This western region of Maine stretches from the New Hampshire border to Sebago Lake, less than 20 miles northwest of Portland. It is vast. For comparison: geographically, this region larger than New Hampshire and Vermont combined!
This western part of Maine includes deep woods and hilly terrain including parts of the Appalachian Trail, and three popular ski resorts. This area is an outdoor recreation destination yet boasts cultural attractions and an abundance of agriculture in every season.
Additionally, there are many choose and cut Christmas tree farms and cross-country ski trails. Stay warm with the fiber products you can make, or share with others seeking a cozy Maine gift!
While you’re in the area, visit apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes in the fall. Finally, in spring and summer, explore Routes Two or Four. It’s easy to find farms, bountiful farm stands, quaint agricultural fairs (there are at least four!), farmers’ markets, wineries and orchards.
Along the way, visit the quaint town of Bethel, where many local cafes feature Maine ingredients. Or you can stop in Farmington, where fruit and vegetable farms, maple syrup producers, and a few popular ice cream businesses call home. If you are in the twin cities of Lewiston and Auburn, you don’t need to travel far – just 10-miles – out of the city to see farms. Maine ingredients are found in the menus of restaurants and cafes, and colleges such as Bates and Farmington too! And of course, with a stop at many farmstores, plan your own menu while you shop for groceries to take home.
Pre-Trip: Hear from some of the farmers and makers in this area
Listen to Betsy of Canty Cow Creamery, Keena of Little Ridge Farm and Seren of Old Crow Ranch in epsiode three of the Harvesting Maine podcast. Or, hear Marty and Mary Ann of A Wrinkle in Thyme Farm in episode five.
