Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway
35-mile National Scenic Byway - from Mexico to Madrid, Routes 17 and 4. Just a few of the highlights along the Byway are listed below:
Quill Hill
Breathtaking 360o views of the entire area. Great spot for photos. 7.3 miles on Route 16 East to Oddy Road. Drive 4.5 miles to the top of Quill Hill on a well-maintained gravel road. Picnic tables at the top.
Area Museums
Rangeley's area museums offer a wealth of information and artifacts, showcasing the trailblazers and heritage that made Rangeley and this area what it is today.
Hiking Trails
Trail hikes in the Rangeley Lakes Region range from easy nature walks to challenging hikes - something for every skill level.
Wildlife – Moose and Loons
The majestic moose is the largest member of the deer family and is a much sought after sight in the Rangeley Lakes region. From enjoying the playfulness of the gangly calves - often twins - to marveling at the trophy racks of mature bull moose, it's always a treat for visitors to spot and photograph Maine's official state animal in our region.
The common loon is a beautiful bird with distinctive black and white breeding plumage and red eyes. Watch as they dive for fish and you may also be lucky enough to spot a loon with chicks catching a ride on the backs of their parents!
Wildlife viewing is not limited to moose and loons - be on the lookout for bald eagles, deer, fox and more!
Night Sky & Sunsets
Rangeley is the closest dark belt location near urban amenities in the Northeast. Without all those lights, we see the stars dripping out of the sky and the Milky Way in all its glory. The best viewing time for the Northern Lights is August to October. Sunsets in Rangeley are legendary. Just a few of the many great viewing spots are Height of Land, Whip Willow Farm Overlook and Quill Hill, but just about anywhere you go, you're sure to get some great sunset photos.
Camping
Camping opportunities abound in the Rangeley Lakes Region. Increasingly popular as family recreation, camping near Rangeley can range from drive-up, full-facility campgrounds to back country…from backpacking foot access to water-only access.
Fall Foliage
Fall brings a chill to the air and the changing foliage splatters the mountains with brilliant yellows, oranges and reds. Just about anywhere in the area affords outstanding photo opportunities for this stunning display of color.
Winter Wonderland
The lakes and ponds freeze and the landscape becomes blanketed in white. The Rangeley region quickly changes into an idyllic winter wonderland. Visitors can explore the area on the 190 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, ski, snowshoe, ice skate and even curl, on Haley Pond. Or, simply curl up with a good book by a roaring fire.
Spring Fishing
As the days grow longer and winter starts to show signs of surrendering to spring, we anxiously await "ice out", the official kick-off of the much anticipated fishing season.
Summer Splendor
As summer begins to take hold, the hillsides and fields are ablaze with our signature wild lupine and many other wildflowers. The lakes and ponds become playgrounds for boaters and swimmers and the area villages bustle with a wide array of festivals and the arts.
