Escape Inland to Maine ’ s Greatest Outdoors
Heading away from the coast opens up incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation in all four seasons . From spring fishing on Grand Lake Stream , Baskahegan , or Big Lake to a summer paddling adventure on the St . Croix International Waterway . Those who like to hunt can hire a Registered Maine Guide and track deer or turkey in our expansive inland forests . Come in the winter for the many ice-fishing derbies , like the one at Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center .
For some , enjoying our inland recreation means striking out from one of many trailheads located along one of our scenic byways . For paddlers , we recommend Donnell Pond or Spring River Public Reserved Land , where they can head out on Tunk Lake , Donnell Pond , or Spring River Lake . At over 14,000 acres , this remote forestland with its crystalline lakes and ponds also offers lofty mountains with panoramic views . Alternately , from State Route 9 — also called The Airline — adventurers can quickly connect to the Machias River Corridor to explore the opportunities for remote camping .
INLAND DOWNEAST
Grand and East Grand Lakes and nearby communities have long been a favorite destination for fly fishers in a lake system known for its land-locked salmon — these are some of the most sought-after fishing experiences in the east . Other freshwater species found throughout the region include white and yellow perch , brook and lake trout . A little further afield , trophy-worthy smallmouth bass await in Big Lake .
Those looking for a deep woods experience a little closer to the coast should grab a paddle and hit the cold clear waters of Rocky Lake in Whiting . A four-season haven for all kinds of wildlife awaits along the lake ’ s shoreline with its namesake granite outcroppings and talus fields . Make a plan and turn a day trip into a multi-day exploration , including an overnight at one of the two paddle-in-only lakeside campsites ( reservations required ).
Multi-Day Adventures
• Machias River Corridor ( 76 miles ) Best for moderate to experienced paddlers ( includes Class I-III whitewater ), this multi-day trip spans from the Fifth Machias Lake through the deepest parts of the region to Machias . Registered Maine Guides are suggested .
bit . ly / MachiasRC
• St . Croix International Waterway ( 71 miles ) Remote paddling trips along this historic waterway offer excellent camping , fishing , and wildlife watching . Trips can vary from 3 to 7 days — Registered Maine Guides are suggested .
StCroix . org
• The Down East Sunrise Trail ( 87 miles ) The longest off-road , multi-use trail on the East Coast Greenway allows all types of trail activities including ATV riding and fat biking .
SunriseTrail . org
TRUE MAINE | 11