You might witness a moose crashing through the trees on the end of the lake or see the white heads of a pair of bald eagles as they guard their nest high atop a dead pine tree. To take part in these special views of nature, either bring your own canoe or rent one for $29 a day from Northern Waters Outfitters on Rte. 16 (603-447-2177).
A trip to the 8,500 acres of Umbagog Lake isn’t for the power shoppers or the fine diners. It’s a place for nature lovers who are happy to bring a picnic lunch to a bluff overlooking the Androscoggin River and enjoy the quiet. Some of the best accommodations around are the 37 campground sites at Umbagog Lake State Park. There are even 32 remote campsites which are accessible only by boat (www.umbagogchambercommerce.com/state_parks.php).
The state park is a great spot for swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, rowboats and views of wildlife that include birds, deer and moose. Head to Umbagog from Aug. 8-10 for the 10th Annual Umbagog Wildlife Festival. There will be nature-themed arts and crafts, live fish and wildlife presentations, a wildflower arranging contest, guided pontoon boat tours (fee required) and plenty of food.
If you want to paddle but you don’t want to sleep in a tent, there are other options. Check out – Main Street Lodging on the Androscoggin in Errol (603-482-3–), A Piece of Heaven B&B in Millsfield (603-482-3443) or Last Chance Hideaway in Errol (603-482-0921), which is a furnished house that sleeps eight.
For dining options other than picnics, try Northern Exposure Restaurant and Black Bear Pub at 12 Main St. in Errol, Bull Moose Restaurant & Lounge on Rte. 26 in Cambridge or The Errol ‘Cream Barrel & Chuck Wagon on Rte. 26, which has been an Editor’s Pick in “Yankee” Magazine.
— Karen Beaudoin