There are so many things to do in Rangeley in the spring! Things are warming up, the ice is melting, and it’s time to get back outside. In no particular order, here are our five favorite Rangeley spring activities to do.
Sightseeing
Of course the scenery is breathtaking at any time of year in our little slice of paradise, but in spring everything is new again, with wildflowers pushing up through the last bit of snow, or maybe that hint of warmth in the wind. You can hike to the top of a nearby mountain, around a lake, or drive along the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway; it really doesn’t matter, you’ll be surrounded by lovely mountain lakes, forests and meadows, waterfalls, and more wherever you go.
The water may be cold still, but you can still enjoy being out on it. Book a sightseeing cruise of Rangeley Lakes, it’s a fun way to enjoy the water, the scenery and learn a little about the area while you cruise the lake along with the loons. Or, if you’ve got kids along, they’ll love a sightseeing trip on a floatplane. Experience the lake region from a new perspective with these activities in Rangeley!
Take a Hike With These Rangeley Spring Activities
Cascade Stream Gorge Trail is a short, rocky trail leading to a stunning waterfall. This popular, out-and-back trail winds through forests and along the gorge, to one of Maine’s prettiest and tallest waterfalls. Watch for wildflowers and migrating birds as you hike. The short, kid-friendly hike to Small Falls or the lovely cascading Angel Falls are also hikes to put on your list.
The hike to the top of Bald Mountain is moderate, and may be a little difficult for some young kids, but the view from the summit is well worth the effort. Kids can look for mountain lion and coyote tracks in the mud along the boardwalks, and bald eagle nesting in the tops of the trees as they climb. Don’t skip a climb up the observation tower; the view is amazing.
Head to the Rangeley Lake Region for scenic hikes and more. The South Bog Conservation Area offers a series of short hikes looping around the area, and it’s a great place for birding, wildlife and wildflower viewing. And kids will love the frog pond, and the large playing field.
Fly Fishing
Fly fishing is big here. In fact, the Rangeley Lake Region is the birthplace of modern fly-fishing, and the sport is still going strong. Both Rangeley Lake and Lake Mooselookmeguntic has a variety of fish, from brown trout, brook trout, and salmon. Even if you’re not an angler, both lakes offer kayaking, hiking, wildlife and wildflower viewing, amazing photography opportunities and more.
Enjoy the Wildflowers
Take a hike along any one of the trails around Rangeley to enjoy meadows full of daisies, black-eyed susans, lilies, and lupines, and you’ll find pretty starflower, trillium, trout lily, and violets popping up along trails winding through the forest. Many wildflowers, such as Queen Anne ’s lace, morning glories, and New England asters can be found along the roads and in roadside ditches.
Wildlife and Bird Watching
Wildlife and bird viewing couldn’t be easier in spring. Hibernating animals are just waking up, those cute little babies are starting to walk or fly around, and migrating birds are taking wing. As you hike along the lake edge, through the forests or meadows, keep an eye out for deer, foxes, black bear, coyotes, flying squirrels, bald eagles, osprey, and those dramatic looking loons with their bright red eyes.
Rangeley is right in the middle of prime moose country, so go on a moose hunt! You’ve come to the best spot (in the lower 48) to see one of these majestic animals, so you can’t leave without spotting one or two. You may want to book a guided moose safari to increase your odds of seeing one. But if you’re out hiking at dawn or dusk, keep an eye out, especially if you’re near marshy, wetlands and waterways; they can pop up anywhere.
Bonus – Stargazing
Stargazing may not sound like a big thing, but it’s getting harder and harder to find places where you can actually see the stars. When was the last time you saw the Milky Way? Rangeley is a dark belt location and without the interference of all those city lights, the stars are amazingly bright. And the sunsets are pretty amazing too. You can head to Height of Land or Rangeley Lake Region for stargazing and sunsets, or just sit out in your rental’s backyard and look up.
Top Spring Activities
We’ve focused on outside activities because that’s what the Rangeley Lake region is all about. Whether you’re here for the wildflowers, loons, and bald eagles or the moose, we will have a comfy vacation rental that’s just right for your spring vacation here in Rangeley. Give us a call today to learn more about our rentals and activities in Rangeley!
