The County 2018 | Aroostook County Tourism | Page 5

Judy Dinsmore, Aroostook County Tourism GREETINGS FROM THE COUNTY, We are all delighted that you are interested in coming to Aroostook County for a visit or vacation sometime soon. Having lived, worked, and played in The County for most of my life, I have many fond memories of a winter’s day cruising on a snowmobile, a spring morning of fishing deep in the woods, or picking great big vases of brilliantly colored lupine for the table up at our camp. Through the years I have grown to love our close-knit Aroostook County communities, watching their annual gatherings that celebrate the many things that make living here special. Outdoorsy types probably already know that The County is one of the best places in Maine to enjoy getting outside to play. There are quite literally millions of acres here to be explored on foot or by bike, snowmobile, canoe, kayak, car, ATV, snowshoe, ski, or even dog sled. And if you’re coming in September, I especially suggest looking into the festivities surrounding BikeMaine 2018, a gentle, week-long ride winding along 320 miles through northern Maine. Along the way they will be making overnight stops in towns built by lumberjacks, fishermen, and farmers. I’M HERE, JUST ASK! Interested in visiting specific towns or areas in The County? Just contact the local chamber of commerce listed on page 59 for more information to plan your visit. Or give me a call at 888-216-2463, and I’ll be glad to give you inside tips on places to go, things to do, and activities to enjoy. I’m here most weekdays from 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.—sometimes leaving earlier on Fridays in the summer and we are closed on holidays. If I miss your call, leave a message with a phone number and I will give you a call back. I encourage you to also check out VisitAroostook.com and its blog—each is a story or shared experience that gives insight into the kinds of people you will meet on your visit. Take time to read this visitor’s guide and study the map in the back. Get the lay of the land. You will quickly see for yourself what a diverse and welcoming place we have here in The County. CONTENTS About The County The Seasons............................ 4 The Regions.......................... 6 Scenic Drives.............................. 8 Bike the County........................ 10 Outdoor Adventure................... 12 Paddling.................................... 14 Snowmobiling and ATVing....... 16 Hunting and Fishing................. 20 Guides and Outfitters................ 22 Camping................................... 24 State Parks and Public Lands..... 26 Wildlife Watching..................... 28 Map of the Region.................... 30 Nordic and Alpine Skiing.......... 32 Golf........................................... 34 The Solar System and the Night Sky......................... 36 Shopping................................... 38 Museums and Cultural Attractions............... 40 Historical Societies.................... 42 Events and Festivals................... 43 Calendar of Events.................... 44 Cultural Heritage...................... 46 Agricultural Roots.................... 48 Lodging.................................... 52 Dining...................................... 56 Attractions................................ 58 Plan Your Trip.......................... 60 I truly look forward to talking with you soon. FOLLOW US P.S. One quick thing: When you call, I’d love to be able to help with finding a moose, but they’ve asked me to keep their secrets. Paid for in part by a grant from the Maine Office of Tourism. ©2018 Aroostook County Tourism AroostookCountyTourism @visitaroostook VisitAroostook.com VisitAroostook.com 3