top of page
Writer's pictureGerry Caron

Moosehead Lake & Beyond: Explore the Scenic Beautiful Places of Maine!


map show 5 areas to go to

The Scenic Beautiful Places of Maine - Discover the Moosehead Lake Region

When visiting Moosehead Lake and our incredibly scenic beautiful places of Maine, we encourage you to experience these unique communities beyond the lake. Each area offers its own charm, attractions, and outdoor adventures that will make your trip unforgettable.


Why Discover These Areas?


Jackman is a gateway to adventure, offering a pristine wilderness experience that is perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature. The area is renowned for its abundant wildlife and scenic beauty, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few reasons why you should explore Jackman:

  • Pristine Wilderness: Escape to untouched landscapes that offer peace and tranquility.

  • Wildlife Watching: Jackman is a prime location for spotting moose, deer, and other native wildlife.

  • Outdoor Activities: From hiking and fishing to snowmobiling and hunting, Jackman provides endless opportunities for adventure.

  • Hiking Trails: Discover trails like the Attean View Trail, offering stunning vistas and a moderate hike. The Big Wood Pond Trail is perfect for a serene walk around the water.

  • ATV Trails: Jackman features extensive ATV trails that cater to all skill levels. Popular routes include the Bald Mountain ATV Trail and Boundary Bald Mountain Loop, offering thrilling rides and spectacular views.

  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle through serene lakes and rivers, including the Moose River, which offers beautiful views and a peaceful escape.


Rockwood, located on the western shore of Moosehead Lake, is home to the iconic Mount Kineo. This area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience a variety of activities. Stay at Moose River Lookout, where you can enjoy direct access to Maine's ITS66 Interconnected Trail System. Reasons to visit Rockwood include:

  • Mount Kineo: Hike to the summit for breathtaking views of Moosehead Lake.

  • Water Activities: Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the pristine waters of the lake.

  • Snowmobiling: With direct access to the ITS66 trail system, Rockwood is a snowmobiler’s dream.

  • Hiking Trails: Explore the Mount Kineo Trail for a challenging hike with rewarding views. The Indian Trail offers a shorter, scenic route with less elevation.

  • ATV Trails: Rockwood offers extensive ATV trails connecting to the Moosehead Lake Region and beyond. The trails provide both scenic routes and challenging terrains for riders of all skill levels.

  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Explore Moosehead Lake's vast waters and the Moose River by canoe or kayak, offering scenic routes and peaceful paddling.

For more information, visit Moose River Lookout.


Monson is known for its artistic community and historic charm. This quaint town offers a unique blend of culture and outdoor beauty, making it a must-visit destination. Here's why you should explore Monson:

  • Art and Culture: Discover local art galleries and participate in community events.

  • Historic Sites: Explore the rich history of Monson through its museums and historic buildings.

  • Outdoor Recreation: Hike sections of the Appalachian Trail and enjoy boating on local lakes.

  • Hiking Trails: The Monson-Slate Ledges Loop offers a moderate hike with stunning views. The Borestone Mountain Audubon Sanctuary provides trails with breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife.

  • ATV Trails: Monson features ATV trails that wind through beautiful forests and scenic landscapes. The Monson-Sebec Connector Trail is a favorite among riders for its breathtaking views and varied terrain.

  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle the peaceful waters of Lake Hebron and the Piscataquis River, offering stunning scenery and a tranquil experience.


Kokadjo is a haven for anglers and hunters, offering a remote wilderness experience. This area is perfect for those seeking solitude and a true connection with nature. Reasons to visit Kokadjo include:

  • Fly Fishing: Experience world-class fly fishing in the area's rivers and streams.

  • Wildlife Sightings: Kokadjo is famous for moose sightings, offering an unparalleled wildlife experience.

  • Hiking Trails: Enjoy the Little Moose Mountain Trail for challenging terrain and stunning views. The Roach River Trail offers a more relaxed hike along the water.

  • ATV Trails: Kokadjo offers challenging ATV trails that take you deep into the wilderness. The Kokadjo-B Pond Loop is known for its rugged beauty and opportunities to see wildlife.

  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Enjoy paddling on the Roach River and nearby ponds, providing a serene escape into nature's beauty.


Shirley offers a peaceful retreat with access to numerous outdoor activities. It's an excellent spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Here's why Shirley should be on your itinerary:

  • Tranquil Environment: Enjoy a quiet and peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

  • Outdoor Adventures: Engage in hiking, biking, and exploring the local flora and fauna.

  • Local Hospitality: Experience the warmth and friendliness of the local community.

  • Hiking Trails: The Indian Pond Trail offers a serene hike with beautiful water views. The Little Moose Pond Trail is perfect for a relaxing walk through nature.

  • ATV Trails: Shirley features scenic ATV trails that connect to larger trail systems in the region. The Shirley-Pleasant Pond Trail offers a mix of easy and moderate routes with beautiful views.

  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle the serene waters of Shirley Bog and nearby streams for a peaceful outdoor experience.


Endless Outdoor Adventures


Activities Around Moosehead Lake:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails around Moosehead Lake, including the famous Mount Kineo and the Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit.

  • Ice Fishing: Enjoy ice fishing on the frozen waters of Moosehead Lake, known for its trophy-sized lake trout and salmon.

  • Skiing & Cross-Country Skiing: Hit the slopes or glide through the serene trails in the winter wonderland of Maine.

  • Snowmobiling: Experience the thrill of snowmobiling with direct access to the Maine ITS66 integrated trail system from Moose River Lookout.

  • ATV Riding: Discover the extensive ATV trail systems throughout the Moosehead Lake region. From easy, scenic routes to challenging backcountry trails, there's something for every rider.

  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle the tranquil waters of Moosehead Lake, the Moose River, and surrounding streams and ponds for a serene and scenic adventure.


Stay at Moose River Lookout

For the perfect vacation in the Moosehead Lake area, stay at Moose River Lookout. Located in Rockwood, it offers cozy accommodations with unrivaled access to outdoor adventures. Enjoy the scenic views, relax by the private dock, and explore the trails right from our backyard.


Contact Us:

Moose River Lookout


Additional Offerings


Local Dining

Discover the local cuisine at charming restaurants and taverns around Moosehead Lake. Enjoy fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and delightful dishes that cater to every palate.


Seasonal Events

Stay updated with the latest seasonal events and community news through Moose River Lookout. Whether it's summer festivals, winter carnivals, or fall foliage tours, there's always something exciting happening around Moosehead Lake.


Guided Tours

Enhance your visit with guided tours that offer deeper insights into the region's history, wildlife, and natural beauty. From moose-watching tours to fishing expeditions, experienced guides will help you make the most of your adventure.

For more information and detailed guides, visit Moosehead News.


Plan Your Visit

Look us up if you are in the Monson, Greenville, Rockwood, Jackman, or any of the surrounding Maine areas. Moosehead Lake and its neighboring communities offer an abundance of activities and sights to explore.


Make Moose River Lookout your base for an unforgettable Maine adventure. Book your stay today and start exploring the wonders of Moosehead Lake and beyond!

bottom of page