Rangeley Lakes

Rangeley, the charming town situated on the shores of Rangeley Lake, nestled in the heart of the vast Rangeley Lakes region, is the perfect place to hear the loons calling at night across the open waters on warm summer evenings and snuggling up in a cabin in the snowy winters.

The Rangeley Lakes region encompasses six large lakes renowned for fishing, including the fun sounding Mooselookmeguntic Lake, the fourth largest lake in Maine, and hundreds of other smaller lakes and streams. It is here that modern fly-fishing was born along with some of the most famous flies, like Carrie Stevens’ Gray Ghost. Initially, it was the world-class trout that brought visitors, and now landlocked salmon are another popular catch. Rangeley Lake fishing is simply spectacular, with Saddleback Mountain rising above the waters. Saddleback Mountain Ski Resort offers year-round activities, from excellent hand-cut glades and long, snowy winters, to mountain biking and hiking in warmer months and birders come in search of the rare Bicknell’s Thrush.

Things to Do in Rangeley

Rangeley’s weather is ideal for year-round activities. Spring comes to the region with wild lupines painting the mountainsides with color, summer is nothing but simple outdoor fun – from hiking, swimming, fishing and boating. You can rent kayaks, canoes and motorboats and explore the lake to see loons and bald eagles. Rangeley Lake State Park has nearly 900 acres to play in – swimming, boating and camping are all popular park activities. There are numerous hiking trails as well, and part of the Appalachian Trail runs through the region along Saddleback Mountain.

Fall rushes in with stunning foliage – especially if you drive along the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway, through small towns and mountains, with one of Maine’s most incredible vistas – The Height of Land. Stop to admire the view or look for moose along the 52 mile-long scenic byway.

Winter in Rangeley is truly special. With annual snowfall of 200 inches or more, the region offers countless ways to enjoy the snow – from cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, to some of the best snowmobiling in the state. 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 region offers it in spades. The Rangeley Lakes Trail Center has 55km of secluded and groomed trails for fat-tire biking, snowshoeing and Nordic skiing.

Where to Stay in Rangeley

There is wonderful lodging in Rangeley as well. From rustic log cabins to historic grand hotels, like the Rangeley Inn. The Rangeley Lake Resort has dozens of cedar cabins with one to four bedrooms, room for the whole family. There are sporting camps, including the famous Bald Mountain Camps Resort in Oquossoc and cozy B&Bs. Check out the list of regional businesses below for additional suggestions.

Restaurants in Rangeley Lakes Region

And you won’t go hungry! A restaurant favorite is The Portage Tap House, serving eclectic American fare with 20 local beers on tap in Oquossoc. Scroll through the regional businesses list below for more.