Fall Foliage
As summer turns to fall, the transition in the Moosehead Lake area is extraordinary. Autumn displays brilliant hues of red, yellow and orange. The typical “leaf peeping” season is from mid-September thru mid-October. The change in the landscape from the greens of summer is breathtaking. You can discover the status of Mid-Maine fall foliage here.
Bird Watching
Bird watching is the largest spectator sport in America. Maine offers birds a lot of open space and a diversity of habitat that supports a diverse bird population. There are more than 415 different kinds of birds recorded in Maine. The Lodge at Moosehead Lake encourages birding with numerous bird feeders and flower gardens throughout the property. Click here to learn more about Birding Moosehead and reserve the Loon Room to be surrounded by your feathered friends. Don’t forget to visit Borestone Mountain owned by the Maine Audubon Society.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Of all the rivers to explore, the West Outlet on Moosehead Lake is one of the best. This is a great river for a relaxing paddle. The waterway consists of scenic ponds, quick water and class 1 whitewater (the lowest designation). Along the shore you are also sure to spot nesting bald eagles, scampering beavers or otters, and even loons calling; you may encounter a mighty moose feeding on underwater vegetation. For the fisherman, this trip offers some of the best bass and trout fishing in the region. It is not unusual to catch smallmouth bass in the 3-5 pound range or trout up to 14 inches, so be sure to bring your fishing rod. Canoes and kayaks can be rented at numerous locations in the area at $20 to $40 dollars a day. Being accompanied by a Registered Maine Guide is another option.
Fishing
Fishing in the Moosehead region is a year around sport. From fly fishing, trolling or ice fishing, there is something here for everyone. The Lodge at Moosehead Lake has been recognized by Outside Magazine as one of the “Top 100 Great Wilderness Lodges in North America”. Download the Lodges personal Fishing Guide here. The Lodge offers guided fishing trips with our own Registered Maine Guide with over 28 years of experience. Each trip is customized based on your experience and expectations. Half day trips are $295 or full day trip at $395 for 1 to 2 people.
Float Plane Ride
There is no better way to view the Moosehead region than by air. A float plane takes off from and lands on the water. Only from a float plane ride can you really appreciate the spectacular scenery and vastness of the area. Who knows, you might even see a moose. Tours range from $50 - $135 per person. Make your reservation while at the Lodge. They are dependent on weather conditions. Consider a float plane for a remote fishing expedition from the Lodge or a day of canoeing, lunch on the beach and flight back.
Hiking
Forty or so hiking trails exist in the Moosehead Area. From easy to challenging, and from 45 minutes to a full day. It’s all up to you. The attached Lodge Hiking Guide has been refined through many trips by our Lodging Guests. Enjoy the exercise and the scenery. Let the Lodge fix you a picnic lunch for 2…just give us 24 hour notice.
Horseback Riding
Experience the Maine back woods via a trail ride. It’s another way to see the spectacular views of mountains, ponds, lakes and streams while encountering wildlife. On our rides you ride only with your own party. At the start, you are introduced to your horse and learn his/her personality. Mini riding lessons can be provided. Call us at 207-695-4400 for an estimate and to schedule your ride.
Hunting
The great North Woods of Maine can offer real excitement for the hunter. Whether you hunt by camera, crossbow or firearm, the Lodge can put a guided trip together for you. Click here for the 2008 schedule and limits. Trips can be ½ day, full day or consecutive hunts. We will put you in touch with our Registered Maine Guide who can discuss in depth the prospect for bird, deer, bear, snowshoe hare and other wildlife. At the Lodge our trips are all inclusive; hunting dogs cannot be boarded here.
Katahdin Boat Ride
The Katahdin was built in 1914 by Bath Iron Works in Maine and has been designated a National Historic Landmark. It was a steamboat used to tow booms of logs until 1975 when it was converted to diesel. Cruises usually are on a slow down schedule in the fall and end the first part of October. Click here for schedule and rates. The Katahdin has both indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a great way to see Moosehead Lake in a very relaxed atmosphere. Be sure to wear sensible shoes. Consider getting a lunch at the Lodge to take with you, but snacks are available in the galley. A model of the Katahdin is displayed in the Carriage House Katahdin Suite.
Mt. Kineo Trip
Catch the shuttle boat from Rockwood (about 25 minutes from the Lodge) across from Mount Kineo. During the fall the schedule may be less frequent than the summer so be sure to call first. You can easily spend most of the day here. Kineo, besides being sacred Indian grounds, was from the late 1800’s through the 1940’s a world class resort frequented by the wealthiest families in America. As you will see not much remains in the way of physical structures, however the wonderful trail which is good for mountain biking around the peninsula along with two trails (Indian & Bridle) up the Mount are still well maintained taking 2.5 to 1.5 hours respectively. Atop the Mount you will have a 360° view of the entire Moosehead area, from a fire watch tower that is now a viewing platform. Kineo also offers a protected pebble beach for your swimming and sunning enjoyment. Staying in the Carriage House Mt. Kineo Suite provides a breathtaking view of the mountain as well as history of the area in books and pictures in the suite.
White Water Rafting
From the mild to the wild, you’ll find some of the best white water rafting with breathtaking scenery and pure fun. You have 3 scenic rivers to choose from levels of difficulty from a mellow Class 1 to a challenging Class V white water. The Kennebec is ideal for first time rafters and offers 12 miles of fats and deep water. The upper Kennebec gorge is where you’ll ride thrilling rollercoaster waves from 4 to 8 feet high. The lower section is where you will be able to sit back and enjoy the remainder of the float trip. The Dead River has the longest continuous stretch of white water in New England. This 16 mile run is wild and woolly, boulder-strewn white water bonanza and is a Maine river no serious rafter should miss! The Penobscot River is one of the most spectacular and challenging river experiences in the Eastern U.S. Rapids on the Penobscot River are short with sheer drops plunging into calm pools. The Ripogenous Gorge section is most turbulent, dropping over 70 feet per mile through a narrow, granite walled canyon with Class V rapids. If this activity is of interest to you please give us a call and we can inform. Guided group trips are approximately $89.00 - $125.00 per person and available through September.
Scenic Drives
Click here for six scenic drives from the Lodge. Whether you have an hour or half day, this is a great way to relax and view the beauty of the Great North Woods of Maine.
Special Fall Events
International Seaplane Fly In – September 4 - 7
Camden National Bank "Moose on the Run" Race – October 12
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