Maine’s Rangeley Lakes Region includes more than the 10-square-mile lake itself, extending to five other large lakes and hundreds of smaller lakes and ponds. Add rivers and streams, two mountains – Saddleback and The Horn — just east of the lake, and mile after mile of forests and what do you get? A paradise for those who love the great outdoors and all the activities it invites. Fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, climbing, camping, cycling, wildlife watching, or just lazing beside the lake – whatever your summer bliss, you’ll find it here.

Photo: Chris Riley

Take your bike to the extensive network of trails at the Rangeley Lakes Trail Center. Golfers will appreciate the scenic Mingo Springs Golf Course, a favorite of both beginners and scratch players. Although the course is relatively short, it’s challenging, and birders love it for the variety of species that nest alongside the course. All the lakes and ponds surrounded by forest make a prime wildlife habitat, and moose-watching and photography is one of the region’s most popular activities.

Nice views from Mingo Springs Golf Course

To explore the lakes and ponds and enjoy the wildlife that make their homes on the shore, rent a canoe or kayak at Ecopelagicon the Rangeley Adventure Co. on Pond Street in Rangeley. Single and double kayaks, canoes, and standup paddleboards can be rented by the hour, day, or week. You can also find hiking, camping and paddling gear for all your other outdoor activities.

The Rangeley Inn is located in the center of Rangeley, and has renovated accommodations in the historic inn or at the Haley Pond Lodge on the waterfront. All rooms feature a private bathroom, satellite TV, WiFi, and a coffee maker. Choose from rooms with one king bed or two queen beds, or suites with one or two bedrooms. Some rooms offer a mini-fridge and microwave. Sit down to a relaxed breakfast in the elegant historic dining room or enjoy dinner in the rustic Tavern. Take a stroll down Main Street to a number of local shops, galleries, and eateries. Caryn Dreyfuss at Morton and Furbish Real Estate can help you find your own little spot of heaven in the Rangeley region, whether it’s a cozy cabin in the woods or a family-sized lakeside retreat.