Sunday River | Summer Activity Guide

Activity Guide

Canoeing & Kayaking

The upper Androscoggin River is an ideal place to spend a few hours or a full day exploring Western Maine from the water.  Local outfitters offer canoe and kayak rentals and drop-off / pick-up services, plus we offer a special River Adventure Package. 

Chairlift Rides

Ride the Perfect Turn Express chairlift up Sunday River's North Peak to take in views of the Sunday River and the Mahoosuc Mountain Range.  You can ride the chair back down or choose from a number of hiking trails.

ATV Tours

Explore the mountains and woods on an ATV.  Tours include exploratory trips, rides up Sunday River and wildlife tours.

Mountain Biking

The Sunday River Mountain Bike Park offers 15 trails and 20 miles of lift serviced riding with varying terrain ranging from open work roads to single track. It is the only lift serviced mountain biking in Maine. Check out the Summer Mountain Report for updates on the mountain bike park.

Fishing

The upper Androscoggin River and several area ponds and lakes offer great trout fishing throughout the summer and fall, and several local outfitters offer guided trips, instruction and equipment rentals.

Scenic Drives

With two state parks nearby and easy access to the lakes and mountains of western Maine and New Hampshire, scenic drives are found across the region and are perfect for car or motorcycle tours.

Hikes & Nature Walks

With Grafton Notch and Evan's Notch State Parks nearby and the White Mountains just across the border in New Hampshire you can find hikes ranging from easy loops suitable for kids to multi-day backpacking adventures.

Wildlife Tours

Local guides can help you fine moose, black bears, eagles and more.  Van, ATV and self-guided tours are available.

Mining Tours

You share in Western Maine's mining history by touring local mines, learning about minerals and even searching for gems and other treasures.  These unique trips are great for the whole family.

Antiquing

Western Maine offers several antique tours for treasures large and small.  Explore locally or venture further afield around the state.

Spa Services & Wellness

Relax and indulge yourself with a spa visit. Whether you're interested in a deep-tissue massage to ease tired muscles, a facial, or wellness programs you'll find options right at the resort as well as in the local area.

Swimming

The Sunday River offers numerous local swimming holes with everything from shallow wading pools to rocks and waterfalls to jump off.

Whitewater Rafting

North of Sunday River there are a number of options for whitewater rafting and kayaking. 

Horse back riding

Local ranches offer riding trips for all ages and experience levels ranging from one hour to multi-day trips.

Boating

With Bethel's location just above Maine's lakes region you can visit a number of lakes to rent boats and jet skis or take arranged tours.

Light House Tours

With the Maine coast just a couple hours away you can visit light houses at a number of locations.

Whale Watching

The Maine coast offers a number of outfitters that organize whale watching trips. Boothbay Harbor was one of the leading ports for whale sightings.  During the 2005 season they experienced 98% sighting. 

Amusement Parks

Within a hour's drive of Sunday River you'll find a number of family-oriented attractions perfect for a day trip.

Movies

As an option for an evening or a rainy day, Bethel's Casablanca Cinema offers four screens with new releases. Flagship Cinema in Oxford offers a variety of eight movies you can choose from.

Cultural Attractions

The local Bethel Historical Society plus a nearby theater group and numerous museums in the Portland area offer plenty of cultural options.

Farm Tours

Enjoy the friendly atmosphere of our local farms, while learning about their history and products and have a relaxing day with nature and animals.

Orchards & Berry Picking

Head into the fields at local farms around Bethel to pick you own apples, strawberries, blueberries, pumpkins and more.

Shopping

Bethel and the surrounding area offer a number of options for those interested in some shopping.  Among the unique products you'll find are wood sculptures, antiques and various Maine-made products.