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:
Top Fall Activities in Moosehead Lake
Fall Foliage
The leaves are the star of the show around here, and for good reason! The lake will get lit up with brilliant red (black, red, scarlet and white oak; more maple species and sumac), purple (white ash and witch hazel) and yellow (ash, basswood, beech, birches, butternut, elm, multiple maple species, mountain ash, and poplar) foliage that appears to burst into view almost overnight. Remember, weather has a lot to do with how and when colors develop, so the best days to go leaf peeping are after crisp days and even chillier nights. If you’re planning a drive to soak up the scenery, be sure to schedule the best views for around sunset — the afternoon light will showcase the fall colors while letting the evergreen tones fade away.
If you’d like to take home a souvenir from your fall foliage adventure, consider selecting one or two leaves then pressing them between waxed paper or preserving them in a solution of 1:2 glycerine and water overnight.
Hunting
Do you have a hunting license or a passion for hunting? The Moosehead Lake region abounds with ruffed grouse, rabbit, wild turkeys, deer, bear, and moose. There’s plenty of land to share, and with the assistance of a Registered Maine Guide, you can learn all the local hotspots for finding the best and biggest game! Registered Maine Guides are outdoor professionals who are licensed and permitted to assist any person in the fields, forests, or waters within the jurisdiction of the State while hunting, fishing, trapping, etc. In short: They know the area and they know how to find what you’re looking for!
Be sure to have your license or permit in order before visiting so that you can step right into your camo and/or your hunter orange without further ado — you can even apply for a license or permit online! Make sure you brush up on all hunting laws before heading out, by visiting The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
Hunting is a great opportunity to spend quality time in the woods, either in silence on a solo hunt or while teaching the next generation the ropes. It can be an incredibly important bonding experience and teaches important life skills like patience, deliberation, proper firearm safety and use, and the importance of appreciating our natural resources.
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.
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Mount Kineo Shuttle Schedule 2021
The Mount Kineo Shuttle
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:
- 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.
A Guide to Spotting Moose
Where to Find a Moose in the Moosehead Lake Region
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
Moose FAQs
What is the Average Moose Size?
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.
What Do Moose Eat?
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.
How Fast Are Moose?
While clumsy in appearance, moose are actually able to run at speeds of 35 mph and can swim over 10 miles at a time.
Do all Moose Have Antlers?
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.
How Big Are Moose Antlers?
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.
What Time of Day Are Moose Most Active?
Moose are crepuscular animals, meaning that they are most active at dawn and dusk.
What Do Moose Tracks Look Like?
Moose have hooves! Moose hoof prints will measure about 5-7 inches long. Use your hand or foot for comparison!
Are Moose Dangerous?
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.
How Can I Tell if a Moose Has Been Here?
Keep a look out for rubbed trees, moose tracks, or moose droppings!
- Bull moose will rub their antlers against trees and other hard objects before they drop their antlers each year. If you see rubbed trees, you can be sure a moose has been there!
- Moose tracks measure 5-7” long, about the size of your hand.
- Moose droppings, or scat, look like round pellets and they are usually in piles. You will very often see them on trails.
Interesting Moose Facts
- The flap of skin under a moose’s throat is called a bell.
- Moose have no top front teeth.
- The first law to protect moose was passed in 1930.
- After their first calf, moose quite often have twins.
- Moose can only see about 25 feet.
- Moose can swim and will often submerge themselves in water.
Places to Look for Moose Around Moosehead Lake
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!
- Take a scenic drive to Kokadjo, a small community north of Greenville. Stay on Lily Bay Road for approximately 20 miles and keep your eyes open for moose along the way!
- Head to Lazy Tom Bog, just past Kokadjo. This bog is a very popular hangout for local moose!
- Make a day of your moose watching by driving to Rockwood, a town north of Greenville on Route 15, where you can ride over to Mt. Kineo aboard a boat shuttle for some hiking or exploring.
- Turn left on Depot Street from Greenville Junction to Shirley. Go right in Shirley, through town onto the dirt road toward The Forks. Beware this road may not be passable during winter and spring.
Moose Spotting Tips
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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Our Favorite Things to Do During the Winter in Moosehead Lake, Maine
Winter Activities in the Moosehead Lake Region
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!
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Enjoy breakfast around 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.
2. Go ice fishing on Moosehead Lake
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!
3. Hike, snowshoe or ski the trails
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.
4. Warm up with a winter lunch
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!
5. Snowmobile endless wooded trails
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.
6. Book a lakeside cabin with a view
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!
7. Stargaze at night
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.
Snowshoeing Near Moosehead Lake
Quick tips on snowshoeing in general, a bit on how-to, and some safety tips to keep you on the trail and having fun.
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Christmas Holiday Activities around Moosehead Lake
Things to do in the Moosehead Lake Region during the Christmas Holiday 2020
Celebrate the holiday season in the festively decorated Moosehead Lake Region, starting Nov. 28, 2020! For future years, please check our Event Calendar page on our website or contact the Visitor’s Center for up to date activities and happenings. We hope you enjoy Christmas in the Moosehead Lake region for years to come!
This month-long celebration of the holiday season begins this weekend 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 NEW Christmas Decor Contest. “Light Up the Lake” is sure to delight with beautifully handcrafted wreaths on display throughout the Moosehead Lake Region.
Participants are reminded to be safe, follow social distancing procedures, and wear masks where required by State Mandate.
Deck the Halls Parade – Nov. 28, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The parade will start promptly at 3:30 p.m. at Woody’s in Greenville. Participants are requested to arrive early for line up at 3 p.m. The parade will travel through the hospital and end at the Gazebo downtown where the Lights of Life Tree Lighting will begin at 4:30 p.m.
Christmas Decor Contest – Dec. 11 to 13
All businesses and the community are invited to decorate their homes and/or places of business as part of the Christmas Decor Contest. The final judging will take place between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Dec. 11. A photographer will be out taking pictures on the evening of Dec. 12, and three winners from each category will be announced on social media on Dec. 13.
Family Fun Fall Agenda
Fall Activities for Family Fun
Adventurous Family Fun Agenda
8:00am Have breakfast at Rockwood Bar and Grill before heading out to explore the North Woods.
9:00am Take a drive down to Moxie Falls and enjoy this easy hike that leads to a 90-foot waterfall surrounded by autumn’s display of color.
1:00pm Stop by Hawk’s Nest Restaurant and Pub for a delicious lunch – their French fries are said to be a standout!
3:00pm Check-in at Gray Ghost Camps and spend the afternoon on the Moose River using the kayaks they have available for guests to use.
6:00pm Enjoy a delicious dinner together as a family lakeside in the Lodge at the Birches.
Laid Back Fun Fall Agenda
8:00am Sit down for a quiet breakfast on the Moose River at Maynards in Maine.
10:00am Head out on a Seaplane Ride with the Birches to experience Moosehead from the sky!
12:00pm Sit down for a burger and fries (or quesadilla!) at the Rockwood Bar and Grill and catch up on the latest games.
3:00pm Meet up with Scott from Wilsons on Moosehead for an afternoon of fly fishing.
7:00pm Grab pizza, ice cream and drinks at Rockwood Convenience for a relaxing dinner in your lakeside cottage.
8:00pm Settle in for the night at Rockwood Cottages which sits at the mouth of the Moose River.
Mount Kineo Shuttle Schedule 2020
2020 Kineo Shuttle Schedule
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:
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The crossing from Rockwood to Kineo takes approximately 10 minutes.
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The Kineo Shuttle does not have a ticket booth; you will be paying the captain in cash as you board.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The golf course and cart paths are not hiking trails.
Camping, Cabins & Boat Rentals on Moosehead Lake in Maine
Camping, Cabins & Boat Rentals on Moosehead Lake
Make the most out of your time in Moosehead Lake, Maine
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.
Places to stay near Moosehead Lake Maine
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.
Cabins, Cottages, and Lake House Rentals on Moosehead Lake
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/
Motels, Inns, and B&B Rentals on Moosehead Lake
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/
Campgrounds at Moosehead Lake
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/
Boat Rentals at Moosehead Lake (Motor, Canoe, Kayak, and SUPs)
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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Things to Know about the International Seaplane Fly-In
Imagine Maine’s largest lake, Moosehead, stretching 40 miles long and 20 miles wide, dotted with hundreds of seaplanes in the air and on the surface of the pristine lake. Celebrating its 46th year, the International Seaplane Fly-In, held each September the weekend after Labor Day, is one of the most highly anticipated events on the lake.
Whether you’re a spectator of the incredible event, or you’re lucky enough to be overhead in the seat of one of the seaplanes, the blue water and surrounding forests and mountains create a breathtaking landscape. People will gather from both near and far to witness the excitement in the sky and water.
The Stobie Hangar contests are the favorite portion of the fly-in with spot landings, short field takeoffs and even water bombing. Talk about a fun selfie opportunity for spectators!
Beyond the seaplane runs and contests, there will be live music, delicious food (think a pig roast and a lobster dinner!) and beverages (served up by a Greenville favorite, the Stress Free Moose Pub & Café), and more fun for the whole family, including a craft fair and dinner aboard the beloved steamship, The Kate.
If you’re planning on visiting Destination Moosehead for the fly-in from September 5 – 8, or if you’ll already be visiting and want to partake in the fun, you can find a schedule of events here. Thousands of people will be arriving for the festivities, so be sure to book accommodations now.
After the fly-in, consider exploring the towns beyond the lake, or take on one of the area’s top hikes.
Click here for additional information about the event. Buckle up, sit back, relax and get ready for take-off.
