Summer at Sunday River

Ahhh, summer in Western Maine. The trees are lush and green, the birds are chirping, and seasonal activities are in full swing. If you’ve only ever visited the Bethel area in winter, you are missing out on the magic of the summer season here! There’s plenty to do for folks of all ages and fun to be had all over town. Check out our list of 5 favorite family-friendly activities for summertime.

For the foodie family: Area Farmers’ Markets

For those families with adventurous eaters, be sure to check out the many farmers’ markets in the greater Bethel area. The Bethel Farmers’ Market is held Saturdays from 9AM-1PM on the lawn next to Norway Savings Bank, at 1 Parkway. Find a wide variety of local produce and meat, MOFGA-certified maple syrup, baked goods, pies, fresh eggs, handmade soap, and more! For other markets in the area, check out the Greenwood Farmers’ Market, running 4-6PM on Fridays, or the Lewiston Farmers’ Market on Sundays from 9:30-1PM. For a full list of farmers’ markets in the area and across Maine, click here.

For the adventurous family: Sunday River Outfitters

New this season, join our experienced guides at Sunday River Outfitters for outdoor summer fun for the whole family. Sunday River Outfitters offers introductory classes in archery, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, as well as a longer three-hour kayak tour on Round Pond. No experience required to join the intro classes, just a good attitude and a willingness to learn! Participants must be 8 and older – learn more about all Sunday River Outfitters offerings here.

For fun on a rainy day: Maine Mineral & Gem Museum

Of course, rain in the summer is never what you want, but don’t let a few drops ruin your family fun. The Maine Mineral & Gem Museum, located right on Main Street in Bethel, is the perfect place to take your kids when the weather tuns sour. Check out the extensive collection of Maine minerals and gems, plus one of the world’s top collections of extraterrestrial rocks-including meteorites from Mars and the five largest pieces of the Moon on Earth!

For lazy summer days: River float with Bethel Outdoor Adventure

Some days, you just want to spend some family time on the water. For a relaxing summer float, head over to Bethel Outdoor Adventure & Campground on Mayville Road. Rent inner tubes, jump on their shuttle to a designated drop-off point, and enjoy a leisurely float back downstream to the campground. A perfect way to take in the scenery on the Androscoggin and, if you’re lucky, spot some wildlife.

For active summer days: Mountain Biking at Inland Woods & Trails and Mt. Abram

Need to burn some energy with the family? Mountain biking is becoming increasingly popular in our area and there’s loads of ways to try it out. Inland Woods & Trails has an ever-expanding network of trails, including the Bethel Village Trails right in town. Rent a bike at Barker Mountain Bikes or bring your own! For lift-serviced mountain biking, check out Mt. Abram down the road in Greenwood. Mt. Abram has a great bike school, so riders of all ages and abilities can spruce up their skills and learn something new.

A trip to Bethel and Sunday River this summer is worth it, we promise. Bring the whole crew for some family fun and make some memories to last a lifetime.