Things To Do Near
Flagstaff Landing

While at a glance, Flagstaff Landing appears to be rather isolated, and indeed, we are in the midst of a lot of minimally disturbed nature, there is plenty to do and see in this part of the state, far from lobsters and lighthouses.

Eustis & Stratton

Eustis and Stratton are tiny towns located on the High Peaks Scenic Byway in the northeast corner of Franklin County. Stratton is situated near Flagstaff Lake and the Bigelow Preserve, which includes the entire Bigelow Mountain Range. These towns are perfect for accessing Sugarloaf Ski Resort and the area’s numerous outdoor recreation opportunities.

Things to Do in Eustis and Stratton

In June, you can participate in the Family Fun Days in Eustis and Stratton for some classic Maine festivities. Summer and fall have perfect weather in Eustis and Stratton for hiking. From Stratton, you can also access two long-distance recreation trails. The well-marked Northern Forest Canoe Trail enters Flagstaff Lake from the South Branch of the Dead River and heads north on the river’s main branch. The Appalachian Trail traverses the Bigelow Range, and there is a trailhead in Stratton.

Just east of Stratton, you’ll find the 36,000-acre Bigelow Preserve, which contains all seven peaks of the mountain range and the southern shore of the lake. You can go camping, fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing here.

Eustis and Stratton are a snow lover’s paradise. There are miles of groomed trails maintained by the local snowmobile club that connects the area to the entire region.

Restaurants in Eustis and Stratton

Of course, we recommend the wonderful Brickyard Hollow for lunch and dinner in Eustis, but there are actually many good options if you want more variety during your stay. The White Wolf Inn is a favorite among thru-hikers and snowmobilers alike for its popular restaurant in Stratton. Located in an old farmhouse, the Coplin Dinner House and its Tigerlily Pub is a favorite spot to rejuvenate after a day outdoors. The Blackstrap Bar & Grill offers a varied menu. One more go-to spot is the Trail’s End Steakhouse & Tavern In Eustis.

Kingfield & Carrabassett Valley

Kingfield and Carrabassett Valley are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and fantastic outdoor recreation opportunities. Located near Sugarloaf Mountain, one of the largest ski areas on the East Coast, the area offers breathtaking views of the mountains and forests, as well as access to the Carrabassett River. Visitors to the area can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to golfing and mountain biking in the warmer months.

Things to Do In Kingfield & Carrabassett Valley

The nearby town of Carrabassett Valley is home to the 4,000-foot Sugarloaf Mountain Resort, which offers amazing skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as 90 kilometers of groomed Nordic ski trails. In the warmer weather, golfers of all skill levels can enjoy a round on the resort’s renowned course, and the network of mountain bike trails provides plenty of adventure.

Other activities in the area include the Narrow Gauge Pathway, a six-mile trail that follows the Carrabassett River and is perfect for biking, walking, running, or cross-country skiing. In the spring and summer, the river is a popular spot for fly fishing. Kingfield is also home to the southernmost trailhead on the Maine Huts and Trails network, which offers 80 miles of groomed paths for hiking, biking, and Nordic skiing.

Restaurants in Kingfield & Carrabassett Valley

When it comes to dining, the area has plenty to offer, from the après ski dining options at Sugarloaf Village to the tasty burritos at Rolling Fatties in Kingfield. Other local favorites include the Kingfield Woodsman for a fast and filling breakfast or lunch, and Longfellow’s Restaurant, located right by the river.

Rangeley

The Rangeley region (sometimes called the Rangeley Lakes region) is a beautiful area with six large lakes, including Mooselookmeguntic Lake, the fourth largest in the state. This is where modern fly fishing originated, and the region is renowned for its world-class trout and landlocked salmon. Rangeley Lake is particularly picturesque, with Saddleback Mountain rising above its waters.

Things to Do in Rangeley

There’s plenty to do in the region all year round. In the spring, the wild lupines add a splash of color to the mountainsides, and in the summer, you can enjoy hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating. You can rent kayaks, canoes, and motorboats or take a scenic cruise around the lake to see loons and bald eagles. Rangeley Lake State Park has nearly 900 acres to explore, with swimming, boating, and camping all popular activities. The region is also home to part of the Appalachian Trail, which runs along Saddleback Mountain.

In the fall, the region is known for its stunning foliage, particularly if you drive along the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway. Winter in Rangeley is truly special, with an annual snowfall of 200 inches or more providing endless opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Each January, the region celebrates its world-class snowmobiling with the Snodeo, a three-day event with races, kids’ events, and fireworks. If you prefer a quieter adventure, the Rangeley Lakes Trail Center has 55km of groomed trails for fat-tire biking, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing.

Restaurants in Rangeley

When it comes to food, Rangeley has some great options. The Red Onion is known for its chili and homemade pizzas, and the Gingerbread House in Oquossoc is also worth a visit. There are many other restaurants in the region, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste.