Highland Plantation MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Highland Plantation, Maine.
1. Highland Plantation Old Schoolhouse
HISTORIC COMMUNITY CENTER
The Old Schoolhouse, located at 2185 Long Falls Dam Road, serves as the heart of the Highland Plantation community. This historic building is still in use today for public meetings, appointments, voting, and the annual Town Meeting. It stands as a testament to the plantation's rural heritage and continues to be a vital gathering place for local residents.
2. Briggs Hill Hiking Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Briggs Hill offers outdoor enthusiasts a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience in Highland Plantation. The trail winds through dense forests before opening up to panoramic views of the surrounding northwest mountains. Visitors can enjoy the abundant wildlife and natural beauty that exemplifies Maine's rugged wilderness.
3. Bald Mountain Trail
WILDERNESS HIKING ADVENTURE
Bald Mountain Trail provides hikers with an authentic Maine wilderness experience in Highland Plantation. The trail features diverse terrain through pristine forests and offers spectacular views from its summit. Nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts particularly appreciate this less-traveled gem in Somerset County.
4. Sandy Stream Fishing Area
PREMIER ANGLING SPOT
Sandy Stream is a beloved fishing destination in Highland Plantation known for its clear waters and abundant trout. Anglers from across New England visit this peaceful stream to enjoy fly fishing in a serene, natural setting. The surrounding wilderness provides a perfect backdrop for a day of fishing and connecting with nature.
5. Highland Plantation Snowmobile Trails
WINTER RECREATION PARADISE
Highland Plantation's extensive snowmobile trail network transforms the area into a winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. The well-maintained trails wind through spectacular forest scenery and connect to Maine's broader ITS (Interconnected Trail System). Winter visitors can enjoy miles of pristine trails while taking in breathtaking mountain vistas and potentially spotting local wildlife.
6. Witham Mountain Lookout
STUNNING PANORAMIC VIEWS
Witham Mountain Lookout rewards hikers with unparalleled views of Highland Plantation and the surrounding wilderness. The moderate trail to the lookout point showcases the region's diverse flora and fauna throughout all seasons. Visitors often bring picnics to enjoy at the summit while taking in the spectacular scenery of Somerset County.
7. Michael Stream Nature Area
PEACEFUL WILDLIFE WATCHING
Michael Stream Nature Area offers a tranquil retreat for wildlife observation and nature photography in Highland Plantation. The area features gentle walking paths along the stream where visitors can spot native birds, deer, and occasionally moose. This hidden gem represents the unspoiled natural beauty that makes Highland Plantation special.
8. Bigelow Preserve
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS
Bigelow Preserve spans over 36,000 acres of wilderness near Highland Plantation, featuring the spectacular Bigelow Mountain Range. The preserve offers outdoor enthusiasts extensive hiking opportunities, including a challenging section of the Appalachian Trail across the mountain ridge. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife observation throughout the year in this pristine natural setting.
9. Flagstaff Lake
SCENIC RECREATION DESTINATION
Flagstaff Lake is a beautiful man-made reservoir located near Highland Plantation, offering 20,000 acres of water activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking while surrounded by stunning mountain views and pristine shorelines. The lake is steeped in history as it covers the former settlements of Flagstaff and Dead River, which were flooded in the 1950s when Long Falls Dam was constructed.
10. Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort
PREMIER WILDERNESS OUTFITTER
Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort offers thrilling outdoor experiences including world-class whitewater rafting on the nearby Dead and Kennebec Rivers. The resort features comfortable lodging options, a restaurant, and Maine's first microbrewery, the Kennebec River Brewery. Visitors can enjoy year-round activities including rafting, hiking, fishing, ATVing, and snowmobiling with experienced guides.
11. The Forks Trading Post
RUSTIC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
The Forks Trading Post is a charming country store serving as both a practical resource for locals and a unique shopping destination for visitors near Highland Plantation. The store offers a variety of goods including groceries, camping supplies, fishing gear, and authentic Maine souvenirs. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere and local knowledge shared by the staff about the surrounding areas.
12. Moosehead Lake
ICONIC MAINE WILDERNESS
Moosehead Lake is Maine's largest lake, covering over 75,000 acres within driving distance of Highland Plantation. The lake offers exceptional fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly famous for its moose watching tours. Surrounding the lake are charming towns, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints that showcase the natural beauty of The Maine Highlands region.
13. Bangor Historical Society
RICH REGIONAL HERITAGE
The Bangor Historical Society preserves and celebrates the rich history of the greater Bangor region, accessible on a day trip from Highland Plantation. Housed in the historic Thomas Hill House, the society offers engaging exhibits showcasing Bangor's evolution from the world's lumber capital to a modern cultural center. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of this important Maine city and its surrounding communities.
14. Hollywood Casino
ENTERTAINMENT AND GAMING
Hollywood Casino offers an exciting entertainment option for visitors to the region looking for indoor activities beyond Highland Plantation's outdoor adventures. The casino features slot machines, table games, and a poker room for those feeling lucky. Visitors can also enjoy dining options and occasional live entertainment at this popular Bangor destination.
15. Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument
PRISTINE PROTECTED WILDERNESS
Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument encompasses over 87,500 acres of mountains, forests, and waterways within a scenic drive from Highland Plantation. The monument has been designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, making it one of only thirteen such locations worldwide and perfect for stargazing. Visitors can explore the area via the Katahdin Woods & Waters Scenic Byway, which offers access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and breathtaking vistas of Mount Katahdin.