Lakes and Mountains Travel Guide

Explore the natural and cultural attractions of Lakes and Mountains, Maine, with our comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Lakes and Mountains

Lakes and Mountains in Maine, New England, is a perfect vacation destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From scenic hiking trails and bike routes to water sports and winter activities, this region has it all. In addition, your journey through the Lakes and Mountains promises to involve exceptional culture and delicious food. In this tour guide, we’ll explore everything Lakes and Mountains has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Lakes and Mountains

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bethel Historical Society & Museums: Exhibits on local Native American, logging, and skiing histories.
  • Oxford County Fair: A traditional agricultural fair held every September since the 19th century.
  • Rufus Porter Museum and Cultural Heritage Center: A museum of folk art.

Natural Attractions of Lakes and Mountains: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Grafton Notch State Park: Featuring a beautiful waterfall and numerous hiking trails like Table Rock Trail in Newry, ME.
  • Mt. Abram: A ski resort.
  • White Mountain National Forest: Hiking trails, bike routes, picnic areas, and beautiful views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lakes and Mountains

  • Grafton Loop Trail: A 38-mile trail that passes through Grafton Notch State Park.
  • Maine Hut Trail System: A 180-mile trail offering cross-country skiing in winter and mountain biking in summer.

Best Things to Do in Lakes and Mountains: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle along the Androscoggin River.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: With many ski resorts open in winter.
  • Leaf Peeping: Visit when the tree leaves have changed color.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lakes and Mountains

Day Activity
1 Hiking at Grafton Notch State Park
2 Canoeing or kayaking in the Androscoggin River
3 Skiing or snowboarding in Mt. Abram
4 Guided tour of Bethel Historical Society & Museums
5 Scenic drive through the White Mountains National Forest
6 Biking on Maine Hut Trail System
7 Visit the Rufus Porter Museum and Cultural Heritage Center

Food and Drink Scene of Lakes and Mountains

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll: Fresh lobster meat with mayo and chopped celery in a hot dog bun.
  • Wicked Whoopie Pie: A dessert consisting of two chocolate cakes that sandwich a whipped cream center.
  • Damariscotta Oysters: From Maine’s first oyster farm in the heart of Damariscotta.

Local Beverages

Lakes and Mountains offers a variety of locally brewed beer and wine for visitors to enjoy.

Where to Stay in Lakes and Mountains: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Bethel Inn Resort: A historic New England inn offering relaxation and recreation.
  • Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village: A bed and breakfast operated by the last living Shakers in Maine.
  • Mt Abram Ski Resort: A ski-in/ski-out resort featuring a ski school and outdoor pool.

What to Buy in Lakes and Mountains: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Maple syrup: Maine’s maple syrup is some of the best in the country.
  • Pottery: Local artists create unique designs inspired by the natural surroundings.
  • Jams and Jellies: Made from local berries and fruits and wonderful on toast.

Local Culture and Customs of Lakes and Mountains

Maine’s culture is heavily influenced by its fishing and logging industries, and enjoying nature is an essential part of the state’s way of life.

Best Time to Visit Lakes and Mountains

Lakes and Mountains offer a unique experience throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the fall season, when the leaves have changed color and the weather is comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lakes and Mountains

Do:

  • Respect the wildlife.
  • Follow the trails in parks and nature reserves.
  • Dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the environment in any way.
  • Start fires outside of designated campfire pits.
  • Swim in undesignated areas where it is not safe.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lakes and Mountains

  • Use caution when hiking or biking, especially on unfamiliar terrain.
  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Check the weather conditions before attempting outdoor activities.

Health in Lakes and Mountains

  • Stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
  • Use sunscreen and bug spray to avoid skin irritation.
  • Seek medical attention if you feel ill during your trip.

Getting to Lakes and Mountains: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lakes and Mountains

  • Portland International Jetport: 70+ miles from the Lakes and Mountains region.

Bus Stations Near Lakes and Mountains

  • Concord Coach Lines: Offering service between Boston and Maine.

Other Options

The easiest way to travel around the region is by rental car.

How to Get Around in Lakes and Mountains

Renting a car is the best way to navigate the Lakes and Mountains region.

Where to Go Next from Lakes and Mountains: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Portland: A historical port town that showcases the best of Maine’s food and arts scene.
  • Bar Harbor: A popular destination for hiking, coastal scenery, and lobster rolls.
  • Acadia National Park: A scenic natural park offering hiking trails and beautiful ocean views.

Conclusion

Lakes and Mountains offer an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure, nature, and culture. From hiking trails, kayaking, and skiing, to locally sourced food and drink, the region is rich in unique experiences that will keep visitors entertained throughout their stay.



    Androscoggin County
    Farmington
    Fryeburg
    Gray
    Newry
    Oxford County
    Paris