15 Things To Do This Fall

We’re almost there. Our favorite season is right around the corner. While snow is on the mind, there are still plenty of things to do in Western Maine this fall. So grab a flannel, a hot apple cider, and see how many of these activities you can cross off your list.

1. Carry Your Wife

You might’ve carried your wife across the threshold, but it’s time to take it up a notch. The North American Wife Carrying Championship tasks couples with crossing a 278-yard obstacle course over hurdles, through a watery mud pit, and up an unsteady sand hill. All of this, for the hopes of winning the wife’s weight in beer and five times her weight in cash. No wife? No problem. Carry your best friend, your partner, or a stranger (with their permission).

2. Apple Picking

A fall tradition for many and a great activity for all. The only thing crisper than the fall air at an apple orchard is the pie you’ll bake afterward. There are a few apple orchards in the Sunday River area for you to choose from. Gibson’s Apple Orchard is a great place to pick your own this fall in Western Maine.

3. Be The Next Cornhole Champion

Cornhole. Corn toss. Bean toss. Soft horseshoes. A game with many names played by millions across the world. But there’s only one winning team. Mark your calendar because 48 teams will take to Sunday River’s snowless slopes for the 7th Annual New England Cornhole Championship where a cornhole team will be named champion. Cash prizes are up for grabs along with bragging rights during the resort’s Fall Festival.

4. Try Local Baked Goods

Not much of a baker? Puzzle Mountain Bakery has you covered. PMB is renowned by locals for its carefully crafted and delicious pies, pastries, jams, and more. Get them while they last.

5. Score Big At Sunday River Sports

Gear up for the approaching ski season by heading over to Sunday River Sports during the annual sale at Fall Fest to score 40-60% off on sale items and check out the latest gear. Sunday River Sports opens its doors every weekend on Saturday and Sunday as well. The friendly and knowledgeable staff is looking forward to getting you on the hill in style this winter.

6. Scenic Lift Rides

Scenic lift rides are a great way to take in the scenery and are available on Saturdays and Sundays through mid-October. Luckily, fall is the best time of the year for a ride. Take a chairlift or gondola to the top of Sunday River and take in the surrounding colorful, mountainous landscape. Looking for even more of an adventure? Check out our hiking trails.

7. Hike In The Mahoosucs

Not only is Grafton Notch rich with waterfalls and scenic views, but the Appalachian Trail also goes right through the Mahoosucs which makes the area a hotbed for amazing hikes. For those looking for some peace and quiet while being surrounded by serene nature checkout the areas local hiking trails.

8. Drive State Route 113

Take the path less traveled and explore State Route 113 as it meanders through Evans Notch, a beautiful recreation area in the White Mountain National Forest. Take a break from your drive, stretch out your legs, and walk to see Emerald Pool, or if you’re feeling something more strenuous hike Baldface to experience beautiful summit foliage views.

9. Drink Local Beer

Photo Credit: Steam Mill Brewing

Maine has over 100 different craft breweries to choose from with a few being right in the Sunday River area. With fall flavors starting to roll out, your taste buds will get the chance to adjust to the changing of the seasons. Steam Mill Brewing does more than craft beer, the brewing company has several seltzers for you to try.

10. Tee Off

While the course looks beautiful year-round, nothing beats teeing off in the crisp, autumn air as your shot scores high over the colorful Mahoosucs. Sunday River Golf Course features 18-holes and was designed by Robert Trent Jones II. If you’re a golf enthusiast you certainly don’t want to miss this course.

11. Paddle Maine’s Rivers

Canoeing and kayaking might just be the unofficial sport of Maine. There are plenty of rivers, lakes, and streams for a paddling trip of any size. Whether you choose to do the 700 mile Northern Forest Canoe trail or something more laid back in Bethel, there are plenty of options for you to take in the changing of the leaves from the water. There are also plenty of local businesses to rent gear.

12. Visit Bethel

Largely acclaimed as Maine’s most beautiful mountain village, Bethel Maine is an outdoor recreation haven. In addition, there are several small, boutique shops and restaurants for when you’re ready to relax. Nothing beats a cozy village to take in fall in Western Maine.

13. Carve Pumpkins

Pumping carving is a classic fall tradition that everyone can enjoy. Whether your carving is spooky, silly, or artistic let your imagination take the reigns. You can pick up the start of your next masterpiece at the Bethel Farmers Market or head to Swain’s Farm to pick your own.

14. Stay in the Mountains

It’s impossible to take all of what fall has to offer in just one day, so why not spend the weekend? Don’t leave the action and stay right in the heart of the mountains at the Grand Summit or the Jordan Hotel.

15. See A Movie At The Gem Theater

Photo Credit: The Gem Theater

Sit back and relax while enjoying some of the best films in the box office at Bethel’s Gem Theater. As the season gets closer make sure to keep an eye on the schedule for ski film premieres! The Gem is part theater, part gallery, part live music venue, and serves the best popcorn in town, not to mention a great selection of beer and wine.