2014 - Maine's Kennebec Valley Explorer Vacation Planner

The Kennebec

2014 Vacation Planner Come and explore four seasons of adventure in Maine’s Kennebec Valley Whitewater Rafting, Moose Safaris, The Old Canada Road, Snowmobiling, Maine’s Capital City, Fairs, Festivals, Great Maine Eats, and so much more…

KennebecValley.org

WELCOME

to Maine’s Kennebec Valley CONTENTS

A vivid landscape of river towns, lakes, mountains and vast forests, Maine’s Kennebec Valley offers its visitors a wonderful blend of outdoor adventure, scenic splendor and cultural diversity. Come explore and you’ll fall in love with the people and places that make our region unique.

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About the Region 2 Moose 3 Whitewater Rafting 5 Maine’s Only Inland Lighthouse 6 Boating & Paddling 7 Camping 8 Hiking & Biking 9 Scenic Drives 10 Culture 11 Farmers’ Markets 13 Dining 14 Hunting & Fishing 16 ATV & Snowmobiling 18 Maine’s Maple Tradition 20 Holidays in the Region 21 Family Fun 22 Special Moments 24 Fairs & Festivals 26 Map of the Region 28–29 Shopping 30 Arts, Crafts & Antiques 31 Hallowell & Gardiner 32 Winthrop Lakes 34 Augusta 36 Belgrade Lakes 38 Waterville 41 Good-Will Hinckley 44 Skowhegan 45 Canaan Area 47 Madison 48 Riverside Towns 50 The Forks & Caratunk 52 Jackman & Moose River 54 Rockwood on Moosehead 56 Community Resources 56

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Points of Interest in the Kennebec Valley

Cities and Towns of the

Maine’s Kennebec Valley

Maine’s Kennebec Valley region includes Kennebec County, home to Maine’s state capital at Augusta, central Maine’s shimmering lakes and lush rolling agricultural hills, it then heads north to the mountains of Somerset County — following the Kennebec River to its origin at Moosehead Lake and west to Jackman, ending at the Canadian border.

Old Fort Western, built in 1754, served as a staging point for Benedict Arnold’s ill-fated march to capture Québec.

Drive through Bingham and see the historic clapboard homes of the 19th- and 20th-century lumber barons.

Travel by boat from Rockwood to collect hornstone flint from the 700 ft. cliffs of Mt. Kineo, like the Native Americans did for centuries.

Visit Lakewood Theatre in Madison — the oldest continuously operating summer theater in the U.S. Take in the fresco murals at the

South Solon Meeting House,

a surprising treat set in a venerable American structure.

Enjoy a crisp autumn day boating on Wyman Lake or biking along the

Welcome to the Kennebec EXPLORER.

Amaze the kids with a visit to the Skowhegan Indian, the largest sculpture of an American Indian in the world.

Whether you are looking for the adrenaline-pumping thrills of our whitewater rafting, a night of white tablecloth dining or something somewhere in between, we’ll help you find your ideal Kennebec Valley vacation.

Solon-Bingham Rail Trail breathing in the mountain air.

Visit one of the finest waterfalls in New England and the tallest single drop in the state of Maine, Moxie Falls, which is easily accessed just off Route 201 near The Forks.

Every page of this guide is designed to inspire you to explore Maine’s Kennebec Valley. Each picture and paragraph asks you to seek out and find places here that speak to you.

During 2014 we’ll also be introducing you to a new website featuring better, and more, searchable event and local business tools. Look for recommendations and ideas for ways to spend your days on Facebook. And, we really love how Pinterest shows off our best side. Look for us on YouTube and Twitter as well.

After all that, I hope to find you on the trail.

The Kennebec Explorer

explorer@kennebecvalley.org 2

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Got Moose?

You bet!

Mascot? Mammal? Fuzzy Buddy? Call them what you will. It’s Official.

Here in the Kennebec Valley we love the Moose so much that we decided to name the Maine Moose the official animal representative for the region. It seemed that since these majestic animals spend so much time welcoming visitors while grazing in marshy roadside places that it was time to elevate their status.

When you come up towards the Jackman region, you are entering prime moose country. Anywhere along Route 201 from The Forks to the Canadian Border and on Route 15 from Rockwood, moose, moose and more moose are what you are apt to find on any given day.

Best Viewing Times & Spots The best times to spot Moose are at dawn and dusk from mid-May through July. In the fall, during the rut, is also a good time to spot a bull with a fully formed rack. Seeing a moose then is a real treat because they’ll soon shed their antlers.

Because of their massive size, moose find it easier to move about in open areas — making it fairly easy to spot one, if you are fortunate enough to be at the right place at the right time.

They can often be seen along logging roads, diving for dinner in wet boggy areas, hanging out in gravel pits, and clip-clopping down hiking or snowmobile trails.

The best moose viewing experience has to be seeing one in its own element; out in the woods, while you are hiking, ATVing, or snowmobiling. Give them a wide berth and don’t forget your camera!

If you have never seen one of these large members of the deer family up close, you cannot imagine just how big an animal they are. Mature bulls can weigh over 1,000 pounds and are about 7 feet tall at the shoulders. So if you see that flashing moose sign on the highway, stay alert! And remember, they are still wild animals and deserve our respect.

Moose are browsers rather than grazers. They obtain most of their food from aquatic and marsh plants such as horsetails and pondweed. Moose also eat grass, lichen, plants growing on the forest floor, peeled-off bark and leaves from willows, sallows, and poplars.

To learn more about Moose in the Kennebec Valley, visit KennebecValley.org.

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In Maine’s Kennebec Valley

whitewater rafting is king!

Forget what anyone says to you about rafting anywhere else in Maine — the Kennebec River Valley is the king of the whitewater.

From the pounding intensity of a day on the Dead River during a special water release to the unmatched excitement and pulseelevating thrills of the Class IV rapids of the Kennebec River, welcome to some of the finest whitewater rafting in the East.

The best thing about rafting on the Kennebec and the Dead is that all you need to prepare, is yourself. No special equipment.

No extensive training. Just bring your thirst for adventure and hunger for thrills. Granted, some of the rapids on the Dead are meant for folks who have done this once or twice, but even novices can find an experience of a lifetime that suits them.

Because both the Dead and the Kennebec Rivers come from controlled sources, each has scheduled, controlled water releases.

Visit KennebecValley.org for the posted special release schedule, and start planning your rafting adventure today.

Here’s just a bit of advice: Plan Ahead. There are many rafting companies in the region. Each is suited for different kinds of rafters; from extreme adventure seekers to families out for a day of wet and wild fun. Big groups or small, we suggest you talk to a couple companies to find the one that suits you, and don’t just show up, make reservations to avoid disappointment.

Be Prepared. You are going to get wet, so bring a change of clothes. Towels and extra drinking water should always be available at the end of the trip.

Be Respectful. Follow your guide’s rules at all times.

Be safe and take care of Mother Nature.

If you do all three of these, you will soon be planning for your next rafting adventure on the majestic whitewaters of the Kennebec Valley.

For more about rafting in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Presenting Maine’s ONLY Inland Lighthouse

The Ladies Delight Light The Ladies Delight Light, a small lighthouse set on Lake Cobbosseecontee near Manchester, is Maine’s only active inland waters lighthouse. It sits on a small island, located in the bay near the north end of the lake, its light flashes 365 nights a year.

Built in 1908, the lighthouse was designed by Frank Morse, a Boston marine architect and erected by the Cobbosseecontee Yacht Club. Originally its light was provided by kerosene lanterns; a volunteer keeper went out each evening to trim the wicks, clean the globes, and light the beacon. A reflector in the light was rotated by a system of weights from a longcase clock.

Located in the lake’s North Bay, the lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. In 2001 it had a severe list corrected and in 2005 a new top constructed of marine grade aluminum was installed. On August 9, 2008 a 100th anniversary celebration was held at the lighthouse. In 2011 an exterior restoration secured the Ladies Delight Light position as the crown jewel of Lake Cobbossee.

The lighthouse can be seen at a distance from various points along the shoreline, but is best viewed by boat. Various lodging establishments on the lake — like the Lakeside Motel and Cabins and Yukon Cottages in East Winthrop — offer boat rental or cruises allowing for the unique opportunity to view the lighthouse from the water.

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Delightful Tidbits – Located on Ladies Delight Island, the tower is 25 feet tall, and is equipped with a 100-watt light.

– It has been powered by kerosene, wind and presently electricity.

– It was built with aid of two oxen tranported to the island one at a time by barge.

– There were once two other lighthouses on the lake: the Belle Island Lighthouse and the Crow Island Lighthouse.

– The Cobbosssecontee Yatch Club continues to maintain the light.

To learn more about the Ladies Delight Light, visit KennebecValley.org.

Canoeing, kayaking and boating are just good for the soul.

Imagine a day spent gliding across a pristine lake, exploring a meandering stream or paddling down a gently flowing river.

Taking in the scenic landscape from the water is guaranteed to be one of the most memorable parts of any vacation.

Paddlers and boaters alike are attracted to our region for many reasons. From Gardiner to The Forks, our public boat launches get you on the Kennebec River quick.

Many come to paddle the famed Moose River Bow Trip.

The Bow is a 2- to 5-day wilderness paddle that begins on Attean Lake, hooks to the Moose River and then back around to Attean Lake.

From the top to the bottom of our region, the lakes and rivers are plentiful. Beginning at the lower end, there are larger lakes like Cobbosseecontee, Maranacook and Echo, lakes that offer wide spans of shoreline to tour as well as myriad opportunities for wildlife watching.

China Lake, in Vassalboro and China, is riddled with small islands that are fun to explore. The Belgrade Lakes area boasts Long Pond, Great Pond and Messalonskee Lake.

Each of these lakes provides areas to experience the pure joy of the great outdoors via canoe, kayak or boat.

The central and northern parts of our region offer even more bodies of water to enjoy. Around Skowhegan and Madison you’ll find Lake George and Wesserunsett Lake, each with magnificent areas to discover.

If true wilderness paddling and boating are what interest you, try out Moxie Pond and Pleasant Pond in the Caratunk area; each offers a peaceful pristine setting for adventure. Larger lakes like Wyman, Indian Pond and Brassua have vast expanses of water on which you can play and fish.

Bring your boat, rent one or hire a local guide to experience an unforgettable lakes and rivers vacation.

To learn more about paddling and boating in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Lets go camping!

Rugged fun vs. relaxing in the sun. Camping offers endless variety.

Make some of the finest family memories when you just hit the road with all your camping stuff. Be sure to bring a sense of adventure and a plan to have no plans. But be sure to make reservations. Just get out and have some fun; you’ll be amazed what it can do. Maine’s Kennebec Valley region offers some spectacular areas for traditional family camping.

The Lakes in Monmouth Cool clean waters welcome you to our region here. Fish for smallies that take home the prize and sizzle sweetly in the pan over a hot fire. Sleep soundly to the chirrup of frogs and crickets.

Then go for a dawn hike, or maybe sleep in awhile.

The Gateway to Adventure From Canaan, along Route 2 and north up 201 to Solon and Bingham, you’ll find some centrally-located family campgrounds that offer the quintessential Maine camping

experience. Explore Lake George Regional Park. Paddle, swim, hike, bike, repeat.

Sportsman’s Wonderland Head north to Jackman for a bit of four-season camping and uncover a very special part of Maine. But be careful though; the moment you set up camp you may never want to leave.

Do everything or nothing. Hunt in the grand tradition, cast into swift streams, paddle the famous Bow Trip.

A Note of Advice Check out the many resources online, like CampMaine.com, but always look deeper; look at next year’s potential campground on this year’s visit. Match your experience of the group with your selection so that you’ll exceed everyone’s expectations. Finally, plan ahead and account for the idea that you may not have access to the comforts of home.

Photo courtesy of Northern Outdoors

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To learn more about Camping in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

HIKING & BIKING A mountain path. (Less than) secret in-town places. The open road.

The Kennebec Valley holds an untold wealth of places to walk or bike. Somerset County, up near The Forks, is even home to a section of the storied Appalachian Trail. It would take a lifetime to walk, or describe every mile of trail or the best roads the region offers, so to the right we offer four of our faves.

Ideal for mountain biking are the Bond Brook Area in Augusta, Lake George Regional Park in Canaan, the huge Kennebec Messalonskee Trails, the Kennebec Highlands in Belgrade and on and on.

There are vast resources both on the ground and online at MaineTrailFinder.com that will point you in the right direction.

All you need to do is look and see.

Visitors planning on biking in the region can make the most of their ride here by checking out the Bicycle Coalition of Maine at BikeMaine.org and by connecting with the three active bicycling clubs in the region: Central Maine Cycling Club, the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club and for trail riding CeMeNEMBA. Each holds recreational rides for peddlers of all ages and skill levels.

Rest assured the scenery is beautiful whether you walk along the river, ride on our huge collection of rugged trails or take to the numerous scenic wooded roads well-suited for a country ride.

Moxie Falls

Location: The Forks Area Length: 0.6 Miles Challenge: Easy The reward of this beautiful hike is Maine’s most picturesque waterfall — great way to end a day of whitewater rafting.

Burnt Jacket Mountain

Location: Jackman Length: 1.5 Miles Challenge: Moderate Burnt Jacket, visible from the approach to Jackman and only a few miles southeast of the Canadian border, offers beautiful open summits with dramatic views.

Bigelow Preserve – Fire Warden’s and Horns Pond Trails Loop

Location: Dead River Twp, Wyman Twp Length: 12.4 Miles Challenge: Difficult Within the Bigelow Public Reserved Land this challenging combination trail allows for the summiting West Peak and the Horns.

Quarry Road Recreation Area

Location: Waterville Length: Varies Challenge: Varies A four-season 200-plus acre park with multi-use trails for all experience levels. Beautiful views, woods and open spaces.

To learn more about Hiking and Biking in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Let’s Ride!

Shimmering leaves. Dappled sunlight. Neverending views.

A journey through heaven on Earth.

A great way to cover our region’s nearly 5,000 square miles is by car, and whether you’ve come for world-class outdoor adventure or just a quick camping getaway, you’re bound to see some of our best from behind the wheel. Our unforgettable scenery is matched only by the chance you’ll have to spot a bald eagle, moose or family of deer, all at no extra charge.

Here are four abbreviated driving trips that show our best side; full route descriptions, as well as others, can be found at KennebecValley.org. Now hit the road and discover those things that makes our region so very special. Refer to the map on page 28-29 for a closer look.

Old Canada Road (Route 201) National Scenic Byway Maine’s historical, industrial and economic past travels along Route 201 weaving a story through our cities and towns.

Officially, the Byway begins in the hills above Skowhegan where ME-43 meets US-201 and heads north to the international border with Canada. Unofficially, it began in the 1600s and continued through Maine’s industrial boom years of the 20th-century, providing the connective tissue for generations of French-Canadians living in Maine to this day.

Length: 78 Miles Travel Time: 3 Hours

Scenic Lower Somerset (a quick one, sort of) Proceed on 150 from Skowhegan to Athens; join Route 151 and onto 16 to Bingham then south at 201 all the way to Skowhegan.

Length: 60 Miles Travel Time: 1 Hour, 15 Minutes

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It Takes Moxie (includes a hike to Moxie Falls) Take 201N from Bingham to The Forks (turn right onto Lake Moxie Rd.) Two miles down on the right will be a parking area for the trail to Moxie Falls. The easy hike is 1.2 miles total.

Back on Route 201, head north to Jackman, with a right onto 6/15 to Rockwood and onto Greenville Center, then south to 16 at Abbot and back to Bingham.

Length: 144 Miles Travel Time: 3 Hours, 18 Minutes

Voyage International (as the name suggests, bring your passports) Follow 201N from Skowhegan through to the Canadian border.

Once in Canada, take 173, turning left at Route 269 and left again at Route 204 in St. Gideon. Then follow Route 161 to Woburn crossing into the US to Maine’s Coburn Gore, following 27 into Kingfield, turning onto Route 16 through Madison then south on 201A with a final left onto Route 2 back into Skowhegan.

Length: 245 Miles Travel Time: 5 Hours, 25 Minutes

For more detailed directions and drives, visit KennebecValley.org.

Art. Theater. Music. History. Film.

Theatre at Monmouth, Knight of the Burning Pestle

Blistered Fingers Bluegrass Festival

Maine International Film Festival

The Town, by Bernard Langlais

Our once quiet cities, villages, and towns have swiftly come to life. Each sharing their reflected beauty with the outside world.

Regardless of why you first come to the region, our collective culture is a reason to return again and again.

ART Beginning July 19, the Colby Museum of Art presents the first ever retrospective on Maine artist Bernard Langlais, of the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, His work is also on view throughout the region as part of a Maine art trail bearing his name, including the “Skowhegan Indian” to be unveiled this summer after a lengthy restoration.

THEATER Come thrill to performances in the recently restored Waterville Opera House — offering a full calendar of entertainment — or the Theater at Monmouth, home to Maine’s official Shakespearean theater, now in its 45th season.

Typewriter Eraser by Claus Oldenburg, Colby Museum of Art

MUSIC Our little city of Hallowell offers a growing collection of hot, year-round, music venues. In the summer, check out Blistered Fingers and Country Fest. All are certain to have you humming along to our rhythm in no time.

HISTORY Benedict Arnold changed America’s direction with his march on Québec, planned in great part at Augusta’s Old Fort Western.

This American jewel offers a peek back in time to when the Kennebec sat upon our nation’s unexplored frontier.

FILM The newly created Maine Film Center shines a silvery light on special programs and annual events like the acclaimed Maine International Film Festival, while up the river in The Forks you’ll find the Maine Outdoor Film Festival: one day of rough-andtumble fun dedicated to movies made about the great outdoors.

To learn more about the Arts and Museums in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Farmers’ Markets Bright colorful signs advertise the freshest corn you’ve ever had, an apple that bites back, brilliantly hued pumpkins of a thousand shapes and sizes. This is the story of roadside agriculture and farmers’ markets in Maine.

The list below shows you’d be hard-pressed to miss a farmers’ market across our region. Each has its own flair and appeal. All offer the finest and the freshest from hardworking farmers throughout Maine’s Kennebec Valley.

When you are out on the road, keep your eyes peeled — you may just come across a pile of heirloom tomatoes stacked high and priced to sell on the honor system. Or perhaps you might stop in and meet the hens that just hatched tomorrow’s omelette.

Augusta Farmers’ Market

Pittsfield Farmers’ Market

Mid-May to Mid-October

May to Halloween

Farmers’ Market at Mill Park (Augusta)

Skowhegan Farmers’ Market

Mid-May to Mid-November

Mid-May to Halloween

Viles Arboretum Farmers’ Market

Downtown Waterville Farmers’ Market

May to November

Belgrade Lakes Farmers’ Market

May to Mid-November

Mid-May to Mid-October

Town of Wayne Farmers’ Market

Canaan Farmers’ Market

June to Halloween

May to October

Winthrop Farmers’ Market

East Vassalboro Farmers’ Market May to October

Gardiner Summer Farmers’ Market May to October

Gardiner Winter Farmers’ Market

May to October Thanks to the Get Real, Get Maine website — GetRealMaine.com — for the content in this listing. We encourage you to check there or call ahead for specific dates and times.

November to April

To learn more about Farmers’ Markets, visit KennebecValley.org.

There is only one other gathering like the Kneading Conference — held annually in Skowhegan — in the U.S., and that is held in what is arguably the West Coast food capital, San Francisco. With exclusive company like that, there must be something really special happening here.

This tasty conference, driven by the locavore movement (eating locally produced and grown foods) brings together some of the world’s most talented professional and novice bakers, farmers and millers.

They participate in a collection of lectures and demonstrations centered on the art of (and new ideas) surrounding making and baking bread in wood-fired ovens. They even bring in the guys who design and make the equipment.

July 24–26 Skowhegan Fairgrounds

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Eat, drink and be merry.

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Eating is one of the many things we do well here.

Other Tasty Bits

Leave it to Mainers to find a way to make a meal out of virtually anything and while there are far too many foodie things for us to serve up, we have selected a few tasty things that are worth looking into when you visit Maine’s Kennebec Valley.

We’ve heard that Lake Parlin Lodge has a dynamite chef and they have a barbecue menu too, check it out and let us know. If you are in Belgrade for dinner, head over to the Village Inn for the duck (but call ahead for a table).

Breakfast. One of Our Three Favorite Meals

Treats for You

We tend to like our diners here, and we have done a good job of keeping this eating tradition alive. Some great diners include the Purple Cow and the Flatlanda in Fairfield.

Dave’s Diner is a classic in Gardiner. The Downtown Diner in Augusta gets started early too. Locals seem to go nuts for the Windsor Diner. Wherever you land you can count on a diner having freshly baked pie; go for the blueberry, always.

The Bankery in Skowhegan and Waterville’s Holy Cannoli offer up the sweets like nobody’s business. It seems to be available everywhere now, but ice cream right from Gifford’s stand in Skowhegan or Waterville cannot be beat. For pure heaven try Kennebec Chocolates on the rotary in Augusta. But the favorite for candy and treats has got to be Scrummy Afters in Hallowell.

Lunchtime Favorites.

We can pass on a lot of treats, but put a Whoopie Pie in front of us and you’ve got our attention. Put one from Skowhegan’s own Al’s Pizza down in front of us and we can’t resist. Al’s has repeatedly taken home the state’s Whoopie Pie Festival (yes we have one of those) People’s Choice Prize. I’ll take two.

The China Dine-ah offers reliably yummy takes on traditional diner fare. We recommend checking out Augusta’s Red Barn for some great fried seafood. If you are in the mood for a sandwich, Day’s Store in Belgrade satisfies, as do Kel-Mat or the Pick-up Café in Skowhegan. If you’d rather grab a hotdog, look for Don’s in Augusta or Bolley’s in either Hallowell or Waterville. We also like the Maine Barbecue Co. in Winsdsor.

Road Notes on Places to Stop Thompson’s in Bingham, you can blow by this place and never think twice, unless it’s meal time, because then the street is all parked up. For good reason. Get a doughnut. Kniffin’s Custom Meats and Smokehouse on Rt. 201 in Anson is the place to stop for some of the best chops and bacon in the state, and it is right down the road from Maine Maple Products which continues to win the state’s Blue Ribbon for their maple syrup year after year. Selah Tea Café in Waterville is a refreshing stop.

Take a break and have a ‘cuppa’ with a friend and just slow down at this in-town oasis.

Dinner in Waterville. Satisfaction Guaranteed Waterville has been attracting some real talent over the past few years and now it’s all coming together. Here are notes from foodie insiders on five great picks for a meal out in Waterville.

18 Below was on the top of the list of more than one person, don’t miss out on their freshly prepared fish and meat dishes.

But, especially the fish. Joseph’s Fireside is a great meal, well prepared and fun. Mainely Brews is a pub-style place worth waiting in line for. Silver Street Tavern picked up its game and now has a tasty eclectic menu. Finally, Buen Apetito is churning out delicious Mexican food in a casual atmosphere (their sauces are bona fide delicious). Bonus: Barrels Market attracts a local, kinda crunchy crowd, but with their new expanded offerings it is worth swinging by for tasty takeaway lunch.

Whoopie Pie

Festive Foods The Skowhegan State Fair is a fair food mecca, but then any of the festivals or fairs in the region can fill that craving for a tasty-but-bad-for-you-meal. Then there are the special food events like The Taste of Waterville which brings restaurants in from all around. If you love bread, the Artisan Bread Fair after the Kneading Festival is something you should make the trip for.

How About a Tasty Beverage...or Two In 1996, Oak Pond Brewing Company opened the first brewery in Maine after a 115-year gap. They stuck with the classics, such as their Nut Brown Ale with its complex eight-malt blend, an Oktoberfest lager and some seasonal brews you’re sure to love.

Tree Spirits of Oakland makes beverages of another sort.

Winemaker Bruce Olson is turning Maine’s sweetest apples, pears and maple syrup into award-winning wines and distilled spirits. This year they introduced Absinthe — making them the only approved Absinthe maker in Maine.

While we are talking about Oakland be sure to stop in at the Riverside Farm for a night of fine dining and music or the areas finest brunch. We would be tossed out if we failed to mention our very good friends at The Liberal Cup in Hallowell who offer a rotating menu of 21 beers all year long. Kennebec River Pub & Brewery, located at Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort in The Forks, offers great seasonal brews and some of the finest IPA in the region.

Whew! Now, let’s eat!

To learn more about dining in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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REGISTERED

Maine Guides There are around 4,000 licensed guides in Maine, most operating as small independent businesses that offer visitors a highly personal and customized experience. They’ll take you to special places you couldn’t have otherwise found, offer equipment, advice and instruction; then they step aside and let you enjoy the action.

When you explore the woods and waters of the Kennebec Valley in the company of a Registered Maine Guide, you can be assured of a first-class outdoor experience.

Cast for native brook trout on a remote pond, hunt for deer on a frosty autumn morning, raft a roaring river, hike a quiet wilderness trail, pitch a comfortable camp in a forest of spruce and fir, canoe a scenic stretch of river and watch for moose.

The list goes on, and on, and on. Find a professional guide at MaineGuides.com.

Be prepared; for the thrill of a lifetime.

Before you hunt: If you are going to hunt in Maine, we encourage you to do your research and get the correct credentials for your planned quarry. Anyone hunting in Maine must possess the proper license; there are many different types for the hunting of different species. So plan ahead for what you’re going to do, where you’re going to stay and what you’re going to hunt.

Please visit Maine.gov to purchase your license before you arrive. We also encourage anyone new to the sport of hunting to consider using a Registered Maine Guide. (See above.)

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HUNTING and FISHING .

There’s a reason that sportsmen continue to take advantage of the traditional relaxing hospitality and hunting experience that Maine has to offer. Consider yourself invited to come and experience the time-honored tradition for yourself.

Those who prefer to hunt avian species will find untold opportunities here for worldclass duck hunting on our lakes and pheasant hunting in the tall grasses throughout the region in early fall. Due to the efforts of our state to restore the wild turkey, we are now also seeing a new breed of hunter come into our region during turkey season.

Plus, the word is that more exotic species are also being bagged in the region too.

And what would the hunt be without a great place to hang your hat at the end of the day? Our location and the wide range of camps and resorts make our region the ideal destination for those traveling to get the big one. Our hospitality is considered second to none to the many sportsmen who come year after year.

With warm soft beds, great home-cooked meals and the best guides in Maine, what more could a sportsman want?

Whether you seek upland birds, Maine black bear, deer, the wily coyote or Maine’s popular big game target, the moose, the Kennebec Valley is ready and waiting.

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Time honored traditions in the Kennebec Valley.

Photo courtesy of Silverton Sporting Ranch

One cast and you’ll be hooked.

The beautiful and storied Kennebec River beckons to the most talented fly anglers. The deep, cold ponds and lakes of Belgrade and Winthrop are bursting with bass. As a matter of fact, Bassmaster Magazine named Cobosseecontee, Moosehead and China to its envied list of top 100 bass lakes in America for 2014 – making them the only three in Maine to make the list.

Fish check list:

Wesserunsett, Wyman and Moxie speak the tales of past adventures filled with pike, landlocked salmon and an untold number of the big ones that got away. But don’t take our word on it, come up and you’ll be rewarded with stories to last a lifetime.

Rainbow Trout

Any time of year, you can find a place to drop a line here. Even those just out for a day of family fun will be amazed. Spring, summer, winter or fall, you can’t find any better fishing in Maine than in the waters of the Kennebec Valley. But, remember, everyone must have a license to fish in Maine.

Largemouth Bass

If you don’t want to get a license, Maine does offer a couple of days — summer and winter — during the year when you can cast a line without having to make the investment in a fishing license. Typically, its during the mid-winter break in the middle of February and at the start of June. Look online for details.

So whether you hire a professional Maine fishing guide or go it on your own; are out for the day or stay for a week at one of our traditional Maine Sporting Camps; look no further, we’ve got a perfect spot.

To learn more about Fishing and Hunting in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

Brook Trout Brown Trout Smallmouth Bass Landlocked Salmon Striped Bass Sturgeon Touge Char

Just to name a few.

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Ride the finest Snowmobile & ATV Trails in Maine.

Imagine a breathtaking sunset over the mountains after a day of all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding to secluded waterfalls, wildlife habitats or perhaps a private lookout point. Maybe you dream of a week spent bundled up against the cold as you zoom across snow-laden fields on a snowmobile. Our region offers hundreds of miles of well-maintained back country riding trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a short relaxing ride, a day of mountain trail exploration or perhaps a longer overnight excursion, snowmobiling and ATVing are a classic Maine experience you won’t want to miss.

A winter’s day spent zooming across the snowy landscape of the Upper Kennebec Valley Travelers have been coming to the Kennebec Valley area for years for world-class snowmobile riding.

Throughout the region, resorts and camps offer trail riding right outside their back doors. In fact, one of the best ways to enjoy a stunning winter landscape is to climb aboard a snowmobile, rev up the engine and ride to your heart’s content. Travel through snowy environs of fragrant spruce and balsam forests, along frozen streams and rivers.

Traverse wide-open fields and vast expanses. Frozen

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lakes and ponds are often crossed, but always check locally for safe ice conditions. This is a frozen paradise.

Up toward the Canadian border, you’ll discover snowmobilefriendly towns that you’ve probably never even heard about.

Numerous outfitters, camps, and resorts will provide you with complete rentals should you need them, from helmets and sleds, to parts and fuel. But plan ahead and make reservations.

Those seeking excitement can take part in the action with the numerous activities, from pancake breakfasts and trail lunches to competitive events throughout the area. You can take advantage of guided sled tours, too: from half- and full-day outings for families and groups to extended trips of a few days or more. Whatever package you choose, count on a truly memorable outdoor adventure.

Summer zig-zagging through the woods and fields of the Upper Kennebec Valley In the warmer weather, those with a hunger for the trail can easily find adventure in Maine’s Kennebec Valley, because many trails are multi-use (summer and winter). Sitting astride an ATV has so much to offer: exhilaration, endless vistas and raucous fun.

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Three great rides in the Kennebec Valley Region: The best part about touring on an ATV is that the farther you get from civilization, the better things get. So go on, head north and dig deeper into the seemingly unexplored forests of our region; our vast network of accessible trails will take you beyond the boundaries of your imagination.

A piece of advice: If you decide to spend some time traversing the Maine woods, we encourage you to remember that much of the land you are traveling on is not owned by the state, but by private landowners who have agreed to allow recreational use of their property. Please tread lightly.

Making snowmobile or ATV adventures part of your vacation is not hard to do. Local chambers of commerce and snowmobile and ATV clubs can hook you up with outfitters who can make the whole thing happen or take the time to visit KennebecValley.org for more resources. That way, when you arrive, all you’ll need to do is hit the gas and have a blast.

This information regarding trail riding is sponsored by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.

FMI, visit www.ParksandLand.com.

1. Pittston Farm Trail

Location: Jackman Beginning at the trailhead in Jackman, this scenic 60-mile ATV or snowmobile day trip to Historic Pittston Farm takes riders past several breathtaking vistas. The terrain varies from gravel and skidder trails to true forest terrain.

2. Greenville Trail

Location: The Forks This loop ATV or snowmobile trail covers about 60 miles total, with diverse sights along the way, including Moxie Falls, Lake Moxie, Moxie Bald Mountain, Shirley Bog, Greenville, Moosehead Lake and Little Moose Mountain. Trail conditions are 85% gravel roads and 15% skidder trails. Parking is available at Northern Outdoors or Berry’s Store in The Forks.

3. Sugarloaf Mountain Lookouts

Location: Bingham This trail, which starts in Bingham on a section of the Kennebec Valley Trail, has a loop distance of 25–35 miles and offers several pull-off areas with river views and unequalled opportunities to spot bald eagles, ospreys, loons, deer and moose. Once at the overlook, catch a glimpse of the Sugarloaf Mountain Range and the Moxie Mountains. Trail conditions are 80% gravel roads and 20% back country trails.

To learn more about ATVing and Snowmobiling in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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What makes the taste of Real Maine Maple Syrup so very, very good?

Toasty warm days. Freezing cold nights.

More than 100 years of tradition.

By Valentine’s Day the trees are just starting to get the message. Though the ground is still frozen and it will be weeks before we start thinking about spring, there is excitement in the air — perfumed with the heady scent of wood smoke and the sweetly aromatic scent of maple sap boilin’ down in the evaporators. For the sugarmakers of the Kennebec Valley, this is the busiest time of the year.

We encourage you to learn how it’s made; from tree to bucket to evaporator. And every sugarmaker has stories and tales to tell that make their syrup the best you’ve ever had.

Throw off the winter doldrums on the last Sunday in March — officially Maine Maple Sunday — and go out and learn all about that yummy stuff. Then go ahead and pour some on your waffles, pancakes or anything you like. If you really love it, visit Skowhegan during the week leading up to Maine Maple Sunday for their annual Skowhegan Maple Festival.

To learn more about the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

Fun Fact: Somerset County is the number one producer of maple syrup in the

United States, as counties go, with over 1.2 million taps (and growing) each season.

Maine Maple Products, Inc.

Award-Winningest!

Our maple syrup has been selected the BEST for quality, purity and taste by the Maine Dept. of Agriculture 11 of the last 13 years. Judge for yourself.

Visit our shop and take home a real taste of Maine.

MaineMaple.com 449 Lakewood Rd. (Route 201) - Madison, ME 20 www.KennebecValley.org

A jingle-jangle take on a New England Holiday Stroll Allow us to surprise you with a few presents that set our New England holidays apart. Fun ideas for a holiday escapade of your own. And if we are blessed with snow, all the better.

Riverside villages like Gardiner, Hallowell and Skowhegan have long been a bastion of holiday celebration. Shops and galleries delight the senses. Restaurants are filled with revelery and song late into the night. Good cheer all around. Here is but a sampling.

But look under the tree — you’ll find more to do than you know, so stay into the night and see the magical things that can happen.

Gardiner and the Who-ville Parade Holiday parades are a delight, but what about the world’s only Holiday Who-ville Parade? This clever turn on Dr. Suess’ classic tale invites all comers to arrive dressed as their favorite Who? So who are you are coming as this year?

Christmas in Old Hallowell Typically celebrated at the end of the first full week of December, Christmas in Old Hallowell seems to go on for days. With a craft fair to beat all and a Christmas parade concluding with fireworks over the Kennebec River. Merry Christmas, indeed.

Stroll over to Belgrade Look to the lakes of Belgrade around the holidays for a little more than you might have expected; this truly charming stretch knows how to put on the holiday show during their annual stroll.

A Festival of Trees Helps Hinckley Sparkle Each year the Goodwill-Hinckley school sets out the trees… lots of them. For a little more than twenty years now, stately Prescott Hall has been decked out in full holiday regalia during the second full week of December for all to enjoy. The locale also hosts events during the week. And it’s free.

And what about the Big Guy? Up the Kennebec River apiece, at the center of the enchanting city of Waterville lies a land plucked from beyond the arctic circle. Kringleville has arrived every year (but one) at the center of Castonguay Square since 1969. It all begins in the days following Thanksgiving with the Festival of Lights parade through downtown and concludes in Kringleville where the party runs through to the days just before Christmas. We’d love to see you this year. The thousands of kids who wait for their chance to chat with Santa each year can’t be wrong.

There’s a reason we call it the Pine Tree State.

As you prepare to head home from your Kennebec Valley Christmas adventure, take time to find and visit one of the many local tree farms and cut yourself one of Maine’s finest fir or pine trees; snow permitting, you might also enjoy the bliss of a winter wonderland sleigh ride to round out your journey.

Your home will smell truly delightful all season long.

For more information about spending the Holidays in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Family fun for kids of all ages.

You’ve sung the campfire songs. You’ve played UNO® over a 100 times. Tag, done. Red Rover, over. Kick the can, OK. You cry “uncle” and you head out on the road for something that the kids will enjoy that won’t break the bank.

Great ways to spend some time with the kids.

DEW Animal Kingdom in Mount Vernon, is part zoo, part sanctuary and an entirely unique place, filled with beautiful, exotic and well-loved animals you’ve likely never heard of before. Take the time to make this place part of your visit.

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featuring interactive workshops and hikes. Also, see if you can track down Hemingway’s marlin; we promise, it’s there.

The Children’s Discovery Museum in Augusta is a very cool hands-on play place. And play they do. Be ready to let them exhaust themselves. Fun. Fun. Fun! Hallowell’s lush Vaughan Woods has taken on the name Hobbitland. This ancient feeling mossy place just around the corner from the 21st century will give you a glimpse at what our verdant woods looked like not too long ago.

Take a swing — a mini-swing — and grab a cone of the World’s Best Vanilla at our region’s own Gifford’s Ice Cream stands in Skowhegan and Waterville. There is nothing better to top off 18 holes of mini-golf than that, we are certain.

Grab a picnic lunch and a Frisbee® and head out to the Viles Arboretum in Augusta or Fort Halifax Park in Winslow with its broad lawns; you’re bound to make the catch of a lifetime.

The LC Bates Natural History Museum in Hinckley defines American natural history for children of all ages. Plus, each summer the museum runs a series of Saturday programs

Plan a trip during one of the state’s free fishing days.

Free. Just bring a couple of rods and a spirit of adventure.

You might even catch a fish or two.

For more about Family Activities in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Simple Pleasures.

Special Moments.

Photos courtesy of Maine Lakeside Cabins

Weddings Family Reunions Corporate Meetings Guys Weekend Seminars Honeymoon Retreats Girls’ Get-together Scouting Events Group Meet-ups Religious Events Youth Groups

Rolling hills of green, the vibrant reds, oranges and yellows of an autumn treeline, an ancient horse barn set against a stone wall, a country inn with a history reaching back to the days of the Revolution, the mossy forest trails beneath majestic pines or an open lawn set beside a stream-fed pond. Each and all of these are and could be an ideal location for your special day.

What’s more, all are here waiting to become the setting of a special event.

Maine’s Kennebec Valley provides a beautiful backdrop in any season for an ideal event, for people of all walks of life. Here are just a few ideas to consider:

Destination Weddings A celebration of marriage here tops the list, mostly because of the pristine beauty you’ll find in every corner of our region. However, when planning a destination wedding it is critical to offer your guests some additional diversions to make the trip worthwhile, and from whitewater rafting to the cultural buffet of Waterville, we believe we’ve got you covered. Oh, don’t forget that we make an ideal getaway for a bachelor/bachelorette weekend or even a great destination for the honeymoon.

Reunions of all kinds Whether you are looking to reconnect with schoolmates or family, or just pulling together a group of old friends for a camping, canoe trip or a couple days away with the guys (or gals), there is more than enough to keep every taste in your group occupied. Hunting (for game or antiques), sport shooting and ATV or snowmobile riding, taking a relaxing paddle trip or finding your way up a rocky mountainside together. We give you tons of options.

Corporate Retreats and Team-building Events A way for you to get the group to connect, reconnect or maybe even re-reconnect. There is something about sticking a bunch of people out in nature that makes them come together.

Add to that our ability to provide the kinds of guides, locations and gear you need to make it all come together and we think you may just be well on your way to the corner office.

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For more about Special Events in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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The longest-running fair in the United States.

Organized in late 1818, the first of what was to be an unbroken succession of 195 Skowhegan fairs was held in January 1819 by the original organization known as the Somerset Central Agricultural Society. That name was used for the event until 1942 when the official designation became the Skowhegan State Fair. While no record is in existence of what the weather was in January of 1819, it apparently wasn’t a determining factor in the attendance as a history of Skowhegan records that the fair attracted the largest crowds to ever have assembled in Somerset County.

The Skowhegan State Fair happens every August and involves livestock competitions, rides, treats, games and more. There is nothing quite like a warm summer day at the Skowhegan State Fair. So head to Skowhegan while the State Fair is going on, you won’t forget the great time you’ll have at the fair.

And you’ll be able to participate in the longestrunning state fair in existence! In this case, you’ll get to have your cake and eat it, too — or if nothing else, you’ll get to eat funnel cake!

Fairs are a great time for everyone, and if you happen to have the kids with you, this is a great way to spend family time together.

To learn more about fairs and festivals throughout the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Fairs, FESTIVALS and Events

Come celebrate with us. Most every sizable city and town in Maine’s Kennebec Valley will play host to an annual

Memorial Day, Labor Day and Independence Day parades, fall harvest festivals and Christmas festivities, so what we have assembled here are the fairs and festivals that celebrate the unique agricultural and celebratory nature of this welcoming region.

JUNE ‘14

Winslow Blueberry Festival August 9 Winslow

Kringleville November 24– December 22 Water ville

SEPTEMBER

DECEMBER

Clinton Lions Fair September 4–7 Clinton

2012 Holiday Stroll!

November 28–30 Skowhegan

Litchfield Fair September 5–7 Litchfield

Christmas in Old Hallowell December 5 Hallowell

New Portland Lions’ Fair September 12–14 New Por tland

Belgrade Holiday Stroll December 5 Belgrade

Country Fest August 1–3 Litchfield

Common Ground Fair September 19–21 Unity

FEBRUARY ‘15

Skowhegan State Fair August 7–16 Skowhegan Fairgrounds

Monmouth Apple Festival September 27 Monmouth

44nd Annual Waterville Intown Arts Fest July12 Water ville

Winter Carnival and Ice Fishing Derby Lake George Regional Park Canaan

Maine Outdoor Film Festival August 22–24 The Forks

OCTOBER

MARCH

Central Maine Egg Festival July 14–19 Pittsfield

Anson-Madison Days August 21–24 Madison

The Kneading Conference & Maine Artisan Bread Fair July 24–26 Skowhegan Fairgrounds

Blistered Fingers Family Bluegrass Festival August 21–24 Litchfield

Pittston Fair July 24–27 Pittston

The Great Windsor Fair August 24–September 1 Windsor

Skowhegan RiverFest July 29–August 3 Skowhegan

Harmony Free Fair August 29 - September 1 Harmony

Maine Fiber Frolic June 7–8 Windsor Fairgrounds Blistered Fingers Family Bluegrass Festival June 18–21 Litchfield Greater Gardiner River Festival June 21 Gardiner Whatever Family Festival June 18–July 4 Augusta, Hallowell, Gardiner

JULY Maine International Film Festival July 11–20 Water ville

Monmouth Fair July 31–August 3 Monmouth

AUGUST AQUAFEST August 2 Belgrade Lakes Taste of Waterville August 6 Water ville Athens Wesserunsett Valley Fair August 1–3 Athens

Harvest Festival Columbus Day Weekend Belgrade Lakes Manchester Apple Festival October 4 Manchester Moose River Valley Enduro 500 Auto Race October 10–13 Jackman

NOVEMBER Waterville Parade of Lights November 24 Downtown Water ville

Northeast Championships Dogsled Races First Weekend Jackman Annual Maple Festival March 14th–23th Skowhegan Maine Maple Sunday Four th Sunday Annually Regionwide Exact dates for every event cannot always be determined by time of publication. Please visit the website for more information as it becomes available.

To learn more about Fairs, Festivals and Events in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Map of MAINE’S KENNEBEC VALLEY To learn more about the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Shopping: the All-American pastime.

Whether you spend your day shopping in the grand plazas near Augusta and Waterville or browsing through riverside antique shops in Hallowell, we certainly know that shopping is an important part of the journey. Maine’s Kennebec Valley offers plenty of retail, big and small. We encourage visitors to buy local if they can as it is all part of the true Maine experience.

National Chains & Outlet Stores Just off the interstate at Maine Turnpike Exits 109 and 112 in Augusta or Exit 130 in Waterville, you’ll find all the big stores tucked in around regional favorites. The Marketplace at Augusta, located just off 95 offers a great blend of national retailers like Barnes & Noble and Old Navy with brands you love like Ulta.

Shop for bargains at Kohl’s or grab a bite with friends and family at Red Robin or Panera. Whether it is shopping for something you need and forgot or maybe you just want to treat yourself while on vacation, you’ll find it here.

Stocking up for Camping From Gardiner up to Waterville, there are numerous options for groceries nearby. But Skowhegan is home to the last big grocery, a Hannaford, as you head into the Maine Woods; you’ll also find a Walmart here for odds and ends you left at home. Farther up Route 201, there are some terrific family-run places, and if they don’t got it, you don’t need it.

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These include the Solon Corner Market, Jimmy’s Shop & Save in Bingham, Berry’s in The Forks area and Bishop’s in Jackman.

Great Stuff, Old & New Gardiner, Hallowell, Downtown Augusta and Skowhegan have really done a marvelous job of building up areas to attract local merchants of all kinds. Snuggled in between some of the area’s finest eating and drinking establishments, you will find new fashions, collectibles by the yard and things that go zip and zoom for the kids. But keep your eyes open as you travel our byways for delightful out-of-the-way shops.

Just a Tip Buying old stuff: Mainers are good at finding a bargain and at giving one, too, but only if you ask. If you want to get a good deal on something, you may have to work for it a little.

You will go home happy, no matter what.

To learn more about Shopping in the region, visit KennebecValley.org.

Arts, Crafts and Antiques. Delightful objects to behold.

Antiques | Craft | Fiber Art | Native American Culture Antiques Central Many diehards compare their search in terms of “the hunt.”

And we are proud to have more than a few spots across the region that have attracted “pickers” looking for that perfect piece of American farm history, a country table or a road sign that completes a room.

Hallowell’s River Street, running along the riverfront, is closely lined with a small but well-groomed collection of antique shops, art galleries and boutiques all packed to the gills with the best stuff (old and new) you have ever laid your eyes on.

But don’t stop with Hallowell. Start there! Then head up to Fairfield for a day’s antique adventures at the Fairfield Antiques Mall on 201. If you plan your trip right, you might be rewarded when you witness the world’s foremost firearms auctioneer James D. Julia ­— an Antiques Roadshow regular — in action.

So, if you are on the hunt, keep your eyes open, your ears perked up and you know whom to ask. Bargains and surprises await you at every turn.

Craft A couple years back, the Maine Turnpike Authority entered into a wonderful relationship with the Maine Craft Association and

opened the Center for Maine Craft at the West Gardiner rest area. No matter what time of year, if you take the time to stop in you’ll get the chance to pick up something special created by one of Maine’s hugely-talented collection of crafts workers.

You can also stop in at the Maine Made & More stores in Belgrade, Augusta and Waterville for more Maine craft and gifts that truly “speak like a Mainer.”

Fiber Art “Only in Maine” is a phrase heard from time to time, but with the annually held Fiber Frolic, they may be right. This early June festival held at the Windsor Fairgrounds is a little like a mecca for the fiber art world. It is a marketplace “celebrating fiber, fiber animals and fiber arts.” Not too Baaaad!

Native American Culture For our visitors with an interest in the craft and work of the first people to inhabit Maine, make the trip over to the southwestern part of Somerset County along Route 27 where you’ll find Nowetah’s American Indian Museum. The owners offer a free glimpse into what might be one of the larger private collections of American Indian crafts, pottery and baskets in all of New England. With over 600 examples of basketry and bark containers, it really is a sight to behold.

For more information on Antiques and Crafts, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Liberal Cup, Hallowell

Gardiner and Hallowell – a perfect pair.

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To learn more about Gardiner and Hallowell, visit KennebecValley.org.

A true riverside original: Gardiner During the mid-1800s Gardiner became recognized as a worldwide shipping port. Today, this attractive riverside city — rich in architectural history — is a wonderful place to spend a day or evening.

For the lovers of architecture, build your day around visits to Oakland’s Mansion and the Laura Richards House. Swing by the Gardiner Public Library with its vaulted ceilings and restored stained-glass windows. Stop and sit awhile on the the town’s waterfront green space. Or take in a performance at Johnson Hall Performing Arts Center, the heart and soul of Water Street.

During the summer months, great food, local entertainment and the city’s culture are all part of the weekly farmers’ markets, artwalks, and the annual Greater Gardiner River Festival.

Many come to Gardiner to shop and dine, as well as to play.

The Kennebec Rail Trail begins here and extends north to Augusta. This stretch of converted railway is ideal for biking, jogging or walking. Gardiner also sports a boat landing for easy access to this slow and easy stretch of the Kennebec River.

Maine’s Smallest City: Hallowell Like a tiny jewel Hallowell sits on the Kennebec River just south of Augusta and north of Gardiner. Founded in 1762, the city was originally a bustling merchant port. Not much has changed over the last 250 years. Today, numerous creative, intellectual and political figures call it home.

Hallowell’s downtown, bordered on the west by Middle and Warren Streets, is a National Historic District filled with buildings and homes that reflect multiple architectural periods ranging from Federal to Victorian.

Many seek out the antiques and art here, others come here to grab a great bite, to partake in a day of shopping, or to grab a pint at the Liberal Cup, one of Maine’s most famous pubs. This fun little city is also home to the Gaslight Theater, entertaining us all since 1937.

And pick up some sweets for the kids (and yourself) at Scrummy Afters.

Got a boat? Hallowell is the place for you.

Hallowell is also home to a state-operated boat landing, making the river an easy place to escape the hustle bustle of Water Street. Old Hallowell Days held the third Saturday in July, boasts a parade and a road race and is widely heralded for its fireworks and, oddly enough, for its cribbage tournament.

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Summertime Rules in

Winthrop Lakes Summertime giggles, tan lines and the great American camping trip.

Cobbosseecontee, or Cobbessee as it is lovingly called, is one of the best lakes in all of the Northeast with plenty of Maine’s largest bass lingering just beneath its surface and it sports Maine’s only working inland lighthouse (see page 6). The magic of this corner of the Kennebec Valley lies in its lakes. Gorgeous stretches of clean, pure, wonderful water. They are a real crowd pleaser.

In addition to Cobbosseecontee you’ll find Androscoggin, Annabessacook and Maranacook: havens for boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or swimming. C’mon, welcoming waters await.

A quick climb to survey our entire area.

Don’t forget to take the opportunity to make the short hike up the Mt. Pisgah trail to climb the 60-foot historic fire tower.

You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the region. Hikers here will appreciate the good work of the Kennebec Land Trust who have, through years of work, put together access to some of the most beautiful and unspoiled hiking spots. Check them out.

Our brand of fun is meant for kids of all ages, too.

All summer long the Norcross Point Concert Series will delight visitors with an easy afternoon of entertainment.

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Or spend Independence Day on our shores and then Winthrop’s Annual Fourth of July Fireworks on Lake Maranacook.

Small, and proud of it, Monmouth packs a punch in a number of ways. Located just outside of Augusta on Route 202, a trip up Main Street shows off its best features. You’ll immediately be taken with Cumston Hall, the cultural center of the area, with its 250-seat opera house, a library and Maine’s Official Shakespearean Theatre.

Up the street you’ll also find The Monmouth Museum; it actively documents 19th-century farm living. Come summer, the annual Monmouth Fair has all the makings of an honest-to-goodness down-home fair. But if you go, be careful, or you might just find yourself getting pulled into the skillet toss.

Summer fun for generations of kids.

These shores also serve as the backdrop for many of the Maine Summer Camps which have long enjoyed their place as some of the finest in the world, filling summers with smiles, activity and laughter. Our region offers some of the finest and most wellestablished camp experiences in the country and the world.

To learn more about the Winthrop Lakes area, visit KennebecValley.org.

Long a hub of government, trade and cultural life in the Kennebec Valley, the Augusta region invites you to visit. For a glimpse of all that there is to do and see, call 207.623.4559 or visit AugustaMaine.com and ask for the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce Guide, the complete catalog of absolutely everything in the area: Shopping Hiking and Biking Golf and Fishing Art Festivals Museums History and‌

Get yours today!

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Augusta: A capital experience awaits you.

Area Attractions Maine State Museum 230 State St., Augusta

Old Fort Western 16 Cony St., Augusta

Viles Arboretum 153 Hospital St., Augusta

Maine State House 210 State St., Augusta

Governor’s Mansion — Blaine House 192 State St., Augusta

Children’s Discovery Museum 171 Capitol St., Augusta

Augusta Marketplace 197 Civic Center Dr., Augusta

Bond Brook Park Winthrop St. via Mt. Hope Cemetery, Augusta

Lithgow Public Library 45 Winthrop St., Augusta

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Come shop, learn and play in Maine’s capital city.

Clouds float across the smooth-as-glass surface of the majestic Kennebec River as it flows past the City of Augusta. This meandering river is a far cry from the Class IV rapids for which the Kennebec is known. While the waters here reflect the serenity of a summer’s day, just steps away on the broad avenues and side streets of the capital you’ll find history in the making, bustling commerce and the business of government under way.

No visit to Augusta would be complete without touring the Capitol Complex, home to the Maine State Museum, Capitol Park and of course The State House (call ahead to secure a space on the tour). The governor resides at Blaine House, named after James G. Blaine — one of Maine’s most illustrious political leaders.

The Maine State Museum is a cross-section of all that our state has to offer, beginning with it being home to a three-story water-powered factory mill that has been re-assembled inside. An excellent Maine Native American collection and The Lion, one of the nation’s oldest locomotives beautifully restored and on permanent display.

Maine is known as the

Pine Tree State.

Every corner of our state is filled with the plentiful economic, environmental and recreational resource of the pine forest.

The winds from the Atlantic Ocean are greatly softened by the time they reach Augusta’s Capitol Park, a lovingly tended public garden adjacent to the Maine State House and Museum. Also home to the Vietnam Memorial, the park boasts some of the best shade trees in the city. Bring a blanket and a picnic. Or maybe head over to the Farmers’ Market at Mill Park on Water Street (Tuesdays from May to October) to pick up a fresh local treat or takeaway lunch.

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Vietnam Memorial, Angimarie Photography

Did you know?

The area that is now the location of Augusta was first known to Native Americans as Cushnoc or “head of tide” because it is the farthest point upstream where the Kennebec River is affected by tidal fluctuations.

Old Fort Western, Augusta

Our Old Fort Western – 250 years strong In 1754 a blockhouse was erected to provide for regional protection, and it still stands today at Old Fort Western, on the eastern bank at Cushnoc. True to Mainer form, the “fort” has been used for many different purposes during it’s long life including a civilian store, a private residence and a rooming house.

The fort also holds the dubious honor of being the mustering point for Benedict Arnold’s failed march to Québec.

Downtown Augusta Lives Across the Kennebec from Old Fort Western is a part of the city that is quickly on the rise. Downtown Augusta has emerged as a revitalized area with shops, restaurants, galleries and boutiques all welcoming visitors. Downtown has many great spots for a quick lunch while exploring the rest of the city or dinner at the end of a fun day exploring Maine’s Capital City.

Getting out and Getting Active Our region is crisscrossed with some of the most beautiful, green and in some cases historic trails in the State, and Augusta is not to be outdone. One quick visit to AugustaTrails.org shows the variety offered here in Maine’s capital city. We love them all, but here is a sampling to get you going: Across the river from the Capitol Complex, with nearly 225 acres to explore, the Viles Arboretum offers numerous exhibits including the very special American Chestnut collection and the renowned Hosta Garden.

Bond Brook Park is the must visit place in Augusta for the outdoorsy. In fact, many area residents are unaware of this great park may soon become a world-class destination for fans of cross-country skiing, mountain biking and hiking — all inside the Augusta city limits. If you want to use this park, do some research, get a map, park on Winthrop Street and enter through Mt. Hope Cemetery. Then spread the news about this hidden gem.

No one likes a rainy day, except the trees, but when the sun hides, Augusta shines. Discover the Children’s Discovery Museum, catch a movie or enjoy some retail therapy at the Augusta Marketplace — Maine’s largest outdoor retail shopping area.

Whatever you do…

The Whatever Festival, held annually at the end of June and start of July offers citizens lots of Whatever to do, especially on the event’s Family Fun Day. There really is nothing quite like this event anywhere else in Maine.

In addition to being the seat of government for Maine, there is quite a bit more to Augusta than is expected. When you visit, take some time to stroll through our museums, play in our parks, shop, dine and play. Visit a downtown gallery or walk through history. But most of all, meet some of our residents.

Once you do, you’ll learn why Augusta is a great place to come back to again and again.

To learn more about Augusta, visit KennebecValley.org.

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THE REGION’S SEVEN LAKES

Belgrade Lakes

Great Pond Belgrade / Rome Messalonskee Belgrade / Oakland / Sidney Long Pond Belgrade / Mt. Vernon / Rome North Pond Mercer / Smithfield East Pond Oakland / Smithfield Salmon Pond Oakland / Belgrade McGrath Pond Oakland / Belgrade

Breathtaking scenery. Crystalline lakes.

Plentiful activities. Here beauty abounds.

Ask anyone here what makes Belgrade Lakes a special place and the answer you’ll probably come away with is that it’s a four-season recreational paradise.

Generations of visitors have passed along the message of relaxation, rejuvenation and recreation. The wholesome, free-and-easy attitude seems to just melt away life’s tension. Golfing, swimming, fishing, canoeing, hiking or just running into town to grab the necessities, whatever your pleasure, Belgrade Lakes is the iconic American summer vacation destination.

Set out on foot with pole in hand (don’t forget your fishing license); soon you’ll find your new favorite fishing spot, even if you never make your first cast. Find your way to Blueberry Hill for a sweeping view of the seven lakes. Or take a scenic drive and be rewarded with some of the finest lake-side views in Maine.

American playwright Ernest Thompson was so inspired by childhood summers spent on Great Pond that he penned On Golden Pond.

Enjoy a round on the 18-hole championship Belgrade Lakes Golf Course, which was recognized as one of the best in Maine by Golf Digest. Perhaps the soft, fragrant summer breezes that lull you to sleep in your camp-side hammock will put you in the swing of things.

Nature’s colorful fireworks truly showcase the beauty of our region in the autumn.

In the colder months, the region becomes a winter wonderland offering activities ranging from cross-country skiing and snowshoe trekking to ice fishing or snowmobiling on the area’s well-cared-for trails. Having shed its “summer only” moniker years ago, Belgrade Lakes offers a wide selection of lodging available in all four seasons.

Belgrade Lakes is the kind of place where the happiest of vacation memories are made, no matter what your age or activity.

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To learn more about Belgrade Lakes, visit KennebecValley.org.

FIS H I N G • SW I MMI N G

TE NNIS • S AND BE ACH

American plan lake front cottages on the shore of Great Pond in the heart of the Belgrade Lakes region. Open May to October. www.BearSpringCamps.com • 207.397.2341 • 60 Jamaica Point Rd. Rome, ME 04963

BELGRADE LAKES

Belgrade Lakes Marine & Storage, Inc. Winter Storage for Summer Vehicles New 9,600 sq. ft, alarmed/electrified storage facility accommodates the largest RV’s, boats on trailer & cars. Reasonable rates for real protection from winter storms and sun damage.

generated at BeQRious.com

July 4th: Events and Parade Columbus Day Weekend: Harvest Festival 1st Saturday in December: Holiday Stroll

207-495-2378 • WWW.BelgradeLakesMarine.com 366 Augusta Road, Route 27, Belgrade, ME

Scan for Info

BelgradeLakesMaine.com 39

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Welcome to Waterville — the cultural heart of central Maine.

There is so much that it has to offer. Colleges. Art and Theater. Dining. Festivals. A worldclass downtown. No visit to Maine’s Kennebec Valley would be complete without spending time in what is arguably the cultural center of Central Maine.

The arts are alive in Waterville.

Any visit to the area requires a trip to the Colby Museum of Art. In celebration of the college’s bicentennial in 2013, the museum opened its new expanded wing which houses its vast collection of American art. Maine’s largest art museum, this is a must see.

Waterville Opera House

The collegiate spirit spills over into the downtown, where visitors should stop by Common Street Arts, a wonderful food scene and myriad diversions when the stars come out. Lovers of the performing arts should check out the Waterville Opera House. Since reopening in 2012, acts of all kinds have been entertaining audiences from throughout the region.

Each summer, the Maine International Film Festival — entering its 17th year — presents nearly 100 films over a 10-day time period. Works represent the best of American and international independent cinema.

Visitors with a love for music should keep an ear open for the Atlantic Music Festival — this highly respected organization fosters innovation in American musical performance. Each summer hundreds of emerging artists gather here to celebrate the work of musical masters.

The hungry will not be turned away with a tasty array of food styles to choose from.

Diners can enjoy something new every night or perhaps enjoy it all at once at the annual Taste of Waterville, which brings together all things tasty from the region into one yummy day and night.

Outdoor enthusiasts have nothing to worry about either; Waterville is at the heart of a burgeoning in-town outdoor center, with miles of hiking trails spread throughout the city.

Interested? Check out the Quarry Road Trails and the Messalonskee Trails, which double in the colder months as some of the finest in-town cross-country ski and snowshoe trails.

1 Common St., Waterville

Maine International Film Festival July 11 to 20, 2014

Atlantic Music Festival July 7 to August 3, 2014

Common Street Arts 16 Common St., Waterville

The Taste of Waterville August 6, 2014

Lebanese Heritage Mural 51 Main St., Waterville

Colby Museum of Art 5600 Mayflower Hill Dr., Waterville

To learn more about Waterville, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Downtown Waterville Dining Guide Located on the banks of the Kennebec River, Waterville is home to an array of restaurants — from authentic Lebanese and Asian specialties to fresh seafood. Plus, outstanding events like the Taste of Waterville and the Downtown Waterville Farmers’ Market.

18 Below Raw Bar Grill & Lounge 18 Silver Street (207) 861-4454 Amici’s Cucina 137 Main Street (207) 861-4440 AmicisCucina.com Cancun Mexican Restaurant 14 Silver Street (207) 872-7400 CancunWaterville.com Jin Yuan Chinese Restaurant 41 Temple Street (207) 861-4433 JinYuans.com Jorgensen’s Main Street Café 103 Main Street (207) 872-8711

Lebanese Cuisine 34 Temple Street (207) 873-7813 Mainely Brews Restaurant & Brew House 1 Post Office Square (207) 873-2457 MainelyBrews.com Pagoda Express (207) 873-3300 Selah Tea Café 177 Main Street (207) 660-9181 SelahTeaCafe.com Silver Street Tavern 2 Silver Street (207) 680-2163 SilverStreetTavern.com You Know Whose Pub 55E Concourse (207) 873-5255 Find Us on Facebook

WatervilleMainstreet.org

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Centrally located just an hour from Maine’s mountains, coastlines and urban centers, mid-Maine overflows with year-round events, in-town culture and escapes to our rolling green countryside, beautiful lakes and quaint hidden villages. Whether you’ve come for vacation or business, you’ve picked just the right spot.

Stop by our Visitors’ Center in downtown Waterville.

DISCOVER MID-MAINE

50 Elm Street, Waterville, ME 04901 207-873-3315 • MidMaineChamber.com

The Towne Motel offers fine lodging in beautiful central Maine The Towne Motel is convenient to the Skowhegan state fairgrounds and within walking distance to the Heritage House Restaurant and our historic downtown shopping district. Visit our website for a complete list of fairground events. The Towne Motel is the perfect place to stay for a visit to the Lakewood restaurant and summer theatre.

172 Madison Ave., Skowhegan Located at the intersection of Routes 201N and Route 2

207-474-5151 • 1-800-843-4405

townemotel@myfairpoint.net

www.townemotel.com

Summer recreation activities include: hiking, fishing, swimming, rafting, kayaking, and wildlife tours. We are just 40 minutes from the Sugarloaf Mountain Resort.

Complimentary Breakfast • Online Booking • Free High Speed Internet • Large Outdoor Swimming Pool • Non-Smoking Rooms

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GOOD WILLHINCKLEY In the early 1800’s, a young George Walter Hinckley witnessed a small boy’s arrest for reaching into a working man’s dinner pail. He asked himself why this would happen; the boy was not a criminal, he was simply hungry. At that point, George Walter vowed to come to the aid of young boys in similar plight.

That vow became Good Will Farm, a home for boys on a farm owned by the Chase Family in Fairfield, Maine. It later became known as Good Will-Hinckley Homes for Boys and Girls.

Recently, Good Will has formed the first charter school in Maine that focuses on agriculture, sustainability, forestry and workforce skills training.

Visitors are welcome on the Good Will-Hinckley campus, which is also home to the LC Bates Museum which offers seasonal activities, impressive exhibits, and detailed local and national history, a Carnegie Library, a MOFGA certified organic farm, and Good Will-Hinckley Arboretum and Nature Trail offering 5 miles of easy trails through local flora and fauna.

To learn more, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Skowhegan

A place to watch.

Settled in 1773, Skowhegan has long been the hub of commercial and outdoor life in the southern part of Somerset County, set at the intersection of Route 2 and Route 201 The Kennebec River is the pulsing, beating heart of this river town.

A powerful river gorge runs through its charming downtown area — a gorge that will sometime in the future become home to one of the finest whitewater paddling facilities in New England.

Today, Skowhegan bustles with the activity of modern businesses as diverse as SAPPI Fine Paper and the New Balance Shoe Company. But there is a unique vibe in the downtown, one of only a handful of Main Street Maine communities, that is anything but corporate. Cafés, shops, and merchants set in and among a collection of beautiful historic structures come together to celebrate the diversity of the town.

Just a short walk from downtown, you’ll find a gem in Coburn Park, a stunning example of modern community gardening that welcomes visitors from far and near.

This 12-acre oasis celebrates its beauty with its summertime gazebo concert series.

10 Great Things about Skowhegan 1. Skowhegan State Fair 2. Margaret Chase Smith Library 3. S kowhegan Maple Festival 4. Lake George Regional Park 5. Skowhegan Indian 6. The Kneading Conference 7. W alking Bridges 8. S kowhegan History House 9. C oburn Park 10. Skowhegan Drive-In

Back in town, look for a few more things that make Skowhegan a great place to spend some time as you wind your way through the region.

In late March, Skowhegan celebrates its own mapley goodness with its week long Maple Festival. This event is totally worth the trip.

The Skowhegan Indian, safely tucked into a corner off Route 201, was presented in 1969

by Maine’s own Bernard Langlais as a gift on behalf of the Abenaki Indians to Skowhegan, in observance of Maine’s 150th birthday.

This summer he will be unveiled after a $65,000 year-long restoration.

Skowhegan was also home to our nation’s first female senator, Margaret Chase Smith, an outspoken protector of free speech. Visitors can see the entire body of her 32 years of service at her library on Norridgewock Ave.

Finally, if you plan on coming through in early August, you’ll catch what is the longest running fair in the United States. The Skowhegan State Fair — established in 1818 — has it all, from popcorn, rides, attractions and entertainment to animal and agricultural exhibits, harness racing and of course a demolition derby.

To learn more about Skowhegan, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Skowhegan/Canaan

Whatcha doin’ this Summer?

Hey, Kampers!

Mention this ad for a

10% discount.

800-562-7571 or 207-474-2858

Reservations Required VacationlandSkydiving.com • 207-487-5638 Pittsfield Municipal Airport, Pittsfield, ME Just 30 minutes from Bangor and Augusta.

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RT 2 (18 Cabin Road), Canaan, ME. 04924 GPS Latitude: 44.769710269401 Longitude: -69.54370379447937

SmoreFunCampground.com

Canaan - Hartland - Lake George Regional Park Crossroads for adventure.

Just east of Skowhegan, the village of Canaan may be small but is centrally-located to many of the region’s recreational activities. Summer means swimming, boating and fishing. During the winter the Winter Carnival is a tradition.

Originally settled in 1770 as Wesserunsett, the town became known as Canaan in 1788 “because of the beauty of its scenery and the fertility of its soil.” Interestingly, the original deed for tiny Canaan included nearby Skowhegan.

For summer visitors, opportunities for lodging are bound only by your tastes.

Take a room at a motel, rent a cabin, bring your RV or pitch a tent. Once you’re here take it easy. There’s lots to do, starting with resting. Then move on to relaxing.

End the day with kicking back. OK, we’re kidding. But the point is, Canaan is a place for those looking to take a little time out.

On the edge of town you’ll find Lake George Regional Park (above), a 320-acre park with extensive trails, playing fields and two beaches where visitors can swim, boat, canoe and play all day long.

If guided hunting is more your style, try pheasant hunting on a local preserve.

ATV trails are located on the north side of town and connect to the town of Hartland, providing access to many other trails. Local snowmobile trails link to ITS (Interconnected Trail System) and provide an entry point to limitless destinations.

Within a half-hour drive, you can reach any number of fairs, festivals and antique shops. Enjoy a stop at a local dairy farm or farmers’ market. If you’re looking for a friendly small-town atmosphere without the crowds, then Canaan just might be the perfect place for you.

To learn more about the Canaan area, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Madison: A spot on the river offering fun for all.

Fly-fishing, riverside hiking and camping; biking–on the road and off, excellent paddling and the Madison Wave, or summer theatre, golf and a classic downtown festival. It’s things like this that make us all feel like kids again and Madison has them all or you to enjoy!

A great place to get outside Maine’s Kennebec Valley has a century old reputation as a top destination for outdoor recreation, and without question it comes from places like Madison where you can get away quickly to enjoy nature’s best and unwind.

Wanna fish? Visit Kennebec River Outfitters, one of Maine’s legendary fly shops, on Route 201 for advice and maybe a fish story. If you can’t pry a secret spot out of them, try your hand at one of the several great spots below the Madison Dam including the best in town near “the Pines.” This spot, called the Historic Pines Trail, welcomes day hikers and has national (and Native American) historical significance. Look for the granite monuments telling the story of Jesuit missionary Sebastian Rasle (pronunced like ‘wall’) and the Abenaki people.

Kennebec Kayaker’s Wave Hello!

Tied by Robert Fransen

The Kennebec drops 90 feet over the course of a mile in Madison, it’s what attracted the mill industries of the 19th-century. Nowadays, kayakers can float or paddle their way for a couple hours down river from “the Pines” to Oosoola Park, in Norridgewock. Those paddlers looking for action can seek out the Madison Wave, a river anomaly created by a pair of adjacent eddies that appears mysteriously after a big rain or in the springtime freshet can run all day. For kayakers it offers the kind of ride that you can’t skip. Big air, tricks, and a whole lot of fun. Good Luck!

The Grey Ghost lives!

This Grey Ghost (left) streamer is very pretty and still remains a wicked good fly. In 1924 Madison’s Carrie Stevens tied and tested out a new fly pattern and quickly netted a 6lb 13oz. Brook Trout.

That fish and the fly landed her in Field & Stream launching her career tying flies.

Slowing down, Madison-style Those looking for the slower-paced pleasures will find East Madison’s Lakewood area, on the shores of Lake Wesserunsett, along Route 201 offers pleasurable diversions including golf at Lakewood Golf Course, home to Maine’s only Par 6, fishing or spotting a bald eagle, then a night out to enjoy a delightful summertime production at Lakewood Theater, Maine’s State Theater and the nation’s longest running summer theater. Round out your visit with the simple pleasure of listening for the cries of the loon at dusk.

Madison-Anson Days: August 21 – 24 Summer wouldn’t be summer without a block party. Now expand that, to the whole town. Almost 40 years ago these cross-the-river neighboring towns got together to throw an annual summer shindig. From the starting horn of the 5K to the last pop of the fireworks on Sunday, this is the finest kind of family fun Maine has to offer.

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To learn more about Madison, visit KennebecValley.org.

MADISON, a great place

LAKEWOOD GOLF COURSE

RENYS – A MAINE ADVENTURE

to live, work & play!

803 Lakewood Rd. - 207.474.5955 LakewoodGolfMaine.com

COLONY HOUSE INN

Originally built in the 1920’s our beautiful, 18-hole course includes Maine’s only Par 6, with amazing scenery to give you a great golfing experience.

65 Main St. - 207.696.4405 Renys.com The Maine attraction in Madison.

Between Eaton Mountain, Lakewood Theatre, and Sugarloaf U.S.A.

68 Beach Rd. - 207.474.6599 ColonyHouseInn.com Built in 1929, the Colony House Inn is situated in scenic and historic Lakewood, offering both the elegance of the Inn or its more rustic cottages.

CURBSIDE CAFÉ 48 Main St. - 207.696.3960 Breakfast and Lunch Tues. thru Sat. Good ole home cooking. Check out our reviews at www.chowhound.com

HIGH TIDE/LOW TIDE SEAFOOD 30 Main St. - 207.696.7227 Facebook.com/hightide-lowtide-seafood Fresh lobsters and a case full of seafood straight from mid-coast Maine.

Family owned and operated.

KENNEBEC ICE KREAMERY 469 Main St. - 207.399.4392 Facebook.com/Kennebec-Ice-Kreamery

LAKEWOOD INN RESTURAUNT 76 Theater Rd. - 207.858.4403 LakewoodTheater.org Enjoy simple Maine elegance with lakeside views. Next to the Theater, enjoy dinner, dessert or a libation before the show or during intermission.

LAKEWOOD THEATER 76 Theater Rd. - 207.474.7176 LakewoodTheater.org The longest running summer theater in the nation, this historic lakeside setting offers nine performances each summer.

MAINE MAPLE PRODUCTS, INC 449 Lakewood Rd. - 207.474.3387 MaineMaple.com

Delicious home-made ice cream served in generous portions.

Our maple syrup has been selected the BEST for quality, purity and taste 12 of the last 13 years. Judge for yourself.

KENNEBEC RIVER OUTFITTERS

NORTH STAR ORCHARDS

469 Lakewood Rd. - 207.474.2500 KennebecRiverOutfitters.com

97 Orchard Rd. - 207.696.5109 NorthStarOrchards.me

Central Maine’s premier fly shop and outfitter serving the middle and upper Kennebec River Valley.

A family farm for family fun! Visit our farm store for fresh apples, cider and much more.

Find us on Facebook. Open year round.

TAYLORS DRUG STORE 2 Old Point Ave. - 207.696.3935 TaylorsDrugStore.com Friendly, professional service for all your pharmacy needs for over 100 years.

Cards, gift items, photo center. Local, caring, convenient!

TREASURES: A PRIMITIVE SHOP 270 Main St. - 207.696.8440 Facebook.com/Treasures-A-Primitive-Shop A shop of old and new Primitives, including home décor and accents of times gone by.

XANA-DO SALON & DAY SPA 411 Lakewood Rd. - 207.474.1234 Xana-DoSalonandDaySpa.com Relax with our exceptional, effective beauty treatments and allow yourself and your body to get the rest you need in a rejuvenating environment.

YOGI BEAR’S JELLYSTONE PARK 221 Lakewood Rd. - 207.474.7353 Yonderhill.com Family friendly camping with rates for overnight and daily use.

For more information visit

MADISONMAINE.COM

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Storied riverside towns along the Kennebec.

Bingham | Solon | Norridgewock | Moscow Bingham, Halfway to adventure.

Known as the gateway to adventure in Maine, Bingham is an outdoor sporting paradise and home to the halfway point between the North Pole and the Equator.

Sportsmen and those who love the outdoors who include Bingham in their plans are in for a treat in any season. The area’s many guides and outfitters will help them make the most of their trip. Anglers are especially fond of the Kennebec here, affectionately calling sections of this wonderful stretch of river Rainbow Alley.

Solon, the Old Canada Road and the South Solon Meeting House Long the home of log drives, Solon is the point of origin for the Old Canada Road Scenic Byway. This majestic 78-mile road runs from here to the Canadian border and offers soaring views in any season. Many favor autumn for the unforgettable leaf-peeping opportunities a trip on the Old Canada Road can offer.

The South Solon Meetinghouse, a historic church built in 1842, was added in 1980 to the National Register of Historic Places.

Constructed as a traditional Colonial church building with classical revival details, the original pews, pulpit and choir loft gallery are still in place. What makes it so special, though, is the interior — 50

elaborately painted with buon fresco technique in the 1950s by artists from the nearby Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture.

Norridgewock, home to Maine’s Abenaki Indians The Norridgewock Indians, or the “people of the still water between the rapids” as their name means in their own language, were an advanced people who cultivated the land and fished the waters of the ancient Kennebec River Valley.

Also of note is the beautiful rainbow-arched bridge that crosses the Kennebec River. The bridge replaced an older structure — built in 1928 of similar design, lovingly known as the “Covered Bridge” by locals. It is here that the Norridgewock Falls drop 90 feet over a mile, a geological feature which originally attracted manufacturers to the area.

Moscow and the Wyman Dam The small residential town of Moscow is situated just north of Bingham. The town’s outstanding feature is the Wyman Dam, which dams up the Kennebec River forming Wyman Lake, an artificial lake 12 miles long and more than a mile wide, extending north almost to the village of Caratunk. Replacing a natural course of rapids 140 feet high, the dam provides 88 megawatts of hydroelectric power for the Kennebec Valley annually.

To learn more about the Riverside Towns along the Kennebec, visit KennebecValley.org.

F e Th

a e r A orks

ork F . w ww

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THE FORKS and Caratunk

Hike to a waterfall. Ride the rapids. Land a big one. Spot a moose.

Millions of gallons of water are churning beneath you. Down you go and then up again. You are hurled up over the brow of a massive white wall of water. Tension mounts as you slam back down. Something called a “taco” happens. Then screams of delight erupt from all your raft mates. This is an appropriate welcome to The Forks.

The Forks is the home of whitewater rafting in Maine and is the reason many people come to explore the region. Located at the confluence of the Dead and Kennebec Rivers, it is the starting point for an experience of a lifetime.

The 12-mile Kennebec River trip begins upriver on Indian Pond and roars spectacularly through the Upper Kennebec Gorge, with rapids up to Class IV. Even more challenging, the Dead River provides the longest stretch of continuous whitewater in the East.

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There are many rafting companies and guides located in the area, each well suited for different kinds of passengers. In fact, several offer good-quality accommodations in addition to home-cooked meals and an experienced crew. But do your homework and plan ahead; the choice weekends are often booked long in advance.

Several of these providers have expanded their services to include guided ATV tours, mountain biking treks, rock climbing, moose safaris and snowshoeing trips. The Forks is a year-round destination for hunters and anglers, but come winter, the snowmobilers arrive.

If you are coming all this way, don’t forget to stop at Moxie Falls, Maine’s highest and some say, most beautiful waterfall. Bring a towel, too, because there is a rockin’ swimming hole a hundred feet or so down from the main drop.

To learn more about The Forks and Caratunk, visit KennebecValley.org.

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Jackman & Moose River

A sportman’s paradise.

Situated along the Old Canada Road, just below the U.S./Canadian border, Jackman has a long-established reputation as base camp for outdoor adventure.

Adventure can take on many forms these days, from hiking (or snowshoeing) to riding an ATV or snowmobile for a couple of hours or a full day. Hunting, fishing, boating and rafting trips are at the core of any visit to the Jackman area, and opportunities for adventure abound at every turn.

Situated on the shores of Wood Pond, Jackman provides swift access to over 60 lakes, ponds and streams. But accessibililty is not always the goal; many of the more remote fishing camps date back to the late 1800s, each with a loyal fan base that return year after year.

As you head into Jackman, be sure to make a stop at the Attean View Rest Area, just south of town. It’s a great place to stop and stretch your legs, picnic and to take a peek at the finest view of Attean Lake and the network of ponds connected by the Moose River, with the western mountains as the backdrop. It’s an unforgettable prelude to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

Regardless of your sport, the folks in Jackman will greet you with a smile and some “local advice” about the area.

To learn more about the Jackman area, visit KennebecValley.org.

GRAY GHOST CAMPS

Rugged and remote doesn’t need to feel that way. Our riverside cabins put you in the heart of Maine adventure country.

161 Jackman Rd. Rockwood - 207-534-7362 - GrayGhostCamps.com Adventure Equipment Rentals – Maine Guide on premises

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ROCKWOOD on Moosehead Lake Mt. Kineo has always had an almost magnetic appeal, drawing people through Rockwood and Greenville to its mystically high 700 ft. cliffs. Today, that draw continues to pull year-round visitors to the handsome little village of Rockwood-on-Moosehead.

Whatever the force that calls to you — adventure, relaxation or escape from civilization — Rockwood-on-Moosehead has an answer. Once you arrive in Rockwood, you will notice that every knotted muscle loosens up with the first cast, the first paddle or the first dive. Rockwood-on-Moosehead is as pure a Maine escape as it gets. Step onto the trail and explore. Head out for a day’s ride.

Hunt for that perfect trophy (or trophy image). Partake in all of these or maybe none. This is why Rockwood-on-Moosehead exists.

While all the necessary conveniences are available to the modern traveler, accommodations run from the classic to the very rustic — we’ll let you decide what that means. Rest assured, your hosts will do all that they can to make your stay both comfortable and memorable.

To learn more about Rockwood, visit KennebecValley.org.

Community Resource Guide Kennebec Valley Tourism Council: 207-623-4883 • KennebecValley.org Maine Office of Tourism: VisitMaine.com

Local Area Chamber of Commerce Belgrade Business Group: BelgradeLakesMaine.com Forks Area Chamber of Commerce: 207-663-2121 • ForksArea.com Hallowell Board of Trade: 207-620-7477 • Hallowell.org Jackman-Moose River Chamber of Commerce: 207-668-4171 • JackmanMaine.org Kennebec Valley Chamber: 207-623-4559 • AugustaMaine.com Maine Tourism Association: 207-623-0363 • MaineTourism.com Maine State Chamber of Commerce: 207-623-4568 • MaineChamber.org Mid-Maine Chamber: 207-873-3315 • MidMaineChamber.com Norridgewock Area Chamber of Commerce: 207-431-5188 • NorridgewockAreaChamber.com Skowhegan Area Chamber of Commerce: 207-474-3621 • SkowheganChamber.com Upper Kennebec Valley Chamber: 207-672-4100 • UpperKennebecValleyChamber.com Winthrop Area Chamber of Commerce: 207-377-8020 • WinthropChamber.org

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Emergency Services Emergency: Call 911 Maine State Police Emergency Augusta: 207-624-7076 or 1-800-452-4664 Kennebec County Sheriff, Randall A. Liberty: 207-623-3614 Somerset County Sheriff, Barry Delong: 207-474-9591 Maine Inland Fish & Wildlife: 207-287-8000 • MEFishWildlife.com Maine Department of Conservation (Land Use): 207-287-2211 Forest Fire Control: 207-287-2275 Maine Forest Service: 207-287-2791 Poison Control Emergency: 1-800-222-1222

Hospitals MaineGeneral Medical Center (Augusta): 207-626-1000 Maine General Medical Center (Waterville): 207-872-1000 Redington-Fairview General Hospital (Skowhegan): 207-474-5121

About KVTC (Kennebec Valley Tourism Council) For information about advertising in our next vacation planner or membership in KVTC, please contact KVTC Executive Director, Tanya Bentley at 207-430-8820.

Copy and Design: Thalo Blue Design, www.thaloblue.com ©2012 Kennebec Valley Tourism Council

The paper for this project was provided by the Sappi Paper Company Somerset Mill located in Skowhegan, Maine.

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THE BANKERY

87 Water St., Downtown Skowhegan 207-474-BAKE(2253) SkowheganFleuriste.com Located in the old 1864 bank building is a traditional, from-scratch bakery specializing in fine baked goods including breads, pies and pastries.

CAYFORD ORCHARDS

99 Hilton Hill Rd., Skowhegan 207-474-5200 CayfordOrchards.com Explore the farm, pick your own apples, have a picnic and take a hayride in the orchard. Open 9 – 5 daily Sept. 1 to Thanksgiving. Try our new hard cider!

HERITAGE HOUSE

182 Madison Ave., Skowhegan 207-474-5100 HHRestaurant.com An unforgettable dining experience that is a favorite among visitors and locals alike.

THE KNEADING CONFERENCE

Skowhegan State Fair Grounds July 24-25, Artisan Bread Fair, July 26 KneadingConference.com A two-day intensive educational experience about bread baking, grain growing, wood-fired oven construction and use, and milling.

LACASSE BATS & THE MAINE MEAL

THE CHILDREN’S COTTAGE

4 Madison Ave., Downtown Skowhegan LaCasseBats.com

Packed with new and like new, name brand children’s clothing, toys, baby gear and furnishings.

Handmade baseball bats made on site. Offering 200 bats on display, custom orders, gloves, and apparel.

Also carrying frozen cuisine of locally-sourced ingredients.

COUNTRY CROW PRIMITIVES

MAJA’S

Offering a wide variety of primitive home decor from new reproductions to farmhouse antiques.

A unique shop offering glass pipes, hookahs, piercings, tattoos, and body jewelry. Check us out! Mon–Thur,12–8; Fri-Sat,10–8.

66 Water St., Downtown Skowhegan 207-660-5495

61 Water St., Downtown Skowhegan 207-474-8504 Facebook.com/MECountryCrowPrimitives

75 Water St., Downtown Skowhegan 207-474-9330 MajasandTattoos.com

OLD MILL PUB

39 Water St., Downtown Skowhegan 207-474-6627 OldMillPub.net Enjoy casual riverside dining along the Kennebec River in a historic building with great character and charm.

THE PICK UP CAFÉ

Somerset Grist Mill, 42 Court St., Skowhegan | 207-474-0708 ThePickupCSA.com A weekend brunch and dinner café offering food from their local CSA program, located in the Somerset Grist Mill.

RED ROOF RELICS

127 Water St., Skowhegan 207-431-0682 An eclectic store at the end of the footbridge, buying and selling antiques, collectibles and music.

WHITTEMORE’S REAL ESTATE 108 Water St., Skowhegan 207-474-3303 WhittemoresRealEstate.com

Whittemore’s Real Estate has been in business since 1969 selling land, residential and commercial properties.

For more information, visit MainStreetSkowhegan.org.