2023 Autumn Guide
at Sunday River
Your Western Maine Basecamp
As fall arrives, the lakes of western Maine become mirrors, reflecting the trees' transformation. Whether you're sipping a cup of hot cider by the water's edge or taking a leisurely stroll through a walking trail, the serene beauty of these mountains will leave you with a calming sense of place. And there's no better place to begin your fall adventure than Sunday River.
When the air turns crisp and the leaves transform into a vibrant curtain of colors, there's no better time to explore the beauty of Maine's scenic byways, hikes, and walking trails. Personally, I love the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway - it's a little more of a drive from Sunday River, but it's stunning during peak foliage. Those seeking a closer encounter with nature, local hikes offer a more intimate exploration of the region's beauty.
For a list of some of our favorite spots, check out our guide on the best local hikes.
Day Date Ideas
- Apple picking at Gibson’s Farm in Bethel
- Take a scenic lift ride up to North Peak
- Savor a delicious pie from Puzzle Mountain Bakery
- Grab a bite to eat at The Clubhouse at the Sunday River Golf Club
- Set up a picnic at the top of Sunday River's White Cap
- Enjoy some afternoon tacos at Sunny's
- Sit and talk over drinks at CAMP
Step Back in Time with Covered Bridges
Venture a bit further and you'll encounter a piece of history that's both charming and unique: covered bridges. Western Maine has a few of these historic bridges, each with its own story to tell.
Local Covered Bridges:
- Sunday River Bridge ("Artist's Bridge") – Newry, ME: Appropriately named, this bridge has inspired countless artists and photographers. Its scarlet hue against the backdrop of fall foliage is nothing short of a masterpiece.
- Lovejoy Bridge – Andover, ME: Despite being the shortest covered bridge in Maine, the Lovejoy Bridge is long on charm. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of these historic structures.
- Bennett Bridge – Erroll, NH: The Bennett Bridge is a portal to the past.
And While You're Here...
If there's one thing that can instantly transport you into a world of vibrant beauty, it's the sight of Maine's fall foliage. The leaves burst into hues of red, orange, and gold, painting the landscape with nature's most brilliant palette. And there's no better place to experience this than in western Maine. From calming lakes to historic covered bridges, this beloved part of Maine offers a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
So pack your bags, put on your comfiest sweater, and let Sunday River be your basecamp for an unforgettable fall. Your adventure begins here.
River Fest
Join the excitement at Sunday River's River Fest, a series of fun-filled weekends celebrating the wonder and beauty of Western Maine.
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Written by: Ellen
When she isn’t randomly falling on her skis, you can find her at a local coffee shop or enjoying the outdoors with her dog, Cali.