Visit western Maine’s Oxford County to pursue outdoor recreation, from hiking to horseback riding. Rushing rivers, verdant mountains and old-growth forests provide acres of untouched land for hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, snowshoeing and skiing. Sightsee in Grafton Notch State Park, the White Mountain National Forest and the Androscoggin and Saco river regions.
The charming town of Bethel is a prime starting point for an Oxford County vacation. During summer, hike to Table Rock, find a classic New England swimming hole, paddle the rapids of the Androscoggin or fly down a zip line over the treetops. In winter, celebrate the snow with downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, tubing and ice fishing. Enjoy the après-ski scene in Bethel, with dining for all tastes.
Come to Grafton Notch State Park and the Mahoosuc Public Lands for backcountry trekking, as well as more moderate trails. The most difficult 12 miles (19 kilometers) of the famed Appalachian Trail cross this region. Drive along the Grafton Notch Scenic Byway, stopping frequently for short walks to waterfalls and gorges. The state park is also on the Maine Birding Trail. Watch for peregrine falcons and a variety of songbirds.
Canoe, kayak, float and whitewater raft along the Androscoggin, Saco, Swift and Crooked rivers. These waterways, as well as Aziscohos, Kezars and Upper Richardson lakes, are popular for fishing for Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout and brook trout. Rent equipment and head out on your own or hire a guide from a local outfitter in Bethel.
One of the biggest Oxford County attractions is the Sunday River resort, just minutes from Bethel, in the Mahoosuc Mountains. Eight interconnected peaks offer world-class skiing and boarding during winter and acclaimed golf, wildlife tours and ziplining in warmer months.
Bethel lies in the center of Oxford County, about a 90-minute drive from Portland. With old stands of birch and pine, quaint covered bridges, hiking for all levels and charming New England towns, Oxford County is a favorite Maine vacation spot year round.
