Kennebec and Moose River Valleys Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Kennebec and Moose River Valleys with this ultimate guide, including top attractions, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.
- Introduction to Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
- List of Places to Visit in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
- Best Things to Do in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
- Food and Drink Scene of Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
- Where to Stay in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
- Best Time to Visit Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
- Do’s and Don’ts of Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
- Where to Go Next from Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Located in the heart of Maine’s scenic countryside, the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys offer visitors a great mix of outdoor activities, culture, history, and local flavor. This picturesque region is a must-visit for nature lovers, adventure seekers and history buffs.
List of Places to Visit in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Maine State Museum
Explore 12,000 years of Maine history at the Maine State Museum! The museum features exhibits on the state’s natural history, Native American art, and Maine’s maritime heritage.
Old Fort Western
Old Fort Western is a preserved 18th-century British fort located in Augusta. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the importance of the fort during early colonial times.
Height of Land Lookout
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of the Moose River Valley from the Height of Land Lookout. The scenery is especially stunning during the fall season.
Natural Attractions of Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Kennebec River Gorge
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Kennebec River Gorge. The river is suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Baxter State Park
Baxter State Park is home to the tallest mountain in Maine, Mount Katahdin. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to fishing and wildlife watching.
Moxie Falls
A visit to Moxie Falls is a must for nature lovers! With a height of 92 feet, it is one of the highest waterfalls in Maine.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Kennebec River Rail Trail
This 6.5-mile trail is perfect for biking, hiking, and jogging. It follows the Kennebec River from Augusta to Gardiner, offering beautiful views of the river.
Appalachian Trail
The famous 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail passes through the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys. Hikers can explore the trail’s beautiful forests, mountains, and rivers.
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument has over 80 miles of hiking and biking trails, with stunning views of the mountains and rivers.
Best Things to Do in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Activities and Tours
Maine Brew Bus Tour
The Maine Brew Bus Tour takes visitors on a tour of local breweries. Guests can taste different types of beer while learning about the brewing process.
Moose Safari Tour
Experience a unique wildlife safari with a Moose Safari Tour. Visitors can see moose, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat.
Farm to Table Tour
Interested in local agriculture? Take a Farm to Table Tour to visit local farms and taste local, seasonal produce.
Week-Long Itinerary for Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
| Day 1 | Augusta, Maine State Museum, Old Fort Western |
| Day 2 | Kennebec River Rail Trail, Moxie Falls |
| Day 3 | White-water rafting on Kennebec River Gorge |
| Day 4 | Appalachian Trail, hiking Mount Katahdin |
| Day 5 | Moose Safari Tour, Baxter State Park |
| Day 6 | Farm to Table Tour, Skowhegan Farmers Market |
| Day 7 | Height of Land Lookout, Androscoggin Riverlands State Park |
Food and Drink Scene of Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Must-Try Dishes
Lobster Roll
Maine is famous for its lobster, and the lobster roll is a must-try dish. The roll is filled with chunks of succulent lobster meat, combined with mayonnaise and served on a buttered bun.
Whoopie Pie
Whoopie pie is a popular dessert in Maine, consisting of two soft chocolate cakes filled with a sweet cream filling.
Apple Cider Donuts
Apple cider donuts are a seasonal specialty in Maine. The donuts are made with fresh apple cider and have a crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating.
Local Beverages
Beer
Maine is home to many craft breweries, including Allagash Brewing Company and Shipyard Brewing. Visitors can try a wide variety of local beer styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.
Apple Cider
The Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region is known for its apple orchards. Visitors can sample local apple cider, both hot and cold.
Blueberry Wine
Maine is one of the top blueberry-producing states in the US. Visitors can try blueberry wines made from locally-grown blueberries.
Where to Stay in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Senator Inn and Spa
Senator Inn and Spa is a luxury hotel in Augusta. It features an indoor swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
The Sterling Inn
The Sterling Inn is a charming bed and breakfast in the heart of Waterville. It offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast each morning.
Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort
This adventure resort located in The Forks offers cozy cabins, camping sites, and a range of outdoor activities, like white-water rafting, ATV tours, and snowmobiling.
What to Buy in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Maple syrup
Maine is known for its delicious maple syrup. Visitors can bring home a bottle of locally-produced syrup as a souvenir.
Blueberry Jam
Blueberry Jam is another popular local product. It is perfect for spreading on toast or adding to yogurt or oatmeal.
Handmade Crafts
Maine has a rich tradition of artisanal crafts, including pottery, woven baskets, and woodcarvings. Visitors can find unique handmade items in local shops and markets.
Local Culture and Customs of Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor activities, like hiking, fishing, and hunting, are an important part of the local culture in the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region. Visitors should respect natural resources and wildlife.
Maine Lobster
Maine lobster is a staple of local cuisine and an important part of the local economy. Visitors can learn about lobster fishing and enjoy a delicious lobster meal.
Fall Foliage
Maine is famous for its beautiful fall foliage. Visitors can enjoy peak leaf-peeping season in late September to mid-October.
Best Time to Visit Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
The best time to visit the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region is from June to October when the weather is warm and sunny. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the leaves change colors.
Do’s and Don’ts of Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Do:
- Respect nature and wildlife.
- Try the local cuisine, like Maine lobster and blueberry jam.
- Enjoy outdoor activities, like hiking and fishing.
Don’t:
- Litter or damage natural resources.
- Disturb wildlife.
- Ignore safety rules for outdoor activities.
Safety and Health
Safety in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Visitors should be aware of the risks of outdoor activities, like hiking and rafting. Always follow safety rules and guidelines, and check weather conditions before heading out.
Health in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
The Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region is generally safe and healthy. Visitors should take basic precautions, like drinking bottled water and wearing sunscreen.
Getting to Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Augusta State Airport is the closest airport to the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region. The Portland International Jetport is also an option, located about two hours away.
Bus Stations Near Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Greyhound and Concord Coach Lines offer bus service to the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region.
Other Options
Visitors can also rent a car or use ride-sharing services to get around the region.
How to Get Around in Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
Driving is the most convenient way to get around the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region. Visitors can also use bicycles or walk in certain areas.
Where to Go Next from Kennebec and Moose River Valleys: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is located about four hours from Kennebec and Moose River Valleys. Visitors can see beautiful natural wonders, like Cadillac Mountain and Sand Beach.
Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine is located about two hours from Kennebec and Moose River Valleys. Visitors can explore the city’s historic Old Port district, filled with local shops, restaurants, and galleries.
White Mountains, New Hampshire
The White Mountains in New Hampshire are located about two hours from Kennebec and Moose River Valleys. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, like hiking and skiing, and take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway.
Conclusion
The Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region in Maine offers visitors a wonderful mix of outdoor adventures, local culture, and history. From white-water rafting to lobster rolls, this region has something for everyone! Plan your trip today and experience the beauty of Maine.