Lakes

  • Flagstaff Lake
    The best swimming in the Flagstaff Lake area is at Cathedral Pines Campground in Eustis, where guests will find a sandy public beach, dock, changing fooms, and a playground for children. No lifeguard is on duty, and there is no fee. From Sugarloaf, turn left onto Route 27 at the end of the Access Road, and continue through Stratton into Eustis. Cathedral Pines will be on the right.
  • Chain of Ponds
    Approximately 15 miles north of Eustis on Route 27, there are a number of spots near the Chain of Ponds State Campground open to public swimming.
  • Rangeley Lake
    Rangeley Lake offers abundant opportunities for swimming and recreation. Lakeside Park, located on Main Street (Rte. 4) in Rangeley, is free and features a sandy beach, dock with a slide, lifeguards (11am to 5pm daily), boat launch area, swings, covered picnic tables, a changing/restroom building and a large, newly landscaped lawn area.

Swimming Holes

  • Spring Farm
    Probably the largest and deepest swimming hole in the area, Spring Farm is at least seven to eight feet deep even during prolonged dry periods, and features a shallow end for wading. Spring Farm is located just on half mile south of Valley Crossing on Route 27. The path leading from the "Spring Farm" sign to the swimming hole can be seen from the road.
  • The Ledges
    The Ledges, an area with deep water and climging ledges, is located in the Kingfield area, 1.5 miles south of Ayotte's Store on Route 27. A short hiking path through the woods leads to this swimming hole, and is located on the left hand side of the ride as you travel south. (Note: the river cannot be seen from the road.)
  • White Railing
    Located just outside of Kingfield on the West Branch of the Carrabassett River, the "White Railing" can be reached by traveling Route 142, 1.5 miles from the center of Kingfield. Look for the area where the river and road meet, and you will see this 10 foot deep swimming hold, surrounded by a number of shallow spots. A beach is located across the river, but the current can be swift during heavy rainfall.
  • Wire Bridge
    One of the most popular swimming holes is located by the historic 145 wire suspension bridge in New Portland. This area offers a sandy beach, grills, and picnic tables. Take Route 146 off of Route 27 in New Portland and follow this road until it turns left onto a dirt road, then bear right to the bridge.
  • Riverside Park
    A popular spot by the Carrabassett River off Route 27. Features a natural waterslide, small beach area, and lots of good wading spots. The maximum water depths are 3 to 4 feet. The bottom is somewhat rocky, so it is recommended that one wear water shoes when in this area. This municipal park also offers a pool, tennis courts, a basketball court, playground, covered picnic area and grills, volleyball court, softball field and bathroom facilities. For more information, call the Carrabassett Valley Town Office at 207-235-2645.

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