If you’re seeking a Winter Wonderland, the Moosehead Lake region is your ideal destination. Here you will find cozy cabins, miles of trails for cross country skiing or snowmobiling, fish-filled ponds and lakes perfect for ice fishing, and snow-covered mountains to create the perfect backdrop for your winter adventures. 

If you’d like to know the best way to take full advantage of your trip to the Moosehead Lake region, keep reading.  We’ve compiled all the best tips, tricks, and attractions for your stay into this guide for your winter wonderland escape!

Do you see your favorite winter activities on the list below? Near the lake, this time of year is made for exploration, no matter the means. To best sample to scenery and snow, we recommend taking time to:

• Watch wildlife
• Snowshoe
• Winter hike
• Cross-country ski 
• Snowboard
• Stargaze
• Hunt small game
• Snowmobile
• Ice fish 
• Watch (or try!) dog sledding
• Winter camping

If you’re not sure where to start, there’s plenty of help to be enlisted! A Registered Maine Guide can accompany you on your adventures, doling out valuable advice and helping you find the best local sports for your preferred form of recreation. Guides also know what type of gear to bring, how to stay warm and safe in winter weather, will notice things that a visitor or untrained eye might miss, and generally know the region inside and out!

If hiring a Registered Maine Guide isn’t in your budget, don’t let that stop you from exploring! Just use caution, as the Moosehead Lake region is remote in some areas, and cell phone service is not always available.   

Here are a few important tips to remember when venturing out on your own. 

• DRESS FOR THE WEATHER – Be sure to pack extra clothes and appropriate footwear. Between changing conditions and different levels of excursions, you may put on and take off layers several times in one trip.
• BE PREPARED – Bring an emergency kit with extra food, water, and emergency supplies (including a thermal blanket)
• HAVE A PLAN – Make a plan and don’t head out on your own. Ensure someone knows what your planned route and destination are, as well as an approximate return time.
• WATCH FOR MOOSE – Caution to snowmobile riders if you see moose on the trails let them have their space, and don’t chase them or make them run. It’s tough because they don’t like to leave the trail, but they also have a hard time navigating in the winter. Chasing them or making them run with your snowmobiles into the unpacked snow can put stress on these animals.
• CHECK THE WEATHER – Make sure when planning your outdoor winter adventure that you are checking the local weather forecasts. If the day looks too windy, too cold, or too icy, consider rescheduling your adventure for another time when conditions are better.

Upcoming Events and Activities in the Moosehead Lake Region

December 1 – 12, 2021 – Deck the Halls 

• Wednesday, December 1st – Saturday December 18th – Santa’s Mailbox Opens! (Indian Hill) Kids can mail their letters to Santa. Remember to include your return address. The Santa letter deadline is Saturday, December 18th at 5 PM.
• Friday, December 10th – Festival of Trees (Greenville Inn) 3 PM to 8 PM 
• Saturday, December 11th – Historic Holiday Inn Tour (Greenville Inn, Blair Hill Inn, and The Lodge at Moosehead Lake) 12 PM to 4 PM. Tickets $15, call 207-695-2702 for information.

Festival of Trees (Greenville Inn) 5 PM to 8 PM. 

Christmas Decor Competition Judging – Panel of judges will be judging the competitors designs.

• Sunday, December 12th – Brunch with Santa (Greenville Inn) 9 AM to 11 AM and 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Tickets: $35 for Adults, $15 for kids. Call 603-828-2836 for information. 

January 28-30, 2022 – 15th Annual Moosehead Lake Togue Ice Fishing Derby with Ricky Craven

The NREC in conjunction with the Maine Inland Fisheries & Wildlife and Ricky Craven host the Moosehead Lake Togue Ice Fishing Derby. A three-day derby with great prizes for the three largest togue along with a Grand Door Prize and great fish pool prizes! Event will be held from 1 AM on January 28 through 4 PM on January 30. Be sure to register ahead of time! 

February 5, 2022 – Wilderness Sled Dog Race

Come join us as sled dogs and their drivers race through the last forested wilderness east of the Mississippi. All the teams will start and finish in Greenville at Leisure Life Resort, making for an eventful day. There will be three separate races scheduled for this year: A 4 dog team race, 30-mile race, and a 70-mile race. There will also be a Skijor presentation and race!

Events and activities are scheduled to take place throughout the day for the whole family to enjoy, as we await the arrival of teams and cheer them on as they cross the finish line. Start time is 8 AM on the 5th.

Find a Place to Stay in the Moosehead Lake region

A good resource for finding a place to stay is our website! You can check out full business listings by clicking the Sleep tab, or view a full lodging grid of the local B&Bs, Inns, Lodges, Motels, and sporting camps on the Activity Guide on our website (https://destinationmooseheadlake.com/moosehead-lake-activity-guide/) Please note that some of our lodging establishments are not open year-round, so take note of seasonal availability! 

Need help planning your winter getaway in the Moosehead Lake region? Contact our Visitor’s Center today!

‘Tis the season to support local! The Moosehead Lake region is a fantastic place to find unique, handcrafted gifts full of character — from stocking stuffers to “big gifts”! Whether you’re coming from Canada, somewhere else in Maine, or New England – holiday shopping in Moosehead Lake makes for a very festive “Winter Wonderland” experience! 

While you’re out, be sure to stop by a local bar, pub, inn, diner, cafe, grill, resort, or restaurant to enjoy a freshly prepared meal! The holiday festivities begin around Thanksgiving in our region, so make sure to check out our calendar of events on our website for updates and more information. Surrounding towns will also be hosting individual shopping and festive events – so make a plan to take a trip around the lake and take in the beautiful winter wonderland views!

Holiday Events near Moosehead Lake

Deck the Halls – This month-long celebration of the holiday season begins the weekend after Thanksgiving (Nov 27th) and features many #ShopLocal promotions. Along with opportunities to snap pictures with Santa and write him letters, the Lights of Life Christmas Tree Lighting, a Deck the Halls Car Parade, and a Christmas Decor Contest. The Town of Greenville will be decorated with beautifully handcrafted wreaths, that are sponsored by Greenville businesses and hung by the Greenville Public Works Team  

Historic Inn Tour – This popular ticketed event is BACK for 2021! Save the date – December 11th – and watch our website and social media for more information!

Rockwood Home Decor & Holiday Bazaar – November 26th & 27th- This event will feature handmade wreaths, floral arrangements, plus many unique items perfect for gifting!

Places to Shop Near Moosehead Lake

• Kamp Kamp Indian Store – There’s so much to see and buy here! Find room upon room full of modern supplies, an impressive candy selection, seemingly endless vintage and antique collectibles, and Maine swag for the whole family. Shop at 3 Lily Bay Rd., Greenville.
• Indian Hill Trading Post – An all-purpose stop covering your every possible need! Stop in to find outdoor equipment, Maine-made offerings, giftware, housewares, groceries, rentals, brand-name items, electronics, and automotive parts! Stop in at 148 Moosehead Lake Road, Greenville.

• Moosehead Marketplace – This collection of makers was born of the desire to allow local artists, chefs, builders, and crafters to market their wares 365 days a year since there is such a short tourism season near the lake.  Offerings include handmade baskets, jams, books by local authors, soaps and candles, woodworking, maple syrup treats, puzzles, home, and cabin decor, and more! Be sure to visit 16 Pleasant Street, Greenville.

• Lily Cat Antiques – The Lily Cat features two floors full of well-organized antiques and collectibles, including primitives, Victorian art glass, vintage buttons, and a paper and ephemera department complete with a table and chairs for browsing. Best of all, they’re open late and often available for appointments outside normal business hours! Stop by Route 15 next to Monson Town Hall.

• Northwoods Outfitters – While visiting the Moosehead Lake area, Northwoods Outfitters can set you up for any adventure you desire, regardless of the season. Talk to their team for expert advice, weather updates, and road conditions. For all of your equipment needs, Northwoods sells top-quality, brand-name clothing, camping and fishing gear, as well as Moosehead Lake souvenirs. Stock up and make a plan at 5 Lily Bay Road, Greenville. 

• Northern Maine Minerals –  Family-owned and operated rock, gem, jewelry, and fossil shop located in the heart of Greenville, Maine. Discover the most beautiful crystals, minerals, and gemstones in the world. Northern Maine Minerals offers rare finds from Maine, the United States, and around the globe. Contact us today to discuss what options are available and order your crystals today. Find your new favorite natural collectible at 16 Pritham Ave., Greenville.

• Mud Puddle Mercantile – This charming gift shop stocks loads of apparel (with inclusive sizing!), endless amounts of jewelry, holiday and spiritual accessories, home decor, pet accessories, dishware, kids items, sunglasses, and other desirable gift items. Mud Puddle is known for its fantastic selection, wonderful service, and fresh inventory so there’s always something new to find. Shop at 34 Moosehead Lake Road, Greenville.

Places to Eat Near Moosehead Lake

• Kelly’s Landing – Kelly’s Landing is the perfect place for any occasion. Whether seeking outdoor activity or simple rest and relaxation, this is the spot for you! Sitting on the shore of beautiful Moosehead Lake at the gateway to the Great Northwoods, Kelly’s Landing offers a full service bar and dining room. Kelly’s Landing can appeal to all — come sit inside by the fireplace to warm up and see for yourself! 

• Stress Free Moose – This local landmark presents a full menu for lunch and dinner, including pub grub and diner classics, soup, sandwiches, steaks, seafood & more! There’s always something different on their specials board too. Enjoy drinks, live music, great eats, and a mellow atmosphere on the shores of Moosehead Lake in Greenville, Maine — 65 Pritham Ave, Greenville.

• Leisure Life Resort & Trailside Restaurant – This local favorite offers home cooking at family prices! Enjoy beautiful sunsets and mountain views in the cozy comfort of a traditional trailside escape. Would you rather sit in the family dining room, in the lounge, or sit at the bar? Soak up the warm friendly atmosphere at 33 Leisure Life Rd., Greenville.

• The Birches Resort – The Birches Resort is located on the Western Shore of Moosehead Lake. The 1930’s lodge features a beautiful dining room, lounge, huge front porch, rooms, a large dock, and views like they write about! The dining room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner during busier seasons and the lodge is warm and welcoming. Stop in for an amazing meal at 281 Birches Road, Rockwood!

• The Lakeshore House – Located on beautiful Lake Hebron in Monson (just south of Moosehead Lake), The Lakeshore House is a small family-friendly restaurant, pub, and hostel-style lodge. They offer traditional pub food and eclectic fare like escargot or ribeye steaks with indoor and outdoor seating. Pull up a chair at 9 Tenney Hill Road, Monson.

• The Quarry – Local fine dining at its best! The Quarry offers delectable art on a plate, with elevated flavor profiles and unique plating to deliver the high-class experience in the relaxed atmosphere of a local restaurant. Visit once, and you’ll be hooked! See what the north woods can serve up at 15 Tenney Hill Rd., Monson.

• Moosehead Meat and Deli – The Deli carries Boars Head Deli meats and cheeses, fresh beef, chicken, and pork. Marinated kabobs are their specialty and a favorite of locals and visitors alike. They are held to have the best sandwiches around, and their burgers are freshly ground several times a day for freshness and quality. See for yourself at 17A Eveleth Hill Greenville.
• Monson General Store – This all-in-one-stop offers a deli featuring Boar’s Head meats and Pineland Farms cheeses sliced to order. Grab an entrée, soup, or salad to go or order our generously portioned sandwiches. They offer the renowned Pineland Farms meats and cheeses as well as a broad selection of wines and craft beers including locally produced Spotted Cat wines. Throughout the growing season, their produce is Maine-grown and locally sourced whenever possible. With price points to please everyone, their gifts are unique to the area. Stop in and fill up at 12 Greenville Rd.!

Make sure to share your holiday photos with us online using #DestinationMooseheadLake!

Moosehead Lake offers opportunities to capture wildlife photos such as moose, eagles, loons, deer, and more. One of our locals’ favorite places to capture loon photos and even spot some nesting loons is at Shirley Pond. It’s easily accessed by the ATV trail that runs parallel. To access it, take Upper Shirley Corner Road and a left by Dovetail Bats! 

Borestone Mountain, in addition to offering great views, is an Audubon Sanctuary near the southern end of Maine’s “100-Mile Wilderness” forest. It’s a great place to hike through old forest and pondside trails to see dozens of species of birds and wildlife in vastly undisturbed natural habitats. Want to learn more about some of the best bird watching opportunities in the Moosehead Lake region? Check out this blog post or the mainebirdingtrail.com

Have moose on the mind? Lazy Tom Bog is a famous hangout for our region’s namesake and is known for offering great photo ops! Be sure to check out our Guide to Spotting Moose for all the tips from the best time of day to look for a moose to how to tell if one has been in the area recently. You may end up getting some gorgeous shots like our guest blogger Justin Smulski did on his Weekend Moose Watching Tour! 

The Best Places to Take Sunset Photos

Blair Hill Inn is a well-known vantage point from which many guests capture stunning sunset shots! It’s common to see cars pulled over on Lily Bay Road to capture photos of the sunset across the ridge. 

The Birches, on the Western shore of Moosehead, offers remote lodging options to set you up for sunset success, as well as ample stunning views from their main camps, front porch, dock, and all around the grounds. The options are endless!

Would you rather a road trip? Take a ride to Kokadjo to capture the sunset from the roadside! You can frame your photo in an endless amount of ways as views wrap around in every direction — and all are equally breathtaking.

The Best Places to Take Photos From the Lake

Water reflects and amplifies beauty in a way that nothing else can, making it a fantastic tool for amateur and pro photographers alike. Leverage the lake by taking a boat ride with your camera! We recommend hopping on the Mount Kineo shuttle for views of the island. To get a magic shot of Mount Kineo, consider renting a canoe or other private watercraft to drift across the water at your own pace. A particularly good angle is that from Lily Bay State Park’s beaches!

For some epic action shots, try whitewater rafting with Northeast Whitewater or Moxie Outdoors, and have your photo taken on the water!

The Best Places to Take Photos From the Air

One of the freshest perspectives to the human eye is that from above. For amazing aerial shots, we recommend enlisting the help of Currier’s Flying Service or Jack’s Air Service for a scenic flight or seaplane ride. You can choose from a selection of routes highlighting local landmarks below, both on land and on water. The remaining fall foliage looks particularly captivating from above and lends itself to one-of-a-kind seasonal shots! 

The Best Places to Take Photos from a Mountaintop

Some of the most sweeping views in the area come from mountain tops. The region has plenty of peaks to choose from, but a select few are top notch for capturing through the viewfinder.

• Mount Kineo – At the summit stands a tower originally used for spotting fires, and still offers 360-degree views of all the region has to offer. Most days you’ll be able to see Katahdin clearly — though it’s 60 miles away — and as a bonus, the hike to the top is easy to moderate!
• Borestone – One of Maine’s most popular hikes, Borestone Mountain offers two peaks, both with 360* views. There are multiple trails to the top, and by the end, you’ll have gained 2,000 feet in altitude. Even Sunrise Pond (located near the Visitor’s Center) is a picturesque setting great for a photoshoot!
• Eagle Rock – One of the best-kept secrets of hiking near Moosehead is that from the top of Eagle Rock, you can see 360 degree views of the surrounding areas, which feature Mount Katahdin, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the 100 Mile Wilderness section of the Appalachian Trail! It’s an amazing place to pause, soak in the scenery, snap frame some stunning photographs and reflect on the progress of your hike for the day.

The Best Places for Astrophotography

One of the great things about the Moosehead Lake area is that its void of light pollution. You can see the stars from basically anywhere, but our top picks are Lily Bay State Park, Wilsons on Moosehead, and Appalachian Mountain Club’s property Mediwisla. Check our list of partners online to find a great place to stay! 

The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) recently designated the Appalachian Mountain Club’s (AMC) Maine Woods property, Mediwisla, to be the first International Dark Sky Park in New England! This step will work to protect night sky quality and will hopefully lead to an expansion of even more Dark Sky Park areas in our region in the future.

The Best Places for Food Photography

After a long day of summiting local peaks and paddling across the lake, it’s a great opportunity to sit and soak in Moosehead’s culinary offerings! There are nearly endless options to taste, and the dining establishments cover nearly every genre of food. 

Breakfast and Lunch

Birch Bark Bakery & Breakfast

Stress Free Moose

Dinner

New England Outdoor Center/River Drivers Restaurant

Trailside Leisure Life

The Quarry

On the Water

Dockside Inn & Tavern

Lakeshore House

The Birches

Kelly’s Landing

Convenient

Moosehead Meat & Deli

Monson General Store/Pineland Farms

Winery

Spotted Cat Winery

A few of these establishments offer takeout or picnic options that you can take with you on your photographic journey! Try picking up some tidbits from Monson General Store, Moosehead Meat and Deli, or Kelly’s Landing!

Not able to capture images while you’re here? It’s ok! Check out one of our many shopping partners for framed images and postcards of some of the great things Moosehead Lake has to offer! You can also shop online at Moosehead Marketplace! 

Share your images with us on your social media channels! You can tag us – #DestinationMooseheadLake or @DestinationMooseheadLake – and be sure to use our location tag as well!

We have many guests to our region visit the Visitor’s Center asking us where the best spots for bird watching are in our region! We’ve gathered some information courtesy of the mainebirdingtrail.com to be used for quick reference. Here are some of our favorite birding areas in the Moosehead Lake region!

Piscataquis County Soil & Water Conservation District Demonstration Forest

The Piscataquis County Soil & Water Conservation District Demonstration Forest is well hidden and lightly used in the woods of Williamsburg west of Brownville Junction. The 180-acre tract is managed to demonstrate varying forestry practices, which also account for the bird diversity. During the breeding season, it is loud with eastern wood- pewees, least and yellow-bellied flycatchers, and an abundance of blackburnian and black-throated blue warblers. Hermit thrush and veery are species to be expected in the northern forest, but wood thrush has been noted near the parking area.

Several loop trails run through different habitats, the first of which is the Shelter Wood Trail. Initially, it traverses sparse pine woods, but there is a dense, coniferous stand on the backside that regularly produces a ruffed grouse.

The Canyon Trail (and the Plantation Loop and Larson Loops beyond) run through elevation changes that sometimes put hikers at eye level with canopy birds. Scarlet tanagers and red-eyed vireos prefer the tops of these mature, deciduous stands, while ovenbirds may be found around the forest floor.

Directions: (Approx. 49.0 miles, 1hr 8mins from Greenville Visitor Center)

From Greenville: Head south on Route 15/6 for 12.1 miles. Take a slight left on to N. Guilford Rd in Monson for 5.2 miles. Then take a right turn onto Route 150 S in North Guilford for 2.4 miles. Then take a left onto Guilford Center Rd. in North Guilford for 2.9 miles. Turn left onto Wharff Road in Guilford Center follow that for 3 miles. This road will change names to Anderson Road continue following straight for another 1.3 miles. Take a right onto Dawes Road in Dover-Foxcroft for about 0.4 miles. Then take a sharp left turn onto Park St. for 1.2 miles. This will take you to North St. in Dover-Foxcroft where you’ll take a right and follow that for 0.3 miles. In the town of Dover-Foxcroft you will take a left onto Summer St. which is Rt. 16 East/Rt. 6 East you’ll follow this road for approx. 7.4 miles. In the Town of Sebec you will take a left onto Austin Rd./Sebec Village Rd. continue straight on that road for approx. 6 miles. You will turn right onto Barnard Rd. going about 2.9 miles. Then take a left onto Williamsburg Rd. that will then turn into Roberts Rd for 4 miles. You will have arrived at your destination of Piscataquis County Demonstration Forest Nature Trails. GPS: 45.369215, -69.089107

Borestone Mountain Area

Borestone Mountain is a 1981-foot peak contained within a Maine Audubon sanctuary. It is a local favorite for family hikers. Two-thirds of the hike follows an easy hiking trail or dirt road. American redstarts are often apparent in the parking area.

Because Borestone has been protected for over 100 years, the mature hardwoods that envelope the first third of the trail are particularly good for canopy birds such as red-eyed vireos, scarlet tanagers, blackburnian warblers, and northern parula.

The vegetation changes gradually during the ascent, leaving behind the maples, and embracing birches and beeches. Here, blue-headed vireos, and magnolia, black-throated blue, and black-throated green warblers quickly become commonplace, with a good chance for ruby-crowned kinglets. Then, as the hardwoods mix with stands of evergreens (mostly red spruce), more hermit thrushes, golden-crowned kinglets, and winter wrens become noticeable. The usual chickadees, nuthatches, and woodpeckers are always around.

The trail plateaus upon approach to the visitor center. The thicker evergreen forest is home to Canada warblers. Northern goshawks are seen occasionally. In winter, during irruptive years, an astounding number of crossbills can be heard chattering throughout this section.

Audubon’s visitor center is two-thirds of the way up the mountain, adjacent to one of the three mountain ponds. The three ponds are pleasingly known as Sunrise Pond on the near right, Sunset Pond out of sight on the distant left, and, of course, Midday Pond in the middle. The water in these ponds is so clear it is possible to see 50 feet below the surface. There are occasional common mergansers in the ponds, but the harsh alpine climate supports little aquatic life, so ducks are uncommon.

To ascend the rest of Borestone Mountain, follow the trail around the visitor center. The ascent is strenuous and will require some clambering over boulders, but the view is spectacular, especially in foliage season. Aside from more winter wrens, hermit thrushes, and white-throated sparrows, the birding is ordinary to the summit, but the 360-degree views from the top make the hike worthwhile.

The road on the way to Borestone Mountain is pleasantly birdy. Stop at the Wilson Stream bridge and enjoy the barn swallows that nest under it. A mile later, stop and spend a few minutes at the railroad tracks. The trees are full of red-eyed vireos, and with a little more patience, scarlet tanagers may reveal their presence. It’s not unusual for sharp-shinned hawks to cruise the rail line. This is an active track, so beware of trains.

Directions: (Approx. 20 miles, 28 mins from the Greenville Visitor Center)

Head south on Route 15/6 for about 11.4 miles. In the Town of Monson take a left onto Elliotsville Rd. Follow 7.5 miles to Big Wilson Stream Bridge. Turn left at the intersection and follow signs another mile to the Borestone parking lot. Parking is at the base of the mountain. The lot fills early on nice days so you may have to join the others parked along the roadside.

Moosehead Lake – West

Moosehead Lake is Maine’s largest lake. Most of the surrounding forest is managed for timber harvesting, and there are many remote logging roads open to public access for traditional sporting activities. This combination of remoteness and access has made the region excellent for birding in Maine’s vast forest.

The Moosehead Lake region is famous for its large moose population, and Greenville is home to the Moosemania Festival every spring. Maine also has the largest population of black bears east of the Mississippi, and encounters with eastern coyotes are a regular occurrence. Beavers can be seen in every small and slow-moving body of water, and they generally become active and visible in the late afternoon. Otters are common in shallow, slow-moving waters.

On the west side of Moosehead Lake, two outflows of the Kennebec River cross under Route 15. The East Outlet is about 10 miles north of Greenville Junction. There is a small parking lot and a dirt road just north of the bridge. This is an excellent road for a warbler walk since there is little traffic. The first 1.5-mile section of this road is the best, traversing a mix of mature hardwoods and conifer species. Canopy warblers such as blackburnian, pine, northern parula, bay-breasted, black-throated green, and black-throated blue are relatively easy to view. At 1.5 miles, the road turns abruptly right into a regenerating clear cut where sparrows and flycatchers can be added to the day’s list. At all times be alert for boreal chickadees.

The West Outlet is about 16 miles north of Greenville Junction. North of the bridge, look for a dirt road leading west called Somerset Road. This road also traverses mature hardwood growth and offers many of the same birding opportunities as the East Outlet. However, this road continues for 26 miles to Route 201, and there are homes on the outlet ponds, so it tends to be more heavily traveled. On the other hand, the road brushes past several good views of rivers, ponds, and productive wetland areas, so a walk or slow drive can be equally pleasurable.

Rockwood is the last sure chance for gas and supplies. It is here that Route 15 turns west along the Moose River, heading for Jackman. However, by turning right and crossing the bridge in Rockwood, the Moosehead adventure continues. The Birches Resort lies just a few miles ahead. Beyond The Birches, a well-traveled dirt road extends far into the North Maine Woods. The historic Pittston Farm sits 20 miles north of Rockwood on Seboomook Lake.

The 20-Mile Road leads through experimental plantings of red pine and white spruce where regenerating clear-cuts are home to breeding Lincoln’s sparrows and mourning warblers.

Just beyond Pittston Farm, the road continues several miles to the Golden Road, an unpaved artery that runs east/west from Millinocket to Quebec. A fee is charged beyond this point. The road’s primary purpose is to serve Maine’s working forest, but it also serves as recreational access to many remote areas, including the Allagash Wilderness Waterway farther north.

Little Moose Unit of Maine Public Reserved Land

The Little Moose Unit of Maine Public Reserved Land contains several hiking trails, campsites, and the trailhead for Big Moose Mountain. This peak rises 3200 feet into the Bicknells’ thrush zone, and a few have traditionally nested near the summit. The Bicknell’s thrush is vocal primarily at dawn and dusk. It is handy to be familiar with its call notes, sounding like WEER. Due to its preference for alpine habitat, Bicknell’s thrush is a late migrant, usually arriving after Memorial Day weekend. The mountain ascent is relatively short, and often strenuous, through excellent birding habitat, transitioning from the scarlet tanagers of the lower elevation hardwoods, through zones of balsam fir and spruce over the 90-minute climb. Blackpolls, Bay-breasted warblers, yellow-bellied flycatchers, boreal chickadees, and spruce grouse are found near the summit. The road through the Little Moose Unit is good for ruffed grouse, and Philadelphia vireos have been noted near the Big Moose Mountain trailhead.

Directions: 

On Route 15, the North Road turns west 3.5 miles north of Greenville Junction. The trailhead for Big Moose is 1.3 miles from the intersection.

Autumn in New England is a vibrant, breathtaking and spectacular time of year — but have you ever experienced it on the lake? There are seemingly endless ways to soak up Maine’s most colorful season in the Moosehead region. Here are a few of our top recommendations:

Fishing

Cool air, still water, and a tug on your line — what could be better? Plan an autumn fishing excursion to experience our famed waterways and soak in some exceptional views. In the fall, fish move away from larger bodies of water and into smaller rivers and streams to spawn. Be prepared as fall fishing can be feast or famine.  Availability of guided trips is limited, so if you want to book a guide for fall fishing now is the time, don’t wait! The dates for the end of the fall fishing season greatly depend on what river or body of water you are fishing on. It’s essential that you check the current 2021 fishing laws by visiting The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

PRO TIP: It’s a great time of year to break out your streamers! These wet flies are the best bet in attracting fish as their bright colors are most appealing in the fall.

Hiking

Let’s get some boots on the ground! Fall is perhaps the best time to hit the trails around the Lake, as the scenery is particularly spectacular and the summer visitors have left for the season. Enjoy crisp air, stunning foliage, quiet trails and glimpses of local wildlife as they prepare for the onset of winter. 

It’s a great time of year to tackle the Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit Challenge! By allotting one day per mountain, you can tackle all the peaks in less than a week with plenty of time to enjoy the hikes and really take in the scenery. We recommend starting with Mount Kineo, then moving on to Number Four Mountain, Whitecap Mountain, and Eagle Rock, then finishing strong on days five and six with Big Moose Mountain and Borestone Mountain!

The weather can get chilly this time of year, so be sure to wear wool socks (a must-have for hiking any day!) and light, insulating layers so that you’ll stay warm on the trail. Be sure to check the forecast before striking off, and pack plenty of water and trail snacks for each day!

Camping

Imagine this: You wake up early in the morning when the fall air is extra crisp and the birds are still singing. The sunlight is pouring through the fabric of your tent, diffusing into a warm glow that just promises a beautiful day ahead.  You make yourself a pot of strong, hot coffee over an open flame, then lean back in your camp chair, absorbing the view of the dynamic fall colors for miles around. 

When you camp near the lake, you can choose to fill every day just as you choose: quiet, reflective solitude, active adventure, or passive meandering through the region’s treasure trove of natural attractions. Fall camping brings its own set of specific joys and promises to be an unforgettable experience. All you need to bring is your tent, a warm sleeping bag and blankets, food, and cooking utensils to craft a north woods getaway worthy of an annual tradition. 

Not ready to “rough it”? Our region offers a substantial variety of camp, cottage and cabin rentals, most within close proximity of the water. Keep the views and the privacy, while upgrading to a thick mattress, a roof over your head and perhaps a cozy reading nook!

See the Lake from the Katahdin Steamship

Ready to sit back and really soak it all in? Plan a guided historic lake tour aboard the Kate! This unique experience offers a glimpse of scenic landmarks on the water along with a narration of the area’s history and sights. Freshly-prepared meals, local brews, and other special treats are available on board, and there are multiple cruise packages to choose from so you can craft an experience that’s just right for your party or family. As a reminder, the last cruise of the 2021 season is Monday, October 11th. After your cruise, tour the Moosehead Marine Museum to browse local artifacts and learn more about the history and agricultural development of our region. It’s a rare and mesmerizing peek into the region’s past!

Moose Watching

Fall is a great time of year to look for Moose! September, October, November and December are some of the best months to spot a moose. You may be able to spot a fully antlered Bull Moose if you’re lucky! We have many resources on our website if you’d like to take a self-guided tour. We also have a number of Registered Maine Guides in our region that offer guided Moose Watching tips. 

References 

• https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/projects/fall_foliage/faq/
• https://bangordailynews.com/2019/10/10/outdoors/fall-fishing-can-be-magnificent-these-tips-will-help-you-succeed/

GETTING TO KNOW MOOSEHEAD’S FORESTS

HOW ORGANIZATIONS ARE SHAPING MOOSEHEAD’S FORESTS

Today, the Forest Society of Maine, the Appalachian Mountain Club, and other select organizations have become instrumental in the conservation of Moosehead’s forests. Local landowners look to these organizations to help protect forestland. For example, one resident recently donated an 80-acre woodlot to the Forest Society in hopes that visitors will view it as a resource for learning about the area’s forests.

The Appalachian Mountain Club helped preserve the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire, then shifted its focus to Maine, with the intention to become a partner in private ownership. Since its original acquisition of Little Lyford Pond and Camps, it expanded to include the conservation of large tracts of land on the east side of Moosehead region. Today, the operations include recreational lodges, cabins, and a forestry program, all of which offer area employment opportunities. AMC has also provided access to miles of hiking trails and new recreation opportunities.

Weyerhaeuser, the largest private forestland owner in the region, has been closely involved in both preservation and economic development efforts. . Its work is focused on creating a sustainable forest-based economy.

BUILDING A PREDICTABLE FUTURE

With all of these efforts, locals and visitors alike can rest assured that the views and natural resources they have come to know and love will be here for years to come. Those who come to the forest for a sense of peace, stillness, and familiarity will continue to find a sanctuary from the chaos of everyday life. Conservation of Moosehead’s forestland is leading to a more stable, healthy, and predictable future for the people who choose to live and recreate among its stately trees.

References 

Special thanks to Suzanne from the Moosehead Historical Society!

https://mainetree.org/2018/10/moosehead-lake-region-html/

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20120515006527/en/363000-Acres-of-Moosehead-Lake-Region-Conserved

https://themainehighlands.com/story/moosehead-lake

https://www.turnerpublishing.net/news/2020/12/12/a-historic-trip-back-to-the-moosehead-lake-region/

https://www.mainememory.net/sitebuilder/site/2431/page/3912/display?use_mmn=1

https://mooseheadhistory.org/2018/08/17/the-kineo-hotel-modern-for-its-time/

https://www.fsmaine.org/conserved-lands/moosehead/

Happy summer on the lake! It’s a great time of year to dive in and cool off. There are so many things to do on and in the water at Moosehead. Whether you want to be on, in or just near the water while visiting Moosehead, there is water fun for everyone! 

Please be sure to plan in advance for your trip, as water activities on the lake are very popular and lodging and water equipment rentals tend to be booked early. 

The Best Ways to Get on the Water in Moosehead Lake

Enjoy Food and Drinks Lakeside

What day on the water is complete without waterfront cocktails?

Stop by Dockside Inn and Tavern in downtown Greenville to sip local specialties like a Kineopolitan Cosmo, The Birchman-Moscow Mule, Sugar Island Coconut, Pear Spritzah, and Liquored Up Lemonade while soaking up sun and beautiful views of the water. Dockside is famous for its crab stuffed haddock, bacon-wrapped scallops and other tidbits alongside a full menu of locally-sourced fare. They also feature Gluten-Free options for those with sensitivities/allergies to gluten. 

Kelly’s Landing is a long time staple in the Moosehead Lake area! The Birches is another great place to enjoy a meal along the water if Rockwood! In Monson, you can eat and drink along the shores of Lake Hebron at the Lakeshore House. 

Or, pick up some wine from Indian Hill Trading Post and a picnic basket from Northwoods Gourmet Girl and enjoy the public beach in Greenville, or take a lakeside picnic in any of the surrounding areas!

Jump Into Moosehead Lake!

There are plenty of places to take a dip in Moosehead Lake. Here’s how to get to some of our favorite spots:

• Sneak around behind Mt. Kineo to visit the secret pebble beach (which features a rope swing in addition to the swimming area!)
• Take a trip to downtown Greenville then cut through the woods to Red Cross Beach. This great swimming beach is great for families and even has a summer lifeguard on duty.
• Looking for more kid-friendly swimming options? The Greenville Junction Wharf includes a lakeside playground for littles to enjoy while visiting the beach. 
• Spin down Blanchard Road to Monson Public Beach for a sandy stretch of shore with large floats for swimming and jumping off of. 
• Take the adventure up a notch by visiting Little Wilson Falls in Monson. This hike is part of the Appalachian Trail and includes small pools perfect for a summertime dip — just be careful as the rocks can be very slick! This spot is better for an adults-only swim.

Rent Jet Skis, Boats and SUP This Summer – or bring your own!

Moosehead Lake is rife with watercraft options! We recommend taking some time to explore the water via standup paddleboard, jet ski, kayak, canoe and/or boat. Many of the local businesses on the lake offer equipment and watercraft rentals so you can explore for the day without carting around your own gear.   

• Rent a SUP from Wilson Pond Cabins or The Birches Resort.
• Find a Jet ski at The Birches Resort.
• Pick out the perfect boat from The Birches Resort, or Wilson Pond Cabins. 

There are also additional boat and watercraft rental opportunities in Rockwood available, but be sure to book them well in advance as boating Moosehead is extremely popular.

If you bring your own watercraft, there are public boat launches available in Greenville Junction, in Lily Bay State Park (fee applies) and in Rockwood at the Rockwood Town Landing

Scope Out Shipwrecks on Moosehead Lake

Being the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States, Moosehead holds some intriguing secrets! Believe it or not, these cold, deep waters hold around a dozen shipwrecks, many of which are decades-old steamships that were burned to the waterline then sunk. Some, however, are nearly fully-preserved vessels that retain architectural features that speak to the history of the lake. 

Make it a solo adventure to explore these sites, or create a fun family treasure hunt to spot as many wrecks as are visible from the surface!

Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting is a bucket list item for many people! Moosehead Lake is at the heart of whitewater rafting in Maine, located between world-class whitewater on the Kennebec River (family fun rafting experience) and the Penobscot River (more adventurous whitewater trip), with daily rafting trips, transportation offered by Moxie Outdoors and Northeast Whitewater from May – September.  Learn more about Whitewater Rafting on our website!

When you visit the Moosehead Lake region, you will be presented with unlimited opportunities to enjoy the water. Whatever you decide, you are sure to have a blast! Make sure to share your photos with us on social media using #DestinationMooseheadLake so we can see all of your water FUN!

Maine is a “bucket list” hike for many outdoor adventurers! People fall in love with Maine because of its beauty and hiking and the Moosehead Lake region is no different! Our region has some of the best views in the state. Take a trek near the lake to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Here are a few of the reasons why our region’s trails are really special:

When you hit the trail around Moosehead Lake, you’re guaranteed plenty of peace and quiet to do some introspective unpacking. With the vast amount of land — and trails — in the area, it’s unlikely you’ll see another person, so you can enjoy the time to yourself and focus on why you decided to unplug. With no one else around, it becomes easier to center yourself, meditate on the sound of your own breathing, notice the movement of the leaves, hear the lapping of the water, and observe the wildlife that will likely wander across your path. It’s time to focus on the little things, not that endless “to do” list!

Many trails are overly crowded right now with people embracing the outdoors after COVID. Not the case in Moosehead! We love that the general populous is returning to a more nature-loving lifestyle; however, we’re pleased to report that there’s plenty of North Woods to share. If you’re finding yourself craving open air, solitude and winding trails, head our way!

2) You will find hikes for all levels of adventurers

Do you like setting your own pace, or do you have little ones in tow? Are you a seasoned backpacker, or just starting to break in those hiking boots? Looking to meander a bit and soak up views, or challenge yourself to a section of the Appalachian Trail? No matter your experience (or energy!) level, there are trails for you. Here are a few places to start, based on your level of experience and confidence:

Hikes with Fire Towers near Moosehead Lake

For those of you that love fire towers, we have a fire tower hike in our region that has arguably one of the best views in the state of Maine! The view from the top of the Mount Kineo fire tower is stunning. You can really take in the vastness of Moosehead Lake. Other hikes that include fire towers in our region are Big Spencer Mountain and Number 4 Mountain, although Number 4 Mountain is just the structure.

Learn more about the region and its extensive trails in our Official Moosehead Lake Hiking Guide! It’s packed full of tips, trips, directions and other invaluable information to help you plan your Moosehead Lake hiking expedition. Sign up for our Email Newsletter today and have the Official Moosehead Lake Hiking Guide sent straight to your inbox!