Are you stumped about how to spend 3 fall days in Maine? Let us paint you a picture of what to expect when the air turns crisp, and the apples start to ripen on the trees. Sadly, we must say goodbye to summer, but we welcome autumn and the endless activities that make this season so special. There’s something magical about being outside among nature when the colors of fall foliage start to spill down the mountainsides and around Tripp Lake.
It is the time of year when the mountains seem to whisper our name and inspire us to break out our hiking boots and mountain bikes. It’s the season of fairs and festivals. A leisurely drive along a scenic byway becomes a feast for the senses. And the bounty of harvest season promises tart apple cider and tempting cider donuts. It’s pumpkin spice and everything nice at our little slice of heaven on Tripp Lake.
Day 1: Let’s Find a Waterfall
Hop in the car and head out to explore some of our gorgeous local waterfalls. The sound of thundering water cascading down through thick foliage and over rocky ledges creates an ethereal feeling. The sight of raging water carving a path through the woods is simply breathtaking. You can feel the rumble beneath your feet long before the falls come into view. But when you finally reach your destination, stand in awe of the raw power created by tumbling water.
Follow our northern waterfall route to find six magnificent cascades, each uniquely different. Some falls are just a few minutes’ hike from the parking area; others may require a longer walk to the ideal viewing spot. But all of these waterfalls reveal Mother Nature’s handiwork at her finest.
You can easily take in all six waterfalls on a leisurely day trip. Plus, we’ve highlighted some insider tips and tricks, along with suggestions for taking a break for a quick sandwich or tossing back a pint.
Day 2: Get Off-Road on a Mountain Bike
The thrill of racing through the woods on a mountain bike lures many an adrenaline junkie to the lakes district of Maine. With a wide choice of terrain to explore and challenging routes to tackle, biking enthusiasts will not lack for excitement on any one of our favorite off-road tracks.
Some routes will have you paralleling babbling brooks. On others, you might spot eagles nesting and beaver dams. One run takes you along the Androscoggin River, and another leads to an abandoned quarry. Charge up your phones so that you’ll always be ready for the Instagram-worthy photo op.
Day 3: Navigate a Covered Bridge
The science of building bridges has come a long way since the days of wooden covered bridges. But the intrigue of those artful designs still entices visitors to find and photograph a genuine covered bridge while out meandering the backroads of rural Maine. Luckily, we mapped out a route that will take you to see three of these magnificent structures while traveling through quaint villages and the rolling countryside of the lakes district.
Let us pack you a fall picnic basket so you can make a day of it without worrying about finding a roadside restaurant when hunger strikes. Spend a little time rummaging through antique stores along the way. Stretch your legs on the Burnt Meadow Mountain trail before returning to the Inn, where the peace and serenity of the lake and the loons will lull you to sleep.
Get out your calendars and plan a getaway to our little slice of heaven on Tripp Lake. We’ll show you how to spend three fall days in Maine and make memories for a lifetime.
Published September 2023