Embracing Mud Season

April 27, 2021 by Destination Moosehead

In the Moosehead Lake Region, we are lucky enough to enjoy sparkling white winters and lush green summers. The transition, though, doesn’t happen overnight. As the snow banks begin to melt and the grass makes its reappearance, we find ourselves caught in the transitional grays and browns of mud season.

Although it would be easy to daydream of warm summer days on the lake, or reminisce about snowmobile adventures of the past, there’s a lot to enjoy right now in the Moosehead area. So dig out your rubber boots and fleece jackets, and let’s get outside and embrace the changing seasons!

Explore Springtime Waterfalls

Get some of that fresh spring air into your lungs and head out for a hike! Mountain peaks can be icy and slippery until late spring, so until things warm up, it’s a good idea to check out some waterfalls in the area. Waterfall hikes are remarkable this time of year, with high water levels and beautiful views. Maine’s rivers are young in geological terms, which means they are fast and powerful with high volume cascading falls. This unique landscape has called to people for thousands of years, and we’re sure you’ll love it too.

Some of the best waterfalls around include:

Moxie Falls – The short trek in to the falls makes way to major payoff, revealing one of the most stunning waterfalls in the state.
Little Wilson Falls – Powerful falls, meet stunning Maine views! Pick the best seat for miles by planting yourself on the big rock in the middle of river on top of the falls to survey acres of Maine’s gorgeous land, including the terminus of the Appalachian Trail.
Gulf Hagas – Sometimes called the “Grand Canyon of Maine,” Gulf Hagas is a must-see for waterfall enthusiasts. The trek incorporates about nine miles of hiking, a whole list of waterfalls, and can be tackled in a day.

Photos provided by First Light Guide Service

Mud Season Moose Watching

Spring is the best season to catch a glimpse of the region’s namesake –moose! As the temperatures begin to rise, these big, beautiful, and completely unique local residents begin to venture out from their deep woods winter hideouts to feed on the growing vegetation.

You may be lucky enough to casually spot a moose from your car while out and about near the lake; however, it’s best to plan a day specifically dedicated to seeking them out. Take a moment to explore our Guide to Spotting Moose for the best locations to look, how to tell if a moose is near, what they love most to eat, and other must-know facts and tips to plan your day!

The absolute best way to ensure a moose spotting is to work with someone who has experience with both the land and the wildlife. We have the privilege of working with multiple Registered Maine Guides, who have the knowledge and passion to make sure you get the most of your visit to Moosehead Lake. Contact one of our Registered Maine Guides to book a moose safari today!

Fishing During Early Spring

Spring is a fisherman’s paradise! Fish are very active feeders during mud season and are inclined — even enthusiastic — to bite whatever you feel inclined to attach to the end of your line! Spring fishing on Moosehead Lake promises a catch like nowhere else, as the 118 square miles of open water offer endless opportunities for record-breaking landlocked salmon, brook trout, and lake trout. Lily Bay and Spencer Bay areas provide good shallow water fishing for smallmouth bass and are great places to bring the family along to share in the “reel” fun.

If you are new to fishing in the areas, we highly recommend the use of a Registered Maine Guide to show you the ropes and provide you with an experience of a lifetime. Check out our fishing page for more information, and be sure to visit Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to find the rules and regulations in our ponds and lakes, and be sure to have a valid fishing license! If you need a watercraft, there are plenty of places in the region to rent a boat and gas up for your fishing expedition.