Home to magnificent lakes, mountains, and rivers, the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway provides spectacular views as it winds through the mountains of Maine. Year-round recreational activities include fishing, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, wildlife watching, and leaf peeping. Its rich cultural history of working with the land shapes its character today.
Start at Smalls Falls on Route 4 and pass through valleys and over hills before dropping into the village of Rangeley. From the shores of Rangeley Lake, which is the centerpiece of 112 interconnected lakes and ponds scattered throughout the region, continue along Route 17 to the Height of Land. Heading in a southerly direction, the road follows streams and canyons before giving way to the open fields and farms in the river valley. Along the way, the byway passes over 33,000 acres of conserved public access lands, offering scenic beauty and recreational opportunities for all seasons.
Today, the region's cultural history and outstanding scenic, natural, and recreational resources offer local residents and visitors an array of activities that extend throughout the year. During the summer months, treat yourself to a host of festivals, concerts, and museums as well as boating, hiking, fishing, bicycling, and wildlife watching. When autumn paints the hillsides in red and gold, come enjoy leaf watching, hiking, and hunting in the crisp Maine air. A cup of fresh squeezed cider from the Apple Festival, a tour of the Wilhelm Reich Museum, or a drive along the bronzed byway will round out your autumn day in Rangeley. Winter arrives early, cloaking the region in 12 feet of snow. Between Christmas fairs, concerts, and the annual "Snodeo" festival, join skiers, snowmobilers, and ice skaters and take to the slopes, trails, and lakes. Then, as temperatures rise and the days increase in length, spring ushers in the promise of unparalleled fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching.
The Perfect Snow Day on Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway
Birding on Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway
The Appalachian Trail