Rangeley Maine | ExploringMaine.com (original) (raw)

RangeleyExploringMaine2021-10-26T18:49:10-04:00

Town of Rangeley, Maine

rangeley maine

The town of Rangeley Maine

Rangeley is one of those places where it’s easy to see why it’s a destination spot for so many. Why, just driving there is scenic. Plus, it can be quite adventurous if the wildlife are out and about, crossing Route 4 headed north, instead of staying in field, stream, or wood. Speaking of those various types of terrain, the Rangeley area has plenty, plus lakes and ponds galore. All of that water is one reason that among the 1200 or so year-round residents, there are plenty who fish.

I point out the folks who live here all year, and then there’s the part-timers. Sure, they claim to be that. Truth be told, wherever their primary residence is, they sneak away to Rangeley at the drop of a hat. Up here, that might be one for any of our many seasons. Yup, you can be sure there’s more than four, depending on nature, jet streams, and the like. Chances are you’ve heard of mud season. That’s best managed by watching where you drive and walk.

Before I get further sidetracked, let me assure you that Rangeley has most everything you could want, including markets, a health center, and surprising shops. There’s no big box stores, though we manage fine without any. That’s enough commentary from me on those. I’ll fill you in more on shopping after getting into all that’s going on up here in the grand outdoors.

Exploring Rangeley Maine

Mooselookmeguntic lake

Mooselookmeguntic Lake

There are vistas in all directions up here. And that’s true no matter where you’re staying, or which route you take to get here. You can get here via Routes 4, 17, or 16, each coming into town at different points. The first two are part of the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway, a 35-mile stretch that passes through valleys, runs by rivers, and offers some of the prettiest scenic overlook parking you’ll find anywhere.

Whip Willow Farm Scenic Overlook is just south of town and Height of the Land is north and west about 17 miles on Route 16. In between you can visit the Wilhelm Reich Museum and the Hunter Cove Wildlife Sanctuary. Depending on which routes you take, you’re bound to see one of our far-ranging lakes, those being Rangeley, Mooselookmeguntic, and Cupsuptic, with Richardson and Aziscohos off to the west.

Now’s as good a time as any to offer a well-placed word of caution. If you’ve brought your boat or intend to rent one, pay attention to the weather. Stormy weather and rough water can happen pretty much in the blink of an eye. That’s true too if you plan a day of wilderness hiking. It never hurts to be prepared!

Well then, this is a good time to get into mountain and trail going’s on. The Appalachian Trail–Saddleback Mountain portion is accessed about 10 miles south of town on Route 4. You can go as far as you wish, or double back for more nearby adventures. A more leisurely hike can be found at the Hatchery Brook Preserve that’s at the north edge of town.

If you want a seasonal 360-degree view, then head east on Route 16 where you’ll come to Quill Hill with its less than 15-minute drive up. Or you can head south 12 miles on Route 4 where you’ll come to the Smalls Falls rest area with its picturesque falls and easy access for hiking, viewing, and a picnic. Going back up the road, Rangeley Lake State Park is south and west of town on Rangeley Lake’s south shore. It’s a beautiful spot for enjoying camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, and boating.
Now that you’ve got an idea of all the scenic vistas and hiking that await you, it’s time to talk about the sports scene, and there’s plenty of that year round!

Sports, Shopping, and More!

Like I said earlier, people up here love to fish and also hunt. And there’s plenty of both, depending on the season. Whether it’s fly-fishing, just like that done by the local heroine of yesteryear, Flyrod Crosby, or one form of hunting or another, up here there are plenty of Registered Maine Guides to show the way and keep you safe at the same time. A quick google search will pull up a bunch up this way.

The area abounds with snowmobile and ATV trails, keeping riders from all over happy with the variety they find up here, including the Moose Trail system with hundreds of miles to cover here in Franklin County. There are also rentals for those not hauling their own toys.

Then, of course, there’s Saddleback and its big mountain skiing and boarding. Plus, the views are beyond breath-taking. You’ll find terrain for every ability and gear rentals. When summer comes, you’ll want to return to the mountain to view the amazing fields of lupine. You’ll see more of those lining roads as you head out for a day of golf at either Mingo Springs Golf Course, Evergreen Golf Club, or Moose Meadows Golf Club.

Or you can take a Seaplane Tour for another form of fun and adventure. Those and all kinds of boat rentals are available right by most of the lakes. Best to plan ahead as these are popular during the peak summer and foliage months.

If the weather is wet or blustery, you can take a chance the movie theater is open. It’s associated with the Rangeley Friends of the Arts, a group that sponsors various community and school functions and programs, including live theater and concerts. Now, when it comes to shopping, a lot of the places advertise that they’re sports stores. While that’s true, I’m here to say that they’re so much more. The whole fondness for beauty, inside and out, finds itself in the array of gifts, clothing, and this-and-that to ogle and purchase. So, even if you’re here during a stretch of gorgeous weather, be sure to go shopping too!

Let’s see, I just pulled out my ‘don’t forget to tell them this’ list. Well, the 4th of July fireworks display is known all over, so plan ahead for that one too. There’s also the Stephen A. Bean Municipal Airport if you plan to fly in. Though you may prefer to take the time to drive unless there’s a vehicle here for you to use while you’re here.

Lodging, Camping, and Dining in Rangeley

When it’s time for rest, a comforting meal, or a peaceful campsite, Rangeley has plenty waiting for you. A thorough search reveals how much lodging there is in the general area, from inn, resort, and lodge accommodations, to sporting camps, and campsites, such as those at the state park. Plan ahead for any, including the Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve, a charitable trust that offers true wilderness camping at Mooselookmeguntic Lake. It books well in advance, offering both mainland and island sites, plus canoe rentals.

You’ll also find private camps and homes to rent as well as condos, with some of these places being pet friendly. Many are on the water or with mountain and lake views. Some are old and quaint while others are brand new with the latest in comfort features. Of course, almost nothing beats the sound of a breeze through the pines!

Up here you’ll find fine dining right alongside pizza, burgers, and takeout that meets your fancy. It’s sure good to know that many of these places are open year round! We hope your time up here means a lot to you, whether it’s for days, months, or years.

Emily Grace2023-05-03T08:48:17-04:00

County: Franklin
Population: 1,222
Location: 44°57’34”N 70°42’58”W
Town Office:
15 School Street
Rangeley , ME 04970
207.864.3326
Town Website