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!
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:
Some of the easily traveled and flatter hikes in the Moosehead Lake region are the trails at Lily Bay State Park, the B-52 Memorial, the trail to Big Moose Pond, Moxie Falls, and the first portion of the hike out to Little Wilson Falls! These trails are good for adventurers of all ages and all levels of patience. Each of these trails offer great viewpoints with little effort! If your kids are older and they are ok with climbing a bit of elevation, you can add Little Kineo and Burnt Jacket Mountain to your list! Both of those hikes are approximately 2 miles or less! For experienced families, Mount Kineo and Borestone are also great hikes! Both of these hikes are approximately 3.5 miles round trip.
Off of the Katahdin Ironworks Road, you can hike into Rum Pond, where there are some trails to explore that go up onto Blue Ridge which are great for families!
Additional family friendly hikes maintained by the Appalachian Mountain Club are Shaw Mountain and Indian Mountain.
Our region includes sections of the Appalachian Trail including the 100 Mile Wilderness, so there are many opportunities to backpack! According to Registered Maine Guide and author of the Maine Mountain Guide Carey Kish, Little Moose Public Land has a trail network and a handful of backcountry campsites. You can backpack the Appalachian Trail on the Barren-Chairback Range, which features five peaks traversed by the AT. There are three shelters and several tent sites. You can also backpack the White Cap Range. Four peaks traversed by the AT. Two shelters and several tent sites.
Many people enjoy hiking solo, and the trails surrounding Moosehead Lake are perfect for finding that solitude. With any hike, it’s important to come prepared with the ten essentials, but when you hike solo, it’s even more important to pack well. Be sure to have all your bases covered, including assets for navigation, a headlamp, sun protection, first aid, a knife, your preferred fire lighters, some form of shelter, extra food, extra water, and some additional clothing options. It’s important to note that many areas in our region do not offer cell service, so it’s a great opportunity to get away from daily responsibilities and mindless scrolling — just be sure to let someone know about your plans and timeline for the day!
Waterfalls, fire towers, lakes, ponds, mountains, rocky cliffs… the list goes on! When you hike in the Moosehead Lake region, you’ll be treated to views beyond trees and skies. Maine’s landscape and the scenery is incredibly diverse, and our region does an excellent job of sampling nearly all of it. From many vantage points, the views unfold for miles around, revealing what feels like almost all of the state!
REGIONAL SECRET: 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, bask in the sunlight and reflect on the progress of your hike for the day.
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.
We have some beautiful waterfall hikes in our region! Some of the most popular waterfall hikes include Gulf Hagas, Moxie Falls, Little Wilson Falls, and the falls at Goodell Brook in Monson! Gulf Hagas is probably the most well known waterfall hike in Maine. This approximately 8 mile hike has excellent views along the way that include Screw Auger Falls, Jaws, Buttermilk Falls, and Billings Falls. This trail is definitely the most difficult waterfall hike, but you don’t have to do the whole trail in order to see the falls! Many people stop at Screw Auger Falls and enjoy lunch before turning around. Moxie Falls and Little Wilson Falls are much shorter waterfall hikes that you can complete in just a few hours. The falls at Goodell Brook is a very quick trip off the Appalachian Trail in Monson! You could easily visit all of these waterfall hikes in just a few days during your trip to Moosehead Lake!
Ready to make the most of your hiking experience? The shores and forests of the Moosehead Lake region are dotted with rustic cabins, quaint cottages and welcoming B&Bs offering a memorable and comfortable place to crash between treks (as well as some pretty phenomenal food!). Be sure to check our list of places to stay in the area if you decide to make your exploration of the area a multi-day experience! Most of the local lodging offers quick, convenient access to trails and is likely nestled in the woods or perched lakeside to help you stay enveloped in the outdoors for your entire visit.
Prefer something a little closer to nature? There are nearly endless options for camping in the North Maine woods! Bring your tent, van, or travel trailer to stay trailside or tucked into the deep woods. It’s a great way to extend the silence and serenity of your experience, offers ample stargazing opportunities, and maintains the comfort of a familiar home base.
Stay by the lake, and you can cool off in style at the end of the day! Nothing beats the feeling of running down the dock and diving into the cool water after a day of trekking in the hot sun. When you’ve finished hiking, dive in to cool off and clean up, or rent a boat to watch the sunset from the surface of the lake. There are multiple local businesses offering water crafts and equipment to help you take advantage of every moment of your adventure on the lake.
Want to enjoy a camping and hiking remote experience? AMC has free/first come first serve paddle to sites on Second/Third/Fourth Roach! Hike around the Spencer Mountain region and camp & paddle! AMC also owns and maintains a handful of primitive campsites are located on a chain of ponds along the Roach River east of Moosehead Lake. Each equipped with a fire ring, privy, tent pad and picnic table, these sites are a perfect getaway for campers looking for a secluded, peaceful camping experience. Learn more in this article by Aislinn Sarnacki.
Have you even been to Moosehead if you don’t see a moose — or at least some moose sign? The area is packed with the lake’s majestic namesake, though they can be stealthy and discreet. While on the trail, keep an eye out for moose (and their poops!), as well as deer, coyotes, porcupine, fox, raccoons, lynx, and the occasional bear. The wildlife in the region tends to be visible yet unbothered, leading to great photo ops from a respectful distance.
Birdwatching is a year-round activity in Maine, and a day on the trails is the perfect time to take count of the area’s feathered friends! Ducks, hawk, osprey, loons, grouse, woodpeckers, chickadees and jays are frequent fliers in the region, but many more species can be seen and heard throughout the woods and near the water. If you’re lucky, you may spot a bald eagle! The Maine Audubon Society offers regional birding guides including best places to look for birds, seasonal high points, and which species to expect. There is so much to do on your adventures through the Maine woods!
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!
207-534-9012
2021 Schedule
May 28, 2021 through October 11, 2021
Months of May and June
From the Rockwood Public Landing to Kineo: 9:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm, and 3:00pm
From Kineo to Rockwood: 10:45am, 12:45pm, 2:45pm with a final trip back at 4:45pm
Months of July and August
From the Rockwood Public Landing to Kineo: On the hour, every hour from 8:00am until 6:00pm
From Kineo to Rockwood: 9:45am, 10:45am, 11:45am, 12:45pm, 1:45pm, 2:45pm, 3:45pm, 4:45pm, 5:45pm with a final trip back at 6:45pm
Months of September and October
From the Rockwood Public Landing to Kineo: On the hour, every hour from 9:00am until 4:00pm
From Kineo to Rockwood: 9:45am, 10:45am, 11:45am, 12:45pm, 1:45pm, 2:45pm, 3:45pm, with a final trip back at 4:45pm
Round-Trip Shuttle Fares:
Ages 5 and older: $13.00 per person Cash only
Under age 5: FREE
Dogs: FREE
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the Mount Kineo Shuttle:
In the Moosehead Lake region, one of the most commonly asked questions that we are asked is “where can I see a moose?” Moose are not only our namesake, they are our pride & joy. Spring brings endless new ways to enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of our region, most notably, it marks the time when moose are most prolific and most visible. Besides being the namesake of our favorite lake, moose are incredibly unique and interesting creatures that become even more fascinating once you catch a glimpse! Have you seen a moose in the Moosehead Lake region? Post about it on your social media channels and tag us! @destinationmooseheadlake or #destinationmooseheadlake
The Maine state mammal’s size is both impressive and intimidating by any measure. A fully grown male moose, called a bull, can reach 6 ft. in height at the shoulder and can weigh upwards of 1400 lbs.
They enjoy dining on aquatic plants in the summer months and tree bark, leaves and balsam fir in the cooler seasons. Moose must consume 9770 calories per day to maintain their body weight.
While clumsy in appearance, moose are actually able to run at speeds of 35 mph and can swim over 10 miles at a time.
Only male moose grow antlers, which they shed in early winter and re-grow during the year. The main function of antlers is for display during the mating season. Shed hunting (searching for antlers that have been shed by their owners) is a popular activity.
Moose antlers can grow as big as six feet in length! (Imagine carrying that around on your head!) They can weigh up to 40 lbs.
Moose are crepuscular animals, meaning that they are most active at dawn and dusk.
Moose have hooves! Moose hoof prints will measure about 5-7 inches long. Use your hand or foot for comparison!
Moose are not generally aggressive creatures, but you should always use caution around them. Please keep your distance from these incredible creatures. There are certain times when moose can be more aggressive than others. For example, If you encounter a Momma Moose (called a cow), with a baby moose (called a calf), you might experience her protective behaviors. If a moose feels in danger, it will not tolerate the threat. It will charge and begin stomping with its hooves.
Keep a look out for rubbed trees, moose tracks, or moose droppings!
In the Moosehead Lake Region, moose outnumber people 3 to 1. If you’re lucky, you might spot one on the side of the road as you head into town for lunch or on your way to rent a canoe. If not, there are a few local hotspots that are almost guaranteed to offer a sighting!
The best times of day to see moose are early in the morning or at dusk, while the best time of year is from mid-spring through late June.
Moose prefer shady, wet areas such as bogs and marshes.
After dark, moose are very hard to spot standing on the road high above vehicle headlights. Always remain alert when driving at night. A moose encounter can result in great damage to vehicles and passengers.
Moose prefer solitude and deep woods cover in their habitat. Professional guide services offer unsurpassed access to the deepest woods territory to give you the best chance of spotting a moose!
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In contrast to most getaway destinations, the Moosehead Lake Region is as magical in the winter as it is in warmer seasons. Whether you bring the whole family or set off on a solo expedition, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the weather and endless areas to explore! Here is a list of our favorite things to do during the winter in Moosehead Lake!
Cold-weather activities will kickstart your metabolism, so it’s important to fuel up before your adventure. We recommend Birch Bark Bakery & Breakfast, Moosehead Meat & Deli, or Northwoods Gourmet Girl – and a few mugs of coffee, wherever you go – before hitting the snow.
Soak in the scenery AND stock your cooler by spending some time ice fishing. Moosehead Lake and the surrounding ponds and smaller lakes are teeming with trout, cusk, salmon and togue all winter long! Salmon love to lurk right under the ice, and cusk are often caught after dark (who wants to make it an “all-nighter”?). One of the best spots to set up on the ice is behind Mt. Kineo, as it offers some of the deepest water on Moosehead Lake as well as offering some protections from the sometimes harsh winter winds. Be sure to bring along smelt and cut bait — these are the best options for ice fishing!
The best way to explore the land around you is to hike it! Insert yourself into picturesque views and stunning snow-dusted settings, no special equipment required. Just be sure to bundle up and bring your best boots! The region offers trails fit for family outings (read: little legs) as well as challenging winter trails that will test your stamina and reward you with phenomenal views. The Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit Challenge offers a prestigious badge and panoramic views from each corner of the Moosehead Lake Region for those who summit all six peaks. For an even bigger challenge, complete them in a certain time frame or time of year and earn more badges! Find the best fit for your group or mood with the All Trails or Maine Trail Finder apps!
Ready to pick up the speed just a little? Strap on some snowshoes or rent some cross-country skis and strike off on an adventure. If you’re new to exploring on foot this way, it’s a great idea to work with a Registered Maine Guide for tips and tricks to navigating with gear as well as the best places to start your expedition.
It MUST be time to eat again. Warm up from the inside out with hot grub from Kelly’s Landing, Stress Free Moose, or Dockside Inn & Tavern right in town. We recommend another round of hot drinks to keep you warmed up for what’s up next!
For fast-paced adventurers, the mechanically inclined, or those that just want to cover as much ground as possible, exploring Moosehead from a snowmobile is a great way to take in the winter sights. The Moosehead Trail offers 160 miles of spectacular and scenic riding, with stops for coffee, lunch, and gas along the way. The local trails join the Maine ITS for those avid riders who want to branch out to other parts of Maine and into New Hampshire. Be sure to check conditions first – including lake ice – via the Maine Snowmobile Association, even during the most reliable sledding season (mid-January through mid-March). Not sure where to stop? Stop into a local business (many offer sled rentals!) and ask for tips on trailheads, riding advice and the best places to branch off the beaten path.
If you’re more of an observer of winter wonderlands than a knee-deep adventurer, we highly recommend a cozy cottage stay during the snowy season. There are plenty of places to snuggle up, sit by the fire and sip a steaming mug of tea or hot chocolate while soaking up the winter peace and quiet. A quaint cabin with a lake view is a wonderful respite from the demands and bustle of everyday life — you’ll sleep better than you have in years! Be sure to check out our lodging options!
No matter where you wind down after your day by the lake, the appeal of the region doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Maine’s night sky can’t be beat! With miles of wide-open sky, little interruption and zero light pollution, it’s the perfect place to pause, look up, and remember the feeling of absolute awe. The winter sky in particular offers rare treats such as meteor showers and the Aurora Borealis. Enjoy these stellar sights from a pile of blankets on the snow, on the frozen lake, beside a roaring campfire or through the lens of a telescope at your cozy remote cabin.
The Kineo Shuttle
207-534-9012
2020 Schedule
May 23, 2020 through October 12, 2020
Months of May and June
From the Rockwood Public Landing to Kineo: 9:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm, and 3:00pm
From Kineo to Rockwood: 10:45am, 12:45pm, 2:45pm with a final trip back at 4:45pm
Months of July and August
From the Rockwood Public Landing to Kineo: On the hour, every hour from 8:00am until 6:00pm
From Kineo to Rockwood: 9:45am, 10:45am, 11:45am, 12:45pm, 1:45pm, 2:45pm, 3:45pm, 4:45pm, 5:45pm with a final trip back at 6:45pm
Months of September and October
From the Rockwood Public Landing to Kineo: On the hour, every hour from 9:00am until 4:00pm
From Kineo to Rockwood: 9:45am, 10:45am, 11:45am, 12:45pm, 1:45pm, 2:45pm, 3:45pm, with a final trip back at 4:45pm
Round-Trip Shuttle Fares:
Ages 5 and older: $13.00 per person Cash only
Under age 5: FREE
Dogs: FREE
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions:
The crossing from Rockwood to Kineo takes approximately 10 minutes.
The Kineo Shuttle does not have a ticket booth; you will be paying the captain in cash as you board.
In good weather the shuttle will accommodate 10 passengers; the captain may elect to carry fewer passengers in rough weather. If for any reason there are more passengers waiting to board than can be safely ferried across on a scheduled trip, the shuttle will return immediately for those left behind.
When you step off the docks on Kineo you are at the trailhead for the Mt. Kineo State Park hiking trails. To hike to the observation tower at the top of Mt. Kineo and back to the docks via the Bridle Trail and Indian Trails takes approximately 2 – 2.5 hours. If you choose to go down the North trail from the tower, it becomes a 4-5 hour hike.
The golf course does not rent golf carts for sightseeing. They are only rented to golfers, per the request of the Kineo Community Owners Association, and they cannot leave the course.
The golf course and cart paths are not hiking trails.
Summer 2020 will be anything but ordinary. With some indoor activities restricted or closed, many landowners and managers across Maine are reporting a higher-than-average number of visitors to their hiking trails, parks, and preserves. Fortunately, the Moosehead Lake region has an abundance of beautiful land, waters, and trails for residents and visitors to spread out on.
The Forest Society of Maine (FSM) holds conservation easements all around Moosehead Lake, including the 359,000-acre Moosehead Region Conservation Easement (MRCE). Multiple new trails have been constructed on the MRCE since 2015, which are managed by the state of Maine. For a challenging hike with outstanding views, the new Eagle Rock Trail is an excellent alternative to the uber-popular Big Moose. At 7.4 miles (round-trip), Eagle Rock makes for a full and satisfying day, and the parking lot is never full. For a shorter day, check out the Number 4 Mountain Trail (3.4 miles round-trip), east of Moosehead Lake.
North of the lake, the Big Spencer Mountain Trail is a relatively short but steep ascent to one the region’s tallest peaks (elevation 3,230’; 4 miles round-trip). You don’t even have to get to the top to earn exceptional views: Lobster and Chesuncook lakes and Baxter State Park are visible from a small clearing just one mile from the trail head (a great picnic location). Even on a perfect summer day, it is rare to pass more than one or two other hikers on Big Spencer—perhaps because the drive is long and remote. Remember to always turn your headlights on when travelling private roads, and be sure to pull over to let logging trucks pass. Big Spencer is managed as a Maine State Ecological Reserve, and is conserved by an FSM-held easement.
All three of the above hikes, including trail maps and driving directions, can be found on MaineTrailFinder.com. The local hiking and volunteer group Moosehead Trails will also be hosting socially distant trips to Big Spencer and to the Blue Ridge Trail system in the MRCE, this summer and fall. More information can be found at Facebook.com/MooseheadTrails/.
When exploring easements, please play it safe. Emergency calls to the backcountry puts a burden on local health organizations and emergency responders. Stay within your limits, and always pack plenty of food, water, and a warm non-cotton layer, even if you are only doing a short hike. To everyone enjoying the spectacular woods and waters of the Moosehead Lake region, this summer, the Forest Society of Maine wishes you happy—and healthy—trails!
This article was written by Forest Society of Maine Forestland Steward Erica Cassidy Dubois. It originally appeared in the Piscataquis Observer (June 29) and Moosehead Matters (July 3). Please visit fsmaine.org to learn more about the Forest Society of Maine and lands they have conserved throughout the state.
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For visitors traveling to Maine during the summer, few places embody the spirit, beauty, and vast recreational opportunities of the state as the Moosehead Lake region. From it’s legendary boating, fishing, and ATVing, to its charming shops, restaurants, and historic cabins and lodges, the communities surrounding Moosehead Lake have it all. With the great outdoors and Maine’s largest lake at your fingertips, the opportunity for adventure is seemingly endless. But before you pack your bags in search of camping, cabins and boat rentals on Moosehead Lake, plan ahead, there are many options to give you the exact Maine vacation experience you’re looking for.
Along the shores of Moosehead Lake lies a number of small towns and villages that hold their own key to this marvelous natural playground. From Greenville on the southernmost tip of the lake, to Rockwood on the west side and Kokadjo on the east, these communities offer a wide variety of spectacular lodging options from motels and inns to bed & breakfasts, camps, cabins, cottages, and campgrounds.
Staying in a cabin, cottage, or lake house on Moosehead Lake allows one to experience an iconic tradition like no other. Truly New England, truly Moosehead Lake.
Moosehead Hills Cabins
Moosehead Hills Cabins
Located on both Moosehead Lake and Wilson Pond, Moosehead Hills Cabin rentals provides stunning views, Jacuzzi tubs, cozy fireplaces, and plenty of outdoor activities on, and off the lake. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/moosehead-hills-cabins/
Wilsons on Moosehead Lake
Since 1865, Wilsons on Moosehead Lake has been the premier destination for yearround north woods recreation. These spacious lakefront cottages on Moosehead Lake are ideal for families and groups of all sizes. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/wilsons-on-moosehead-lake/
Cottages at Moosehead
Are you planning a boating or fishing trip to Moosehead Lake? Or perhaps you’re visiting in the winter for the world-class snowmobiling and ice fishing the area has to offer? Either way, the Cottages at Moosehead provide yearround accommodations. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/cottages-at-moosehead/
Lawrence’s Lakeside Cabins
Located on the western shore of Moosehead Lake, Lawrence’s Lakeside Cabins provides a 10-mile unobstructed view of the lake with plenty of room to dock your boat. Enjoy the peace and quiet that this region affords from the private beach. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/lawrences-lakeside-cabins/
Misty Morning Cottages
Step outside your cottage door at Misty Morning Cottages and you’re immediately greeted by amazing views of Moosehead Lake, Mt. Kineo and the Spencer Mountains. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/misty-morning-cottages/
Birches Resort
On the Western Shore of Moosehead Lake lies the historic Birches Resort. Built in the 1930’s as a hunting and fishing lodge, The Birches is situated on a privately owned, 11,000 acre nature preserve. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/the-birches-resort/
Tomhegan Wilderness Cabins
Located along a wildlife sanctuary, guests to Tomhegan Wilderness Cabins enjoy the peaceful wilderness and majestic wildlife of the region from private year-round lakefront cabin rentals on Moosehead Lake. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/tomhegan-wilderness-cabins/
Wilson Pond Camps
Just four miles from Greenville, the Wilson Pond Camps offer personal guided moose tours & wildlife safaris, guided fishing trips, boat & motor/canoe/kayak rentals. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/wilson-pond-camps/
Experience the finest lodging destinations the Moosehead Lake region has to offer. From historic Inns to leisure-filled lodges, there’s something for everyone at Moosehead.
Chalet Moosehead Lakefront Lodging
Situated directly on the shores of Moosehead Lake, the Chalet Moosehead makes the perfect home base from which to explore the lakes, hills, trails, and more that make up the region. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/chalet-moosehead-lakefront-motel/
Kineo View Lodge
Kayak or canoe the pristine waters on or around Moosehead Lake. Go on a moose and wildlife safari, and don’t forget to bring your camera. Kineo View Lodge puts you close to all of the action, making it the perfect destination for your Moosehead getaway. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/kineo-view-lodge/
Leisure Life Resort & Trailside Restaurant
With a restaurant and bar on-site, as well as direct ATV and snowmobile access, the Leisure life Resort & Trailside Restaurant is the idea spot for those looking to explore the north woods on four wheels. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/trailside-restaurant/
Greenville Inn at Moosehead Lake
This five-acre lumber baron’s estate offers luxury & family suites, private cottages and historic mansion room, all within a short walking distance to downtown Greenville & Moosehead Lake. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/greenville-inn-at-moosehead-lake/
Kelly’s Landing Restaurant & Lodging
Moosehead’s best waterfront restaurant offers friendly service and family fare. The waterfront lodging offers lakeside single rooms, roomy double suites and even a four-bedroom log home, all overlooking Moosehead Lake. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/kellys-landing/
If you’re looking for a peaceful, rustic stay, consider camping at Moosehead Lake. With commercial campgrounds, state, parks, and primitive tent sites, this is just the place to get back to nature.
Balsam Woods Campground
Located just south in Abbot, Balsam Woods Campground has 90 full hookup sites, 6 cabins, and several tent sites. Cable TV & Wi-Fi at every site, and direct ATV trail access with 1,000+ miles of trails. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/balsam-woods-campground/
Lily Bay State Park
Located along the east shore of beautiful Moosehead Lake just 9 miles north of Greenville, the 925-acre park offers year-round activities and camping. Amenities include a swimming beach, playground, two trailerable boat ramps with boat slips, and a two-mile shoreline walking trail. Learn more at https://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/trail_activities/lilybay_trail_conditions.shtml
Northeast Whitewater
Northeast Whitewater offers on-site wilderness camping and yurts, whitewater rafting, moose watching tours by land and canoe, waterfall hikes, ice cave excursions, stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and friendly, knowledgeable guides. Learn more at https://oldmoosehead.campfre.com/business/northeast-whitewater/
There’s no better way to explore Moosehead Lake than by getting out on the water. Fortunately, there are many businesses in the region that offer motor boat, canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddle board rentals.
Motor boat rentals
If you’re looking to see more of Moosehead, than a motor boat is the way to go. At 40-miles long and 20-miles wide, this gives you a better option for stretching your sea legs and feeling the wind in your face. There are a number of motor boat rental suppliers locally, including: Wilsons on Moosehead Lake, The Birches Resort, Wilson Pond Cabins, Captain Rogers Pontoon Boats, and Lawrence’s.
Canoe and kayak rentals
If a slower pace is more your style, taking a canoe or kayak out on the late is a great way to enjoy the peace and quiet while also getting some exercise. Explore the shore of Lily Bay State Park, or get up close and personal with Mt. Kineo. These businesses provide canoe and kayak rentals at Moosehead Lake: The Birches Resort, Indian Hill Trading Post, Moxie Outdoor Adventures, Moosehead Area Rentals, Northern Outdoors, Northeast Whitewater, Northwoods Outfitters, Rockwood Cottages (with delivery), Wilsons on Moosehead Lake, and Wilson Pond Cabins.
No matter how you choose to enjoy your visit to Moosehead Lake, take the time to get out and explore the businesses and places that make this region so special. From its history to its landscapes, its people to its recreational opportunities, Moosehead has it all
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Let’s Get Outside and Hike!
It’s finally time to put away your snow boots and dust off your hiking boots! Spring is here in the Moosehead Region and we like to celebrate it by challenging ourselves to take on the Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit. By hiking six of Moosehead’s most popular summits, this annual hiking challenge earns you a badge (of honor!) and certificate.
Hike Mount Kineo, Number Four Mountain, Whitecap Mountain, Eagle Rock, Big Moose Mountain, and Borestone Mountain and become a registered member of the Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit.
A badge doesn’t sound impressive enough? No worries, we’ve got you covered. If you hike all six trails within a 48-hour period, you earn Ultra status! For those of you who are really competitive, you can also do the challenge in winter, and if you hike the trails between January 1 and April 15, you earn the Winter badge. Are you really, really competitive? Well, then you can challenge yourself to become a member of the Winter Ultra Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit, by doing the hikes from January 1 to April 15 in 48 hours!
You can learn about the rules and trails here.
The Moosehead Region boasts many awesome hiking trails but is perhaps best known for the Appalachian Trail’s 100-Mile Wilderness. Have you read Bill Bryson’s A Walk in the Woods or seen the movie? This is the bit where they, like most, give up. But 2019 can be the year that you, too, walk part of the 100-mile wilderness (and perhaps give up!). Regardless of how far you choose to hike, the trail is a challenging adventure in rugged terrain that offers a unique wilderness experience that only the Moosehead Region can offer.
If hiking isn’t your cup of tea, enjoy an easy two-mile hike along Moosehead Lake in Lily Bay State Park, or try Mount Kineo State Park with fairly easy hiking trails that all lead to the summit with spectacular 360° views of the lake and mountains.
And always remember, bring lots of water, take only pictures and leave only footprints!
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Help us generate a “Top Ten Moosehead Must-Do” list! What are the top things you thing folks absolutely must do when visiting Moosehead Lake?
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