What style of adventurer are you?
From peaceful lakes to mountain vistas, the Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region is closer—and easier to get to—than you might think. Just an hour from Portland and two from Boston, visitors will find four seasons filled with things to do from ten of Maine’s highest peaks, hundreds of lakes, and welcoming communities.
Are you ready to uncover what style of adventure suits you? Get started by selecting one of the three destination types below. Don’t worry; you can check out one, two, or all three. We’re not keeping track.
Trip Inspiration
winter wonderland
Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region is known for plenty of snow, few crowds, and abundant outdoor experiences. Plus, at the end of a chilly, fun-filled day, you’ll find excellent restaurants and fine lodging that fits every budget and taste. Visitors will discover an unusually rich blend of snowy and frozen terrain, and warm welcoming locals. Plus, it’s the perfect place to try something new and unusual, like skijoring, dog sledding or fat biking.
Discover nine amazing adventures in this winter vacation destination.
mountains
rugged windswept peaks
Iconic and windswept, the mountains of Western Maine weave a spellbinding tale. Discover craggy mountains and cliffs, places where waterfalls thunder, and where sky-high woods are filled with the sound of birdsong all summer, ablaze with color come Autumn and brilliant with snow all winter.
Lakes
a vast network of waterways
In Maine’s Lakes and Mountains, time on the water can be so much more than swimming. With 6,000 lakes and ponds strung like gleaming gems across the region, there is no end to watery bliss.
Hop into a canoe or kayak, or try a stand-up paddleboard, and explore the lake shore’s hidden spots. Enjoy a fresh morning breeze in a lake sailboat. Have fun zipping around in a powerboat, or enjoy the thrill of being zipped around behind a powerboat on water skis or a tube. Or gear up for a day of fishing from a boat or dock.
towns
So much going on
Throughout Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region, every city, town, or village offers unique dining options, lodging, entertainment, events, and activities. But the best part is the welcoming folks ready to help you get the most out of your vacation adventures.
Trip inspiration
Adventure Respectfully
Our lakes, mountains, and forests are worthy of respect. Whether you’re venturing out into our vast public or private lands or parks, here’s what you can do to conserve the area’s natural resources for all.
other resources
Take Care of the Land
Tread lightly and leave no trace. Keep this place as pristine as you found it.
Where ya headed?
Check if you’ll be on public or private land and if there are any restrictions or fees. Always research your destination ahead of time.
Stick to established trails & roads.
Whether hiking, biking, angling, or ATVing, always stay on a designated trail.
DON’T DAMAGE TREES
To protect the forest, only build fires in approved sites, don’t leave them unattended, and extinguish them thoroughly.
Avoid spreading invasive species.
Don’t transport firewood, brush your boots, and wash and dry your boat before heading to your next adventure.
Avoid peak hours
Plan around peak hours midday to avoid crowds. Have a Plan B in case the parking lot is already full.
No litterbugs allowed
If you pack it in, pack it out, including food waste like apple cores. Bring bags for pet waste.
When nature calls
If you have to go, pick a spot at least 100′ off the trail or away from a body of water, and bury your poop 6″ deep.
