Rangeley Lake, Maine: A Peaceful Retreat for Fishing & Wildlife
Why Visit Rangeley Lake?
- Located in the western mountains of Maine, Rangeley Lake is a quiet, 6,000-acre getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Known for quiet water, excellent fishing, and wildlife, it’s a great escape from busy city life.
- Activities include fishing, hiking, kayaking, wildlife spotting, and seasonal winter sports.
Fishing at Rangeley Lake
What Makes it Special?
- Top species: Landlocked Salmon & Brook Trout.
- Best fishing season: April 1st – September (per Maine’s North Zone regulations).
- Ideal fishing spots: Around Oquossoc Cove, South Bog, and deeper lake areas.
Guided Fishing Tours
Want expert help? Book a fishing guide:
- Rangeley Lakes Fishing Charters – Specializes in salmon & trout fishing.
- Rangeley Fishing Guide – Has customized fishing trips & tips.
Need Gear?
- Local outfitters like River’s Edge Sports can hook you up with licenses, bait, and up-to-date fishing reports.
Wildlife Watching
Rangeley is a wildlife paradise! Keep an eye out for:
- Loons – Their haunting calls echo across the lake at dawn.
- Bald eagles & ospreys – Frequently spotted flying overhead.
- Moose & deer – Often seen near shorelines and hiking trails.
- Black bears (rare but possible) – Usually deep in the forests.
Best Wildlife Viewing Spots
- Hunter Cove Wildlife Sanctuary – A protected area with excellent bird watching.
- Rangeley River Trail – An easy hike with great chances to spot moose.
- Bald Mountain Trail – Higher elevation views with potential eagle sightings.
Outdoor Activities
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Rangeley Lake has it all no matter the season!
Summer Activities
- Kayaking & Canoeing – Rentals available from local outfitters.
- Hiking Trails Nearby:
- Bald Mountain Trail (2.3 miles, moderate, panoramic lake views).
- Angel Falls Trail (easy, leads to a stunning 90-ft waterfall).
- Biking – Take the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway for an unforgettable ride.
Winter Activities
- Cross-country skiing & snowshoeing – Trails groomed for all skill levels.
- Snowmobiling – Over 150 miles of trails in the Rangeley area.
- Saddleback Mountain (nearby) – Perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
Best Restaurants in Rangeley
Whether you’re craving a fresh-caught fish dinner, a cute breakfast spot, or a classic Maine lobster roll, Rangeley has some great dining options.
Loon Lodge Inn & Restaurant
Fine dining with a rustic touch
- Located in a historic 1899 lodge right on Rangeley Lake, Loon Lodge has a cozy atmosphere with amazing views.
- Menu highlights:
- Maine Lobster Ravioli – A creamy, rich dish perfect for seafood lovers.
- Bison Meatloaf – A unique take on a classic comfort dish.
- Maple Glazed Salmon – Fresh, locally sourced fish with Maine’s signature maple flavor.
- Why go? Ideal for a romantic dinner or a special night out with waterfront ambiance.
Parkside & Main
Lake views & outdoor seating
- Located right in downtown Rangeley, this restaurant is known for American classics and its spacious patio overlooking the lake.
- Menu highlights:
- Maine Crab Cakes – Crispy, full of fresh crab, and served with tangy remoulade.
- Rangeley Mountain Burger – A juicy, half-pound burger topped with Vermont cheddar.
- Pan-Seared Haddock – Fresh, flaky, and perfectly seasoned.
- Why go? The best spot in town for outdoor dining with lake views.
Corner Bar & Kitchen
Modern comfort food with a creative twist
Located in the heart of downtown Rangeley, Corner Bar & Kitchen has a casual atmosphere with an elevated menu featuring fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a great selection of craft cocktails.
- Menu Highlights:
- Duck Fat Fries – Crispy, golden fries cooked in duck fat, served with house-made aioli.
- CBK Smash Burger – A juicy, double-patty burger with melty cheese and house pickles.
- Seared Scallops with Corn Puree – Fresh Maine scallops paired with a sweet and savory corn reduction.
- Korean BBQ Wings – Sweet, spicy, and perfectly crispy.
- Why Go?
- Trendy yet welcoming vibe – Perfect for a casual night out.
- Locally inspired cocktails – Try the Blueberry Bourbon Smash featuring Maine blueberries!
- Great for groups – Spacious seating and a fun, social atmosphere.
Furbish Brew House & Eats
Local brews & hearty pub fare in a historic setting
Located in a beautifully restored 1800s Victorian home, Furbish Brew House & Eats combines craft beer, comfort food, and a cozy atmosphere right in downtown Rangeley. With house-brewed beers and a menu full of pub-style favorites, it’s a great place to kick back after a day of outdoor adventure.
- Menu Highlights:
- Soft Pretzel with Beer Cheese – Warm, salty, and perfect with a pint.
- Furbish Mac & Cheese – Creamy, cheesy goodness with optional add-ins like pulled pork.
- Rangeley Mountain Burger – A juicy half-pound burger with bacon jam and Vermont cheddar.
- Fish & Chips – Crispy beer-battered haddock served with house fries and slaw.
- Why Go?
- House-brewed beers – Rotating selection of IPAs, stouts, and lagers brewed on-site.
- Relaxed, rustic vibe – A mix of old-school charm and modern pub energy.
- Dog-friendly patio – Bring your pup and enjoy a cold one outside!
Classic Maine Lobster Rolls
Oquossoc Grocery – Worth the stop!
- If you’re craving a classic Maine lobster roll, this small market in Oquossoc Village serves some of the freshest and simplest around.
- Why go? Grab one to-go for a picnic by the lake!
Best Places to Stay in Rangeley Lake
From cozy lakefront lodges to charming B&Bs, here are some top accommodations based on location, amenities, and guest experiences.
Rangeley Lake Resort – Best for Families
- This all-season resort is a top pick for families and groups looking for fully furnished lakefront cabins with fireplaces, full kitchens, and private decks.
- Why stay here?
- Spacious, multi-bedroom cabins – Perfect for family trips.
- Indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub for relaxing after a long day outdoors.
- Kayak, canoe, and paddle board rentals available right on-site.
- Best for: Families & groups who want resort-style amenities in a rustic setting.
Loon Lodge Inn & Restaurant – Best Lakefront Charm
- A beautiful, historic lodge with lake views, warm hospitality, and an on-site restaurant serving delicious meals.
- Why stay here?
- Quaint, rustic rooms with a cozy, old-world feel.
- Direct lake access with a private dock for guests.
- Perfect sunset views from the lodge’s wraparound porch.
- Best for: Couples & small groups looking for a classic Maine lakeside experience.
Rangeley Town & Lake Motel & Cottages – Best Budget-Friendly Stay
- A rustic, budget-friendly motel & cottage rental with direct access to Rangeley Lake.
- Why stay here?
- Affordable rates for lakeside accommodations.
- Pet-friendly cabins & rooms available.
- Boat rentals & fishing docks right outside your door.
- Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, fishermen, and pet owners.
The Rangeley Inn & Tavern
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Rangeley. The Rangeley Inn & Tavern is a beautifully restored landmark located right in the heart of downtown that has been welcoming guests for over a century.
Why Stay Here?
- Historic Ambiance – One of the last grand hotels from Rangeley’s golden era, featuring original woodwork, vintage decor, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Prime Location – Walkable to shops, galleries, and Rangeley Lake, plus easy access to hiking, fishing, and skiing.
- Scenic Waterfront Access – Enjoy a peaceful morning on the dock overlooking Haley Pond, perfect for canoeing or just unwinding.
Accommodations & Amenities:
- Elegant guest rooms & suites – Some with lake views, fireplaces, or private porches.
- On-site Tavern – Serving up delicious comfort food, craft cocktails, and local beers in a warm, inviting setting.
- Great for Events – A popular venue for weddings & gatherings, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Four-Season Destination – Perfect for a summer lake getaway, fall foliage retreat, or a winter ski trip.
Pleasant Street Inn B&B – Best Bed & Breakfast
A cozy B&B just outside of town with home-cooked breakfasts and warm hospitality.
- Why stay here?
- Five beautifully decorated rooms with modern comforts.
- Gourmet breakfasts made fresh every morning.
- Walking distance to downtown Rangeley.
- Best for: Couples & solo travelers looking for a quiet getaway.
Best Time to Visit
Each season in Rangeley Lake brings something special:
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Spring (April–June) | Best time for fishing & moose sightings |
| Summer (July–August) | Perfect for boating, hiking, & relaxing |
| Fall (September–October) | Stunning foliage & cooler hiking weather |
| Winter (November–March) | Skiing, snowmobiling, & ice fishing |
Rangeley Lake is the ultimate getaway for outdoor lovers, whether you want to fish, explore, or just relax by the water. With its stunning scenery, incredible wildlife, and year-round activities, it’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Get in Touch!
Have questions or need help planning your next lake adventure? Drop me a message!
