Snuggled up against the far western border of Maine and New Hampshire, the mountain town could easily be overlooked by the average person. Our Jeep® Jamboree friends know how special this place is and that’s why they’ve hosted more than 20 events there. From September 29th through October 1st, Jeep Jamboree will be making another trip to the White Mountains of Maine. There’s no better time to visit the area than at the height of the fall foliage turning. Described as “Maine’s Most Beautiful Mountain Village,” Bethel has a long history of hospitality, and there’s sure to be something to do even when you’re not busy off-roading in your Jeep 4×4. The Jamboree itself is a real treat, with a seemingly endless number of mountain trails and picturesque back-country roads that will provide a challenging and beautiful experience.
But the Jeep Jamboree isn’t the only thing to do in Maine. To help you out, the Maine Department of Conservation has broken the state into “activity” regions. The Bethel area is in the Maine Lakes and Mountain Region. If you have some time before or after the Jamboree, check out www.bethelmaine.com for some great suggestions on driving tours, including trips to view many of the local covered bridges, local moose populations, or world-class fly-fishing in the Androscoggin River. Or toss your tent in the back of your Jeep brand vehicle and head to the White Mountain National Forest for a weekend of camping. With 23 different camping areas, you’re sure to find a place you can enjoy. Be sure to bring secure food containers as black bears are common in the Maine backcountry.
Are you looking for something completely different from the camping scene? Then drive over to the Maine beach region. Enjoy a day of beachcombing or simply hike the easy trails at the Ferry Beach State Park. This small 117-acre recreational area is only open seasonally, closing at the end of October. This means you’ll have time to visit after the Jamboree. While you’re at the beach, find time to partake in late-season Maine lobster – fresh off the boat.
For a more challenging day, head to the Maine Highlands region and hike the northern most terminus of the Appalachian Trail to the highest point in Maine: Mount Katahdin. Located in Baxter State park, this 5,268-foot peak may not be as high as some of its Rocky Mountain counterparts, but it certainly rivals them in ruggedness and beauty. The five-mile hike to the summit is not to be taken lightly, especially in bad weather, and be sure to check with local rangers for current conditions of Mount Katahdin. While you’re up that way, go to the Aroostook County region on the Canadian border and rent a mountain bike. There are several excellent mountain bike trails that are open to both motorized and non-motorized traffic.
No matter what your interest, Maine offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. And if you’re driving your Jeep 4×4 all the way up to Maine to participate in the Jamboree, you might as well take advantage of the other stuff to do once you get there. For most of us, Maine may be a long way away, but we know the trip will be worth the drive and one worth remembering!
Tell us about your Maine outdoor adventure.