The Remote Town in Maine We Simply Can’t Get Enough Of

When it comes to small-town charm, Maine is at the top of my list. A few of my favorite places include Bar Harbor, Kennebunkport, and Boothbay Harbor. These quintessential destinations are etched into the fabric of the state with their rich maritime cultures, coastal attractions, local restaurants, and quaint “Main Streets.” And yes, they’re all worth visiting, but it’s the remote towns in Maine I adore the most. That’s where Greenville comes in. Surrounded by rugged landscapes, dense woodlands, pristine waterways, and a plethora of wildlife, adventure awaits around every turn at this lakeside community. I love that it’s perfectly isolated, especially during the off-season. It’s the town where nature lovers (like me) can swap our electronic devices for peace and solitude. 

Sitting on the southern edge of the largest lake in Maine, 150 miles north of Portland, is the tiny community of Greenville. And when I say tiny, I mean it - fewer than 1,000 residents live here. One would believe that with the appeal of Moosehead Lake, the town would be more populated, but I am not complaining - I like it that way. 

Greenville was established in 1836 as a major hub for lumber and timber transportation in the area. It got its name from the lush wilderness of the North Maine Woods. With breathtaking, unspoiled woodlands and vast waterways, the town eventually transformed into an outdoor playground for nature lovers. 

No matter the season, you’ll never run out of things to do, and it’s easy to see why we’re obsessed with this waterfront community. During the frosty months, the snow-covered hiking trails are playgrounds for cross-country skiers who don’t mind braving the colder weather. Big Moose Mountain Ski Area is a popular spot with over 25 trails to explore. Don’t forget your skis or snowshoes when you visit. 

Leaf peepers love the fall when Moosehead Lake glows with vibrant hues. The weather is also perfect for hiking and exploring the nearby state parks.  Speaking of state parks, just minutes away, you’ll find Lily Bay State Park and Mount Kineo State Park (accessible only by boat) offering year-round hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. Not to mention the 100-mile Wilderness, Maine’s section of the Appalachian Trail. The remote area is where outdoor adventurers truly immerse themselves in all that nature has to offer. 

Of course, Moosehead Lake comes alive in the summer and is a paradise for fishing, kayaking, swimming, boating, camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and sightseeing. Visitors love cruising the lake on the historic 1914 steamboat, the Katahdin, or gliding above on a seaplane tour by Jack's Air Service. 

No visit to Moosehead Lake is complete without a guided tour to spot the massive moose that call the area their home. On a guided tour with Northwoods Outfitters, you’re guaranteed to spot the large creatures in the wild. Have your camera ready, the moose are known to come close to the vehicles. 

If you’re there on an overnight trip, be sure to bring your binoculars, as you’ll be delighted to know that Greenville and the Moosehead Lake area are a prime stargazing destination. You can even attend a stargazing event at the Moosehead Lake Sky Watch or book a rustic cabin at AMC Maine Woods International Dark Sky Park for the best seat in the house. 

If you ask me, the best time to visit Greenville is right before the summer season, when the town truly feels secluded with fewer visitors. The hiking trails are empty - it’s just you, the wildlife, and the vast wilderness. Moreover, the weather is ideal for leisurely strolls through the quaint downtown shops and dining at the waterfront restaurants in town. Even better, you can indulge in a sweet treat from the beloved ice cream shop, the Dairy Bar, then soak up the views of the pristine waters.    

As you can see, this remote town in Maine is a must-visit. It’s a destination where nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts can truly escape and connect with the elements. Whether you’re here to explore the wilderness or simply to bask in its small-town charm, you’ll find something to love about Greenville. 

Need a place to stay? Consider this family-friendly waterfront Airbnb, where you can soak up more views of Moosehead Lake, and your nights can be spent gazing up at the celestial skies. 
   
Visit our nomination page and tell us about your favorite remote town in Maine. We might feature it in an upcoming article.