Borestone Mountain Audubon Sanctuary is a 1,693-acre wildlife preserve in Elliotsville owned and managed by Maine Audubon. The Base and Summit trails combine to guide hikers up the craggy twin peaks of Borestone Mountain, which rises prominently to 1,981 feet. 

Make the two-mile climb (one-way) to enjoy spectacular views northward over Onawa Lake to Baker Mountain and the rugged ridgeline of the Barren-Chairback Range, and beyond into the famed 100-Mile Wilderness. Halfway along the route is Sunrise Pond, one of three ponds high on the mountain, and the Robert T. Moore Nature Center, which features wildlife exhibits and displays on the interesting history of the property. Short side trails from the center lead to more pond vistas and to the remains of an old fox farm.  

The Lakeshore House is a fun-and-friendly place with a lively atmosphere right in the heart of the pretty little village of Monson, perfect for enjoying cold beer and good food alongside local patrons, travelers and Appalachian Trail hikers. Eight taps range from Pabst Blue Ribbon to Guinness, with six rotating microbrews between, plus there’s a fine selection of bottled brews. Settle in at the bar or relax outside on the shore of Lake Hebron, known for its beautiful sunsets. The menu is deliciously eclectic and the portions are appropriately hiker-sized. On Thursday nights and Sundays, the house vibrates with the sounds of talented musicians. Owner Rebekah Anderson’s best advice for visiting this great little pub: “If you’re in a hurry, this is not the place to be.” 

Resources

Hike: Borestone Mountain Sanctuary
www.maineaudubon.org, 207-717-6001 (June -September), 207-781-2330 (October – May)  

Brew:  The Lakeshore House, thelakeshorehouse.com, 207-997-7069

— Text & Photos: Carey Kish of Mt. Desert Island. Carey is an avid beer drinker, editor of the AMC Maine Mountain Guide, and author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes Along the Maine Coast.