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Things to do Downeast Maine
Discover the Best of Downeast Maine
Surrounded by rugged coastline, wild landscapes, and rich history, Downeast Maine offers some of the most breathtaking and memorable experiences in New England. From reversing tidal falls and remote coastal preserves to historic landmarks and iconic lighthouses, every adventure is just a short, scenic drive from Bear Mountain Lodge. Whether you're chasing natural wonders, enjoying outdoor recreation, or stepping into the past, these handpicked attractions offer something for every explorer.
🐋 Experiences & Activities
🌊 Coastal Views & Natural Wonders
🏘️ Towns, Dining & Shopping
🏛️ Historic & Cultural Sites
St. Croix Island International Historic Site
Pembroke, Maine
A rare tidal phenomenon where the river’s flow reverses with the tides, creating a mesmerizing natural spectacle. Enjoy scenic trails, picnic spots, and peaceful views just 20 minutes from the lodge.
Baring, Maine
Explore miles of pristine trails through forests, wetlands, and rolling hills. Ideal for hiking, biking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography—all just 25–40 minutes from the lodge.
Reversing Falls Park
Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge
St. Croix Island
Calais, Maine
St. Croix Island International Historic Site – Calais
Step back in time at the site of one of North America's first French settlements. Enjoy walking trails, interpretive displays, and sweeping views across the river to Canada—just 30 minutes away.
St. Croix Island International Historic Site – Calais
Step back in time at the site of one of North America's first French settlements. Enjoy walking trails, interpretive displays, and sweeping views across the river to Canada—just 30 minutes away.
Lubec, Maine
Visit the easternmost point in the U.S. and take in dramatic ocean cliffs, scenic trails, and the iconic candy-striped lighthouse. A must-see coastal gem just 1 hour from the lodge.
West Quoddy Head Lighthouse
Campobello Island, New Brunswick
Explore the beloved summer retreat of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, with beautifully preserved cottages, guided tours, and stunning coastal views. Located just across the Canadian border—passport required.
Roosevelt Campobello International Park
Lubec, Maine
Just 50 minutes from the lodge, this secluded 1,700-acre coastal preserve offers stunning ocean views, quiet beaches, and scenic trails through spruce forest. A perfect spot to hike, picnic, or simply take in the raw beauty of Downeast Maine.
Bog Brook Cove
Cobscook Bay State Park
Dennysville, Maine
A short drive from the lodge, this scenic coastal park features dramatic tides, rugged shoreline, and serene wooded trails. Ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, or soaking in the untouched beauty of Downeast Maine.
Mt Desert, Maine
One of America’s most stunning national parks, Acadia offers rugged coastline, mountain peaks, and scenic carriage roads perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring. Just under 2 hours from the lodge, it's well worth the day trip.
Acadia National Park
Bar Harbor, Maine
A charming coastal town known for its vibrant shops, fresh seafood, and oceanfront ambiance. Nestled beside Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is perfect for dining, strolling, and soaking in classic Maine charm—about 2 hours from the lodge.
Bar Harbor Downtown
Calais, Maine
A quaint border town with local shops, cafés, and a walkable riverfront district. Discover small-town charm, historic architecture, and a friendly atmosphere—just 25 minutes from the lodge.
Downtown Calais
St. Stephen, Canada
Known as “Canada’s Chocolate Town,” St. Stephen offers a sweet blend of history, riverfront views, and cross-border charm. Visit the Chocolate Museum, explore local shops, and enjoy coastal Canadian hospitality—just across the bridge from Calais.
Downtown St. Stephen
St. Andrews, Canada
A picturesque seaside town rich in history and charm. Stroll through vibrant gardens, explore historic sites, and enjoy whale watching, boutique shopping, and coastal dining—just over an hour from the lodge.
Downtown St. Andrews
St. Johns, Canada
A vibrant waterfront city blending history, culture, and coastal energy. Explore the historic uptown, walk the harbor, visit the famous reversing falls, and enjoy great dining, shops, and markets—just over an hour from the lodge.
Downtown St. John
St. Andrews, Canada
An interactive marine aquarium showcasing the incredible ecosystem of the Bay of Fundy. Get hands-on with touch tanks, watch harbor seals, and learn about the world’s highest tides—located in nearby St. Andrews.
Huntsman Marine Science
Eastport, Maine
A charming coastal town known for its waterfront views, small-town charm, and vibrant arts scene. Stroll the harbor, explore local galleries and shops, and enjoy fresh seafood in one of Maine’s easternmost communities—just a short drive from the lodge.
Downtown Eastport
Coastal Maine
A scenic multi-use trail stretching for miles through forests, wetlands, and coastal landscapes. Perfect for ATV riding, biking, and exploring Downeast Maine’s rugged beauty—accessible nearby for hours of adventure.
Downeast Sunrise Trail
Downeast, Maine
A network of scenic preserves and trails spanning forests, rivers, and coastal landscapes across Downeast Maine. With multiple access points and a variety of short hikes and viewpoints, it’s perfect for exploring a new area each day—located throughout the region.
Downeast coastal conservancy trails
Calais, Maine
A quiet scenic park overlooking the St. Croix River with wooded trails and elevated viewpoints. A peaceful spot for a short walk, picnicking, and enjoying river views—just minutes from downtown Calais.
Devil's Head Park
Calais, Maine
A cultural center dedicated to the history and heritage of the Wabanaki people. Explore exhibits, artifacts, and stories that highlight the region’s deep Indigenous roots—located in downtown Calais.
Wabanaki Culture Center & Museum
Eastport, Maine
A classic Downeast boating experience offering whale watching, fishing trips, and scenic cruises through the Bay of Fundy. Spot whales, seals, and eagles, pull lobster traps, and take in rugged coastal views—departing from nearby Eastport.
windjammers
Robbinston, Maine
A scenic coastal viewpoint overlooking Passamaquoddy Bay with sweeping water views and dramatic rock formations. A peaceful spot for photos, quiet reflection, and taking in the rugged Downeast coastline—located right in Robbinston.
Pulpit Rock
Canada/Maine
One of North America’s natural wonders, home to the highest tides in the world. Explore dramatic coastal landscapes, watch the tides rise and fall, spot whales and wildlife, and experience the power of the Bay of Fundy—just a short drive from the lodge.
Bay of Fundy
Robbinston, Maine
Enjoy private access to Howard Lake with a sandy beach, complimentary kayaks, canoes, and paddleboard. Swim, fish, relax by the firepit, or unwind with a lakeside picnic—just down our back road from the lodge.
howard lake
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