation, birds not often seen out of their natural habitat, deer, moose, fox, grouse and other wildlife.

Each sporting camp has a personality that fits its location.  Some are rustic log cabins miles away from small towns with minimum facilities.  Others have attractive lodges and bungalows with updated amenities.

Many sporting camps have professional guides to help you if you’re new to camping.  Some have year-round facilities.  In the autumn you’ll be surrounded by acres of colorful foliage.  During the winter you can go ice fishing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling and hunting.  To find a camp best suited to you, visit www.mainesportingcamps.com.

MAINE TIDE CHARTS

Click here for detialed information on tides for all Maine harbors.

SELF-GUIDED KAYAKING TOURS

ANDROSCOGGIN RIVER:
The 26 mile stretch of river, from the New Hampshire border, to Rumford Point, offers  a variety of canoe & kayak adventures.  The most picturesque section is from Gilead boat landing to Bethel, a total of 10 miles, taking an average of 3 hours.  Wildlife sightings are common and include bald eagles, osprey, great blue heron, loons, otters and even moose!   Several nearby canoe & kayak  outfitters are available for rentals, pick-ups, drop-offs and guiding services.

CUPSUPTIC RIVER:
For a short trip with easy-in and easy-out access (trip length about 1 to 1 1/2 hours), take Route 4 from Rangeley towards Oquossoc to the Information Pavilion. Turn right on Route 16 towards Wilsons Mills, continue across the Kennebago River, pass the Cupsuptic Campground, and go approximately 1 mile past the Maine Forest Service Station to the Public Boat Access on the Cupsuptic River. Do not cross the bridge; landing is on the east side.

MAGALLOWAY RIVER:
This 5.5-mile trip requires a shuttle (takes approx. 3 hours). Take Rt. 4 from Rangeley towards Oquossoc to the Information Pavilion. Turn right on Route 16 to Wilson’s Mills. At Wilson’s Mills as you approach the bridge, turn right on Bennett Road; immediately on the left is the launching point. There is fast water at the beginning of the trip, but it is flat. Shuttle: Take a car to the bridge at the Maine-New Hampshire border – there is only one bridge which crosses the river. Take out at bridge; it is quite steep.

DEAD RIVER (NORTH BRANCH):
This class-I paddle requires a shuttle and a portage. Follow Rt. 27 north, past Cathedral Pines Campground, to the King & Bartlett Road on the right. (approx. 1.5 miles past Eustis). At the sign, turn right and cross the bridge. Launch just past the bridge. Leave your car at the Cathedral Pines Campground. A portage circumvents a dam marked by a cable with barrels strung across the river. Pull out on the right where the cable is anchored. There is a path to the left.  Continue to Cathedral Pines. This 3.4-mile trip takes about 2 hours.

KENNEBAGO RIVER:
This trip offers a great opportunity to see moose and other wildlife. The trip (approximately 3 miles) also requires a shuttle. Take Route 4 from Rangeley towards Oquossoc to the Information Pavilion. Turn right on Route 16 and proceed 1.3 miles to the Kennebago River Road on the right. Proceed 2 miles on this gravel road to the so-called Steep Bank Pool on the left. You will see a path for launching at this point; park on the right side of road. You may have to carry over at this area under certain water conditions, depending on your paddling skills. After this it is flat water to the Route 16 bridge. Take out on the east bank
immediately after the bridge.

RANGELEY LAKES CHAIN CANOE TRIPS:
This trip offers flat paddling and takes approximately 3 to 5 days. Starting at the Town Park in the center of the Village of Rangeley, there is an eight mile paddle across Rangeley Lake to Oquossoc, with a portage of 1.5 miles to Haines Landing on Mooselookmeguntic Lake. A commercial camping area is located on the northern shore of Cupsuptic Lake.

SACO RIVER CANOEING & KAYAKING TRIPS:
With several points in which to put in or take out … you can choose canoe or kayak trips that range from 1 hour (3 mile stretch) to 3-4 days (43 mile stretch) and several options in between.  Put in at the Swan’s Falls in Fryeburg and you can paddle all the way to Hiram.  The Saco River offers wide-open non-obstructed river paddling with many beaches for swimming and picnicking.

CAMPING

With the stars overhead, a breeze stirring the trees, you toss another log on the campfire.  You stretch out on your campsite lounge chair, relax and recount the fun you had today on the first day of your camping vacation in Maine.

This is an often repeated scene at many of the more than 275 campgrounds throughout the state. You’ll find some campgrounds offer a “back-to-nature” approach with little more than a clearing under a patch of trees deep in the forest where you pitch your tent. Others are moderate in size with swimming pools, outdoor sports, game rooms, convenience stores and bathing facilities.   Some are more lavish with refined amenities, entertainment and services.

You’ll find some campgrounds offer a “back-to-nature” approach with little more than a clearing under a patch of trees deep in the forest where you pitch your tent.  Others are moderate in size with swimming pools, outdoor sports, game rooms, convenience stores and bathing facilities.  Some are more lavish with refined amenities, entertainment and services.

The camp’s location will also add to the fun of your vacation.  Do you want the quiet solitude away from the maddening crowd or do you want to experience the excitement of visiting tourist areas, shops and historical places?  Will you be making stopovers at local attractions or will your campsite be the base for more adventurous travels throughout the state?

You have so many choices. To help you select the campground that best suits your vacation plans contact the Maine Campground Owners Association at (207) 852-4700 or check their website.

Many of Maine’s state parks also provide campground facilities. You can get details about these locations and make reservations by contacting the Bureau of Parks and Lands in the Augusta office at (207) 287-3821 or their website.

SNOWMOBILING

Good Winter SNOWMOBILINGWhen the first snow appears in Maine eager snowmobilers will be riding through the scenic landscape on one of the more than 13,000 miles of groomed and well-marked snowmobile trails. Many of these trails are part of the Interconnected Trail System (ITS) and maps are available showing trail locations. The trails have been created and maintained by snowmobile clubs, local communities and supporting businesses, along with landowners who allow snowmobilers access to their property.

Across the state hundreds of lodges, restaurants and supporting facilities have emerged to welcome vacationers for a day, weekend or longer of snowmobiling fun.

Listed below are resources, organizations and state departments to help you make the most of your snowmobiling experience in Maine. They provide information about snow conditions, trails locations, free maps, outfitters, facilities and state regulations.

Maine Snowmobile Association

PO Box 80, Augusta ME 04332
Tel. (207) 622-6983 Fax. (207) 622-7669
www.mesnow.com
With 14,000 families in 292 clubs, plus 2,200 businesses.

Maine Department of Conservation Snowmobile Division

East Side Campus?18 Elkins Lane, Augusta ?Tel: (207) 287-2211, (800) 462-1019) Fax: (207) 287-2400
www.maine.gov

International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association

1640 Haslett Road, Suite 170 ?Haslett, Michigan USA 48840 ?Phone: (517) 339-7788 Fax: (517) 339-7798
www.snowmobile.org
Has a Snowmobiling Fact book

Me. Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
284 State Street?41 State House Station?Augusta, ME 04333-0041?Phone: (207) 287-8000?Fax: (207) 287-8094 or (207) 287-6395
www.maine.gov
Maine’s Snowmobile Laws and Rules.
Division of Licensing and Registration,
State House Station #11
41 Anthony Avenue
Augusta Maine 04333
Telephone: (800) 791-4080, (207)287-9300
Register Maine snowmobiles through the Department or at
200 agents (town offices, dealerships, variety stores, etc.) across the state.

DOWNHILL & CROSS COUNTRY SKIING

SKIME 078 300x200 DOWNHILL & CROSS COUNTRY SKIINGThe enthusiasm of skiers for the downhill slopes and cross country hills of Maine continues to grow. Here is a list of ski resorts for your easy reference. The list includes locations in the Western Maine region as well as other ski areas in Maine. You can also contact www.skimaine.com for more details on each location.
Downhill Skiing Locations:

Baker Mountain

Bingham, ME, 04920
(207) 612-9300
Vertical Drop: 460′

Big Rock
Mars Hill, ME, 04758
(207) 425-6711
www.bigrockmaine.com
Vertical Drop: 980′

Black Mountain of Maine
Rumford, ME, 04276
(207) 364-8977
www.skiblackmtnofme.org
Vertical Drop: 1150′

Camden Snow Bowl
Camden, ME, 04843
(207) 236-4418
www.camdensnowbowl.com
Vertical Drop: 950′

Eaton Mountain
Skowhegan, ME, 04976
(207) 474-2666
www.eatonmountain.com
Vertical Drop: 622′

Hermon Mountain
Prospect, ME, 04981
(207) 848-5192
www.skihermonmountain.com
Vertical Drop: 350′

Lonesome Pine Trails
Fort Kent, ME, 04743
(207) 834-5202
www.skimaine.com
Vertical Drop: 500′

Lost Valley
Auburn, ME, 04210
(207) 784-1561
www.lostvalleyski.com
Vertical Drop: 240′

Mt. Abram
Greenwood, ME, 04289
(207) 875-5000
www.mtabram.com
Vertical Drop: 1150′

Mt. Jefferson

Lee, ME, 04455
(207) 738-2377
www.skimaine.com/mtjefferson
Vertical Drop: 432′

Quoggy Jo
Presque Isle, ME, 04769
(207) 764-3248
www.mainewsc.org
Vertical Drop: 215′

Saddleback
Rangeley, ME, 04970
(207) 864-5671
www.saddlebackmaine.com
Vertical Drop: 2000′

Shawnee Peak
Bridgton, ME, 04009
(207) 647-8444
www.shawneepeak.com
Vertical Drop: 1300′

Spruce Mountain
Jay, ME, 04239
(207) 897-4090
www.skimaine.com
Vertical Drop: 300′

Sugarloaf

Carrabassett Valley, ME, 04947
(800) THE LOAF
www.sugarloaf.com
Vertical Drop: 2820′

Sunday River
Bethel, ME, 04217
(207) 824-3000
www.sundayriver.com
Vertical Drop: 2340′

Titcomb Mountain
W. Farmington, ME, 04992
(207) 778-9031
www.titcombmountain.com
Vertical Drop: 340′

Cross Country Skiing Locations
:

10th Mountain Center
Fort Kent, ME, 04743
(207) 834-6203
www.10thmtskiclub.org

Bethel Inn Ski Touring Center

Bethel, ME, 04217
(207) 824-6276
www.bethelinn

Big Rock
Mars Hill, ME, 04758

Birches Ski Touring Center

Rockwood, ME, 04478
(800) 825-9453
www.birches.com

Black Mountain of Maine
Rumford, ME, 04276
(207) 364-8977
www.skiblackmtnofme.org

Carter’s Farm XC Ski Centers

Oxford, ME, 04270
(207) 539-4848
www.cartersxcski.com

Coast Country Ski & Bike
Alfred, ME, 04002
(207) 324-8747

Five Fields Farm
Bridgton, ME, 04009
(207) 647-2425

Harris Farm XC Ski Center
Dayton, ME, 04005
(207) 499-2678
www.harrisfarm.com

Lost Valley Touring Centers

Auburn, ME, 04212
(207) 784-1561
www.lostvalleyski.com

Mt. Abram
Greenwood, ME, 04255
(207) 875-5000
www.skimtabram.com

Nordic Heritage Center
Presque Isle, ME, 04769
(207) 762-6972
www.nordicheritagecenter.com

Pineland Farms
New Gloucester, ME, 04260
(207) 688-4800
www.pinelandfarms.org

Rangeley Lakes Trails Center
Rangeley, ME, 04970
(207) 864-4309
www.xcskirangeley.com/

Smiling Hill Farm

Westbrook, ME, 04092
(207) 775-4818

Spruce Mountain

Jay, ME, 04239
(207) 897-4090
www.skimaine.com/sprucemountain.com

Sugarloaf/USA Outdoor Center
Carrabassett Valley, ME, 04947
(207) 237-6830
www.sugarloaf.com

Sunday River Inn XC Ski
Newry, ME, 04261
(207) 824-2410
www.sundayriverinn.com

Titcomb Mountain XC Trails

W. Farmington, ME, 04992
(207) 778-9031

MOOSE WATCHING

They’re bulky, they’re angular, they’re so unattractive they’ve become beautiful. The moose in Maine is on the loose. Ever since the Maine legislature approved an image of a moose in the state seal in 1820 these gangly and klutzy looking creatures have endeared themselves into our hearts. The 19th century author and naturalist, Henry David Thoreau, upon seeing a moose on his visit to Maine, regarded them as “God’s horses.”

Even with all the natural wonders and historic places Maine has to offer many visitors feel somewhat unfulfilled if they don’t see a moose while they’re here. Never before has there been such a moose phenomenon.

One Maine town holds a festival called MooseMainea. It includes events such as Tour de Moose, Moose Tales and Moosterpiece Craft Fair. It’s impossible to visit a gift shop without seeing moose paraphernalia of some sort. Be on the look out for moose shaped pasta, moose cookies and an all time favorite, chocolate moose. There’s even a website devoted to the loveable moose.

If a moose is in your vicinity they’re easy to spot because nothing else looks like a moose. It’s the largest land animal in the northern hemisphere. An average Maine bull weighs about 1,000 pounds, is six feet high at the shoulder and nine feet long. Only the bull has antlers. A female might weigh in at 600 pounds. They can run up to 35 miles per hour.

It’s estimated that the size of the moose herd in Maine numbers at 30,000. This is the largest in the lower 48 states.

As cuddly and docile as they seem they do pose a danger. Be wary of approaching a moose because when threatened they will attack. With their dark coat they can be difficult to see against shaded trees and may wander into your path as you drive by. Accidents do occur, often with serious injuries.

It’s possible to see a moose anywhere, although they seem to prefer marshy areas and the sides of ponds or lakes where they find food. Sometimes you’ll spot them on the side of the road as they search for salt left from winter plowing. Sunrise, sunset and mid-day are good times for moose to come out of the woods.

Many would like to photograph a moose deep in a lagoon munching on vegetation as an official recognition of their visit. But a photograph is not required. Just the thrill of seeing a moose somewhat up close is enough to provide bragging rights for the folks back home.

HIKING AND BIKING

One of the best ways to get close to the beauty and wonder of the Maine outdoors is by a hike or bike tour. Below is a list of some of the more popular trails.
Hiking Trails:

Agamenticus Village: Mount Agamenticus Trail- 1.5 miles
Bar Harbor: Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail – 4.4 miles
Bar Harbor: Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail – 7 miles
Bar Harbor: Precipice Trail – 3.1 miles
Belfast: Moose Point State Park – 1 mile
Bethel: Appalachian Trail: Baldpate Mountain – 8 miles
Brownville Junction: Appalachian Trail: White Cap Mountain – 28.1 miles
Bucksport: Great Pond Mountain – 1.8 miles
Camden: Bald Rock Mountain – 3.6 miles
Camden: Mount Battle and Mount Megunticook – 4 miles
Dedham: Dedham Bald Mountain – 1.4 miles
Falmouth: Gilsland Farm – 1.2 miles
Freeport: Mast Landing – 1.9 miles
Fryeburg: North and South Baldface – 9.7 miles
Kennebunk: Mousam River Estuary Trail – 1.5 miles
Kennebunkport: Parsons Way Trail – 2 miles
Millinocket: Appalachian Trail: Mount Katahdin – 10.4 miles
Millinocket: Mount Katahdin via the Knife Edge – 9.5 miles
Milo: Gulf Hagas – 6.5 miles
Monhegan: Monhegan Island Trail – 3 miles
New Portland: Appalachian Trail: Carry Ponds – 17.5 miles
Ogunquit: Marginal Way – 1 mile
Portland: Portland Trails – 3.75 miles
Pownal: Bradbury Mountain State Park – 1.3 miles
Rangeley: Appalachian Trail: Saddleback Mountain & Mount Abraham- 14.6 miles
Rockwood: Mount Kineo – 4 miles
Saco: Saco Heath Preserve Trail – 2 miles
South Berwick: River Run Trail and Bridle Path- 2 miles
South Paris: Noyes Mountain – 1.4 mile
Southwest Harbor: Acadia Mountain Trail – 2.8 miles
Stratton: Bigelow Range – 12 miles
Upton: Appalachian Trail: Mahoosuc Notch – 9.4 miles
Wells: Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge – 1 mile
West Bridgton: Pleasant Mountain Trail – 3.6 miles
York: Ring and Blueberry Buff Trails – 1.8 miles

Biking Trails:

Augusta: Summerhaven ATV Trail – 6 miles
Bar Harbor: Acadia National Park Carriage Trail – 6.3 miles
Bar Harbor: Acadia National Park Cruise – 26 miles
Biddeford: Clifford Park In-Town Loop – 3 miles
Bridgton: Moose Country Challenge  – 41.5 miles
Camden: Camden Hills and Coastal Cruise – 51.1 miles
Camden: Camden Hills State Park Shared-Use Trails – 10.6 miles
Camden: Camden Snow Bowl Sampler Loop – 3 miles
Carrabassett: Carrabassett River Rail-Trail – 19 miles
Damariscotta: Pemaquid Point Cruise – 38.9 miles
Dennysville: Sunrise County Challenge – 65.3 miles
Freeport: Bradbury Mountain State Park – 5 miles
Gilead: Wild River – 16.8 miles
Hastings: Evans Notch—Wild River Loop Trail – 10 miles
Kennebunk: Kennebunk Bridle Path – 5.6 miles
New City: Baxter State Park Perimeter Road Trail – 41 miles
Parsonsfield: Back Country Excursions—Parsonsfield Trail – 7 miles
Portland: Portland Trails—Presumpscot River Preserve Trail – 5 miles
Pownal Center: Bradbury Mountain State Park Trail – 6.5 miles
Saint Croix Junction: Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge Trail – 10 miles
Seal Harbor: Around The Mountain Loop Trail – 12 miles
Seal Harbor: Jordan Pond–Bubble Pond Loop Trail- 9 miles
Stevens Corner: Camden Hills State Park Trail – 10.5 miles
Weld: Mount Blue State Park Trail – 9 miles
Wells: Tatnic Hill Loop – 8.7 miles
Wiscasset: Kennebec Crossing Challenge – 55.2 miles
York: Mount Agamenticus – 9 miles

FISHING

driftboatfishing FISHINGSometimes when you go fishing in western Maine it’s fun to actually catch a fish. Other times casting a line in the open air in the middle of a smooth lake or along the banks of a rushing river surrounded by beautiful scenery makes for time well spent.

There is no doubt that Maine’s 6,000 lakes and ponds and 32,000 miles of rivers and streams have created an exciting environment for fishermen. Many towns became popular tourist areas when word got out that nearby waterways offered excellent fishing. For years men, women and families have planned their vacations around camps and lodges where fishing was a major attraction.

Whether you’ve just discovered the thrill of fishing or are an experienced angler the waters of western Maine hold a promise of an eventful vacation.

Depending on the time you visit you have a variety of fish species to challenge you. Early in the season and during ice fishing months cold water game fish, such as brook trout, landlocked salmon, rainbow trout, cusk and rainbow smelt will be running.

Later, warm water game fish make their appearance. These include large and small mouth bass, northern pike, chain pickerel, white and yellow perch and redbreast sunfish.

The season for open water fishing starts April 1 and continues through the end of September, sometime longer for certain species.

Unless you are an experienced fisherman it’s best to consult with a professional guide to help you use your time and resources to best advantage. A guide will also assure that you comply with limits and other state fishing regulations. You can also get the latest information about conditions, gear, bait and “hot” spots for landing your prize catch at any number of tackle shops located around popular fishing areas.

Maine residents and visitors are required to have a current license. Some are good for the entire season, and others for specific periods of time. You can obtain them at many sporting good and convenience stores, outfitters and information centers. You can also apply for a license on line at www.maine.gov. Another valuable resource that will help make you fishing experience in western Maine as rewarding as possible is the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. They can be reached at (207) 287-8003.