Things to Do in Bethel

Sunday River is the anchor of Bethel's winter scene. It's a large resort with terrain for all levels, and unlike some mountains this size, it doesn't feel like a corporate machine. The resort runs fast, modern lifts including bubble chairs that keep you warm, and staff across the mountain are genuinely helpful.

The Jordan Hotel sits ski-in, ski-out at the base, with its restaurant Sliders serving food right there. If you want something different, head to the igloo (yes, an actual igloo), which now has real bathrooms and food trucks. Summer brings chairlift rides, mountain biking, and hiking trails. Midweek visits tend to be less crowded than weekends.

This expansive park covers rugged terrain in Newry with hiking and cross-country skiing trails. It's a serious nature experience: no visitor center, no cell service, and pit toilets only. That means you plan ahead, but it also means you won't fight crowds.

Popular trails include Table Rock and the short walks to Moose Cave and Screw Auger Falls. The falls are a stunning roadside stop with swimming holes that draw visitors year-round. Bring water, download maps before you arrive, and be ready to share the trails with hikers after a waterfall or two.

This historic bridge in New Portland is a living piece of engineering: it sways when the wind picks up or you walk across it, which sounds scary but adds to the appeal. The setting is lovely, especially in winter when ice frames the view. There's a small picnic area on one side and a porta potty.

Park on the south side where there's better lot space. The bridge itself is a quick walk and a great photo spot. One visitor noted it was slightly terrifying in the best way possible, particularly when the bridge moved beneath them.

This covered bridge sits off the main road near Sunday River Resort. There's parking on both sides, though the north side is tight. A dirt path from the parking lot leads to the bridge itself, which takes about 20 seconds to walk across.

The real draw is the scenery along the drive in. It's remote, so there are no nearby shops or restaurants, but that's part of its charm. It's worth the detour if you're exploring the region, especially during leaf season when the approach is spectacular.

This 1-mile trail climbs past a series of natural water slides and shallow pools, ending with sweeping mountain views. It's family-friendly and less than a mile, though it does get steeper as you go up. The rocky waterfalls and pools on the left side of the trail are beautiful but slippery, so watch your footing.

Bring water shoes if you plan to swim, and be aware that some pools are half-shallow, half-deep. Visitors consistently call this one of the most beautiful places they've ever been. It's clearly marked and well-maintained, making it perfect for a half-day outing.

This museum on Bethel's Main Street punches way above its weight. The collection includes meteorites, moon rocks, and Martian rocks that you can actually touch. The centerpiece is "MAC 141," an impressive meteorite specimen, along with dozens of stunning gems and jewelry displays.

What makes it work is the interactivity and the sheer detail. Hundreds of clearly labeled mineral drawers line the walls, maps show where deposits are found, and exhibits are informative without being stuffy. Kids love it, rock enthusiasts can spend hours here, and the staff is warm and knowledgeable. It's reasonably priced and genuinely worth the stop.

Babb's Bridge in Gorham sits over clear, relatively warm water, making it a year-round swimming destination. Rope swings hang from the trees, and the rocks are good for wading or fishing. It's popular on warm days for good reason: the setting is peaceful, the water is inviting, and it's dog-friendly.

Note that this is an active road, so traffic passes through. The narrow approach keeps it quieter than some swimming spots. Bring a friend, bring a towel, and plan on a quiet afternoon. One regular compared it to stepping back from downtown into the real Maine outdoors.

This bridge in Andover is tucked back off the main roads but easy to reach with GPS. The rustic, aged wood gives it real character, and there are paths down to the water for photos from below. You can drive across it, and it's sturdy enough that it's clearly still in use.

It's a peaceful walk and a great stop on the way to or from ski regions. Fall foliage season amplifies the appeal. Pack a picnic and spend an hour exploring the water's edge and the bridge's timber interior.

This swimming hole on Sunday River Road is unusual: the waterfall and water are just a short walk from the parking area, not a mile hike away. It's an easy access point to a beautiful, scenic spot with good jumping rocks and water cold enough to matter.

The rocks are slippery and some are sharp, so water shoes help. The climb over rocks to reach the best spots isn't trivial, and the water is strong, so it's best for strong swimmers. But visitors return year after year with kids and friends, suggesting it's worth the effort. Go on a warm day when you're ready to take a cold plunge.

This nature preserve on North Road offers beginner-friendly trails, making it perfect if you want an easy walk without committing to a long hike. The meadow trail is a bit rutty but passable with a stroller. The riverside land is well-maintained, with pines and a "storybook" trail that includes a book to read along the way.

The farm is also known for its butterfly gardens, especially Monarch tagging and education programs. Staff are on-site deadheading and sharing knowledge about the insects and plants. There's ample parking in a dirt lot and a handicap-accessible porta potty. It's thoughtfully designed for all ages and fitness levels.