Maine's Kennebec Valley Explorer 2019 Vacation Planner by The Kennebec Explorer

Maineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kennebec Valley

2019 Vacation Planner

Make Plans TO GO YOUR OWN WAY Explore our Trails & Waterways Arts & Culture in our Riverside Towns Local Food & Brew Festivals

KennebecValley.org

Make Plans to Go Your Own Way Hike up Blueberry Hill or take in a unique cultural event. Cast for rainbows or seize the day paddling Attean Pond. Visit lively riverside towns for a locally sourced meal or belly up to the bar for a locally crafted Maine beer. Wend your way along the Old Canada Road or unleash yourself to the thrills of rolling whitewater rapids.

How Will You Explore Maineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kennebec Valley?

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Table of Contents On the Water............................................................................................................................ 4 Get Outdoors............................................................................................................................ 6 Kennebec Valley Tourism Council PO Box 5242, Augusta, ME 04332 (207) 623-4883 | info@kennebecvalley.org Tanya Griffeth, Executive Director

Scenic Drives........................................................................................................................... 8 Our Towns................................................................................................................................10 2019 Signature Events.........................................................................................................13

Board of Directors

The Lakeside Life..................................................................................................................14 Winthrop Lakes | Belgrade Lakes | China Lake

Kristina Cannon Main Street Skowhegan

Wildlife Watching.................................................................................................................16

Pam Christopher Forks Area Chamber of Commerce

Foodie Adventures...............................................................................................................18

Tim Curtis Town of Madison

Augusta Area.........................................................................................................................20 Augusta | Gardiner | Hallowell

Katie L. Doherty Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce

Arts and Culture................................................................................................................... 24

Jason Gayne Skowhegan Area Chamber of Commerce

Waterville Area..................................................................................................................... 28 Waterville | Fairfield | Oakland | Hinckley

Mike Guarino Snow Pond Center for the Arts

Where to Stay......................................................................................................................... 32

Melinda Hahn Gardiner Main Street

Camping...................................................................................................................................36

Kim Lindlof Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce

Skowhegan Area...................................................................................................................38 Skowhegan | Madison | Anson | Lakewood | Canaan

Denise Murchison Silverton Sporting Ranch

Shopping..................................................................................................................................40

Christian Savage Somerset Economic Development Corporation

Maine Maple..........................................................................................................................44

Nathan Towne Waterville Creates!

Farmers Markets..................................................................................................................45

Cary Tyson Kennebec Valley Council of Governments

Darryll White Maine Grains

Wide Open Spaces...............................................................................................................50 Trail Riding............................................................................................................................. 52 Heritage Sports.....................................................................................................................54

This publication was paid for in part by grants from the Maine Office of Tourism, Kennebec County Commissioners, and Somerset County Commissioners and by the support of local businesses in the Kennebec Valley Tourism Council and their efforts through membership dues and advertising.

The Moose River Valley.....................................................................................................56 Jackman | Rockwood-on-Moosehead Plan Your Trip.......................................................................................................................59 Map of the Region................................................................................................................60

ÂŠ2019 Kennebec Valley Tourism Council Publication design and content by: Thalo Blue | ThaloBlue.com

On the Water A million ways to get soaked this summer. Bring your canoes, kayaks, or even your pontoon boat. Get ready for the plunge of a lifetime. Millions of gallons of fresh, clean, watery fun pour from every corner of the Kennebec Valley ready-made for you to enjoy.

Boating Multiple ramps along the rivers and lakes in every direction are the reason you’ll spot sport, fishing, and pontoon boats here. The water calls boaters back for more fun all summer long. All you need to do is open a map and find any spot with a boat launch, then head out. No boat? No problem! Use your wits and the web to find a guide or a nearby rental. Take an early evening cruise on the Kennebec River around Augusta— and enjoy a chance glimpse of one of the massive sturgeon found in the river.

Belgrades, spot moose on Big Moose Pond, troll for salmon in Seboomook, or paddle to Webber Pond for bass fishing perfection. Endless ideas are bound only by your imagination and a good (waterproof) map.

White water With two wicked-good rafting rivers converging at The Forks, we are the undisputed King of Maine White Water. Experienced rafters can take a pounding on the Dead River during one of the special water releases (offering Class IV rapids), getting soaked through each drop or thrilling eddy along the way. Want to build confidence on white water? Then take a run at the Kennebec River. Paddling the Kennebec River Gorge is a beauty of a ride and a ton of fun for every skill level. Get ready, because there are hundreds of trips available May through October. So find a company that fits your group size and needs. The special releases (schedule at right) are for “supersized” rides. Plan the second half of your day with a visit to Moxie Falls or relive your adventure over a couple of local brews.

Fishing. All seasons. All kinds. Our long tradition of sport fishing was built during a time when the original

“sportsmen” would come here for what is still Maine’s largest native brook trout and landlocked salmon fishery. That reputation continues to grow today with professional (and amateur) bass anglers having dozens of the world’s best lakes, ponds, and rivers for them to fish their limit. Plus, spring and summer fishermen don’t have a monopoly on fishing here; ice fishing brings the thrill of watching a monster specimen emerge from beneath the ice. So whether you love to read the whirls and eddies of a springtime hatch or simply dunk some worms with the kids, plan for time on the water when you arrive in the Kennebec Valley.

Grab a paddle Do you envision a day spent gliding across a pristine lake? Looking at scenic landscapes or going fishing? Maybe you are geared up for a multi-day adventure (we suggest the Moose River Bow Trip). Like boaters, paddlers come here for so many reasons. What’s yours? Perhaps a morning stretch or yoga atop a Stand Up Paddleboard followed by an enjoyable trek across the lake. More than merely dipping the paddle, time spent on the water also offers ways to do what you love: go birding in the

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VISITOR RESOURCES: Maine Man vs Bass Trail – MVBMaineTrail.com Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife –Maine.gov/ifw Mid-Maine Bass Fishing – MidMaineBass.com Registered Maine Guides – MaineGuides.org The Forks Chamber of Commerce – ForksArea.com Scheduled Water Releases on the Kennebec and Dead Rivers – Bit.ly/KVWaterReleases

For more about on-the-water activities visit KennebecValley.org

ON THE WATER

Get Outdoors

Follow a trail through the woods.

VISITOR RESOURCES: Central Maine New England Mountain Bike Association – CeMeNEMBA.org Lake George Regional Park – LakeGeorgePark.org Maine Trail Finder – MaineTrailFinder.com | Messalonskee Kennebec Trails– KMTrails.com Quarry Road Trails – QuarryRoad.org | Registered Maine Guides – MaineGuides.org

For more about outdoor adventure visit KennebecValley.org

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Thankfully, online resources like those at MaineTrailFinder.com will point you in the right direction. Those planning on biking in the region also need to pedal over to CeMeNEMBA for great places to ride and for lists of guided ride events coming up.

Out in the snow

Time spent outside can take you off the beaten path, make for an afternoon well spent with family and friends, and allow you to see a place in a whole new way. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, the Kennebec Valley offers hundreds, perhaps thousands of miles of trails to be enjoyed in any season.

Snowshoeing and fat biking are more than just great wintertime cardio; they offer a chance to see the beautifully snowy world of birds and animals during our coldest months along our well-groomed trails. One utterly romantic way to enjoy the winter is to take part in a full-moon excursion ending with a fireside cup of cocoa at trail’s end. For the more robust, jump on a pair of cross-country skis and take to the trails, also called Nordic skiing. It takes a little practice, but once you are up and going, it offers excellent exercise and is the best way to see a pristine winter world

captured under that brilliant white blanket of snow.

Shared-use trails Most trails are open to all kinds of non-motorized use. However, another class of trails under development is multi-use or shared-use trails, which are available for activities ranging from walking, horseback riding, and Nordic skiing all the way to ATV riding and snowmobiling in the winter. If you plan to use these trails, please abide by the posted signage.

Motorized use trails For those looking to rev up their vacation time, there is a vast and well-mapped network of trails for motorized use only. ATV and snowmobile clubs throughout the region have great local maps and resources that can often be found online or in stores near the places you wish to ride if you want to go it alone.

Hiking How can you not love hiking? Think of it. Aside from a pair of sturdy shoes —and maybe some bug spray—no special gear is required. It’s a sport that you can enjoy in almost any season. And it takes you into nature and away from the crush of everyday life. Go for a hike and embrace the sense of adventure that comes with discovering a new place from the outside in. We promise you’ll return a changed person. In fact, one of the world’s most famous (and life-changing) hikes, the Appalachian Trail, crosses through the Kennebec Valley.

Mountain biking Our terrain in the Kennebec Valley runs from flat to full-on vertical and everything in-between. Which makes it a great place to hit the trails on a bike. But we know that finding the best spot to ride is harder than it seems.

TOP HIKING TRAILS Kennebec River Rail Trail Augusta-Gardiner | 6.5 Miles | Easy

Messalonskee Stream Trails Oakland | 2.6 Miles | Moderate

Viles Arboretum Augusta | 6 Miles | Easy

French Mountain Trail Rome | 0.8 Miles | Easy

Vaughan’s Woods Trail (Hobbit Land) Hallowell | 1.7 Miles | Moderate

Robbins Hill–Wes Baker Trails Solon | 1.4 Miles | ADA Accessible

Sally Mountain Trail Jackman | 6.8 Miles | Moderate

Tower and Blueberry Trail Winthrop | 2.5 Miles | Easy

Moxie Falls Moxie Gore | 1 Mile | Easy

Lake George Regional Park Canaan/Skowhegan | 10 Miles | Easy

Scenic Drives Which way should we go? Let the road tell you.

Moose River Valley, ÂŠDan Marquis

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As you drive through Maine’s Kennebec Valley, slow down, and stop when it feels right, to enjoy the grand views and stunning scenery you’ll find here. For those along for the ride, put down your phone or you might miss out. You might just spot a red-tailed hawk hovering in flight or a gang of wild turkeys in a field. A Maine moose could even be hiding between the trees, curiously looking back. Each season offers a marvel. Late spring into summer brings the bright, fresh greens of fiddleheads at the roadside and trees dressed in new leaf. Summer fills the sky with blue. Puffs of white float over the deep green canopy. Autumn’s gold and russet hues can leave you breathless. Wintery whites of new-fallen snow and brilliant rays of sunlight through bare trees are a stark reminder that there is vast beauty in every season. Try some of our favorite scenic drives and make it an adventure. Be sure to fill the tank and grab some snacks first. Explore the side roads. Don’t just use the

GPS; find and use a Maine Gazetteer. Play a game called “turn left.” Get “lost” on purpose along a country road. Jump off the Turnpike a little early in Sabattus and follow 126 through Monmouth, the Tacoma Lakes and along Cobbesseecontee Stream to Gardiner. Or leave I95 altogether in West Gardiner and take Route 201 north through Hallowell, Augusta, Waterville, Fairfield, and Skowhegan, following the Kennebec the whole way. Or simply drive along the roads that surround the lakes of Monmouth and the Belgrades, absorbing the smalltown charm of places like Readfield, Fayette, Mount Vernon, and Vienna. With preparation, it’s easy to make your own way through our 5,000 square miles and 70 communities of the Kennebec Valley. Each is connected by a road and, while not all of them offer an Attean View or the flow of the Kennebec River just west of Skowhegan, they all will take you somewhere you’ve never been before.

Route 201, Moscow

CLASSIC DRIVES Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway Length: 78 Miles, Travel Time: 3 Hours Maine’s historical and cultural past travels along Route 201, weaving its story through the area’s many downhome cities, towns, and villages from Skowhegan to the international border with Canada (passport required). Scenic Lower Somerset Length: 60 Miles, Travel Time: 1.25 Hours Travel north from Skowhegan to Mayfield Corner back west to Bingham, then travel south on Route 201 all the way back to Skowhegan. It Takes Moxie Length: 144 Miles, Travel Time: 3.5 Hours Take Route 201 to The Forks and turn right onto Lake Moxie Road. Stop for a visit to Moxie Falls or scenic Moxie Pond, then get back on Route 201, and head north to Jackman and Rockwood.

New Portland Wire Bridge

VISITOR RESOURCES: Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway – Bit.ly/OldCanadaRoad

For more about scenic drives visit KennebecValley.org

Voyage International Length: 245 Miles, Travel Time: 5.5 Hours Follow Route 201 north to the international border with Canada (passport required). Once in Canada, take Routes 173, 269, 204, and 161 to Woburn, cross into the U.S. to Coburn Gore, follow Route 27 back south.

line our downtowns. Delight in what makes each town different from the others you visit. You’ll find that these towns are a near-perfect counterpoint to the wilder, wooded side of the region and the river that carves through it.

Our Towns Take the time to get to know the region’s cities and towns. In the cities and towns of the Kennebec Valley, visitors will find restaurants that satisfy. Shops to pick up the needs of everyday life, theaters to entertain, galleries to muse, bakeries to savor. You may come to town to enjoy the festivity of seasonal events of all kinds and the attractions and museums that share the stories of our history. Traveling from Gardiner to Augusta along the Kennebec River Rail Trail, you'll find places to pause and simply enjoy the day. Further up Route 201, Skowhegan gives you an up-close-andpersonal chance to really experience the difference between being in town and the great forested places that lie just a bit further to the north. Small towns and large, they all bustle with the comings and goings of everyday life. Overflowing with the energy of their people. Hallowell welcomes visitors

all year long. Buzzing with activity, this historic riverside city invites you to roam up and down Water Street, pausing when you feel compelled to take pictures of the beautifully restored architecture, a street performer, or view across the river.

People-watching as an art form Watching as a group of hipsters pass you by. A couple enjoying the art on display in a gallery window. Cars slowing to a stop, allowing a family to safely cross. These little snapshots of life, whether in Waterville or Winthrop, will paint a picture of what our towns and cities really look like.

A taste of in-town Grab a smoothie or a slice of pizza. Make time to enjoy a beer and think about the day. Window-shop along the streets and enter the stores that

To visitors, the cities and towns that make up the Kennebec Valley (or any new place for that matter) begin simply as names on a map. But each town here openly offers the visitor a glimpse of its personality in the architecture and the stores that line its streets. When you visit, take time to get to know the town by making small talk with its people. You will be rewarded with a chance to get to know the place. And you’ll pick up on the differences quickly. Some thrive on energy found in public art or music. In others, there's the pulse of education, or commerce and government. We hope you enjoy the time you spend in the cities and towns throughout Maine’s Kennebec Valley. Each of them makes up the bright, light-filled punctuation that breaks up the long flowing sentence created by the storied Kennebec River.

River Roads Gallery, Skowhegan

Downtown Waterville ©Heidi Kirn

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More than names on a map

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Waterfront Park, Gardiner

Hallowell

Downtown Augusta

VISIT. RELAX. FISH. tired of fishing the same spots & not catching “the big one”? Then it’s time to fish in mid-Maine. MidMaineBass.com offers a full list of the area’s waterways, information on boat launches, fishing tournaments, and local amenities, plus photo and video galleries filled with images of “big ones” that didn’t get away. Plan a visit today and discover why in 2018, Kennebec Valley’s world-class bass fishery was chosen for a second time to host Major League Fishing’s Summit Cup tournament. Stay tuned for all the action on Outdoor Channel during 2019.

midmainebass.com

Sponsored by Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce • 50 Elm Street, Waterville, ME • (207) 873-3315 • www.midmainechamber.com

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2019 Signature Events FEBRUARY Snowmobile Reciprocal Weekend 2/1–3, Region-wide Box Sled Derby and Winter Carnival 2/9, Lake George Regional Park, Canaan Skijor Skowhegan 2/9, Skowhegan Maine Pond Hockey Classic 2/8–10, Snow Pond, Sidney Great Maine Outdoor Week 2/8–18, Region-wide

4th of July Family Fun Day 7/4, Jackman

Harvest Festival 10/5–7, Belgrade Lakes

Central Maine Egg Festival 7/8–13, Pittsfield

Maine Craft Weekend 10/12–13, Region-wide

Maine International Film Festival 7/12–21, Waterville

NOVEMBER

Old Hallowell Day 7/20, Hallowell The Kneading Conference 7/25–26, Skowhegan Maine Artisan Bread Fair 7/27, Skowhegan

Waterville Parade of Lights 11/22, Waterville Kringleville 11/22–12/23, Waterville Belgrade Holiday Stroll 11/30, Belgrade

DECEMBER

Oakfest 7/26–28, Oakland

Gardiner Parade of Lights 12/7, Gardiner

Annual Maple Festival 3/22–24, Skowhegan

Skowhegan River Fest 7/31–8/3, Skowhegan

Joy to the Ville 12/7, Waterville

Maine Maple Sunday 3/24, Region-wide

AUGUST

Christmas in Old Hallowell Hallowell

JUNE

China Community Days 8/2–4, China

Agricultural Fairs

Maine Fiber Frolic 6/1–2, Windsor

Loon Calling Contest 8/3, Belgrade Lakes

Pittston Fair 7/19–22

Blistered Fingers Family Bluegrass Festival 6/12–16, Litchfield

Taste of Waterville 8/7, Waterville

Monmouth Fair 8/3–6

MARCH

Whatever Family Festival 6/12–7/4, Augusta Greater Gardiner River Festival 6/22, Gardiner Cheese, Brews, & Bread 6/23, Skowhegan Atlantic Music Festival 6/30–7/28, Waterville

Winslow Blueberry Festival 8/10, Winslow Anson-Madison Days 8/21–23, Madison Blistered Fingers Family Bluegrass Festival 8/21–25, Litchfield

Skowhegan State Fair 8/9–18 Maine Open Farm Days 8/22–23, Region-wide The Great Windsor Fair 8/25–9/2 Harmony Free Fair 8/31–9/3

Skowhegan Craft Brew Fest 8/31, Skowhegan

Litchfield Fair 9/6–8

Kennebec River Day 6/30, Augusta

SEPTEMBER

Clinton Lions Fair 9/6–9

Maine Outdoor Film Festival 9/2, The Forks

New Portland Lion's Fair 9/14–16

JULY

Great Maine Outdoor Week 9/20–29, Region-wide

Common Ground Fair 9/20–22, Unity

Kennebec River Brew Fest 6/30, Augusta

Annual Fourth of July Festivities 7/4, Clinton Fairgrounds Antique Boat Parade 7/4, Belgrade Lakes

OCTOBER Swine & Stein Oktoberfest 10/5, Gardiner

For more about events in the region visit KennebecValley.org Dates accurate at time of publication.

The Lakeside Life If only everyday life could be this easy. Loons call to each other as the waning hours of the day cast an indescribable aura across the water. A vacation spent near the water in the dozens of lakeside communities across Maine’s Kennebec Valley is an ideal way to make life a bit less stressful.

Time well spent: fishing, paddling, swimming Maybe it’s the laid-back vibe here that melts the tension. It’s a “whatever” sort of attitude that makes you want to grab your pole and head out to a favorite fishing hole. Who cares if you catch anything, though you probably will. In Winthrop, Lake Cobbosseecontee is a mecca for anglers, with plenty of Maine’s largest bass, just beneath its surface. Long and Great Pond are filled with trout and bass, too. It must be something about the water.

Further south in Litchfield are the Tacoma Lakes. Fayette has Echo Lake, where trout will just about jump in the boat if you whisper the right words. Long and skinny, Messalonskee has Belgrade at one end and Oakland at the other. Along the west side of Minnehonk Lake in Mount Vernon you might find the perfect lakeside-living activity; atop a high bank next to the road, a rope hangs off a branch which, if handled right, gives the rider what feels like an eternity in the air before making a splash. Further up Route 201 the lakes offer more wild characteristics. Moxie Pond, located east of Mosquito Mountain, is a favorite of paddlers. Pierce Pond has long occupied a special place in the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts.

Getting into the swing of things Many find the easy lake lifestyle transfers perfectly to the golf course as well, which makes good sense since Golf Digest continues to place the Belgrade Lakes course atop the list of Maine’s best public courses. Here’s a short list of courses around the lakes of the southern Kennebec Valley: Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, Augusta Country Club, Natanis in Vassalboro, and The Meadows in Litchfield. Whether it be catching fish, taking a swim, playing a round of golf, or grabbing an ice cream cone at the store after a long hot day, these lakes and the towns that call them home are more than just a place to play. They are genuinely summer living, perfected.

But it’s not just this lake or that lake; it’s all of them—Androscoggin, Maranacook, and Annabessacook. Each is a gorgeous stretch of clean, clear, wonderful water that reflects the light of dawn and the glow of sunset with perfection. Each a haven for boating, water skiing, paddling, fishing, and that perennial favorite with the kids, swimming.

The list of lakes goes on and on China Lake to the east of Augusta is a fishing and boater’s paradise sitting on the Bassmaster list for top bass fishing. Webber Pond near Vassalboro and Belgrade’s Great Pond are on the list, as was Cobbosseecontee a couple years back.

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Belgrade Lakes Country Club

Ladies Delight Light ©Dan Marquis

The Bowl at Snow Pond

RISING STAR: SNOW POND From the water you might miss it. But between the pine trees you can spy one of America’s grandest outdoor performance venues—the Bowl in the Pines amphitheater at Snow Pond Center for the Arts in Sidney. With Alumni Hall and an in-the-works performing arts center, Snow Pond is well on its way to becoming Maine’s premiere performance venue. Additionally, each winter, in partnership with the Alfond Youth Center, Snow Pond plays host to the exciting Maine Pond Hockey Classic.

SnowPond.org

BELGRADE LAKES

LADIES DELIGHT

Couple the beauty of Great Pond and the breathtaking sunsets over Long Pond with a longstanding tradition of “summering in Maine.” Add in the familiar thwack of a screen door and the bubbly sounds of laughter filtering up from the shore, and you have a complete picture of time spent on one of the seven interconnected Belgrade Lakes. Plus, surprising yet delightful events, spectacular autumn-hued views from the Mt. Phillip Trail, and a full moon midnight snowshoe hike onto the ice create a year-round destination that feels perfectly untouched.

Set on a small rocky shoal at the north end of the narrow and rocky Lake Cobbosseecontee is the only active inland light, flashing every night of the year. The lighthouse was commissioned by the local yacht club, then designed and built by the Boston firm of Frank Morse. Located in the lake’s North Bay, the lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. Having undergone multiple restorations, the light is now the Crown Jewel of the Cobbossee. Tours of the lake, including the light, can be arranged at the lake’s marina.

BelgradeLakesMaine.com

KennebecValley.org

Wildlife Watching Mostly moose, but there are so many other critters to spot. On the lookout for wildlife? While we make no promises, there are more chances to spot what you are looking for if you are well prepared. For some, it is as simple as grabbing a pair of binoculars and heading out to the woods on foot or atop an ATV. Another way to go would be to find a wildlife safari tour that can take you and your group to a known â&#x20AC;&#x153;hangout.â&#x20AC;? Finally, for the die-hard spotter, connect with a Registered Maine Guide with tracking skills who knows the terrain, the habitat, and the habits of the critters you desire to spot.

A spot of advice on spotting a moose Here in the Kennebec Valley, animal advice is mostly offered to those looking to track down and spot one of our majestic Maine moose. Based

on what we have seen and heard over the years, we can give you great advice on the whereabouts of the massive animals. When to: A good time to spot moose is at dawn and dusk from mid-May through July, after the snowy winter has passed, when they come down from higher elevations to feed on tender shoots. Moose are browsers rather than grazers. They obtain most of their food from aquatic and marsh plants such as horsetails and pond weed. Moose also eat grass, lichen, plants growing on the forest floor, peeled-off bark, and leaves from willow and poplar trees. But, there is nothing quite like spotting a male (bull) with a fully formed rack. Thus, because their antlers have grown in by September, the prime time to spot a full rack is during the fall rut (breed-

ing season). Seeing a moose at that time is a real treat because, not much later in the season, they will shed their antlers. Hikers lucky enough to find deer, or even better, moose antlers (called sheds) should consider this a rare find. Where to: Because of their massive size, moose find it easier to move about in open areasâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;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 licking up salt along logging roads, diving for dinner in wet boggy areas, hanging out in gravel pits, and clip-clopping down hiking or snowmobile trails. Those looking for moose will have better luck in the more rural parts of the region. As a rule of thumb, the further north you go, the better. The area around Jackman is prime moose spotting country, including anywhere along Route 201 from The Forks to the Canadian Border and on Route 15.

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WILDLIFE WATCHING: Bring Your Camera

Be Prepared: It goes without saying that you should have your camera ready. If you are in your car, stay in the car. Give them all the room they need. If you have never seen one of these large members of the deer family up close, you cannot imagine how big an animal it is. 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, a moose is a wild animal that deserves our respect.

Take a moose safari. To improve your chances of spotting the elusive moose, contact an outfitter that specializes in moose-watching tours, also known as moose safaris. You’ll have the opportunity to safely and comfortably view these magnificent creatures, and the other wildlife that might be encountered along the way, as you learn about moose habits and habitat. Alternatively, you can contact a Maine Registered Guide who

specializes in moose hunting to serve as a guide for your own private adventure.

Spotting other animals With hundreds of thousands of acres of forested land, the Kennebec Valley is home to dozens of species of mammals ranging from white-tailed deer to several of those seen less often, including black bear, Canada lynx, moose, bobcat, fox, and most if not all of the smaller fur-bearers. While disputed, it’s been said there have even been sightings of cougar.

Birding in the Kennebec Valley The Kennebec Valley is a haven for birds and for birders as well. With 275 identified species populating many locations here, our waterways, bogs, farmland, and forested mountains make for excellent birding. Augusta’s Viles Arboretum is a treasure, with 165 documented species. Other popular in-town locations up and down the river include the waterfront

in Gardiner, the Kennebec River Rail Trail, and the Hallowell waterfront. Around Waterville, check out Fort Halifax Park in Winslow and the campus of Colby College. Just north of Fairfield, the Shawmut Dam is a birding hot spot, as is the entire area of Belgrade, from the hills in the north to the bog and stream at Messalonskee Lake’s southern end. Further north, be sure to visit the Appalachian Trail’s intersection with the south end of Flagstaff Lake. VISITOR RESOURCES: Maine Birding Trail MaineBirdingTrail.com Maine Audubon – MaineAudubon.org Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife –Maine.gov/ifw Registered Maine Guides – MaineGuides.org

For more about wildlife watching visit KennebecValley.org

America travels on its stomach and we’ve got miles and miles of roads in Kennebec Valley. Leave room for the plethora of goodies served up here, set your GPS and loosen your belt for these distinctive Maine bites.

Foodie Adventures

Diners. Something for everyone

From the Main Streets to the back roads, taste abounds here.

Belly up to the counter, grab a coffee and dig into eggs-any-way, corned beef hash, home fries, and then some. These are what diners are supposed to be. Augusta House of Pancakes and Downtown Diner sling classic diner fare. So do Farmingdale’s Hi-Hat and Dave’s Diner in Gardiner. Try Bee’s Snack Bar in Winslow, Wentworth's Country Diner in Norridgewock, and Purple Cow House of Pancakes in Fairfield. Erik’s in Waterville offers a Bloody Mary with your omelet, and you can get anything you want at Alice’s Restaurant in Skowhegan. For brunch there’s Riverside Farm Market in Oakland, which serves a Crab Benedict to die for. Frosty’s is Gardiner’s donut destination. Augusta has Doc Hollandaise, with over 30 varieties of crazy-flavored donut concoctions. For a more fancy pastry head to The Bankery in Skowhegan.

Favorite lunchtime stops

VISITOR RESOURCES: Get Real, Get Maine – GetRealMaine.com | Maine Beer Trail – MaineBrewersGuild.org Maine Wine Trail –MaineWineryGuild.com

For more about food and drinks visit KennebecValley.org

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Road warriors don’t skimp on lunch. Go big with plate-sized sandwiches at Big G’s in Winslow, enjoy Jersey-style bagel sandwiches at Augusta’s Bagel Mainea, or try the Red Barn for the best fried seafood around. Damon’s in Augusta and Day’s Store in Belgrade serve up a famous “Italian” sandwich. In Skowhegan, Kel-Mat Cafe has salads and Old Mill Pub sports a view to go with its local brews and pub fare. In Gardiner? Grab a slice (or two) at Gerard’s or stop into Lisa’s Legit Burritos (also in Augusta). Juiced in Hallowell offers healthful eating. Or go the other way and start with desert at Governor's.

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Try Thompson’s in Bingham. You can easily blow by this place, unless it’s meal time when the street is all parked up. Emery’s in Waterville and Gardiner is the place to pick up some top chops and bacon to take home. Then take a ride up to Maine Maple Products in Madison. Jorgenson’s and Selah Tea in Waterville have great coffee, tea, and treats while Main Street neighbor Itali-ah Market and Restaurant serves wood-fired pizza, gelato, and espresso.

Treat yourself Want a whoopie pie? Grab a dozen at Wicked Whoopies in Farmingdale or Al’s Pizza in Skowhegan. Chocolate fetish? Visit the sinful Christopher Hastings Confections in Waterville, while Holy Cannoli offers up delightful baked treats like nobody’s business. If you still have room, Gifford’s Ice Cream has stands in Skowhegan and Waterville. Want a frappe? Try Winthrop’s Fast Eddies (Wednesday is cruise night).

The Bankery, ©Karen Sigler

It’s time for dinner Gardiner’s tidy little downtown offers up a few of our favorite dinner spots, including, A1 Diner or The Depot. With downtown Augusta on the rise, we want to tip our cap in the direction of Otto’s on the River (a slice with style) and the Irish Black & Tan. Sweet Chili at the Augusta Airport surprises for a tasty Thai dinner. Finally, Cloud 9 at the Senator Inn & Spa is a retreat from everyday dining. Hit Waterville’s jackpot from the new Portland Pie Company to the Last Unicorn. Stop in at 18 Below’s raw bar or Amici’s Cucina for Italian. Visit the newly updated Waterville House of Pizza or Proper Pig; it's a carnivore’s dream. Skowhegan’s mainstays: Heritage House has pleased for years and the Miller’s Table is always packed. In Belgrade, the Village Inn’s duck is famous and Sunset Grill is

favored for casual dining. In The Forks try Hawk’s Nest, The Boatman’s Bar and Grill, or Riverside Pub for river views.

Quench that thirst Augusta is burgeoning with Cushnoc Brewing Company and the nearby Two Gramps Brewing (also grab a bite) in Gardiner. Over in Pittston visit Doom Forest Tasting Room serving Chadwick’s Maple Craft Spirits. Oak Pond Brewing and Bigelow Brewing hold the fort in Skowhegan, both make tasty ales. Sit down for a pint at the Old Mill Pub in town. Looking for a lot of beer in one place? June offers the Kennebec River Brewfest while September brings the Skowhegan Craft Brew Fest, where you can sample dozens of Maine-made beers. Hallowell’s The Liberal Cup offers an ever-rotating

menu of English- style, house-made beers, as well as The Quarry Tap Room, “Maine’s deepest watering hole.” The Maine House is a craft cocktail bar using Maine-made spirits and eight taps for local beers. Grab a drink at Hydeout in Hallowell or maybe at Mulligan’s before heading over to Easy Street. Waterville Brewing Company has opened up in the Hathaway Creative Center (look for the food trucks out front). Stop in and stock up at Meridians in Fairfield, selling craft beer, wine, and food. Tree Spirits makes wines, absinthe, and a hand-crafted maple spirit in Oakland. Gardiner’s Sebago Lakes Distillery is creating small batch craft rums. Finally, raise your glass and toast yourself at the Circa 1885 wine bar in Augusta.

Vaughan Woods

Courtesy of Maine State Museum

Along the river in Hallowell

OLD FORT WESTERN

BIG, LITTLE HALLOWELL

GET OUT IN GARDINER

In 1754 a blockhouse was erected to provide for the regional protection of the then wilderness area that would become known as Augusta. It still stands today at Old Fort Western, on the eastern bank at Cushnoc. It also served as the mustering point for Arnold’s failed march on Quebec in 1775. Through many iterations, the “fort” has been re-purposed several times during its life, including a civilian store, a private residence, and a rooming house. Today it welcomes visitors to the capital region, offering living history exhibits and reenactments.

Just a stone's throw from the lazy flow of the Kennebec River is one of the tiniest but most lively cities you could imagine. In just a few blocks along Water Street is a tasty mix of stores, restaurants, bars, brewpubs, and antique shops made to delight and satisfy any and all cravings; there’s even a candy shop. Perfect for walking and window-shopping, especially for great river views along the Kennebec Rail Trail, Hallowell is a living museum with well-preserved historic buildings that evoke its place as Maine’s Antique Riverport.

Visitors will first notice that Gardiner is well-kept with a welcoming historic downtown filled with restaurants and shops. The scene in Gardiner is made all the more complete with its brick sidewalks, architectural restorations, and manicured parks filled with sculptures. Enjoy yourself inside the historic Johnson Hall during a rousing live performance or head to the waterfront park for the their wildly popular family-friendly outdoor summer concert series. Come to shop or dine, or even for a complete night out with entertainment.

OldFortWestern.org

Hallowell.org

DiscoverGardiner.com

20 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

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Augusta The Capital City is a must on your next visit. In addition to being Maine’s capital, Augusta is one of the more lovely and under-explored cities in Maine. Spend time at the capital complex, visit the Maine State Museum, cross over the Kennebec for an afternoon of living history at Old Fort Western, maybe shop the day away at the Marketplace at Augusta. Grab a meal or do some window shopping on Water Street.

Downtown on Water Street The beating heart of Maine’s capital city, set along a historic stretch of Water Street just a short walk from the capital and across the bridge from Old Fort Western, Downtown Augusta has hit its stride offering visitors places to eat and drink, like Circa 1885 and Otto’s, as well as the exciting Cushnoc Brewing Company. Come for city events or the weekly Farmer’s Market in Mill Park at the end of Water Street, one of the best around.

attractions. Inside you will spot the Lion, one of the nation’s oldest steam engines. Explore 12,000 years of Maine’s history, or tour the museum’s prize exhibit—a spectacular three-story water-powered woodworking mill that was taken apart and re-assembled inside the museum.

The Arboretum Crossing the Kennebec takes you to the Viles Arboretum, a vibrant showcase offering a refreshing selection of walking trails on 225 acres. The arboretum is home to a well-curated American Chestnut collection and the renowned hosta garden. Look up the regularly scheduled artist programs, like the annual Sculpture Symposium. The location is also one of Maine’s top in-town birding locales, with more than 39 documented species.

Active in Augusta The entire Kennebec Valley is crisscrossed with trails, but Augusta is lucky enough to be home to some of the best maintained, and easily accessible trails around. One of these, Bond Brook Park, is Augusta’s must-visit spot. The area has a growing reputation and the potential to become a world-class trail-sports venue that supports Nordic skiing, mountain biking, trail running, and hiking. With its deep connection to American history, a happening downtown, one of the state’s finest museums, and a growing reputation as a foodie destination, no visit to the Kennebec Valley could be complete without spending time in the capital area.

The Capitol Complex There is no getting around in Augusta without spotting the recently replaced copper dome of the state Capitol. Spend a little time getting the grand tour, or skip it and simply relax and enjoy downtime in Augusta’s Capitol Park, the public garden directly across the street from the Capitol complex. The broad, grassy park is also home to the Maine Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Maine State Museum The Maine State Museum is another of the city’s delightful and surprising

Capital Complex

22 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

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449 Lakewood Rd. (Route 201) - Madison, ME

Art and Culture Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about knowing where to look for inspiration.

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T MISS Colby Museum of Art Waterville | Colby.edu/museum Common Street Arts Waterville | WatervilleCreates.org Johnson Hall Gardiner | JohnsonHall.org Lakewood Theater Madison | LakewoodTheater.org Langlais Art Trail Statewide | LanglaisArtTrail.org Maine Outdoor Film Festival MaineOutdoorFilmFestival.com Maine International Film Festival Waterville | MIFF.org Snow Pond Center for the Arts Sidney | SnowPond.org South Solon Meeting House SouthSolonMeetingHouse.org Theater at Monmouth TheateratMonmouth.org Waterville Opera House OperaHouse.org

Langlais Art Trail, Skowhegan

24 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

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A dancer emerging from the shadows. A critic and filmmaker together on the same stage. The lone voice of a guitarist at an open mic night. Three centuries of American masterworks. Concertos, operettas and country music standards. Shakespeare. The arts are alive and well in Maine’s Kennebec Valley.

Art hiding in plain sight If you look beyond the obvious or trendy that often steal the spotlight, you will see that Maine and especially the Kennebec Valley have long been a haven for those who love to make art in all its forms.

The art of performance For classic and contemporary theater productions and concerts featuring toptier musicians, book your seat at the Waterville Opera House or Gardiner’s Johnson Hall. During the summer, enjoy an outdoor concert at Snow Pond Center for the Arts in Sidney or along the river at Johnson Hall’s Free Waterfront Concert Series on Fridays (June through August). Lakewood Theater in Madison raises its curtain on compelling dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies every season, as does the Gaslight Theater in Hallowell, Madison’s Somerset Abbey,

South Solon Meeting House

and Theater at Monmouth. Each winter classic holiday dance performances are on the bill region-wide. Hallowell offers an abundance of music venues, including a stage right on the banks of the Kennebec River. And if you love bluegrass, don’t miss the Blistered Fingers Family Bluegrass Festival in Litchfield (held twice each summer). If your soul is stirred by classical music, bathe in the experience of Waterville’s multi-week Atlantic Music Festival.

Our finest works Maine’s largest art museum. Yes, it’s here. The Colby College Museum of Art is a modern architectural wonder housing a vast collection of works of art from

Theater at Monmouth

diverse cultures and historical periods, with a focus on American and contemporary art. All of this and more are housed in the Alfond-Lunder Family Pavilion and an additional 10,000 square feet of exhibition space. Admission is always free. For art on a smaller yet still-compelling scale, view the work of gifted artists at Gardiner’s Monkitree, Hallowell’s Harlow Gallery, or Waterville's Common Street Arts.

Screen gems Waterville is the place for film in midMaine. Specifically, The Maine Film Center—which screens movies yearround and hosts the annual Maine International Film Festival—and its Railroad Square Cinema, a three-screen independent movie theater with the best popcorn in the known universe. Travel to The Forks in August for the Maine Outdoor Film Festival, where you’ll find the perfect venue to watch films about the great outdoors beneath the stars on a moonlit night.

VISITOR RESOURCES: Maine Arts Commission– MaineArts.Maine.gov

Waterville Creates

Colby College Museum of Art

For more about arts in the region visit KennebecValley.org

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Get a taste of events

Waterville A city with some of everything. The Waterville of today is a diverse hub of activity for year-round visitors: education, the arts, outdoor recreation, and a downtown humming with, events, dining, and nightlife. Add in the city’s proximity to other recreational standouts like The Forks for white water rafting, the tranquility of fly-fishing or hiking, and the Capital Area for history and cultural offerings, and Waterville makes an ideal vacation destination.

A cultural extravaganza As home to Colby and Thomas Colleges, Waterville gets a big boost in attracting a plug-and-play audience for the many, many cultural offerings here. The Waterville Opera House welcomes dozens of national and traveling musical, dance, and theatrical acts throughout the year. Each summer the Maine International Film Festival takes over Castonguay Square, the Opera House, and other venues around town. Art, sculpture, and murals adorn the

©Heidi Kirn/Waterville Creates

28 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

open spaces, making the city a feast for the eyes as well. Here, art overflows from sidewalks and walls, filling galleries with avant-garde showings, while on the campus of Colby College, Maine’s largest gallery and one of the nation’s most expansive collections of American art continues to amaze at no cost to visitors. Looking for the curious? Take time to head out to the L.C. Bates Museum and its century and a quarter of mystifying natural history.

With a full calendar of local events, there are a few standouts, to be sure. With a robust food scene, the winner in this category goes to “The Taste.” Each August, the city sets the table for the region’s only dining-focused festival; it’s great food served up street style. From iconic Maine lobster rolls to classic New England entrées and hip comfort food. “The Taste” alone is worth a trip to Waterville. During the holidays, the downtown is transformed into Kringleville where, to the delight of families from all over, Santa Claus arrives the day after Thanksgiving and holds court for the entire holiday season, listening to the wishes of children young and old.

Food and drink par excellence

Step outside

This vibrant city also does a great job at keeping your belly full and your thirst quenched. Dozens of excellent restaurants offer the region’s best tables. Perfected classics, like Italian, Mexican, steaks, and chops, line up next to trendy cuisine to delight. Brewpubs, bars, coffee shops, and teahouses round out the picture, offering something for us all at the beginning and end of each day.

Not to be outdone by in-town doings, there is more than enough to keep you busy if you have a yen for the outdoors. In summer, hike trails at RiverWalk at Head of Falls, Quarry Road, or the Kennebec Messalonskee Trails. You can ski and snowshoe all winter long — Quarry Road even makes its own snow. No matter what kind of fun you seek, Waterville is where great outdoor and indoor experiences easily converge.

©Heidi Kirn/Waterville Creates

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L.C. Bates Museum, Hinckley ©Dan Marquis

©Heidi Kirn/Waterville Creates

Messalonskee Lake

Fort Halifax, Winslow

ON STAGE: WATERVILLE

OUTSIDE IN OAKLAND

Classical to classic rock. Ballet. Film. Comedy. Country. Waterville has become a showcase for talent at a diverse and exciting collection of events and venues around the city. From month long celebrations that include the month-long Atlantic Music Festival in its 11th season as the premiere showcase for emerging classical music talent. The Opera House offers a full season of delightful performances from every genre. And don’t forget the ever eclectic Waterville Rocks!—the free and fun outdoor concert series that never fails to get Waterville up on its feet.

Perched at the north end of Lake Messalonskee, Oakland offers the ideal setting for any vacation. It is a lakeside retreat that is just minutes from Waterville’s dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.

WatervilleCreates.org

Play a round at the Waterville Country Club. Or paddle on one of the region’s most spectacular lakes. Then enjoy a day exploring The Kennebec Messalonskee Trails, which offer nearly 40 miles of trails to hike, bike, ski, snowshoe, and even sled.

KMTrails.com

FORT HALIFAX, WINSLOW More than just a great place to fish, Fort Halifax Park was home to Native American encampments until the end of the 17th century. Then it marked the northern boundary of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The entry is marked by the oldest blockhouse in America and all that remains of this 18th century complex. Built to defend the upper Kennebec Valley from attacks, today the picturesque site is a popular location for town events like the annual Fort Halifax Days.

Winslow-ME.gov

NEWLY R EMODELED. THE P ERFECT HOME AWAY F ROM HOME.

Your All-Season Activity Center in the Upper Kennebec Valley

BED & BREAKFAST — 1816 to 2016 —

ATV Trails • Boating • Canoe & Kayaking • Conferences & Retreats Cross-country Skiing • Fall Foliage • Fishing • Hiking • Hunting Lake Cruises • Seaplane Tours • Snowmobiling • Snowshoeing Tubing • Weddings • White water Rafting • Wildlife Watching

1041 US Route 201, Caratunk, ME 04925 • 207.672.3333 • MaineSterlingInn.com

F I S H I N G • SWI M M I N G

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American plan lakefront 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

30 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

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Where to Stay We’ve got a place for everyone, no matter what they plan to do. Even you! The best way to begin your search for a place to stay in Maine’s Kennebec Valley is to figure out what you plan to do and build up from there. Visitors can enjoy a vast variety of activities all four seasons— and enjoy choosing from an equally vast variety of lodging options. Looking to get off the grid? Camping is a natural choice, whether you plan to park your RV or bring a tent. No equipment? No problem. Maybe it’s an Outdoor Adventure Resort or one of the many traditional Maine Cottage Resorts you need. Either will keep you well rested and ready to face the day. Want to handle all the daily scheduling and details like you would at home? A Vacation Rental will provide you with control over every moment of your stay.

Hampton Inn, Augusta

32 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

Find a lakeside cottage of your dreams or a cozy mountain bungalow built for two; you make the rules and the meals. Sporting Camps and Wilderness Lodges are purpose-built for adventure and the hunting and fishing types. But don’t be fooled, most have the comforts of an in-town hotel; they happen to put their guests in the center of the action. Visitors to the region coming in for shorter getaways—perhaps something like a special event, destination wedding, or romantic leaf-peeping trip—can pick from a collection of in-town Inns and B&Bs. And if you plan on being in Augusta, Waterville, Skowhegan or some of the other larger towns here, there are excellent choices when it comes to Hotels and Motels.

Maple Hill Farm Inn, Hallowell

Camping From rugged fun to relaxing in the sun, pack your gear and go. Don’t forget your sense of adventure and a plan to have no plans. Campgrounds range from simple tenting to full-on family RV camping resorts, so do your homework as you look for the “perfect spot.” Keep in mind the things you want to do, too, when you are not on your site.

C Moxie Gore Outfitters

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WILDLIFE WATCHING: Bring Your Camera

Cottage Resorts With nature right outside your door, a Cottage Resort can combine the nostalgia of a classic Maine getaway with unmatched hospitality and family fun. Meal plans are pretty standard and camp activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing are usually available at no extra charge. Or you can just relax and let time slip by.

Vacation Rentals Vacation like you live here. Big or small, you make the call. Most any of our towns have real estate offices or rental specialists that cater to these kinds of properties. Or for the more tech savvy, there are any number of online lodging sites. When you rent the right place it feels like you own a vacation home.

with your hosts and other visitors. These friendly folks are in the know about the best of the region and will be glad to arrange for a sunset boat ride on the lake or a picnic to take along on your day out.

Outdoor Adventure Resorts These resorts are built around taking care of their guests with an activityfilled vacation in mind, with onsite outdoor activity planning (including guides), dining, entertainment, and even onsite breweries. Plus, they usually have accommodations that range from roughing it in a tent to posh multi-unit cabins or suites. After your adventure, enjoy a dip in the pool or a soak in a hot tub.

Inns and B&Bs

Sporting Camps and Wilderness Lodges

An overnight stay at one of our many bed and breakfasts or historic inns provides a highly-personalized lodging experience, and also a way to connect

Camps and lodges are a Maine tradition. These purpose-built lodgings grant easy access to the outdoors and insider tips from the owner—usually a Registered

Maine Guide as well. Guests enjoy home-cooked meals, camaraderie, and fully-stocked cabins right out in the woods.

Hotels and Motels Hotel and motel lodging in Maine’s Kennebec Valley provides a comfortable and welcome respite from your day’s activities. Augusta and Waterville are where you will find national chains to fit every budget. Or experience traditional Maine hospitality at the motels and motor courts in virtually all the towns along the region’s major thoroughfares.

VISITOR RESOURCES: Hospitality Maine – HospitalityMaine.com Maine Campground Owners Association – CampMaine.com

For more on lodging options in the region visit KennebecValley.org

Maine Maple Products, Inc.

Award-Winning!

Simply the Best. 1-800-310-3803 | MaineMaple.com 449 Lakewood Rd. (Route 201) - Madison, ME 34 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

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A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE, WORK AND PLAY! COLONY HOUSE INN

LAKEWOOD THEATER

ROY’S INFLATABLE WATER SLIDES

68 Beach Road • 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 more rustic cottages.

76 Theater Road • 207-474-7176 LakewoodTheater.org The longest running summer theater in the nation, located lakeside, this historical setting features nine performances each summer.

469 Main Street Facebook.com/roysinflatablewaterslides 7 huge slides in this park near Madison High School. $10 per person for a day of fun. Summer hours 10am to 8pm, 7 days a week.

FOSHAY’S INFORMATION BOOTH

MAINE MAPLE PRODUCTS, INC

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144 Main Street One stop shopping for all your tourism and business information in and around the Madison area. Also the home of Santaville during the holiday season.

449 Lakewood Road • 207-474-3887 MaineMaple.com Our maple syrup has been named Maine’s Best for quality, purity, and taste many times in recent years; judge for yourself!

98 Main Street • 207-696-5800 SomersetAbbey.com A music, wedding, and events hall in a historic setting. See our website for a calendar or musical and comedy events or call for a tour.

KENNEBEC ICE KREAMERY

NORTH STAR ORCHARDS

TREASURES: A PRIMITIVE SHOP

469 Main Street • 207-399-4392 Facebook.com/kennebec-ice-kreamery Delicious homemade ice cream served in generous portions. Over 20 original flavors in hard and soft serve. Try a super sundae today!

97 Orchard Road • 207-696-5109 NorthStarOrchards.me A family farm for family fun! Visit our farm store for fresh apples, cider and much more. Find us on Facebook – we’re open year-round.

270 Main Street • 207-696-8440 Like Us on Facebook A shop of old and new primitives, including home décor and accents of times gone by.

LAKEWOOD GOLF COURSE

R&B’S HOME SOURCE

803 Lakewood Road • 207-474-5955 LakewoodGolfMaine.com Originally built in the 1920s, our beautiful course includes Maine’s only Par 6, with amazing scenery to give you a great golfing experience.

517 Lakewood Road • 207-474-2400 RandBsHomeSource.com Looking to furnish your camp? R&B’s is a familyowned discount appliances, lawn and garden, furniture, mattresses, and electronics store

221 Lakewood Road • 207-474-7353 YonderHill.com A family-friendly campground that also has cabin and RV rental units. Gem mining, bounce area, pedal cart rentals, fishing, pool, birthday party packages, and much more!

LAKEWOOD INN RESTAURANT

RENYS – A ‘MAINE’ ADVENTURE

XANA-DO SALON & DAY SPA

76 Theater Road • 207-858-4403 LakewoodTheater.org Enjoy simple Maine elegance with lakeside views. Enjoy dinner, dessert or a libation before the show or at intermission. Sunday brunch 10-2.

65 Main Street • 207-696-4405 • Renys.com A big Maine attraction in Madison. Just a short drive from Eaton Mountain, Lakewood Theater, and Sugarloaf USA.

411 Lakewood Road • 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

For more information, visit MADISONME.ORG or Facebook.com/visitmadisonmaine. 35

Vacations are Made for Camping

VISITOR RESOURCES: Camp Maine – CampMaine.com

For more on camping in the region visit KennebecValley.org

What is camping? Maybe it’s the lack of definition that makes camping so great. Let’s keep the definition simple: A tent or RV on a beautifully wooded site where the starry sky and a campfire replace the television for nightly entertainment. Now all you need to do is pack—be it almost everything or virtually nothing depending on your style—and find your spot. Here are some ideas. But with about a hundred campgrounds, cottage resorts, or vacation rental services here you should be able to find a really great spot; the rest comes naturally.

Looking for a lakeside escape Maine’s reputation as Vacationland is well earned, and with dozens of the cleanest and most respected fishing and recreation lakes in the U.S. found in the southern part of the region—less than a tank of gas from home—you’ll quickly

36 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

agree. Bring the boat or the floats. Fish all day and sizzle up your catch for dinner. Hike the dawn and repeat what you did yesterday. Look for places around Winthrop, Monmouth, Rome, China, and Belgrade.

On the outskirts of town That special camping glow doesn’t always need to be out in the wilderness. Besides, some great camping can be within easy reach of all the needs and feeds found in the cities and towns along the Kennebec River. Maybe even arrive in time for the Fourth of July, a local fair, or family fun. If you’re looking for centrally located family camping that still delivers on all the Maine camping experiences (water, woods, fun), you’ll want to start your hunt around Skowhegan, Canaan, or Madison.

KennebecValleyExplorer

Getting back to nature Camping is about the great outdoors, right? If you don’t limit your camping to what you can fit in your trunk or to just the warm weather, this may be your jam. Easy hikes to mountain peaks. Picnic lunches next to a thundering waterfall. All of it is breathtaking. Don’t forget your kayak or canoe. Once you arrive, you won’t want to leave. This place sets a high bar for outdoor recreational camping with great spots in The Forks, Jackman, and Rockwood, and all around the Moose River Valley.

More than we thought possible During a recent search, we found that the Kennebec Valley is home to nearly a hundred campgrounds, RV parks, cottage resorts, vacation rentals. So dig deep, and you might discover camping perfection this year.

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This institution is an Equal Opportunity Provider.

Skowhegan A place to watch becomes the place to be. Year-Round Foodie Events Starting in March, Skowhegan’s annual Maple Festival heralds the (near) end of winter. Yummy! July brings the KneadLakewood Golf Course ing Conference and Artisan Bread Fair. Labor Day weekend offers a chance to raise your glass at the Craft Brew Fest, which is guaranteed to be bigger and better than ever. Don’t worry if you can’t make an event—there will be plenty more chances to jump in. That’s the thing about Skowhegan, it possesses an unrivaled vibe and a boundless energy like the rolling waters of the Kennebec River that cascade into the river gorge. There always seems to be a cool local event on the calendar worth checking out. Join in the fun to see what you’ve been missing.

Basecamp for Adventure For the visitor who loves adventure, Skowhegan makes a perfect jumpingoff point because a bit further up the valley is the state’s best white water rafting. Closer by the waters of the Kennebec River, its tributaries, and the dams along the way, make for excellent kayaking (try the Madison Wave), tubing, as well as some of the finest trout fishing in the state. Climbers looking to explore a little will find a treasure here. Trail running and biking are found in any direction you go. But the best part? At the end of the day, you can head back to town for a hot meal, some local craft beer at well known places such as Bigelow Brew-

38 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

ing Company and Oak Pond Brewing Co., and a welcome slice of civilization. Cheers to that!

Skowhegan Craft Brew Fest

Farm-to-Table The Kennebec Valley has always been known for its fertile soil, and a heritage of farming here goes way back. Today there is a year-round farmers market where customers will find fresh, seasonal produce, naturally raised meats, eggs, local dairy products, baked goods, coffee, maple syrup, honey, soaps and salves, seedlings and cut flowers. The continued success of the Somerset Grist Mill at Maine Grains and the Miller’s Table restaurant have given Skowhegan a certain status that makes it an ideal location for breweries, food-friendly events, restaurants, pubs and, of course, one heck of a tasty bakery.

Kennebec River Gorge

Along Water Street As one of the three Main Street Maine communities in the Kennebec Valley, Skowhegan has been recognized for its very walkable downtown area, filled with small cafés, shops, and businesses. It's all set in a backdrop of beautiful and well-maintained buildings that show off the history of the town. When you get here, walk around some. Just up the street from downtown is Coburn Park, a pretty and welcoming green space that also hosts events like the charming summertime gazebo concert series and Dinner in the Park.

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Lakewood Golf Course

Lake George Regional Park, Canaan

Lakewood Theater

CANAAN & LAKE GEORGE

LAKEWOOD VILLAGE

Canaan may be heaven on earth for sportsmen and vacationers alike. Far enough away from it all to give a sense of remoteness, but close enough for it to still be convenient. East of Skowhegan, it is home to the beautiful Lake George Regional Park, 520 acres of well-manicured space with a welcoming beach, 10 miles of looped trails, and picnic facilities. With all there is to enjoy here in summer, paddlers and hikers will be thrilled with this gem. Then when winter comes, so will snowmobilers and snowshoers.

A little way up Route 201 from Skowhegan is a different kind of place. A shrine that has since 1901 celebrated the nostalgia of summer theater, where the woes of city living could be left behind in exchange for days of bliss on the lake and on the greens, followed by evenings of dining and entertainment performed by stars of stage and screen.

LakeGeorgePark.org

LakewoodTheater.org

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FOOTSTEPS OF HISTORY

With a downtown on the rise, Madison offers wide, tree-lined streets that just ask you to stick around for a while. Go for a hike or paddle. The river here offers a nice challenge for kayakers as the river works its way toward Skowhegan. Bring your rod, too, because below the dam and off the Historic Pines trail anglers will find excellent trout. And golfers should head out to the Lakewood golf course, to take on the massive 660 yard par 6 (#12) one of the only Par 6 holes in the entire country. Oh, and ask a local where to get a Dynamite Sandwich.

Rare is the chance to hike a place that, while beautiful, also offers a window into our nation’s past that’s like Madison’s Pines Trail. At just over 3/4 of a mile, this easy riverside hike takes you back to the American frontier and home to Father Sebastian Rasle, a martyred Jesuit missionary—look for markers that tell his tale.

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Today the theater, inn, restaurant (open seasonally), and magnificent golf course all still welcome visitors to partake in that grand tradition of summering in the Maine Woods.

Later, Benedict Arnold camped here en route to Quebec. The trail also accesses excellent fly fishing. The trailhead is approximately four miles north of the Norridgewock Bridge.

Shopping If you can’t find it here, you don’t really need it. Small shops: they’ve got it.

The hunt for antique and vintage.

It’s all at the Mall.

Keep your eyes peeled as you travel along our byways and through our towns. You’ll find small, local shops in the most surprising places, gladly welcoming visitors inside. Whether it’s a bike repair, handmade earrings, a custom fishing fly, or a coffee mug, these artisans have their fingers on your pulse. They are there if you look hard enough. Snugged in between a barber and a Realtor you might find new fashions, collectibles, and even things that go zip and zoom for the kids. Sometimes it may be the only option as well. That gas station in town may also make the best sandwich around and have a raincoat, a kayak paddle, and a first aid kit. We should probably call them “necessity stores,” because if you need it, they’ll surely have it.

Central Maine offers great antiquing; pickers come here and go home happy. Country auctions held on a somewhat regular basis are filled with all kinds of rural Maine finds and other “great stuff,” while the antique malls overflow with mountains of oddities or treasure, depending on which way you lean on the subject. Casual shoppers should head to Hallowell’s densely lined Water Street for shops like Johnson-Marsano Antiques and The Hallowell Antiques Mall. In Waterville, there is the massive Hathaway Mill Antiques. Those looking to dig a little should follow the roads out of the bigger towns, especially Route 201, to find spots like Jellison’s in Augusta, Poulin’s, and the Fairfield Antiques Mall a mile or so off of the interstate in Fairfield.

For some time now Augusta has been home to some of the best shopping in Maine, and because it’s outdoors, it’s way less crowded than Portland. So if you need something, or even if you want to browse, visit The Marketplace at Augusta. It’s close to the interstate and while nearly all of the mega-retailers are represented—Barnes & Noble, Home Depot, Walmart, and Old Navy— there are many unexpected surprises, too, with brands like ULTA, Yankee Candle, and Eddie Bauer Outlet. You can also shop for bargains at Kohl’s or grab a bite with friends and family at Red Robin, Chipotle, or Elevation Burger. Whether it is shopping for something you forgot at home, or maybe you just want to treat yourself while on vacation, you are bound to find what you need.

Downtown Skowhegan

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Hallowell Antique Mall

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Christopher Hastings Confections

Downtown Bacon Farms Gardiner ©Tom McPherson

Find yourself down on Main Street.

Crafted in Maine.

Shopping for Maine foods.

The Kennebec Valley is home to three of Maine’s Main Street Communities— Gardiner, Augusta, and Skowhegan— that represent the idea that a vibrant downtown is an economic engine. Each works in different ways, but all continue to advance their communities. Their streets are lined with shops, boutiques, and restaurants of all kinds. Most, if not all, are run by local business people. Shopping in other downtowns is no less enjoyable though. Make time to hit the bricks in Hallowell, Monmouth, Belgrade, Waterville, and Madison. More than just places to shop and eat, they are gathering places for local celebrations like Kringleville or Old Hallowell Day and performances at places like Johnson Hall in Gardiner, or the Waterville Opera House.

If you find yourself headed north into the Kennebec Valley traveling along the interstate, jump off and take a break at the West Gardiner Travel Plaza. Once inside, you’ll find the Center for Maine Craft located in the corner next to Starbucks. Take time to wander around this amazing store organized and run by the Maine Crafts Association. It’s open year-round and nearly every kind of craft imaginable—from carved and turned wood pieces to delicate jewelry, fiber art, books, and even some food products—are represented here. Everything in the store has been created by Maine’s hugely-talented crafts workers. Those looking for other Maine-made merchandise should visit the Maine Made & More stores in Belgrade and Waterville.

Not to discount what you will find at over a dozen farmers markets here, but there is a food revolution happening in the Kennebec Valley. Good food made here is showing up everywhere. Some of the best tomatoes in the world are grown in Madison. Gourmet chocolate from Waterville. Wines and spirits from Oakland. Ice cream from Skowhegan. Whoopie pies and artisan crisps from Waterville. Flour and grains milled in Skowhegan. Sauces and marinades from Canaan. Maple syrup from Madison. Mushrooms from Gardiner. And microbrews from just about every zip code in the region. Look for the Made In Maine brand when you are shopping in the region and give our local stuff a try. Happy eating.

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The Bankery

Bigelow Brewing Company

Boynton’s Greenhouses

Damon’s Beverage Mart

87 Water St., Skowhegan 207-474-BAKE (2253) TheBankery.com

473 Bigelow Hill Rd., Skowhegan BigelowBrewing.com

144 Madison Ave., Skowhegan 207-474-2892 BoyntonsGreenhouses.com

55 North Ave., Skowhegan 207-474-2312

Housed in a converted bank in the historic Flat Iron District, this artisan bakery features organic coffee, fine pastries, artistically designed cakes, and more.

A must-see destination craft brewery, Bigelow strives to use locally sourced ingredients in everything from the fresh brewed craft beer to the delicious wood-fired pizza. Open Fridays 3-8 p.m. and Saturdays noon-8 p.m.

Family owned and operated since 1952, Boynton’s offers fresh flowers, house plants, and garden plants from their flower shop, year-round greenhouse, and seasonal garden center.

Dog Not Gone

Heritage House Restaurant

Kel-Mat Cafe

40 Dane Ave., Skowhegan 207-479-5500 DogNotGone.com

182 Madison Ave., Skowhegan 207-474-5100 HHRestaurant.com

147 Madison Ave., Skowhegan 207-474-0200 KelMatCafe.com

Tick and insect repelling An unforgettable dining Unique deli-style sandwiches, apparel for pets and people, experience that is a favorite wraps, and salads, plus made at our Maine factory with among visitors and locals alike. homemade desserts, daily permethrin-treated fabric to soups, and gluten-free and keep ticks, mosquitoes, and vegetarian options. 42 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org KennebecValleyExplorer @kennebecexplorer black flies away.

Family owned and operated, Damon’s Beverage Mart has been serving Central Maine for almost four decades. Damon’s offers liquor, beer, wine, and a redemption center. Visit one of their four locations in Skowhegan, Bangor, Waterville, and Augusta.

Lakewood Golf Course and Trails 803 Lakewood Rd., Madison 207-474-5955 LakewoodGolfMaine.com Built in the 1920s, this beautiful course offers amazing scenery and Maine’s only Par 6. In the winter don’t miss the groomed explorerofmaine #Nordic ski and snowshoe trails.

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Maine Cedar Hot Tubs Skowhegan 207-474-0953 MaineCedarTubs.com Rest, relax, and recharge with Maine Cedar Hot Tubs.

Maine Grains Flour, Feed, and Dry Goods Store 42 Court St., Skowhegan 207-474-8001 MaineGrains.com Manufacturing and selling organic stoneground flour and oats in a repurposed 19th-century jailhouse. Open Monday-Saturday 10-5.

River Roads Artisans Gallery

Maja’s

75 Water St., Skowhegan RiverRoadsGallery.com

75 Water St., Skowhegan 207-474-9330 MajasBodyArt.com Facebook.com/MajasBodyArt

River Roads is a co-op gallery featuring quality Maine art and craft including paintings, prints, pottery, jewelry, woodwork, fabric arts, metal art, blown glass, and more.

A unique shop offering glass pipes, hookahs, and body jewelry. Open Sunday 11-4, Monday 11-6, and TuesdaySaturday 10-6.

Old Mill Pub

Rehab & Fitness Services

Russakoff Jewelers

Skowhegan Fleuriste

39 Water St., Skowhegan 207-474-6627 OldMillPub.net

57 Fairview Ave., Skowhegan 207-474-7000 rfgh.net/Services/ RehabFitnessServices

100 Water St., Skowhegan 207-474-9010 888-MAINE-GEM RussGems.com

93 Water St., Skowhegan 207-474-6256 SkowheganFleuriste.com

A Redington-Fairview General Hospital department, Rehab & Fitness offers in- and outpatient rehabilitative services and aquatics-based fitness programs in therapy pools.

Maine’s oldest family owned jewelers, specializing in fine diamonds and gems for 110 years.

Adjacent to the Bankery in the historic Flat Iron District, this shop offers fresh-cut flowers, unique Maine-made gifts and gourmet foods, and locally crafted cards.

Skowhegan Wooden TI MELI NERule

Somerset Sports & Fitness

The Towne Motel

Whittemore’s Real Estate

172 Madison Ave., Skowhegan 207-474-5151 or 800-843-4405 TheTowneMotel.com

108 Water St., Skowhegan 207-474-3303 WhittemoresRealEstate.com

Memories last child’s forever with as a it Record your growth Timeline Ruler. Record happens Growth directly onto the face of the your growth on the rule child’s and record milestones and special events the back. Theor growth and front andonmilestones special personal recorded willfree become events onhistory the back. $89, a symbol and celebration of your child. shipping.

6 Commerce Dr. (Route 201), Skowhegan | 207-474-2224 rfgh.net/Community/ SomersetSportsFitness A Redington-Fairview General Hospital affiliate, this fitness facility promotes wellness by providing a non-intimidating atmosphere for all fitness levels.

Enjoy Skowhegan lodging at its best. Complimentary breakfast, large pool, Wi-Fi, and AC. Next to the Heritage House Restaurant.

Whittemore’s Real Estate has been in business for 50 years selling land, waterfront property, camps, cottages, and residential and commercial 43 properties.

Enjoy casual riverside dining along the Kennebec in a historic building with great character and charm.

Skowhegan G ROW TH RULE 207-474-0953 MAKE YOUR MEMORIES SkowheganWoodenRule.com LAST FOREVER

Manufactured utilizing traditional methods since 1869. $89, free S&H.

Tree-to-Table: Ironically, it’s right around Valentine’s Day that the maple trees begin to produce what will become some of the sweetest elixirs on earth. When the days start to get a little longer and the nights stay wicked cold, the roots of maple trees send out the call that springtime is on its way. Now multiply that annual miracle by tens of thousands of trees across the northern part of the region. More syrup pours out of the Kennebec Valley—Somerset County to be exact—than anywhere else in the world.

Wilson Family Maple Syrup

44 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

You’ve never had it so sweet. Over the next several weeks the trees do their thing while sugar makers do theirs—gathering up and boiling down the sap from its watery start to the delicious amber liquid that we all know so well. Excitement begins to fill the air like wood smoke as the fourth Sunday of March, Maine Maple Sunday, arrives. This is when hundreds of sap houses across the state open their doors to share their bounty and the reasons why their syrup is the best you’ve ever had.

Wilson Family Maple Syrup

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FARMERS MARKETS

SUGAR HOUSES

Augusta Mid-May to Mid-October

Arnold Farm Sugar House Jackman | Arnoldfarm.com

Mill Park, Augusta Mid-May to Mid-November

Bacon Farm Sidney | BaconFarmMaple.com

Viles Arboretum Year-round

Carrier Sugar House Jackman | 207-668-4391

Belgrade Lakes Mid-May to Mid-October

Cobbs Hill Sugarhouse Mount Vernon | 207-620-2326

Canaan May to October

Dennis Brook Maple Syrup Litchfield | 207-268-2834

East Vassalboro May through October

Easton’s Maple Syrup Farm Belgrade | 207-649-8470

Fairfield Mid-May through October

Echo Valley Farm/ Wilson Family Maple Syrup Albion | 207-453-6969

Gardiner May through October Hallowell May through October Madison May through November Pittsfield May through October Skowhegan Year-round Waterville Year-round Wayne June through October Winthrop May through October

Two Sams Maple Syrup Hallowell | 207-623-8601 Y’s Farm Winslow | 207-872-6857

PICK YOUR OWN APPLES The Apple Farm Fairfield | AppleFarm.us Avalon Acres Orchard & Farm Saint Albans | 207-938-2501 Cayford Orchards Skowhegan | CayfordOrchards.com Chick's Apple Stand Monmouth | 207-933-4056 Kents Hill Orchard Kents Hill | 207-685-3522 Lakeside Orchards and Farm Market Manchester | LakesideOrchards.com Lemieux's Orchard North Vassalboro | 207-923-3518 Lombard's Appleberry Orchard Saint Albans | 207-938-2861 Mt Nebo Orchards Mount Vernon | 207-242-8763

Poulin’s Maple Syrup Windsor | 207-445-5030

North Star Orchards Madison | NorthStarOrchards.me

Raider’s Sugarhouse China | 207-968-2005

Sandy River Apples Norridgewock | SandyRiverApples.com

Sawyer’s Maple Farm Jackman | SawyersMaple.com

Whit's Apples Winthrop | 207-395-4436

Smith Brothers Maple Syrup Skowhegan | 207-474-3491 Strawberry Hill Farms LLC Skowhegan | 207-431-1481 Sugar Brook Maple Farm Mount Vernon | 207-293-2831 Tessiers Farm Skowhegan | 207-474-6380

VISITOR RESOURCES: Get Real, Get Maine – GetRealMaine.com Maine Maple Producers Association – MaineMapleProducers.com

For more on markets and orchards visit KennebecValley.org

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Welcome

to Skowhegan

Save the Date! Join Us for 2019 Events in Skowhegan Skijor Skowhegan

Cheese, Brews, and Bread

Dinner in the Park

Feb. 9, Eaton Mountain SkijorSkowhegan.org

June 23, Bigelow Brewing Co. WesArts.org

Aug. 3, Coburn Park DinnerInThePark.com

Winter Carnival

Kneading Conference

Feb. 9-10, Lake George Regional Park. LakeGeorgePark.org

July 25-26, KVCC, Hinckley Campus KneadingConference.com

Skowhegan State Fair

Maple Festival

Maine Artisan Bread Fair

March 22-23, Downtown Skowhegan MainStreetSkowhegan.org

July 27, Skowhegan Fairgrounds KneadingConference.com

Skowhegan Home Show

River Fest

May 11, Skowhegan Fairgrounds SkowheganHomeShow.com 46 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

July 31-Aug. 3, Downtown Skowhegan August (dates TBD), New Balance SkowheganRiverFest.com KennebecValleyExplorer @kennebecexplorer #explorerofmaine 207-858-6551

Aug. 8-17, Skowhegan Fairgrounds SkowheganStateFair.com

Open Studio Aug. 10-11, Central Maine OpenStudioMaine.com

New Balance Tent Sale

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Skowhegan: A Place to Watch Skowhegan: A Place to Watch

Centrally located along the sparkling Kennebec River, Skowhegan offers both urban andlocated rural delights. Centrally along the sparkling Kennebec River, Skowhegan offers both urban and rural delights. Interested in hiking, swimming, tubing, or golfing? Don’t miss Lake George, Eaton Mountain, Lakewood Golf,tubing, or oneor ofgolfing? Skowhegan’s manyLake trails.George, Passionate Interested in hiking, swimming, Don’t miss about art or history? Check out the Langlais Art Trail, the Skowhegan History Eaton Mountain, Lakewood Golf, or one of Skowhegan’s many trails. Passionate House, or the Swinging Bridge. Looking for bowling, movies, or other family about art or history? Check out the Langlais Art Trail, the Skowhegan History activities? Central Maine Family Fun, Gifford’s Ice Cream and Mini Golf, the House, or the Swinging Bridge. Looking for bowling, movies, or other family Strand Cinema, and the Skowhegan Drive-In have you covered. activities? Central Maine Family Fun, Gifford’s Ice Cream and Mini Golf, the Strand Cinema, and the Skowhegan Drive-In have you covered. How about local food experiences like apple-picking at one of the best orchards in local New England (Cayford Orchards) or touring craft How about food experiences like apple-picking ataone ofbrewery the best (Bigelow and Oak Pond)? Or maybe you’d like to visit a renowned farmers’ orchards in New England (Cayford Orchards) or touring a craft brewery market or tour a grist mill? You guessed it—we offer all of that as well. (Bigelow and Oak Pond)? Or maybe you’d like to visit a renowned farmers’ market or tour a grist mill? You guessed it—we offer all of that as well. Skowhegan isn’t standing still either. Plans are underway for Run of River, a whitewaterisn’t recreation area and around theunderway downtownfor river that Skowhegan standing stillineither. Plans are Rungorge of River, will include a whitewater park, a four-season trail network on 300 acres in a whitewater recreation area in and around the downtown river gorge that the heart of town, a riverfront promenade, and pristine fishing waters with will include a whitewater park, a four-season trail network on 300 acres in improved fish habitat. the heart of town, a riverfront promenade, and pristine fishing waters with improved fish habitat. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Skowhegan has something for everyone and moreyou’re than aafew hidden gems.Skowhegan Visit Skowhegan and learnfor why it’s truly a Whether local or a visitor, has something everyone place to watch. and more than a few hidden gems. Visit Skowhegan and learn why it’s truly a place to watch.

Photo by Sam Horine PhotoSamHorine.com by Sam Horine SamHorine.com

Skowhegan Craft Brew Festival Aug. 31, Downtown Skowhegan Craft Skowhegan Brew Festival SkowheganCraftBrewFest.com Aug. 31, Downtown Skowhegan SkowheganCraftBrewFest.com

Haunted Hayrides Oct. 25-26,Hayrides Skowhegan Fairgrounds Haunted SkowheganChamber.com Oct. 25-26, Skowhegan Fairgrounds SkowheganChamber.com

Small Business Saturday Nov. 30,Business Skowhegan Small Saturday MainStreetSkowhegan.org Nov. 30, Skowhegan MainStreetSkowhegan.org

27th Annual Holiday Stroll Dec. Skowhegan 27th6-7, Annual Holiday Stroll MainStreetSkowhegan.org Dec. 6-7, Skowhegan MainStreetSkowhegan.org

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deep or float atop a kayak in the frigid waters feeding the Kennebec River, will enjoy pursuing of spring trout and salmon hungry for a post-winter meal.

The Forks

We are rafting

With four seasons of adventure sport, are you packed yet? It’s amazing how far a place can come in just over 40 years. During these past four decades, The Forks has grown, if not in population, then in reputation as the home of white water rafting in Maine. But it is way more than that. With the popularity of adventure sports growing by leaps and bounds each year, The Forks has kept pace with demand, adding services and trails at every step of the way. Here the confluence of the Dead and Kennebec Rivers offers sportsmen of all kinds and skill levels the opportunity of a lifetime. Rafting, fishing, hunting, ATV and snowmobile riders, hikers, bikers, trail runners, long-distance backpackers. To make things even better, for the soft-adventurer we have an easy half-mile trek to the region’s crown jewel and Maine’s highest waterfall, Moxie Falls. Whatever the need calls

for, our legion of local guides are here to provide gear, meals, and lodging for adventurous visitors in all four seasons.

Winter thrills Each year, long before the rafts hit the gorge, this place has seen its first and second seasons of adventurists. Wintertime, starting back in December, brings snow and with it the thrill of long days spent riding well-groomed trails through the deep woods, across lakes, and climbing peaks. Snowmobiling here offers an experience that is like none other. The number of Nordic skiers and snowshoe hikers also continues to grow in proportion to the number of trails that crisscross the area.

Spring trout fishing Once the snow (and mud) are gone, the shifting season brings the fly fisherman. Intrepid anglers looking to stand waist-

In The Forks, rafting season kicks off in May. Around this time of year, it’s green and cool, and springtime starts to feel a little more summery. People come here to go white water rafting and for many, it is the experience of a lifetime. The 12-mile Kennebec River trip begins on Indian Pond and roars through the spectacular Upper Kennebec Gorge, with rapids up to Class IV. Even more challenging, the Dead River provides the longest stretch of continuous white water in the East. There are many rafting companies and guides 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.

The pleasure of paddling Despite being known for rafting, there is quite a bit of other paddling here as well. The Bow Trip is a welcome respite from the heaving froth of tubing. Wyman Lake is a 12-mile-long widening of the Kennebec River that makes for ideal fishing. Moxie Pond is one of the loveliest lakes for paddling in the state with its unspoiled coves, islands, and views of the surrounding mountains.

On the ATV trails Once the weather warms up and the mud dries, trails begin to firm up and visitors with ATVs begin to make their presence known. Wherever you go, ATVs can be heard in the distance and moose safaris become more available. With access to hundreds of miles of trails, there is nothing better than a day spent riding.

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Wyman Lake, Moscow

BINGHAM

MOSCOW

MOXIE FALLS

Located on the 45th parallel, Bingham sits exactly halfway between the North Pole and the Equator. Bingham is more readily known as the gateway to Maine’s outdoor sporting paradise. Local anglers are especially fond of the Kennebec here, affectionately calling sections of this wonderful stretch of river Rainbow Alley. Bingham has a lesser-known waterfall, Houston Brook Falls, where Houston Brook empties into Wyman Lake on the Kennebec River. Bingham is also the northern end of the multi-use Kennebec Valley Trail.

The small residential town of Moscow is situated just north of Bingham and 24 miles from Skowhegan. The friendly town’s outstanding feature is the Wyman Hydroelectric Dam, which slows the Kennebec River and creates a widening in the river known as Wyman Lake. Along the lake on the eastern side of the Old Canada Road, visitors can observe a recent man-made phenomenon: dozens of birdhouses, many delightfully colored, have been fastened to the retaining wall and now extend for several hundred yards along the highway.

When you visit The Forks, one absolute “Don’t Miss” on your checklist should be Moxie Falls, Maine’s highest and— many would say—most beautiful waterfall. Follow Lake Moxie Road out of The Forks and look for signs about two miles out. The wide path meanders through the forest for about half a mile to the falls. If you visit during the summer, bring your towel so you can revel in the old-fashioned swimming hole just a bit down from the main falls. If you aren’t up for rafting, this is a great place to cool down on a hot summer's day.

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Wide Open Spaces Redefining the â&#x20AC;&#x153;greatâ&#x20AC;? outdoors.

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Maine’s public lands are a genuine wonder. Time spent in any of these glorious places will help you to understand one of the important reasons behind calling this guide the Explorer. Taken as a whole, all the public lands and places in Maine can seem overwhelming because there are so many to choose from. But individually, each is a beautiful green place filled with undisturbed and protected nature just waiting to be explored.

Our own ‘Great Outdoors’ places The Kennebec Valley has its fair share of these places and we welcome you to come spend time here. From places like the highly remote and jaw-droppingly pretty Seboomook, which is public reserved land up in the Maine Woods; to the more accessible Kennebec Highlands, which are easier to get to and offer vistas of the Belgrade Lakes that are no less spectacular.

Live like an explorer These are places meant to be hiked and paddled; they are ideal for birding or even deep contemplation. You’ll often spot wildlife and have excellent opportunities to take pictures. It’s these kinds of “off the beaten trail” locales where you can get a taste of what it’s really like to be an Explorer.

French Mountain, Belgrade Lakes

Visit and repeat So find a map and look up these places, then just go. Take it all in. If what you see isn’t what you had anticipated, pick another spot and check that out. Dead River Public Reserve Land Includes the north shore of man-made Flagstaff Lake and several miles of The Dead River. Anglers and bald eagles both enjoy fishing in The Big Eddy. This site also offers great vehicle-accessible camping and paddling. Bigelow Preserve Public Reserved Land Hike the Bigelow Range along the Appalachian Trail or paddle part of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail on Flagstaff Lake. A gem to visit when foliage is changing.

Holeb Public Reserved Land Ideal for paddling and wildlife watching, home to the Maine Bow Trip, a multiday looped trip with one portage and excellent campsites. Great hikes include Sally and Burnt Jackson Mountains. Kennebec Highlands Public Reserved Land Hike McGaffey Mountain (the tallest in Kennebec County), Round Top, and Sanders for unmatched views of the Belgrade Lakes. Cold Stream Conservation Land This primeval and recently protected land near The Forks provides shelter to large populations of native wild brook trout and white-tailed deer, while Canada lynx prowl beneath the forest canopy. Seboomook Lake Public Reserved Land With its remote location, Seboomook offers unfettered access to paddling, fishing, and backcountry camping in a pristine Maine Woods location. VISITOR RESOURCES: Maine Bureau of Parks & Lands – ParksandLands.com Natural Resources Council of Maine – NRCM.org Registered Maine Guides – MaineGuides.org

Bog bridges along the Holeb Carry

For more visit KennebecValley.org

Trail Riding Summer or winter, the trails never seem to end.

Maine’s Kennebec Valley was made for riding. It is easy to access, but distant enough from civilization’s whirl. The sights and sounds are exactly what you seek. And the community of clubs and people make you feel right at home. So fire ‘em up and head out. Let’s hit the sights, take in a waterfall or a perfect lookout spot, enjoy a trailside lunch, then off to spot moose or deer. Maybe we’ll end the day with a ride alongside a lake to catch the sunset, heading home followed by the haunting call of the loons across the water.

Summer? Winter? Maybe both? Have you ever dreamed of traveling by snowmobile through one of the best trail systems in the U.S.? This region alone offers hundreds of miles of wellmaintained backcountry trails for all skill levels. And if you desire, you can use your place in Bingham, The Forks, or Jackman as your basecamp for exploring the rest of the state. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing family ride, a day of mountain trail exploration, or an overnight excursion, ATV-ing and snowmobiling in the Kennebec Valley are classic, don’t-miss Maine experiences.

A community of riders

VISITOR RESOURCES: ATV Maine – ATVMaine.org Maine ATV Trails – Bit.ly/MaineATVTrails Maine Snowmobile Association – MESnow.com

For more on trail riding in the region visit KennebecValley.org

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As you travel northward toward the Canadian border, there are so many rider-friendly towns. There is a flurry of club activities, including pancake breakfasts, trail lunches, and other events. Look online for outfitters if you need to rent a machine, or to find a camp or resort for your stay. Many well-established outfitters can also provide you with the benefit of guide services if you don’t want to explore on your own. Additionally, most are well-equipped with riding gear and supplies.

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Take care of the trails We do ask a few things: Follow the rules. Wear appropriate safety gear. Ride on the right. Finally, always tread lightly and be respectful of the land and of nature while you ride. Nearly all the land you are traveling on or across (95% or more) is privately owned. Treat it as if it were your own.

Try something new If you have never been on a snowmobile or an ATV, making these exciting sports part of your vacation adventures is easy. Local chambers of commerce or snowmobile and ATV clubs can hook you up with outfitters. Or you can join club rides and events to make your visit memorable and successful. Some of the best places to look for “your people” include the bigger towns along Route 201

above Skowhegan, including Bingham, The Forks, and Jackman. An online search will show you where to go.

Make it an unforgettable vacation Visitors have been coming to Maine’s Kennebec Valley for years to experience world-class snowmobile and ATV-riding. Throughout the region, resorts and lodges offer packages allowing you to ride trails to and from their back doors. Your vacation will let you travel through fragrant fir, spruce, and balsam forests and along streams and rivers. You will traverse wide-open fields and vast expanses. Those looking to fish or hunt can make separate arrangements. The vast network of accessible trails will take you beyond the boundaries of your imagination.

THREE TOP RIDES Sugarloaf Mountain Lookouts Trailhead Bingham | 35-mile loop This scenic ride offers views of the Sugarloaf Mountain range and river. Spot bald eagles, ospreys, loons, whitetailed deer, and moose. ATV trails are 80% gravel / 20% backcountry trail. Greenville Trail Trailhead The Forks | 100 miles round-trip Ride includes Moxie Falls, Lake Moxie, Moxie Bald Mountain, Shirley Bog, Moosehead Lake. ATV terrain is 85% gravel / 15% skidder trails. Pittston Farm Trail Trailhead Jackman | 60-mile day trip Travel to historic Pittston Farm past several breathtaking vistas. ATV terrain varies from gravel and skidder trails to true forest terrain.

Heritage Sports Down home hospitality paired with the timeless spirit of the outdoor life. There’s a reason that sportsmen continue to take advantage of the long-established fishing and hunting available in the Kennebec Valley. Curious? Consider yourself invited for a chance to partake in these time-honored traditions. You might just make it a regular outing.

Hunt and stay in style Sporting camps or lodges, along with the guide you choose, will make your trip memorable. For those hunting for black bear, white-tailed deer, birds like ruffed grouse, rare quarry like a bobcat, even our mammoth moose, our region welcomes hunters like old friends and makes them feel right at home. What more could today’s sportsman want? Check around to find a place that fits your style and suits your needs. There are nearly endless opportunities, ranging from decades-old sporting camps to updated cabins and ultra-modern lodges set up to meet the needs of a sportsman looking for something really special.

central Maine during the height of the season. In the northern Kennebec Valley, head to the Brassua inlet streams like Johnson Brook or Misery Stream; hit Moosehead Lake, too. Down south, visit Cobbosseecontee and other Winthrop and Monmouth lakes for more incredible bass fishing.

Storied fly fishing spots The fishing story in Maine’s Kennebec Valley all started with fly-fishing along the upper reaches of the river’s mighty banks. The story continues every year, with the best chances happening in the early morning and late afternoon. More thrills are found along the Old Canada Road between the top of Lake Wyman and The Forks, where abundant spots for fall fishing with bright flies are found. From The Forks north to Indian Pond, spring fishing includes hooking

Maine Wilderness Tours

brook trout and salmon until the warm water pushes the fish up to Harris Dam. Between the dam and the gorge, anglers can find good-sized fish (over 12”) up for a fight.

Hardwater: a winter way of life Winter is hard in Maine—from those first flakes to the last storms that blow through in the early spring. That doesn’t stop a hardcore angler. Bear up, grab your traps and an auger, and make friends with someone who has a heater and a fishing shed. Finally, don’t forget your license. Then give it a go. You may end up trading stories and tipping back several “cold ones,” but the time goes quickly when you are among friends.

Maine’s Masters of Bass The Kennebec Valley has a “big bass” reputation that grows with each passing year, making it the perfect destination for your fishing expedition. Bassmaster Magazine agrees, putting three of the region’s many lakes on its Top 25 Northeastern Lakes lists—China Lake at number 13, Webber Pond at 15, and Great Pond at 18. Happily, for you, these are all centrally located. Competitive anglers should look for the Maine Man vs. Bass Trail series that dominates

54 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

Silverton Sporting Ranch

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HIRE A REGISTERED MAINE GUIDE You will without a doubt get more out of your hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation experiences if you invest in the services of a Registered Maine Guide. Maine has one of the largest, best-tested group of guides around. And for every trip, there is a guide to match. So call around, trade emails, ask questions and better yet, make sure you answer questions about your planned trip. Yep, that’s how to know a guide is doing their best to build a winning trip. Lastly, check the guide’s credentials to make sure you are getting the genuine article.

For more on fishing and hunting visit KennebecValley.org

Pittston Farms

Brassua Lake

JACKMAN

ROCKWOOD

MOUNT KINEO

Set along the Old Canada Road and the edge of Wood Pond, Jackman is the gateway to sixty lakes, ponds, and streams, as well as an extensive system of interconnected snowmobile and ATV trails. It is a four-season sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise on earth. Just south of town, be sure to stop at the Attean Overlook rest area with its unparalleled vistas. Many visitors to this small town choose to stay at a traditional sporting camp. During your visit, make the hike to the peak of Sally Mountain for a spectacular view or embark on the historic Bow Trip.

Situated on the western side of Moosehead Lake and directly to the west of the monolithic and historic Mount Kineo is the lakeside village of Rockwood. This little town serves as a gateway to the north and the great world of sporting activities that have made the region famous. Sporting camps and cottages are all within easy reach, as are dozens of trails for use in both summer and winter. Mount Kineo, accessible by the Kineo Shuttle boat from Rockwood, is home to a state park and Mount Kineo Golf Course.

Accessible by boat from Rockwood, Mount Kineo climbs over 700 feet from the depths of Moosehead Lake. Shaped by glacial ice over 10,000 years ago, Mount Kineo shares its rugged shape with many other Maine peaks. For hikers, the park is encircled with well-marked trails that also lead hikers to the summit and the spectacular views. Those looking to make a day of their visit should consider bringing their golf clubs and having a go at the 9-hole course located at the base of the mountainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s majestic cliffs.

JackmanMaine.org

RockwoodonMoosehead.org

56 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

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The Moose River Valley A place to find a sense of peace or experience the thrill of adventure. Devotees have been visiting the Moose River Valley for its unblemished natural beauty and access to fishing, paddling, and hunting for well over a century. Now many come for the snowmobiling and ATV riding. Along the historic Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway, this unspoiled place is a delight when seen from behind the wheel in the autumn. Those looking to harvest enjoyment of a more natural kind should spend a day or two here, and push deep into the red-painted and golden-tipped forest for a day of hiking or paddling across fish-filled lakes. Spot a moose in rut or simply climb one of the surrounding peaks at dawn to capture a glorious sunrise (or set).

Fishing: the original “sport” Quiet days interrupted only by the splash of hungry land-locked salmon or trout is nothing new around here. Day-trippers should consider hiring a Registered Maine Guide for the best results. If you are going it alone, check out the many tributaries along the Moose River. Drop a line along the dropoff in Moosehead Lake near Rockwood for brook trout and salmon. Springtime anglers should head to Attean Falls for landlocked salmon and splake.

more remote parts of the North Woods is filled to the gunwales with lakes and ponds. But you won’t need to go far to find watery adventure. Wood Pond sits at the epicenter of 60 easily accessed and paddle-friendly spots. Paddling expands your access to other activities that transform a vacation into an unforgettable experience. Spend time exploring, bird watching, and wildlife watching or do a little exploring on 40+ islands that populate Attean Pond. Ambitious adventurers should try the Moose River Bow Trip. Other paddling trips include the Moose River to Long Pond, or those seeking an in-between challenge and light rapids should seek out the Moosehead Lake to Indian Pond trip.

Hunting remains popular Some folks joke that camouflage and blaze orange are the official colors of

the Moose River Valley. The fact is, something always seems to be in season here. Deer, moose, and bear are again plentiful, and other types of hunts are popular as well. During the winter, many guides even offer bobcat, coyote, and snowshoe hare hunting.

Thrills of a different kind Sometimes the area’s best thrills come from the action of snowmobiling or an ATV trek through the woods. This remote (but accessible) part of the Kennebec Valley welcomes riders in all seasons, offering easy access to national and international trail systems right out the door of virtually every accommodation and restaurant. Services are offered both on the trail and in town, and clubs are here to show you around. Plus, Coburn Mountain (highest trail in Maine) is just a few miles south of Jackman on ITS 89.

Just add water and go Your escape won’t be complete without time spent on the water. The area is home to incredible options for swimming, fishing, or gliding in your kayak or canoe. The area around Jackman and up into

Mount Kineo

DECIDING ON A NEW LOCATION FOR YOUR BUSINESS COMES WITH SO MANY IMPORTANT QUESTIONS. What’s there to do nearby? Where do we go for lunch? Where do I fish? With its location at Exit 127 along Interstate 95, fiber optic high-speed internet, pre-permitted lots, Foreign Trade Zone 186, and proximity to Portland and Boston, FirstPark is Maine’s Premier Business Address. Then there is the quality of life. Adjacent to Oakland, downtown Waterville offers cultural attractions for all, year-round events, and places to eat for every palette at any time of day. Or hit the road for a short drive to explore Maine’s north woods, rocky coast, and western mountains. Plus, for families who love to fish, at the end of the day you’ll be just minutes from your first cast in the legendary lakes of the mid-Maine bass fishery.

Let Executive Director Jim Dinkle answer your questions today! 207-859-9716 | 800-966-1002 | exdirector@firstpark.com | FirstPark.com 46 First Park Drive, Unit C, Oakland, ME 04963 GPS Coordinates: 44.5445, -69.683 FirstPark sites are pre-permitted and shovel ready. Located in Foreign Trade Zone #186 and a Pine Tree Development Zone, FirstPark offers easy access to Interstate 95 and regional rail, maritime, and air hubs.

58 Make a Plan: KennebecValley.org

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Plan Your Trip

Visitors should be well prepared so that they can relax once they arrive. Below is information on getting here, visitor resources, times and distances, and what the weather might be like.

Visitor Resources Belgrade Lakes Region Business Group PO Box 518, Belgrade, ME 207-495-9217 | BelgradeLakesMaine.com Forks Area Chamber of Commerce PO Box 1, West Forks, ME 207-663-2121 | ForksArea.com Gardiner Main Street 149 Water St., 2nd fl., Gardiner, ME 207-582-3100 | GardinerMainStreet.org Hallowell Area Board of Trade PO Box 246, Hallowell, ME 207-620-7477 | Hallowell.org Jackman-Moose River Region Chamber of Commerce PO Box 368, Jackman, ME 207-668-4171 | JackmanMaine.org Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce 269 Western Ave., Augusta, ME 207-623-4559 | KennebecValleyChamber.com Kennebec Valley Council of Governments 17 Upper Main St., Fairfield, ME 207-453-4258 | KVCOG.org Main Street Skowhegan 48 Court St., Skowhegan, ME 207-612-2571 | MainStreetSkowhegan.org VisitSkowhegan.com Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce 50 Elm St., Waterville, ME 207-873-3315 | MidMaineChamber.com Skowhegan Chamber of Commerce 23 Commercial St., Skowhegan, ME 207-474-3621 | SkowheganAreaChamber.com

Town of Madison 26 Western Ave., Madison, ME 207-696-3334 | MadisonMaine.com

Greyhound Lines Stops in Augusta and Waterville 800-231-2222 | Greyhound.com

Main Street Maine MainStreetMaine.org

Driving Distances

Commercial Airports Augusta State Airport (KAUG) 207-626-2306 | AugustaMaine.gov Served by Cape Air Airlines to Boston Bangor International Airport (BGR) 888-826-6893 | FlyBangor.com Served by 5 airlines to 6 major hubs Portland International Jetport (PWM) 207-774-7301 | PortlandJetport.org Served by 6 airlines to 6 major hubs

Car Rentals

Destination Gardiner Augusta China Belgrade Lakes Waterville Skowhegan Bingham The Forks Jackman Rockwood Seboomook

miles time 97 1.5 hrs. 105 1.75 hrs. 120 2 hrs. 113 1.75 hrs. 125 2 hrs. 142 2.25 hrs. 164 2.75 hrs. 188 3.25 hrs. 213 3.75 hrs. 242 4.5 hrs. 271 6 hrs.

Distances measured from state line at Kittery.

Alamo: 888-826-6893 Alamo.com (PWM & BGR)

Travel Information

Avis: 800-633-3469 Avis.com (PWM & BGR)

Maine State Police: 800-452-4664 (in Maine) | 911 cellular, for emergencies

Budget: 800-218-7992 Budget.com (PWM & BGR)

US-Canada Border Crossing: 800-461-999 (within Canada) 204-983-3500 or 506-636-5064 (outside Canada) | CBSA-ASFC.gc.ca

Enterprise: 800-261-7331 Enterprise.com (Augusta, Waterville, PWM & BGR) Hertz: 800-654-3131 Hertz.com (KAUG, PWM & BGR) National: 877-222-9058 NationalCar.com (PWM & BGR)

Road conditions and traffic information: 866-282-7578 511 from any phone | 511Maine.gov

Bus

Wear your seatbelt. Maine law requires that drivers and all passengers wear a seatbelt.

Concord Coach Lines Stops in Augusta and Waterville 800-639-3317 | ConcordCoachLines.com

Don’t text and drive. Texting while driving is prohibited in Maine. The fine is $100.

Weather Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Average High °F: 28 32 41 54 66 75 80 79 71 58 46 34 Average Low °F: 7 9 20 32 43 53 58 57 49 37 28 16

Average Precipitation: 2.7" 2.4" 3.5" 3.5" 3.75" 4" 3.5" 3.5" 3.75" 4.5" 4" 3.5"

Average Snowfall: 18" 15" 11" 2" 0" 0" 0" 0" 0" 0" 2" 16"

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Jackman

Bigelow Public Reserved Land

Dead River Public Reserved Land

Grand Falls

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Flagstaff Lake

Holeb Public Reserved Land

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Little Big Wood Pond

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Bingham

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Moosehead Lake

Rockwood

Mayfield Corner

Moxie Pond

Indian Pond

Seboomook Lake Public Reserved Land

Moxie Falls

Wyman Lake

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