Summer: Feel like going for a bike ride for a really good cause? The Trek Across Maine is just what you are looking for! This 180 mile bike ride spread over three days starts at Sunday River Ski Resort and ends in the mid-coast region at Owl’s Head Transportation Museum. This fundraising bike ride which supports the American Lung Assoication has been going strong for over 20 years and grows in participants and volunteers each year.The beauty of this ride is all ages and levels can participate. Not only are you supporting a great cause but, as a rider, you are able to enjoy some of the prettiest scenery in Maine at the unhurried pace of your peddling. Once you reach the finish line take some time to enjoy the Owl Head Transportation Museum just outside of Rockland. There you will find an eclectic collection of antique cars and airplanes. Pick up a list of their scheduled activities from hot rods to ace flying demostrations it is worth a trip back.
Tag: Summer
Flagstaff Lake: A Paddlers Delight
Summer: If you own a kayak or canoe and are looking for a beautiful place to spend a day you should visit Flagstaff Lake. This is one of the best spots in Maine to observe the natural beauty and wildlife of this state. There are moose, bear, hawks all of which you will catch glimpses of while venturing around the lake. The lake is just north of the base of the Bigelow Mountain Range which adds to beautiful scenery making this trip an unforgettable experience.The best place to put your boat in is at the boat launch off Route 27. If you enjoy camping there are several spots along the shore of the lake that you could pick from. The swimming is perfect, cool, clear water which warms up nicely by June. Make sure you bring your fishing rod, there are plenty of fish to choose from with some great deep hole fishing spots. The lake can get rough and winds can pick up quickly so make sure you come prepared to handle all weather conditions. Overall, this is a great trip and Flagstaff Lake is a gem among the many lakes to choose from in Maine.
Washburn-Norlands Living History Center: Where History Comes Alive
Summer, Spring, Fall: Ever wonder what life was truly like living in rural Maine in the early 19th century? Well, you will certainly have a better understanding after visiting the Washburn-Norland Living History Center & Museum in Livermore. This is a great place for the whole family to experience and interactive history lesson. Visitors can participate in the daily chores of running a farm in addition to becoming involved in the social, political and educational activities of the times.Special events are held throughout the year which cater to all ages. There are tours of the grounds which include the Washburn mansion, the library and meeting house. You can bake cookies in the old kitchen, collect eggs, take an Ox ride or help feed the farm animals. Visitors will find reinactments of true farm living with actors in full, authentic garb. One can get lost in what life was like in this valuable history lesson. So take a trip to the Washburn-Norland Living History Center and get immersed in 19th century farm life…it will make you appreciate all the ammenities we have today.
Mt. Blue State Park: An Outdoor Adventure Awaits
Summer: Mt. Blue State Park is a perfect family vacation destination. If you are looking for crystal clear water, a well maintained trail and hiking system, clean campground and sandy beaches then look no further. With over 5000 acres, this beautifully maintained state park offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. On top of a wonderful camping and beach area, your children will really enjoy the hands-on exhibits and displays in the nature center. In the evening there are scheduled activities and shows in the park’s outdoor amphitheater.You will be surrounded by mountains and wildlife. A great way to explore the lake is to rent a canoe, rentals are available through the park, so spend the afternoon paddling around. You could spot a moose or two, black bear and coyote. There is also a public boat launch if you choose to bring in your own boat. Whatever you decide, Mt. Blue State Park is a great place to camp and enjoy the natural beauty of Maine.
Waterfall Magic: Small Falls Rest Area
Summer: As you head down Route 4 toward Rangley you should keep your eyes open for Small Falls Rest Area. From the road it looks like a small parking lot surrounded by maples and pines but, once you enter you may be surprised. Small Falls is a very scenic waterfall with a great swimming hole. At the base of the falls you will find 3 cascading falls dumping into a good size circular pool. The water is cold and refreshing. For the brave of heart there is a 14 foot fall that offers a base pool that is deep enough to jump into from the ledges. For those who don’t think a jump is in their future the rocky beach allows for walk-in access to the water. The gorges that run along the side of the falls are full of color and moss which offers a kaleidoscope of colors. If you don’t feel like taking a dip there are plenty of places to sit along the gorges and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you. The sound of the water rushing down over the rocks and the misty spray that cools you on a hot summer day is just as enjoyable as going for a swim. This is a great stopping place to enjoy a picnic lunch with tables and fire pits set up around the falls. Make this a stop on your next trip to Rangley, you won’t be disappointed.