Hop In Your Car And Take Rangeley Lakes Byway For An Incredible 35-Mile Scenic Drive In Maine
The freedom of the open road offers opportunity, fun and…well, freedom! That’s why we love road trips so much. Over the years we’ve given you quite a few fun ones. From covered bridges to ice cream shops, you can turn just about anything into a fun-filled road trip through Maine. But sometimes you don’t necessarily need a destination. Today we’re exploring a wonderful scenic byway that will allow you to experience the state’s nature and views.
Click here for full directions from your own starting point.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Of all the scenic drives in Maine, those along the coast tend to get the most attention. But there are some hidden inland that are just as magnificent. Perhaps even better!
A great example is the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, which takes intrepid travelers on Routes 17, 16 and 4. In addition to peace and tranquility, the views are simply stunning. We also love that the trip offers some fun side trips for those with a little more time.
Your trip begins southwest of West Central Franklin. Make your way to the intersection of Maine Route 17 and Main Rd. From the intersection, you'll continue northwest on Route 17 towards Route 4 in Oquossoc.
The first portion of the route travels Routes 17 and 4, wrapping around Rangeley Lake. You’ll be following the ridgeline of the mountains while also dipping into the rolling hills and valleys of the region.
One of the biggest highlights of the trip is the scenic overlook at the Height of Land on Route 17. From here you can see for miles across Mooselookmeguntic Lake.
Even without any stops, this drive is worth doing. It’s beautiful, peaceful and the scenery can’t be beat. Especially when you do it during the autumn to see fall foliage.
Reich was an Austrian-born physician-scientist who studied with Freud in the 1920s. He fled Germany in the 1930s and soon after, began studying what he said was a life energy called "orgone." His lab and home are called "Orgonon" and now house The Wilhelm Reich Museum. The area is a historic site and nature preserve comprised of 175 acres of fields and woodland, a system of trails, a Conference Center, and the Orgone Energy Observatory.
And lastly, make one last stop to see Coos Canyon. You won’t even need to get out of the car since this beauty is visible just off of Route 17.
You’ll soon make your way onto Route 4 heading towards the Smalls Falls Rest Area. This is where the byway officially ends.
This beautiful road trip proves just how special inland Maine is.
The Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway is short enough to complete in an afternoon but long enough to make it feel like an adventure. Have you taken the drive? If so, let us know your favorite stops along the way!
Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: [email protected]
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