Rangeley is a true animal lover’s paradise, offering an abundance of opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to witness a variety of species in their natural habitats. Surrounded by dense forests, serene lakes, and rugged mountains, the area is home to diverse wildlife, making it a top destination for animal watching.
Whether you’re hiking through the lush woods, kayaking on one of the many lakes, or simply exploring the backroads, you’re likely to encounter animals like moose or white-tailed deer. Bird watchers will also delight in the wide range of species, including loons, bald eagles, Great Blue herons, and a variety of songbirds. The nearby Rangeley Lakes region, with its pristine waters, offers some of the best spots for fishing and spotting aquatic wildlife, like beavers, frogs, salamanders, and turtles.
Route 16 to Stratton, Maine
Just before you reach the village of Stratton there are two sand pits where the moose tend to dine in the evening and late night hours. Also be on the lookout for deer as they are easily spooked and may jump into the road quickly. Go slow, enjoy the ride, and see what you may find! Other animals you may see in your travels include: fox, racoons, porcupines, and wild turkey. Glance in the sky and you may see a bald eagle, crow, or turkey vulture!
Route 17 to Rumford, Maine
Route 17 to Rumford is also a great road for moose and deer! Keep your eyes wide because the moose tend to hang out on the sides of the roads. Other animals you may see in your travels include: fox, racoons, porcupines, and wild turkey. Glance in the sky and you may see a bald eagle, crow, or turkey vulture!
Rangeley Lake
Rangeley Lake offers an unforgettable chance to connect with the natural beauty and wildlife of the Maine wilderness. Near the shore, be on the lookout for ducks, seagulls, and geese. If you explore the lake on a canoe, kayak, or motor boat, look for loons and fish jumping to the surface of the water! Near either island on the lake, keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles gliding in the sky! Along the shoreline, you might catch a glimpse of deer, moose, and other woodland creatures as they come down for a drink.
Haley Pond
The calm waters are a haven for beavers, often seen swimming gracefully or building their lodges. Keep an eye out for elegant Great Blue Herons wading through the shallows, their long legs and sharp beaks poised to catch a meal. Frogs add to the pond’s lively chorus, while ducks paddle peacefully across the surface. Even seagulls, often associated with the coast, can be spotted soaring above or perched nearby. Beneath the water’s surface, fish dart and shimmer, completing the vibrant ecosystem. Whether you’re kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the view from the shore, Haley Pond offers a serene and intimate wildlife-watching experience.
Mingo Springs Trail and Bird Walk
As you explore, you’ll traverse a mix of hardwood and softwood trees, wetlands, and open fields, providing a variety of habitats perfect for spotting wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, a rich array of bird species, and amphibians along the way. One of the trail’s highlights is the breathtaking field of lupines that bursts into bloom on the front end, creating a vibrant and colorful backdrop.
When you visit Rangeley, encountering wildlife is almost a certainty—sometimes, you may even spot animals right in the yard of your rental home! Explore the area and see how many animals you can encounter during your stay! Below, we’ve shared a few of our charming rentals, complete with photos of some of the amazing wildlife that has been spotted right in the yard (click through the photo gallery to see):
Photo Credit: Kyle Haley Photography