According to the Maine foliage report, the Moosehead region is currently moderate, which means if you travel now through the next week or so, you’re going to get glorious colors. Why Moosehead? Between the mountains, the forested wilderness, and Maine’s largest lake, the opportunities for leaf peeping are among the state’s best.
For starters, you can cruise Moosehead aboard The Kate, and this Sunday, Sept. 26, there’s even a special cruise to the head of the lake.
Or, get airborne with Currier’s Flying Service, for a birds-eye view of the color, and perhaps the opportunity to spy a moose from above.
Drive the woods road to Pittston Farm, for a true adventure. En route, watch for deer, turkey, moose, bear, and other critters. At the farm, visit the museum, perhaps rent a canoe for a paddle, hike into the woods, maybe even spend the night.
Take the shuttle from Rockwood to Kineo for a hike.
And when it’s time to call it a night:
Blair Hill Inn: The ultimate in luxury in the woods. A tastefully updated, 1891 Victorian mansion set high on a hill with panoramic views over the lake.
Lodge at Moosehead: Another luxury property, this one with a Maine woods motif.
Chalet Moosehead: The motel rooms are practically in the lake.
Maynard’s in Maine: I like this totally unfussy, pet-friendly retro lodge and cabins where choices include rates with all meals, or not.
West Branch Camps: (top photo) Another favorite, but not a good choice for anyone who’s the least bit fussy. Classic old sporting camp right on West Branch Pond. Watch moose foraging in the pond while dining on good home cookin’. Bring warm clothes; only woodstoves provide heat.
