A year-round outdoor playground, this resort area in Maine’s Lake Region has activities for everyone, from boating and canoeing to hiking and fishing.
Outdoor enthusiasts visit Bridgton, Maine, for its abundant and pristine waterways and forests, with opportunities for hiking, swimming, fishing, climbing, swimming and skiing. Kayak on Highland Lake. Walk for miles on quiet nature trails. Ski at Shawnee Peak ski area. With four public beaches and boat launches, two ice arenas, three museums, multiple playgrounds and several artists’ studios and art galleries, Bridgton offers a well-rounded activity lineup.
Start your day in the woods at Pleasant Mountain, southern Maine’s tallest peak, where miles of trails offer hiking for all abilities. From the summit, appreciate the westward views of the staggering White Mountains. Among the most popular hikes are the Bald Peak Trail, with a 1,900-foot (580-meter) elevation gain, and the Ledges Trail, with scenic overlooks throughout its 1,600-foot (500-meter) gain.
Snow doesn’t stop Bridgton residents and visitors from enjoying their mountains. Shawnee Peak ski area offers more than 40 trails, seven glades, three terrain parks and snowmaking on much of its terrain. There are trails for all levels of skier and very popular night skiing routes. Cross-country skiers have options at Five Fields Farm, along the historic Narrow Gauge Railroad Bed and at the Bridgton Highlands Golf Course.
For fishing, swimming and boating, head to Highland Lake, with miles of shoreline, two coves and several islands to explore. Woods Pond Beach and Salmon Point Beach also attract swimmers and picnickers in warmer months. Wintertime brings out cross-country skiers, ice fishers and snowmobilers, who use the frozen lakes as their playgrounds.
Throughout the year, attend special events and festivals in Bridgton. Popular activities include the Mushers Bowl Winter Carnival, the July 4th fireworks, the Rowing Regatta, the Art in the Park Show, the Woodworkers and Artisans Show and the seasonal Farmers Market.
Drive from Portland to Bridgton in about 1 hour or ride the Lakes Region Explorer bus, which operates several times daily during the week, with free Wi-Fi and bike racks.
