Tourmaline: Maine’s Precious Stone

Fall,Winter,Spring & Spring: They say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend but, if you live in Maine it just may be tourmaline. The beautiful greens and pinks of this gemstone can be seen on display at Perham’s Jewelry store in West Paris. A local shop that is filled with local gems and minerals. These gemstones and minerals are hand-cut right on sight and what a sight it is. The quality, color and beauty of these stones is enough to take your breath away. They also have a mineral museum which gives visitors an education of the minerals that are mined right in the Western Maine area. Mineral and gem specimens have been collected by the family since 1919 and many are on display in the museum. In addition to the jewelry store and museum there is also mineral shop which is a mecca for mineral enthusiasts and the curious,a delight for all ages. Perham’s is worth the trip even if you go just to window shop.

House Of Horrors: Stephen Kings Home In Bangor

Fall,Winter,Spring & Summer: For those interested in the bizarre a casual stroll past Maine author Stephen King’s house is worth the trip. From the blackwrought iron spider web front gate to the black bats perched on the post it is just what you might have expected. If you are a true fan of author Stephen King, you will definitely want to take the Stephen King tour of Maine. Many of the towns in author Stephen King’s books are fictionalized versions of towns where King has lived or frequented. Towns like Durham, Bangor, Mt. Desert Island and his birthplace, Portland all served as backdrops to some of his most famous books like Cujo, Pet Cemetary and Needful Things. Halloween is the perfect time to make a trip to the King’s place. A brick victorian with turrets and rumor has it even a ghost who haunts the living area of his home…maybe this is his inspiration…

Poland Springs: It’s More Than Just Pure Water

Fall,Winter,Spring & Summer: Water and history, two things that can take a small town in Maine and make it a household name. Poland Springs is home to the legendary Poland Spring Hotel, and the world-renown Poland Spring Water, which transformed a scenic western Maine town into a state and national landmark. Unlike what most think, Poland Springs is only 35 mile north of Maine’s largest city and it is worth a visit to explore. Famous for it’s natural spring, the first documented sale of Poland Spring water happened in the mid 1800’s and has continued through present day. Poland Springs is also home to the Maine State Building and the All Souls Chapel which have become a part of our national heritage. The All Souls Chapel, erected on the very top of the hill at the Poland Spring estate, has a fabulous view and has been the setting for many weddings. The beauty and history of the town of Poland Springs is a great reason to make it a “to do” on your list.

Grafton Notch State Park: Enjoy The Scenic Waterfalls

Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall: Located on the edge of the Mahoosuc Mountain range Grafton Notch State Park reveals the relentless nature of water and the effect a river has on this rugged landscape. Located just North of Sunday River Ski Resort, Grafton Notch was carved by the power of the rushing waters of the Bear River. The park is comprised of three thousand rugged acres along the river, and is a great place to view the work water has done over time. There are multiple falls and cataracts to view along the well maintained trails including Moose Cave Gorge, Mother Walker Falls, and Screw Auger Falls. In addition to the falls, the Park provides access to easy scenic dayhikes, and serves as a trailhead for backpacking trips along the Appalacian Trail. The area can also be accessed in winter by snowmobile on the ITS trails. Regardless of the season a visit here is sure to refresh and rejuvinate hikers, with the fresh air, smell of pine and peace and quiet.

Rangeley Maine: Nature At Its Best

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter: Rangeley Maine, consisting of mostly water and forest, is primarily popular in the summer months as a vacation and tourist location, although this region is beautiful and active every month of the year. Rangeley’s extensive natural environment generates activities such as fishing for sizeable Salmon and Trout, hiking on trails like the Appalachian Trail, skiing in the Saddleback alpine ski area, hunting the bountiful game of moose and deer, and endlessly viewing wildlife and ever-changing foliage. Accommodations of all sorts are available in Rangeley to give you any vacation you’re looking for. Outdoor recreational activities are this region’s primary attractions. Any activity you know or would like to get to know, you can experience it in this natural region. Rangeley is a perfect vacation retreat for those looking to enjoy the outdoors.